British Schools in China 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 British Schools in China, including reviews, fees, and why families choose them.
Why families choose a British school in China?
When it comes to selecting an educational path for their children, many parents are drawn to the prestige and promise of British schools, particularly those established in China. These institutions are revered not only for their rigorous academic standards but also for their ability to blend a rich heritage of British education with the dynamic, culturally rich environment of China.
Academic Excellence and Holistic Development
At the heart of the appeal of British schools in China is the commitment to academic excellence. These schools typically follow the English National Curriculum, known for its structured approach and emphasis on developing strong foundational skills in reading, writing, and mathematics alongside science and the humanities. The curriculum is well-rounded, aiming to foster not only intellectual growth but also emotional and social development. This holistic approach prepares students not only for prestigious universities but also for global careers, instilling confidence, critical thinking skills, and adaptability.
Cultural Integration with Global Perspective
Another compelling reason families opt for British schools in China is the unique opportunity for cultural integration. Students receive an education that respects and incorporates local traditions and languages, which is pivotal in today’s globalized world. Learning in such a multicultural environment encourages students to become global citizens, aware of and empathetic towards different cultures and perspectives. This is particularly advantageous in the context of China’s growing influence on the world stage.
Extracurricular Enrichment
The British educational institutions in China are not only about textbooks and exams; they place a high importance on extracurricular activities. From sports to the arts, these schools offer a plethora of activities that support the development of varied interests and talents. Participating in these activities helps students develop leadership skills, team spirit, and personal interests that are essential for personal growth and development.
Language Proficiency
In a world where English is often considered a lingua franca in business and academia, attending a British school in China provides students with a fluent command of the language. This is a significant advantage, especially in a non-native English-speaking country. Additionally, students often get a chance to learn Mandarin, one of the most spoken languages globally, thus enhancing their skills and opportunities further.
Network and Future Opportunities
Graduating from a British school in China also opens doors to a vast network of alumni and connections that can be beneficial in higher education and career prospects. The reputation of British education leads to a pathway filled with opportunities, including higher chances of acceptance at top universities worldwide and potential preferential treatment in job markets both in China and abroad.
In conclusion, British schools in China offer a blend of rigorous academic standards, a supportive, enriching environment, and a gateway to global opportunities, making them an attractive choice for families looking to provide their children with a world-class education grounded in a globally recognized curriculum.
How much does it cost to attend British Schools in China?
Category | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
Annual Tuition | $15,000 | $35,000 |
Monthly Tuition Equivalent | $1,250 | $2,920 |
Registration Fee (one-time) | $500 | $1,000 |
Uniforms & Materials | $200 | $500 |
Extras & Trips | $500 | $2,000 |
Total Est. Annual Cost | $17,200 | $39,500 |
Top British Schools China 2026
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Yew Chung International School of Shanghai
Shanghai, China •Co-Education •- from 1
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - British Curriculum - Cambridge Curriculum - OtherLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - Chinese - English - SpanishYearly fee: from 163,600 to 359,100 CNY
Foundation: 1993Nationalities: 50 different nationalitiesNr of students: 50 studentsExaminations: Cambridge - IB Diploma - IGCSE - SATYCIS Shanghai marks our first footprint in the Chinese mainland. Over the past 30 years, the school has expanded with six campuses across Puxi, Pudong and Lingang, offering a unique education pathway and competitive international curriculum for expatriate children aged 2 – 18.The Yew Chung International Curriculum (based on internationally recognized learning standards from the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia, integrated within Yew Chung’s own framework, which incorporates the best educational practices and extends its focus to include Chinese language, global citizenship, international-mindedness, character education, and the arts), IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education), IBDP (International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme), HKDSE (Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education), as well as a comprehensive and unique Chinese language and culture program.Annual tuition fees at Yew Chung International School of Shanghai range from CNY 163,600 to CNY 359,100, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
French International School of Hong Kong
Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - Cambridge Curriculum - French Curriculum - IB Curriculum - OtherLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - English - FrenchYearly fee: from 135,000 HKD
