International 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 International Schools in Shanghai, including reviews, fees, and why families choose them.
Why choose an international school in Shanghai?
Choosing an international school in Shanghai can be a transformative decision for families prioritizing quality education with a global perspective. This bustling metropolis not only offers a vibrant cultural tapestry but also hosts some of the most prestigious international schools that are renowned for their rigorous academics and holistic development opportunities.
Global Curriculum Standards
International schools in Shanghai adhere to high global curriculum standards such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), Advanced Placement (AP), and the British GCSE and A-Levels. These curricula not only ensure a seamless transition for expatriate students but also prepare Chinese nationals with a global educational framework that is recognized by universities worldwide. The rigorous academic standards encourage critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills, equipping students to excel at the highest levels.
Language and Cultural Integration
One of the standout advantages of attending an international school in Shanghai is the opportunity for students to become fluent in multiple languages, primarily English, while also offering Mandarin classes that help them connect with the host country’s culture. This bilingual environment fosters greater cultural awareness and adaptability — essential skills in today’s globalized world.
Extracurricular Excellence
The extracurricular activities offered by these schools go beyond the typical sports and arts to include unique programs like robotics, debate teams, and international volunteer projects. These programs are designed to develop leadership skills and social responsibility, encouraging students to become well-rounded individuals who are prepared to make meaningful contributions to society.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
Shanghai’s international schools boast state-of-the-art facilities that rival some of the best schools globally. From Olympic-sized swimming pools and sprawling sports fields to technology-integrated classrooms and advanced science labs, these schools offer environments that enhance learning and foster a healthy lifestyle.
Networking and Future Opportunities
Students at international schools in Shanghai benefit from an expansive network of peers and alumni that spans across the globe. This network can be instrumental in opening doors for higher education and career opportunities internationally. Moreover, the presence of a diverse student body from various national backgrounds promotes a deeper understanding and appreciation of different cultures, enriching the student’s personal and educational experiences.
In conclusion, Shanghai’s international schools not only provide an exemplary educational foundation but also nurture a globally aware, innovative, and socially responsible individual. This holistic approach to education is what makes Shanghai an attractive city for those seeking the best for their children’s future.
How much does it cost to attend International Schools in Shanghai?
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 | $400 |
Extras & Trips | $500 | $2,000 |
Total Est. Annual Cost | $17,200 | $40,420 |
Top International Schools Shanghai 2025
Discover top International Schools in Shanghai. 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
-
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.
Nord Anglia International School Shanghai, Pudong
-
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 Western International School of Shanghai (WISS)
-
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.
Concordia International School Shanghai
-
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.
Parent and Student Reviews
- November, 2023Concordia is a very special school. It not only focuses on academics, although it is very strong in academics, but also focuses on developing a kid’s other intelligences—for example drawing, technology, and even music—which makes kids more well-rounded.
- November, 2023Concordia not only fosters kids in their academic development but also allows them to learn how to fundamentally become better people, which has a lifelong influence on them. Therefore, Concordia fits well with the educational philosophy of our family.
- One of the things that I really like about the way the Americans do education has been the emphasis on show-and-tell, the strong sense of confidence, the emphasis on communication… I think both my children have benefited greatly from that.
- November, 2023I can see that at Concordia my son is cared for as an individual. His strengths are nurtured and weaknesses addressed. The teachers are very professional and dedicated. And most importantly, kids are very motivated, and truly love the school and the environment.
- 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.
Summary
Shanghai's international schools stand out with their rigorous global curricula, multilingual education, and state-of-the-art facilities, preparing students for global opportunities. These schools not only focus on academic excellence but also emphasize holistic development through diverse extracurriculars and cultural integration, making them a top choice for quality education in a global city.