Frequently Asked Questions
When did HMA open?
HMA welcomed its pioneering group of Grade 9 students in January 2021. This first group of students graduated in May 2024 (click here to see a short video of graduation). We are now in our fifth year of operations.
How many students attend HMA?
Currently, we have 209 students enrolled: 36 students in Grade 12, 45 students in Grade 11, 61 students in Grade 10 and 67 students in Grade 9. This coming year, for September 2025, we intend to admit approximately 80 students into Grade 9, approximately 15 students into Grade 10 and up to 5 students into Grade 11.
At full enrollment, we will have 100 students in each grade for a total of 400 students. We expect to reach full enrollment in 2 to 3 years.
Should I apply to HMA?
We are delighted that you are considering HMA! HMA students have a strong academic background in all subjects and have a demonstrated 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 and new ideas, who embrace challenges, and who are prepared to share their knowledge with their peers to deepen their own and each other’s learning. If this describes you – yes you should apply!
What are classes like at HMA?
Students at HMA study the Ethiopian National Curriculum, along with integrating concepts from other curricula. We encourage all of our students to seize every opportunity to learn. Students are exposed to global perspectives and develop opportunities to understand concepts in a deeper manner. Students are encouraged to apply their knowledge, skills and understanding to solving real world problems.
With respect to the Ethiopian National Curriculum, in 2024, the first time HMA students sat for the Grade 12 National Exams, 100% of our students passed – compared to a 5.4% national pass rate. Twenty-seven percent scored over 500, and sixty-seven percent scored over 450.
Additionally, our curricula requires students to engage more deeply with the subjects they study, through opportunities for project-based work, labs, original research, analysis, writing and presentations. Students who join HMA with highly developed skills in specific subject areas are encouraged to lead clubs and run classroom trainings, where they can share their skills with others.
Students are expected to be diligent in their preparation for every class and to actively participate in classroom discussions. Students take regular tests and other forms of assessments to understand their depth of knowledge and understanding. Classroom and school wide projects allow students to showcase their knowledge to the HMA community and others from within and outside the school community.
HMA is the only school in Ethiopia that has been approved by the US College Board to offer a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) examinations in May of each academic year. At present, students can engage in self-study sessions to prepare for these examinations.
Do you use technology in your teaching?
Yes. We issue every student an HMA-owned iPad, and we integrate technology into almost every class. Every classroom on campus is equipped with an AppleTV and screen.
I’ve never considered a boarding school. What is it like to live at school?
Our boarding school setting supports both your academic and personal growth. As a student at HMA, you will spend all of your time on our beautiful campus surrounded by other talented, inquisitive students and dedicated faculty. Our faculty live on campus and share most meals with students, which results in teachers coming to know students as individuals with unique talents and passions. You will develop meaningful relationships with these mentors that extend beyond classroom interaction and be supported by them in many important ways.
Outside the classroom, the boarding school schedule provides time for rich co-curricular programming in athletics, arts, clubs such as Robotics or Model UN, and community service. You will also have many opportunities to become more independent, and to experience 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 through both organized activities and leisure time.
Where do HMA students come from?
From all over! Student hometowns have included cities such as Adama, Addis Ababa, Arba Minch, Bahir Dar, Bishoftu, Debre Birhan, Desse, Dire Dawa, Gondar, Hawassa, Harrar, Kemisse, Mekelle, Sela Dingay, Sheno, Woldia, Wolkite and Yirgalem.
We believe embracing diversity is key to a 21st century education and to Ethiopia’s future. We hope to enroll students from every corner of Ethiopia in coming years.
Does HMA provide college counseling?
Yes. Please click here to learn more about the work of our Office of Career and College Counseling, and to see where our Class of 2024 is attending college.
Can I visit campus?
Yes! A 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.
Who founded HMA?
HMA is the first project of Ethiopia Education Initiatives (EEI), a US not-for-profit corporation founded by Rebecca Haile and Jean Manas in 2016 for the purpose of bringing excellent education opportunities to students of promise in Ethiopia. To learn more about the founders, the mission of EEI and the founding of HMA, please see here.
How do I apply?
Admissions to HMA for September 2025 are now open! Please click here for detailed application instructions and to submit your application today.
