Relocating to Hong Kong with your family is a big decision, and choosing the right international school is one of the most important choices you'll make. The city's international school landscape is diverse and competitive, with over 60 international schools offering different curricula, fee structures, philosophies, and learning environments. For expat families and relocating parents, navigating these options can feel overwhelming without clear guidance.
Here's what you need to know upfront: Hong Kong has over 60 international schools serving expat and local families. The main curricula are the International Baccalaureate (IB), British curriculum (IGCSE and A-Levels), American curriculum, Canadian curriculum, and French curriculum. Most schools use English as the language of instruction, though some offer bilingual or multilingual programmes. Many schools are accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) or authorised as IB World Schools. Fees range from HKD 100,000 to over HKD 1,500,000 per year depending on the school and grade level. And the student body is genuinely diverse, with students from 50+ countries.
This guide walks you through everything you need to make an informed decision about international schools in Hong Kong. We'll cover the landscape, the key factors that actually matter when choosing a school, the top schools worth considering, practical admissions information, neighbourhood guides, and answers to the questions parents always ask.
Hong Kong has one of the most developed international school sectors in Asia. If you're coming from another country, you'll be surprised by how many options exist here. The schools offer a range of curricula including the International Baccalaureate (IB), British curriculum (IGCSE and A-Levels), American curriculum, Canadian curriculum, and French curriculum.
According to the Education Bureau of Hong Kong, international schools in the city are primarily English-medium institutions that follow curricula from English-speaking countries or international frameworks. These schools are popular among expat families and increasingly among local families seeking an international education. The reality is that Hong Kong's international school sector is mature, competitive, and well-established. This is both good and challenging—good because there are genuinely excellent schools to choose from, challenging because the competition for places at top schools is real.
Selecting an international school involves evaluating multiple factors. Rather than trying to compare every school in every dimension, focus on the areas that will have the biggest impact on your child's education and your family's daily life.
The curriculum is perhaps the most important decision factor, as it shapes your child's learning experience and future educational pathway. It's worth understanding the differences before you decide.
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is offered at many top Hong Kong schools and is recognised globally. If you're considering the IB, know that it's demanding but respected. The IB Diploma Programme (for ages 16–18) is particularly prestigious and valued by universities worldwide. According to the Council of International Schools, IB schools must meet rigorous accreditation standards. The IB emphasises critical thinking, holistic development, and making connections across subjects. It's not just about memorising facts.
The British Curriculum (IGCSE and A-Levels) is popular among British expat families and increasingly among local families. IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) qualifications are recognised globally. A-Levels are the standard qualification for university entry in the UK and many Commonwealth countries. The British system tends to be more subject-focused than the IB—students choose specific subjects to study in depth. Some families prefer this approach; others find it too narrow.
The American Curriculum is popular among American expat families. The American curriculum culminates in the High School Diploma, which is recognised by universities in the US and internationally. It's a familiar pathway if you're coming from the US.
Some schools also offer Canadian or French curricula, which may be suitable if your family is planning to relocate to Canada or France. These are less common but worth exploring if they fit your family's plans.
Every school has a distinct culture and set of values. This matters more than you might think. You're not just choosing an academic programme; you're choosing a community where your child will spend five to seven hours a day.
Consider whether the school's philosophy aligns with your family's values and your child's learning style. Some schools emphasise rigorous academics above all else; others balance academics with holistic development and well-being. Some are high-pressure environments; others are more relaxed. Think about what environment your child will thrive in.
Also ask about pastoral care. How does the school actually support student wellbeing and pastoral care? Is it genuine or just a checkbox? What opportunities are available for sports, arts, music, and other activities? A school with a strong arts programme might be a great fit for a creative child, whilst another with a competitive sports scene could be perfect for a young athlete. Does the school emphasise community service and social responsibility? These details matter.
Location significantly impacts your family's daily life. This isn't just about the school itself; it's about the 90 minutes a day you might spend commuting. Consider the school location, commute time, and transport options carefully.
MTR Hong Kong is the most efficient way to travel in Hong Kong, and many schools are accessible by MTR. But "accessible by MTR" doesn't mean convenient. A 45-minute commute each way can drain your family's energy. It's worth mapping out the actual journey and asking yourself whether you're comfortable with it.