Foundation: 1963Nationalities: 45 different nationalitiesNr of students: 45 studentsExaminations: Cambridge - DELF - French Baccalaureate - IB Diploma - IGCSECulturally French, Globally Minded – Established in 1963, the French International School of Hong Kong is one of Hong Kong’s first International Schools, and was the first school in Hong Kong to offer the IB Diploma.A world IB School – FIS is a through-train dual-language international school in Hong Kong boasting over 2700 students across 4 campuses. FIS nurtures trusting relationships that help develop each learner’s talent and passion while supporting their needs. We…
Students in the international stream follow a programme based on the English National Curriculum and enhanced for our international setting. Because we believe that students should appreciate and understand their surroundings. Students are taught in English and are required to study French. We support students on their journey from kindergarten to secondary school. We are there for them every step of the way, from when they first learn to write, all the way through to their IGCSE and IBDP exams. We also help all our students apply to and prepare for studying at top universities worldwide. Students in the French stream follow the French national curriculum set by the Ministry of Education, culminating in the Diplôme National du Brevet (DNB) and the French Baccalauréat. Our dedicated teachin...Annual tuition fees at French International School of Hong Kong range from HKD 135,000 to HKD , depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
ISA Science City International School
Guangzhou, Guangdong •Co-Education •- from 2
- to 18 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - IB Curriculum - IB Diploma ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 220,000 to 328,000 CNY
Foundation: 2020Nationalities: 40 different nationalitiesNr of students: 40 studentsExaminations: IB Diploma - IELTS - MYP - TOEFLEstablished in 2020 as the flagship of ISA International Education Group, ISA Science City International School is a beacon of global education excellence. Spanning 78,000 square metres, our state-of-the-art campus is designed to inspire 2,200 students, including 500 boarding students in Grades 6–12. Here, world-class facilities, a rigorous curriculum, and an exceptional team of educators converge to create an extraordinary learning environment, one that fosters academic excellence, innovation, and holistic…
Integrating World-Class Pedagogy with East-West Philosophies for Balanced Global Development •Fuses the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme with the UK National Curriculum standards •Outstanding specialist lessons, a Language Programme, and a wide range of co-curricular activities (CCA) •Creating a high-quality, creative, and diversified education model •Students receive an authentic international education, connecting with the world •We cultivate lifelong learners with an global perspective. •Field trips and residential camps stimulate curiosity, expand perspectives and reinforce practical skills. 1.1 IB Primary Years Programme EY1-EY4 (age 2-5) ISA Science City combines IB PYP framework with the UK Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) for EY1-EY3, British National Primary Curric...Annual tuition fees at ISA Science City International School range from CNY 220,000 to CNY 328,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
Yew Chung International School of Beijing
Beijing, China •Co-Education •- from 2
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - Cambridge Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - Chinese - English - MandarinYearly fee: from 130,000 to 321,000 EUR
Foundation: 1995Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AExaminations: Cambridge - IB Diploma - IGCSE - SATYew Chung International School of Beijing (YCIS Beijing) is an International School in Beijing, for expatriate students aged 2 -18 years old (K2 to Year 13). The school was established in 1995 and is one of the international schools in China to hold the accreditation through Council of International Schools (CIS). The campus is situated in Honglingjin Park, offering education from Early Childhood to Upper Secondary.
Early Childhood Fundamental skills and whole-child development. At YCIS, students aged two to four are immersed in a supportive, bilingual learning environment, where Chinese and international teachers work together with parents to develop confident, caring, and curious young learners. The focus in these early years is on whole-child development, building character and instilling personal and social values that will support students for life. Primary A project-based, student-centred approach. YCIS primary students master core international curriculum by connecting classroom questions to real-world problems. Our positive, nurturing, and compassionate environment empowers students and teaches integrity, honesty, and respect. Our primary students become more independent and gain the perspecti...Annual tuition fees at Yew Chung International School of Beijing range from EUR 130,000 to EUR 321,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: Year Level K2 - Kindergarten (Half Day): ¥52,000 (Semester 1) | ¥78,000 (Semester 2) | ¥130,000 (Annual) K2 - Kindergarten (Full Day): ¥84,000 (Semester 1) | ¥126,000 (Semester 2) | ¥210,000 (Annual)...Boarding tuition: -
Korean International School, Hong Kong
Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong •Co-Education •- from 4
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - OtherLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 93,400 to 131,700 HKD
