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 2025
Discover top International Schools in China. 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.
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.
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.
French International School of Hong Kong
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Hong Kong - Hong Kong Island
- Co-Education
- 3 to 18 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 135,000 hkd
- Curriculum:British Curriculum, Cambridge Curriculum, French Curriculum, IB Curriculum, Other
- Foundation:1963
- Community: 2700 students • 45 nationalities
- Examinations:Cambridge, DELF, French Baccalaureate, IB Diploma, IGCSE
- Language:Bilingual, English, French
- Bilingual Immersion: French & English
- Direct Pathway to Global Universities
- Unique Blend of Asian & Western Culture
Annual tuition fees at French International School of Hong Kong start at 135,000 hkd.
Korean International School, Hong Kong
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Hong Kong - Hong Kong Island
- Co-Education
- 4 to 18 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 93,400 - 131,700 hkd
- Curriculum:British Curriculum, Other
- Foundation:1993
- Community: 800 students • 25 nationalities
- Examinations:Cambridge
- Language:English
- Dual curriculum - Korean & IB system.
- Emphasis on character and creativity.
- Strong ties to Korean culture.
Annual tuition fees at Korean International School, Hong Kong range from 93,400 hkd to 131,700 hkd, depending on the student's grade level and program.
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 acceptance...
The British School of Guangzhou
-
Guangdong - Guangzhou
- Co-Education
- 1 to 18 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 91,000 - 281,000
- Curriculum:British Curriculum
- Foundation:2005
- Examinations:A Level, IGCSE
- Language:Chinese, English
- Bespoke Global Campus Programme
- Tailored Juilliard Arts Curriculum
- World-class MIT STEAM Collaboration
Annual tuition fees at The British School of Guangzhou range from 91,000 to 281,000 , depending on the student's grade level and program.
ISA Science City International School
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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.
Yew Chung International School of Beijing
-
China - Beijing
- Co-Education
- 2 to 18 years old
- School type:International School
- Yearly fee: 130,000 - 321,000 eur
- Curriculum:British Curriculum, Cambridge Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1995
- Community: 42 students
- Examinations:Cambridge, IB Diploma, IGCSE, SAT
- Language:Bilingual, Chinese, English, Mandarin
- Unites Eastern & Western Pedagogies
- Bilingual Proficiency from Age 2
- Strong Focus on Character Education
Annual tuition fees at Yew Chung International School of Beijing range from 130,000 eur to 321,000 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
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) |...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.