The International Baccalaureate, also called IB, is one of the most popular programs around the world thanks to its international recognition and transferability. Most students love learning in the IB system because it doesn’t just teach students content or knowledge, but it also teaches them how to learn and how to think. Many students describe the IB curriculum as challenging, but rewarding. The PYP is very accessible, as is the MYP. To do the DP students should be prepared to work hard as the IB Diploma prepares students for university.
Why choose an IB school in Shanghai?
A Fusion of Global Perspectives and Rigorous Academics
Choosing an International Baccalaureate (IB) school in Shanghai opens a gateway to world-class education, blending rigorous academics with a global perspective. This cosmopolitan city, known for its dynamic blend of Eastern and Western influences, offers an ideal backdrop for the IB philosophy that emphasizes open-mindedness and cultural understanding.
Preparing for a Global Future
The IB curriculum is not just about academic excellence but also about developing responsible, globally-aware citizens. In Shanghai, IB schools leverage the city’s international diversity, enabling students to engage in a learning process that transcends traditional classroom boundaries. This exposure is vital in today’s interconnected world, where understanding diverse cultures and global issues is as important as academic knowledge.
A Broad and Balanced Curriculum
IB schools in Shanghai offer a comprehensive curriculum that encourages students to excel in various disciplines. From sciences and mathematics to arts and humanities, students receive a balanced education that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. This holistic approach is designed to nurture not only intellectual but also personal growth, preparing students to excel in whatever paths they choose in the future.
Emphasis on Personal Development
One of the unique aspects of IB schools is their focus on personal development. The IB Learner Profile promotes attributes such as being inquisitive, knowledgeable, caring, and risk-taking, which are integral to personal and academic success. In Shanghai, this focus is supported by a variety of extracurricular activities and community service opportunities, allowing students to develop leadership skills and a sense of responsibility towards their community and the world.
Access to World-Class Facilities and Educators
Shanghai’s IB schools boast state-of-the-art facilities and highly qualified educators from around the globe. These schools are equipped with modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, and sports facilities that enhance the learning experience. Furthermore, the educators in these institutions are often leaders in their fields, bringing a wealth of knowledge and international teaching experience that benefits their students.
Gateway to Prestigious Universities
Graduates from IB schools in Shanghai are well-prepared for higher education and are often welcomed at prestigious universities worldwide. The IB diploma is recognized globally for its rigorous standards, and as such, it opens doors to numerous educational and career opportunities. This recognition allows students to pursue their interests in virtually any corner of the world, equipped with a solid foundation of knowledge and skills.
In summary, choosing an IB school in Shanghai means more than just access to an excellent education. It represents a comprehensive approach to learning that prepares students for the challenges and opportunities of a globalized world.
How much does it cost to attend IB Schools in Shanghai?
Category | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
Annual Tuition | $20,000 | $35,000 |
Monthly Tuition Equivalent | $1,670 | $2,920 |
Registration Fee (one-time) | $1,000 | $2,000 |
Uniforms & Materials | $200 | $500 |
Extras & Trips | $500 | $1,500 |
Total Est. Annual Cost | $22,700 | $40,000 |
Top IB Schools Shanghai 2025
Discover top International Schools in Shanghai. Use the filters to find the right fit and contact schools directly from their profiles.
Nord Anglia International School Shanghai, Pudong 
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Shanghai - Pudong
- Co-Education
- 2 to 18 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 131,193 - 375,196 cny
- Curriculum:British Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:2002
- Examinations:IB Diploma, IGCSE
- Language:Chinese, English
- Multilingual learning with Mandarin focus
- Personalized approach with STEAM program
- Global collaborations via UNICEF projects
Annual tuition fees at Nord Anglia International School Shanghai, Pudong range from 131,193 cny to 375,196 cny, depending on the student's grade level and program.
The British International School Shanghai, Puxi
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Shanghai - Puxi
- Co-Education
- 2 to 18 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 262,385 - 375,196
- Curriculum:British Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:2004
- Examinations:IB Diploma, IGCSE
- Language:Chinese, English
- Global Campus for worldwide exposure.