Foundation: 1993Nationalities: 25 different nationalitiesNr of students: 25 studentsExaminations: CambridgeKorean International School (KIS) is an international school in Hong Kong that offers a British-style, academic education designed for the English-speaking community in Hong Kong.The curriculum is based on and teaches beyond the National Curriculum for England, providing students with both a local and international perspective. The curriculum offers tight benchmarking, is highly transferable, and is recognized throughout the English-speaking world, allowing students to easily transfer to and from British, British International, and English medium schools worldwide. KIS provides challenge, offers opportunity, and entrusts responsibility, expecting in return from its community a commitment to achieving personal excellence, building transferable skills, and developing a global outlook.Annual tuition fees at Korean International School, Hong Kong range from HKD 93,400 to HKD 131,700, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: An application fee of HK$2,000 is an administrative fee that must be paid to initiate the application review and admission process. The application fee is non-refundable and non-transferable. The acce...Boarding tuition: -
Nord Anglia International School Shanghai, Pudong
Pudong, Shanghai •Co-Education •- from 2
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: Chinese - EnglishYearly fee: from 131,193 to 375,196 CNY
Foundation: 2002Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AExaminations: IB Diploma - IGCSEFor over 20 years, NAIS Pudong has welcomed our students into a diverse international community, motivating them to achieve the best academic results and to attend the top universities in the world.National Curriculum for England; The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE); International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP)Annual tuition fees at Nord Anglia International School Shanghai, Pudong range from CNY 131,193 to CNY 375,196, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
The British International School Shanghai, Puxi
Puxi, Shanghai •Co-Education •- from 2
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: Chinese - EnglishYearly fee: from 262,385 to 375,196 EUR
Foundation: 2004Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AExaminations: IB Diploma - IGCSEFor over 15 years, our high-scoring students have gone on to attend the top universities in the world. Our teachers coach, support and inspire students to achieve outstanding results.National Curriculum for England, The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP)Annual tuition fees at The British International School Shanghai, Puxi range from EUR 262,385 to EUR 375,196, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
The British School of Guangzhou
Guangzhou, Guangdong •Co-Education •- from 1
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British CurriculumLanguage of instruction: Chinese - EnglishYearly fee: from 91,000 to 281,000 EUR
Foundation: 2005Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AExaminations: A Level - IGCSEBSG is the most-established British int’l school in Guangzhou. We’ve been setting the highest standard since 2005, enabling students to achieve academic excellence leading them to top universities.English National Curriculum; IGCSEs, A-levelsAnnual tuition fees at The British School of Guangzhou range from EUR 91,000 to EUR 281,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi
Puxi, Shanghai •Co-Education •- from 2
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British CurriculumLanguage of instruction: English - MandarinYearly fee: from 137,800 to 390,000 CNY
Foundation: 2016Nationalities: 30 different nationalitiesNr of students: 30 studentsExaminations: A Level - IB Diploma - IGCSE - SATAt Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi the curriculum is academically rigorous, yet the education of the whole child is seen as critical. The wellbeing programme and range of co-curricular opportunities available to all children encourages academic, physical, social and emotional growthDulwich College Shanghai Puxi educates children from age 2 to 18. The primary teaching language is English, with a Dual Language approach in Mandarin and English in DUCKS (Toddler to Year 2). Children up to age 5 follow the Early Years Foundation Stage, and from Year 1 to Year 9, follow the National Curriculum of England, which is enhanced to meet the needs of our international student body. In Year 10 they begin the IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education), a rigorous two-year course that requires students to take a broad range of subjects covering maths and sciences, English and foreign languages, and the humanities. The IGCSE culminates in exams at the end of Year 11, and prepares students well for the two-year International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP)...Annual tuition fees at Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi range from CNY 137,800 to CNY 390,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: Tuition Fees may be paid annually or by term. Tuition Fees paid annually enjoy favourable rates compared to fees paid by term. An Application Fee of 3,500 RMB is non-refundable and valid for the year ...Boarding tuition: -
Dulwich College Shanghai Pudong
Pudong, Shanghai •Co-Education •- from 2
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - Chinese - EnglishYearly fee: from 266,000 to 390,000 CNY
Foundation: 21Nationalities: 45 different nationalitiesNr of students: 45 studentsExaminations: Cambridge - IB Diploma - IGCSE - PSAT - SATSince 2003, Dulwich Pudong has been a leading international school in Shanghai with a strong academic reputation.Annual tuition fees at Dulwich College Shanghai Pudong range from CNY 266,000 to CNY 390,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: Examination Fees are included. Additional costs for items such as School Uniforms, Lunches, and Optional School Trips are excluded.Boarding tuition: -
Eton House Nanjing
Nanjing, Jiangsu •Co-Education •- from 2
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: Chinese - EnglishYearly fee: from 114,800 to 154,800 CNY
