Boarding Schools in Shanghai 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 Boarding Schools in Shanghai, including reviews, fees, and why families choose them.
Why choose a boarding school in Shanghai?
Shanghai, a vibrant metropolis known for its rich cultural heritage and advanced educational facilities, offers numerous advantages for families considering boarding school for their children. The city’s educational institutions are renowned for their rigorous academic standards and their ability to blend Eastern and Western educational philosophies, providing students with a unique and comprehensive learning experience.
Global Educational Standards
Boarding schools in Shanghai are celebrated for their high educational standards and adherence to international curricula, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) and the British A Levels. These schools attract experienced and highly qualified teachers from around the world, ensuring a broad, globally recognized education that opens doors to prestigious universities worldwide. The exposure to diverse educational systems also fosters a more adaptable and versatile approach to learning, which is invaluable in today’s globalized world.
Cultural Immersion and Language Acquisition
The opportunity for cultural immersion is another compelling reason to choose a boarding school in Shanghai. Students gain firsthand experience of Chinese culture, language, and traditions. Proficiency in Mandarin, one of the world’s most spoken languages, is a significant advantage in the global job market. Additionally, living and studying in a culturally diverse environment helps students develop enhanced cultural sensitivity and interpersonal skills that are crucial for success in any international endeavor.
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Extracurricular Opportunities
Boarding schools in Shanghai boast state-of-the-art facilities that rival the best in the world. From modern classrooms, science labs, and libraries to impressive sports complexes and arts centers, these schools offer environments that are conducive to all-round development. The extracurricular activities available are equally impressive, ranging from sports and music to debate clubs and volunteer opportunities, ensuring that each student can pursue and develop their personal interests and talents.
Preparation for the Future
The holistic education approach adopted by Shanghai’s boarding schools goes beyond academic achievement. These institutions place a strong emphasis on character development, leadership skills, and personal growth. The structured yet nurturing environment of boarding schools helps students develop discipline, independence, and resilience—qualities that stand them in good stead throughout their lives.
Ultimately, choosing a boarding school in Shanghai is not just an investment in a child’s academic future; it’s an investment in their personal development and global perspective. The boarding school experience in Shanghai molds students not only into scholars but into global citizens, ready to face the challenges of tomorrow with confidence and a broadened worldview.
How much does it cost to attend Boarding Schools in Shanghai?
Category | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
Annual Tuition | $25,000 | $50,000 |
Monthly Tuition Equivalent | $2,085 | $4,165 |
Registration Fee (one-time) | $1,000 | $2,000 |
Uniforms & Materials | $200 | $400 |
Extras & Trips | $500 | $1,000 |
Total Est. Annual Cost | $27,700 | $54,400 |
Top Boarding Schools Shanghai 2026
Discover top Boarding Schools in Shanghai. Use the filters to find the right fit and contact schools directly from their profiles.
Keystone Academy 
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China - Beijing
- Co-Education
- 5 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 250,000 - 387,500 cny
- Curriculum:American Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:2014
- Community: 1600 students
- Language:Chinese, English
- Bilingual immersion, East meets West
- Boarding option from Grade 7
- Enriching Chinese Thread curriculum
Annual tuition fees at Keystone Academy range from 250,000 cny to 387,500 cny, depending on the student's grade level and program.
ISA Science City International School
-
Guangdong - Guangzhou
- Co-Education
- 2 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 220,000 - 328,000 cny
- Curriculum:British Curriculum, IB Curriculum, IB Diploma Programme
- Foundation:2020
- Community: 2200 students • 40 nationalities
- Examinations:IB Diploma, IELTS, MYP, TOEFL
- Language:English
Annual tuition fees at ISA Science City International School range from 220,000 cny to 328,000 cny, depending on the student's grade level and program.
BASIS International School Nanjing
-
Jiangsu - Nanjing
- Co-Education
- 3 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 205,070 - 272,330 cny
- Curriculum:Other
- Foundation:2019
- Community: 1100 students
- Examinations:AP, PSAT, SAT
- Language:English
- Rigorous STEM-focused curriculum
- Emphasis on creativity and innovation
- Renowned for fostering independence
Annual tuition fees at BASIS International School Nanjing range from 205,070 cny to 272,330 cny, depending on the student's grade level and program.
From 205,070 for PreK to 272,330 for Grades 9 - 12 The cost of tuition covers the core instructional program. Expenses for but not limited to books, supplies, lunches, school...Insights & Updates from Boarding Schools
Parent and Student Reviews
- January, 2026Antonia International School has been a wonderful place for my children. They feel happy, safe and truly supported every day. The bilingual environment is incredible, they switch naturally between English and French, with joy and confidence. What I appreciate most is the school’s human values and kindness. My children love going to school and that says everything.
- December, 2025We chose the British curriculum and it’s been a relief to see our child enjoying the work and keeping up.
- December, 2025We chose the British curriculum because we wanted consistency and clear standards, and this has delivered on that. The work is well organised, expectations are clear, and my child feels more confident tackling the subjects each week. Communication has been good, and it feels like there’s real thought behind how the learning is structured. Overall, it’s been a reassuring experience for us as parents.
