American Schools in Pudong are a great choice for both local and expat families as they offer globally recognized curricula, outstanding academics plus a nurturing environment for children. Discover our selection of the best American Schools in Pudong, including reviews, fees, and why families choose them.
Why families choose the American Curriculum?
When it comes to selecting an educational path for their children, many families in Pudong opt for schools offering the American curriculum due to its distinctive advantages. Known for its emphasis on a holistic educational approach, the American curriculum fosters not only academic excellence but also the personal development of students.
Adaptability and Comprehensive Development
The American educational framework is celebrated for its adaptability, allowing students to explore a broad range of subjects before specializing. Unlike curriculums that might push students into rigid tracks early on, the American system provides a buffet of opportunities, encouraging students to develop diverse skills and interests. This flexibility is especially appealing to families who value a well-rounded education, as it helps students to become adaptable, critical thinkers prepared for the unpredictabilities of the future job market.
Focus on Critical Thinking and Creativity
Another cornerstone of the American curriculum is its focus on critical thinking and creativity. Schools champion an inquiry-based learning model, which encourages students to question, critique, and engage deeply with material. This active learning style is designed to cultivate not just rote memorization, but a deeper understanding and ability to apply knowledge creatively in various situations. This approach is highly valued by parents who seek an education that prepares their children for real-world challenges.
Global Recognition and Advanced Opportunities
The American curriculum is globally recognized, which paves the way for students to pursue higher education in prestigious universities around the world. Moreover, the curriculum’s alignment with standardized tests like the SAT and ACT as part of college admissions is a strategic advantage for students aiming for higher education in the United States. Additionally, many American curriculum schools offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses, which can earn students college credits during their high school years, giving them a significant headstart in their university education.
Supportive Learning Environment
A key feature that draws families to American curriculum schools is the supportive learning environment. These schools typically maintain a low student-to-teacher ratio, which allows for more personalized attention and tailored teaching strategies to meet individual student needs. Furthermore, emphasis is placed on nurturing not only academic abilities but also social and emotional skills, equipping students with resilience and empathy.
Extracurricular Enrichment
Beyond the classroom, American curriculum schools excel in providing a plethora of extracurricular activities that support students’ diverse interests and talents. From sports to arts, and from clubs to community service projects, these activities are integral to the curriculum, designed to cultivate leadership skills, teamwork, and personal interests, all of which are essential for holistic development.
Ultimately, families choose the American curriculum in Pudong because it promises a balanced education that prepares students to thrive in both their personal and professional lives. Its adaptability, focus on essential life skills, and comprehensive support system make it an ideal choice for many families looking to invest in a future-proof education for their children.
How much does it cost to attend American Schools in Pudong?
Category | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
Annual Tuition | $20,000 | $35,000 |
Monthly Tuition Equivalent | $1,665 | $2,920 |
Registration Fee (one-time) | $500 | $1,000 |
Uniforms & Materials | $200 | $400 |
Extras & Trips | $500 | $1,500 |
Total Est. Annual Cost | $22,200 | $38,900 |
Top American Schools Pudong 2025
Discover top International Schools in Pudong. Use the filters to find the right fit and contact schools directly from their profiles.
