Frequently Asked Questions
How many students currently attend HMA?
This is an exciting time to apply to HMA because you can be a member of one of our pioneering classes. Currently, we have 33 12th graders, 39 11th graders, 43 10th graders and 58 9th graders, for a total of 173 students on campus. These grades are small due to reasons such as our opening during the world-wide Covid-19 pandemic. In the next few years we will work our way up to our target of 100 students per grade.
What type of student should apply to HMA?
HMA students have a strong academic background in all subjects and have earned the respect of their previous teachers through their commitment to hard work. They are motivated, curious, and thoughtful students who value the opportunity to expand their experiences by living in a purposefully diverse residential community. We seek students who look for opportunities to understand multiple perspectives, try new ideas, and share their knowledge with their peers to deepen their own and each other’s learning.
What do classes look like at HMA?
Classes at HMA cover the standard Ethiopian National Curriculum and prepare students for outstanding results on the national exams. In addition, because we are a residential school, we have a schedule that allows students to go into greater depth in the subjects they study. The residential program also means that students are supported by faculty outside class times and have access to a wide range of additional resources.
Throughout the week, students are expected to be diligent in their preparation for every course and to actively participate in classroom discussions, labs, and projects. Students take regular tests to assess knowledge and frequently complete projects that apply their knowledge and present these projects to peers and experts from within and outside the school community.
We are a one-to-one iPad school and integrate technology and principles of design thinking into almost every class.
Why would I want to live at school?
As a student at HMA, you will be surrounded by bright, talented, inquisitive students and faculty members on a well-equipped campus 24 hours a day. Because you will live on the same campus as your teachers, you will form deep relationships with these mentors that extend beyond classroom interactions. You will be known to your teachers as an individual with unique talents and passions and supported by them in your academic and other work. Outside the classroom, you will benefit from rich co-curricular programming in athletics, arts, and community service work that the residential school schedule permits. You will also have many opportunities to experience personal growth, community building and leadership as you learn to take care of yourself and support your peers. On weekends, you will enjoy additional opportunities to work, learn and play with your classmates.
Where do HMA students come from?
We strive to recruit students from across Ethiopia, as we believe an embrace and appreciation of diversity is key to a 21st century education and to Ethiopia’s future. Right now, our students come from many different cities including Adama, Addis Ababa, Arba Minch, Bahir Dar, Debre Birhan, Desse, Dire Dawa, Gondar, Hawassa, Mekelle, Kemisse, Sela Dingay, Sheno, Yirgalem and Woldia. In the future we hope to have students from every corner of Ethiopia.
Can I visit campus?
Yes. A campus visit is the best way to get a sense for our beautiful campus and comprehensive programming, and to hear directly from the students and teachers who make up our vibrant community. Please contact us to schedule a visit.
How do I apply?
We are now accepting applications for September 2024. Please click the link here to apply.
Please contact us with any further questions.