- December, 2025Una comunidad intercultural que forma toda la familia St. GEORGE BARCELONA, buenos profesores nativos que se involucran con el alumnado más allá de lo académico para que se sienta arropado a su llegada, mi hijo se unió en year 2 y ahora en year 5 desafortunadamente tenemos que dejar la escuela por un traslado familiar a otra comunidad, han sido unos años fantásticos y les extrañaremos mucho 🙂 mi hijo alcanzó un alto nivel de inglés tanto hablado como escrito y algo a REMARCAR de ésta escuela es que al ser un lugar de encuentro de tantas diferentes nacionalidades el lenguaje SIEMPRE es inglés incluso en recreo ó después del colegio cuando los niños quedan a jugar algo muy importante y con un EXTRA para ser un cole en España.
- December, 2025Hi, My name is Sarah, and I am an 11th-grade student. Although I joined Smart Schools International (SSI) only a few months ago, it has already turned out to be one of my best decisions. It is a place I sincerely and highly recommend to any student willing to learn!Whether due challenges, responsibilities, or limitations beyond their control, Many students lose access to education. What makes this school special is that it provides an opportunity for students anywhere in the world to continue their education through an officially recognized, standard and structured academic system ensuring learning remains available to those who are willing to study.As an online school, the learning system is easy to adapt to and well-organized. Here I listed my my thoughts and experiences about SSI:• The platform is student friendly, which allows students to study at their own pace and manage their schedules effectively.• The Flexibility is a major strength; students can study anytime and anywhere, fitting their education around their lives.• The teaching approach is clear, with topics explained step by step. For me Learning feels like solving a puzzle piece by piece; it makes complex topics interesting and fun to learn rather than overwhelming.• Assignments, exams, and quizzes are designed in way that reinforce learning rather than creating stress. I have personally learned many key points from them.• Teachers and staff provide consistent care and support. Each student is assigned a proctor who regularly checks in and offers encouragement. For example my proctor, Ms. Laura Payne, has been incredibly supportive, ensuring I feel noticed and motivated throughout my studies.Overall, SSI offers a supportive and inclusive environment that truly adapts to student needs. I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to study here and hope my experience helps other students seeking a reliable educational option.
- December, 2025For me SSI is the best choice for studying because they provide the best studying material for their students, they are responsive, and communicate the best way they can, and thats a very effictive way for reaching to their students and help them understand better, especially for someone such as myself who is studying online from abroad the SSI has provided the best studying enviroment for me.
- December, 2025My experience with this online school has been very positive. The platform is well-structured and easy to navigate, making it simple to access lessons at any time. The recorded video classes are clear, detailed, and well-explained, which helps a lot with understanding subjects without feeling rushed.One of the best things about this school is the flexibility it offers. I can learn at my own pace, pause or replay lessons when needed, and manage my studies comfortably from home. This makes learning less stressful and more effective. The quality of teaching is good, and the lessons are designed in a way that supports independent learning.Overall, this online school provides a convenient and efficient way to study. It is a great option for students who prefer structured video lessons and a flexible learning environment.
- December, 2025Best school for giant tech startups and to be global leader’s
- December, 2025We were with St. George Barcelona for over 3 years, and it has been an absolutely wonderful experience for our children. They have enjoyed going to school EVERY single day; and that alone says everything. The teachers are always happy, motivated, and genuinely caring. It truly reflects on the children’s well-being and shows how positive and nurturing the school environment is for their everyday. Also the way they teach is very motivating for the kids, and the values of the school are fantastic, which actually support us as parents in raising empathetic, caring, polite and confident little human beings. Being part of St. George has been such a meaningful and memorable experience for our family. It is a one-of-a-kind school; one we will never forget and will always hold close to our hearts. Kind regards, an expat family!
- December, 2025Best school I have ever been to, I love my teachers, the flexibility and my peers. I can’t believe I didn’t come here sooner. I love how organized everyone is and how fast my teachers get back to me. I truly feel like a person and not just a number here.
- December, 2025Smarts School International didn’t just give me an education; it gave me back my future. For so long, I was deprived of the right learning environment, but this school changed everything. They handed me the “ticket to dream” and opened doors I thought were closed.What makes Smarts School International the best? It starts with the incredible people: teachers who are endlessly supportive, a helpdesk team that actually solves problems, and student counselors who genuinely care. The entire staff is the kindest and most supportive I’ve ever encountered.The self-paced model is a game-changer. It removes academic stress completely, allowing students to learn thoroughly and finish schoolwork on a schedule that works for them. This flexibility let me breathe and actually enjoy learning again.Smarts School International allowed me to learn at my own pace and rediscover my potential. It is truly the best place for anyone seeking a quality education and a future full of possibilities.
- December, 2025Smart Schools International has opened doors I never thought possible. As a student from Afghanistan, I joined through the Global Vision Scholarship, and it has been one of the most empowering experiences of my academic life.The online high school program is flexible and supportive, allowing me to balance my studies with other responsibilities while still receiving guidance from dedicated teachers. I’ve grown not just in knowledge, but in confidence—learning to take initiative, manage my time, and think critically.What I appreciate most is how inclusive and accessible the program is. It welcomes students from all backgrounds, and the team truly cares about helping us succeed. I feel seen, supported, and inspired to keep pushing forward.Smart Schools International is the place to be.
Summary
Boarding schools in Shanghai offer a blend of rigorous academics, cultural immersion, and extensive extracurricular activities, all delivered in top-notch facilities. These schools prepare students for global success by providing a balanced education that emphasizes both personal growth and academic excellence. The experience equips students with cultural sensitivity and proficiency in Mandarin, setting them up for a future where they can navigate and succeed in a global environment.