- Exclusive STEAM collaboration with MIT.
- Personalised learning via Juilliard Curriculum.
Annual tuition fees at The British International School Shanghai, Puxi range from 262,385 to 375,196 , depending on the student's grade level and program.
Shanghai Community International School
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China - Shanghai
- Co-Education
- 2 to 18 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 122,000 - 277,500 cny
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1996
- Community: 1800 students • 60 nationalities
- Language:Chinese, English, French, Spanish
- Unrivaled Mandarin immersion program
- Tangible connections to Shanghai culture
- Bountiful extracurricular opportunities
Annual tuition fees at Shanghai Community International School range from 122,000 cny to 277,500 cny, depending on the student's grade level and program.
The Western International School of Shanghai (WISS)
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China - Shanghai
- Co-Education
- 2 to 17 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 161,975 - 275,600 cny
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum
- Foundation:2006
- Community: 620 students • 40 nationalities
- Examinations:IB Diploma
- Language:English
- Only Shanghai's full IB continuum school
- Over 50 nations in student body
- Emphasis on experiential learning
Annual tuition fees at The Western International School of Shanghai (WISS) range from 161,975 cny to 275,600 cny, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Parent and Student Reviews
- February, 2023My family and I have been embraced and welcomed by WISS community with open arms and we look forward to being a part of this family for many years to come.
- February, 2023My children have lived in many different countries and attended many different international schools, they are the happiest they have ever been.
- February, 2023I like the way WISS supports art and creativity. Kids are encouraged to develop their talent in all topics, from music to theatre, from painting to dancing, as well as all the other subjects, and they can express themselves in multiple ways.
- February, 2023We like WISS because of its community. The multi-cultural atmosphere has given everyone, especially our son, the awareness, appreciation, and respect that they need when encountering different kinds of cultures in their lives. But the best thing about the school is how their education is integrated with the world and with current events. What they learn isn’t kept in their books, but it is often applied in their daily lives.
- February, 2023It’s amazing here. There are so many people from all over the world and we are really engaged and involved in the WISS community and really feel it is our family here. We really like the method of teaching and the way the kids learn because it’s not just working in a very academic way. Its working on projects in a group and it’s really focused on teamwork.
- February, 2023The warm community at SCIS helped me develop a sense of personal motivation and independence. This facilitated my transition into university where the ability to take responsibility for your own work is essential.
- February, 2023SCIS played a key role in helping me to develop writing, analysis, and critical-thinking skills needed to succeed at the university level. Spending several years within SCIS’s small-school environment allowed me to receive personalized instruction from my teachers that proved critical in preparing me for life after high school.
- February, 2023The biggest part of being signed as a college athlete at North Park University in Chicago (an NCAA Division III college in the United States), representing SCIS is being able to really put the school on the map. I really wanted to give back to a community where I’ve been provided with such great opportunities growing up here since fifth grade. There are so many people who have influenced me, past coaches from soccer, volleyball, and basketball. It’s different parts of the components of these sports that made me who I am and a big part of it is SCIS and the commitment to the sports. Without playing basketball or volleyball and the learning experiences I’ve had, I wouldn’t be who I am today.
- February, 2023Attending SCIS starting at the young age of 3, I was fortunate to be introduced to many different cultures. Throughout the 15 years, as the school and community grew and evolved, SCIS’s internationally-diverse student body remained a constant. Learning about and celebrating different cultures together with my friends and classmates was normal. The diversity in cultures and nationalities of SCIS students has provided me with a keen sense of cultural awareness, far beyond that of the “average Joe” in today’s world.
Summary
Choosing an IB school in Shanghai offers students a blend of rigorous academics and a global perspective, fostering not only intellectual but also personal growth. These schools provide a holistic education that prepares students for prestigious universities and global career opportunities, supported by world-class facilities and an international staff.