Over the past seven years, graduates from Griggs China have gained admission to more than 200 universities across the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Japan, Switzerland, France, Italy, Hong Kong (China), Macau (China), and other countries and regions. Among these institutions are world-renowned universities such as the University of Chicago, Columbia University, Dartmouth College, Carleton College, Claremont McKenna College, University of Toronto, University College London, University of Melbourne, Waseda University, École hôtelière de Lausanne, and University of the Arts London.

Approximately 71% of Griggs China graduates have enrolled in top-ranked universities within the U.S. or global top 50 institutions, while 100% have gained admission to universities ranked within the top 100 in the U.S. or worldwide. This achievement consistently demonstrates the academic strength and educational outcomes of the Griggs educational system.

In 2017, Griggs China was officially established, dedicated to inheriting the educational philosophy of Mr. Frederick Griggs and deeply integrating its century-spanning educational purpose with the context of China. Guided by the key values of "Dignity, Honor, Respect, and Integrity," we provide a holistic education that is locally grounded yet globally oriented, empowering students to become Seekers of Knowledge, Affirmers of Values, and Changers of the World.

Today, the Griggs educational network has expanded to multiple strategic cities, including Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Shanghai, and Kunshan, forming an educational framework that radiates across the nation.

At the turn of the twentieth century, educational opportunities were limited. Correspondence education was beginning to grow in the United States, and during this time Frederick Griggs, a pioneer educator, imagined a way to bring learning to people everywhere. His vision became reality in 1909 with the establishment of The Fireside Correspondence School. Its purpose was to offer quality education to individuals who could not attend traditional schools.

Mr. Frederick Griggs 

Within two years, The Fireside Correspondence School had expanded its offerings to eleven secondary courses and nine college-level courses. The school later became known as Home Study Institute, Home Study International, and eventually Griggs University and Griggs International Academy. By 1916, students were enrolled from nearly every state and province in North America, along with students from ten other countries. Since that time, almost 240,000 learners have studied through Griggs.

Home Study Institute 

A major transition occurred in 2011 when Griggs was adopted by Andrews University and moved from Maryland to Berrien Springs, Michigan. Griggs University became the Andrews University School of Distance Education. Griggs International Academy continued its K–12 mission under this structure. Today, Griggs is a key part of the Andrews University Global Campus and contributes to the university’s worldwide educational outreach.

Campus of Andrews University 

As part of one of the largest school systems worldwide, Griggs has played a unique and meaningful role in supporting the educational development of students of all ages around the world. Over the years, Griggs has served international school affiliates (Face-to-Face), partner schools in partnerships with North America Division of SDA (Hybrid), and a large and diverse population of online students (Asynchronous Online).  The online versions of the courses started in the 90s and the full online class system was finalized by 2013.

From its earliest days in a one-room office to its present purpose as a global school, Griggs has remained committed to high academic standards and the use of qualified professionals in all areas of its operation. Stakeholders have long appreciated the supportive and flexible nature of curriculum that Griggs offers. More than one hundred years later, the original vision of Frederick Griggs continues to guide the work of the academy: to make education accessible, personal, and community-focused for learners everywhere.

Griggs Initial Office 

Mr. Frederick Griggs was also an early pioneer of international education in China. During his tenure as the leader of the East Asia region for Adventist Education from 1925–1930 and 1936–1938, he introduced the Griggs educational philosophy to China’s southeastern coastal areas, establishing educational practices centered on values and academics. His efforts were widely recognized in the region and earned him the reputation of "Serving Deeply in Guangdong and Guangxi.", reflecting his far-reaching international vision and cross-cultural influence.

Griggs China remains steadfast in upholding the founder’s original vision, committed to bringing high-quality international education to more students in China and around the world. Together, we will ensure that this century-spanning educational objective continues to be passed on and thrives across the world.