Foundation: 2009Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AExaminations: A Level - Cambridge - IB Diploma - IGCSEWe strive to embrace, honour and respect the unique identity of your child. We believe in every child’s potential and at EtonHouse, our educators are here to nurture and bring out the best in them. Our complete educational pathway from early years to high school also aims to develop highly engaged learners that are critical thinkers and problem solvers.Part of the prestigious EtonHouse Education Group, EtonHouse International School Nanjing (EHNJ)…
EtonHouse Nanjing is an Cambridge Authorized School. Our middle school students follow the Cambridge Lower Secondary programme while our High School Students will follow IGCSE and progress to A Levels.Cambridge IGCSE helps students to develop knowledge, understanding and skills in subject content and intellectual enquiry. The programme has been designed for students worldwide, including those whose first language is not English. EtonHouse International School, Nanjing provides an international curriculum taught in English for children from 2 to 13 years old. The school offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme, which encourages children to construct meaning through collaborative learning and concept-driven inquiry. The school also offers the English Chinese Immersion Internatio...Annual tuition fees at Eton House Nanjing range from CNY 114,800 to CNY 154,800, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
Majestic International College
Foshan, Guangdong •Co-Education •- from 14
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - British Curriculum - Canadian CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 183,800 CNY
Foundation: N/ANationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AExaminations: A Level - AP - IGCSEAnnual tuition fees at Majestic International College range from CNY 183,800 to CNY , depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
EtonHouse International School, Foshan
Foshan, Guangdong •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: Chinese - EnglishYearly fee: from 120,000 to 190,000 CNY
Foundation: 2016Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AExaminations: A Level - IB Diploma - IGCSELocated in Nanhai Business City, EtonHouse International School Foshan (FEIS) is the first international school in Foshan, and offers a through train K-12 education. From pre-school to primary School, it follows a curriculum inspired by the inquiry-based and child-focused IB approach. As students advance to middle and high school, they are set up for success in university as they take on British National Curriculum Key Stage 3 programmes, IGCSE and…
Annual tuition fees at EtonHouse International School, Foshan range from CNY 120,000 to CNY 190,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
Wellington College International Shanghai
Shanghai, China •Co-Education •- from 2
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 273,000 to 365,000 CNY
Foundation: 2014Nationalities: 40 different nationalitiesNr of students: 40 studentsExaminations: IB Diploma - IGCSEWellington College International Shanghai is a co-educational day school with over 1,600 pupils, aged 2 to 18 years old.Wellingtonians graduate at the age of 18 as confident, independent and resilient young adults. This is the result of their journey through our educational programme. We create the conditions for our pupils to flourish. This means not only achieving the best examination results possible but also acquiring the skills needed to thrive in the wider world. Whether it is in the classroom, on the sports field, on the stage or while engaging in community service projects, our pupils receive an all-round education designed to help them become successful global citizens.Early Years (ages 2-5) Our Early Years Centre will provide your child with a stimulating, nurturing and, most importantly, fun learning environment. Home to two year groups, Nursery and Reception, our curriculum is linked to the expe...Annual tuition fees at Wellington College International Shanghai range from CNY 273,000 to CNY 365,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: Our fees cover day-to-day tuition, use of text and library books, public examination fees, basic stationery and general educational materials appropriate to the particular year group. They also cover ...Boarding tuition:
Popular British Schools Destinations in China
Parent and Student Reviews
- August, 2025Every program at ISA Science City is designed with excellence and purpose. The hands-on learning experiences have been transformative for my child’s growth.
- What amazes me most is how ISA Science City turns every student into a leader. Through organizing different activities and leading community projects, my son has developed confidence and skills that textbooks could never teach. The sheer variety of events – from Model UN to student’s CCA clubs – means there’s always a new way to grow.
- August, 2025I was amazed by how quickly teachers identified my learning style and adapted their approach. At ISA Science City, “one-size-fits-all” doesn’t exist—every student gets a tailored path to thrive.
- August, 2025The curriculum is both broad and deep, seamlessly integrating STEM with arts and humanities. My child never has to choose between passions; the school nurtures every interest with equal dedication.
- August, 2025What sets ISA Science City apart is its faculty—teachers here are not only experts in their fields but also mentors who truly understand how to ignite curiosity. Their blend of academic rigor and personalized guidance is exceptional.
Summary
Parents choose British schools in China for their rigorous academic standards, holistic development, and cultural integration that prepares students for global citizenship. These schools offer a balanced education with a strong emphasis on both academics and extracurricular activities, fostering intellectual and personal growth while enhancing future educational and career opportunities.