Yew Chung International School of Shanghai 
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China - Shanghai
- Co-Education
- 1 to 18 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 163,600 - 359,100 cny
- Curriculum:American Curriculum, British Curriculum, Cambridge Curriculum, Other
- Foundation:1993
- Community: 2200 students • 50 nationalities
- Examinations:Cambridge, IB Diploma, IGCSE, SAT
- Language:Bilingual, Chinese, English, Spanish
- Embraces bilingual learning (English/Chinese)
- Fuses Eastern and Western pedagogies
- Nurtures globally-minded leaders
Annual tuition fees at Yew Chung International School of Shanghai range from 163,600 cny to 359,100 cny, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Concordia International School Shanghai
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China - Shanghai
- Co-Education
- 3 to 18 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 226,000 - 303,000 cny
- Curriculum:American Curriculum
- Foundation:1998
- Community: 1150 students • 29 nationalities
- Examinations:American Diploma, AP, SAT
- Language:English
- Holistic K-12 US curriculum in China
- Mastery in technology & arts integration
- Strong American expat network support
Annual tuition fees at Concordia International School Shanghai range from 226,000 cny to 303,000 cny, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Shanghai American School
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China - Shanghai
- Co-Education
- 3 to 18 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 260,500 - 316,800 cny
- Curriculum:American Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1912
- Community: 2842 students • 47 nationalities
- Examinations:AP, IB Diploma
- Language:English
- Exceptional Bilingual and Bicultural Learning
- Inspiring Capstone and AP programs
- World-Class Athletics and Arts Facilities
Annual tuition fees at Shanghai American School range from 260,500 cny to 316,800 cny, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Insights & Updates from American Schools
Expert Insights from American Schools in Pudong
Parent and Student Reviews
- October, 2025This is the best school decision we’ve ever made. The teachers inspire and encourage, and the leadership sets the highest standars. iBOS is truly outstanding in every way.
- September, 2025It’s an awesome place. I can really see how much my son has grown in his learning.
- September, 2025Karl and I just wish we have discovered your school much earlier. We would like to reiterate from parents who have sent our daughter to a private school all her life, Elea High has given her the most valuable and enriched environment to study. The first thing Grace has mentioned to us is how all the teachers spoke to her like an adult with respect instead of treating her like a little child. This made her feel she is worthy and made her feel comfortable in engaging. This is something she said she never experienced in her old school! Private schools may have all the fancy facilities and traditional values but what your school offered is what’s important in school life – respect and the right environment!
- September, 2025The TNIS community is warm and welcoming. She loves the school and is truly happy here. The teachers are very kind, and her classmates adore her! Yoyo’s language skills have improved rapidly, and I’m so glad we chose TNIS.
- September, 2025TNIS is more than a school—it’s an inclusive and nurturing international community. Our child has flourished here with newfound confidence, lifelong friendships, and continuous growth. As parents, we’ve always felt supported by the school’s professionalism. We wholeheartedly recommend TNIS to families worldwide!
- September, 2025They have literacy support where you get to read books and answer questions which help your English.
- September, 2025I spent two months at the school and I had a very positive experience. I was warmly welcomed by both the teachers and the students and immediately felt at home. All my requests regarding the timetable were taken into account, and the individual students are also very well supported in other areas. I had a wonderful time at the school and am grateful that I was accepted at such short notice.
- September, 2025NSA was a life changing experience for our family. Our son is living a sober, happy, healthy life, thanks in part to the skills he learned and nurturing he received at NSA, as well as the hard work he has done on his own since returning from NSA. We are forever grateful that the fates directed us to NSA for support during a difficult period. Highly recommend!
- September, 2025NSA is an amazing school and saved my sons life. It is a place where you can send your son and know he will be well taken care of and loved. From the minute we visited the school to when my son graduated, we were always met with big smiles and hugs. The staff is top notch and have the patience of saints. The location is beautiful and easy to get to from San Jose. I would highly recommend NSA.
- September, 2025I really can’t say enough great things about New Summit Academy. My son was there 5 years ago and I think the school helped contribute to the happy person he is today. The staff are all so wonderful, the setting is beautiful, and the kids really have fun and at the same time learn a lot about themselves. And, they go to high school too! I have no hesitation in recommending NSA.
- September, 2025Our son’s experience at NSA was transformative in so many ways. The unique setting and culture, healthy lifestyle and routines, *great* therapists, focused academics, and candid peer feedback really helped him to mature and reset as he goes off to high school. The experience also improved our family relations and communication.
We’re grateful! - September, 2025I think it’s the best English School in Madrid. I love it, and I know my daughter is well while she’s there.
Summary
Families choose the American curriculum for its adaptability, critical thinking emphasis, and global recognition which prepares students for a dynamic future. The curriculum supports holistic development through a mix of academic rigor, creative learning, and diverse extracurricular activities, creating a nurturing environment that fosters both personal and academic growth.