At its inception in 1960, the school inherited a spirit of pursuing democratic and scientific advancement from Peking University; coupled with its ethos of developing unique, confident and responsible citizens with creative ideas and strong leadership. Wherever they are, they all are dedicated to serving their communities, respecting nature and caring for others.Administration and faculty continuously encourage students to develop their intellectual interests. This environment that encourages autonomy, allows students to engage in myriad activities ranging from scientific research to environmental advocacy.

The school offers students the flexibility of choosing between day and boarding school experiences.Comprised of six academies, the Affiliated High School of Peking University provides a choice of curriculums, meeting the needs of individual students and empowering them to pursue their interests and passions. Apart from the national curriculum, the school also offers an international curriculum (Dalton Academy), both accredited by the Beijing Commission of Education.