International school fees in Hong Kong are substantial. Understanding the fee structure is crucial for budgeting, and it's important to look at the full cost, not just tuition.
Tuition fees range from HKD 100,000 to over HKD 1,500,000 depending on the school and grade level ($12,800–$192,000 USD). But tuition is just the beginning. Here's a breakdown of additional costs:
Registration and application fees: HKD 1,000 to 5,000 ($128–$640 USD)
Uniforms and materials: HKD 2,000 to 5,000 per year ($256–$640 USD)
Activities and excursions: HKD 2,000 to 10,000 per year ($256–$1,280 USD)
Lunch and meals: HKD 2,000 to 5,000 per year ($256–$640 USD)
Transport (if not included): HKD 2,000 to 8,000 per year ($256–$1,024 USD)
Total annual cost per child: HKD 200,000 to 300,000 ($25,600–$38,400 USD). It's important to have a clear picture of the total cost from the outset, not just the headline tuition fee.
If your child is not a native English speaker, language support is critical. Most international schools have English as an Additional Language (EAL) programmes, but the quality and intensity vary significantly. Some schools have dedicated EAL teachers and small group sessions; others offer minimal support.
Does the school offer EAL support? How is it structured? What's the typical class size for EAL students? How does the school assess progress? Some schools are genuinely excellent at supporting non-native speakers; others less so. If English proficiency is a concern, ask these questions directly.
Does the school offer instruction in other languages? If you want your child to maintain their home language, some schools offer mother tongue support or bilingual instruction. This matters if language maintenance is a priority for your family.
If your child has special educational needs, ensure the school offers appropriate support. This isn't something to assume; you need to ask directly.
Does the school identify and support students with SEN? What learning support services are available? Is the school genuinely inclusive, or is it just paying lip service to the concept? Talk to current parents about how the school actually supports students with different learning needs.
Accreditation provides assurance that a school meets quality standards. It's not the only measure of a good school, but it's a useful indicator.
Is the school accredited by recognised bodies like the Council of International Schools (CIS)? Is the school authorised to teach the curriculum it offers? What do parent reviews say about the school? Check International Schools Review for verified parent feedback. These are all worth investigating.
Hong Kong's international school landscape is diverse. There are excellent schools across different curricula, price points, and philosophies. Here are ten among the top schools in Hong Kong featured on doris.
Stamford American School Hong Kong - West Kowloon is the secondary campus of Stamford, serving ages 14 to 18. If you're looking for advanced academic options for older students with flexibility between curricula, this campus offers an excellent choice.
Stamford West Kowloon follows the IB Diploma, Advanced Placement (AP), and American Curriculum. It's located in West Kowloon. The school has approximately 970 pupils. The strengths include advanced academic options, excellent facilities, and strong preparation for universities worldwide.
Stamford American School Hong Kong - Ho Man Tin offers the American Curriculum and IB Diploma Programme for ages 5 to 18. If you prefer the American system but want the option of the IB Diploma, this school gives you both pathways.
Stamford Ho Man Tin follows the IB Diploma Programme and American Curriculum. It's located in Ho Man Tin. With approximately 970 pupils, it's one of the larger international schools and provides a rigorous American education with the added benefit of IB qualifications.
YMCA Christian Academy serves ages 5 to 11 and offers the International Primary Curriculum, British Curriculum, and Christian Curriculum. If you're looking for a values-based education with strong pastoral care and a smaller school environment, this is worth exploring.
YMCA Christian Academy follows the International Primary Curriculum, British Curriculum, and Christian Curriculum. It's located in central Hong Kong. With a typical class size of 20 and instruction in English, it provides a solid foundation for families seeking a values-based education with strong pastoral care.
Hong Kong Academy is one of the most established international schools in the city, offering the full International Baccalaureate programme (PYP, MYP, and DP) for ages 3 to 18. If you want your child to experience the full IB continuum from early years through to university entrance, this is a natural choice.
Hong Kong Academy follows the International Baccalaureate curriculum (PYP, MYP, DP). It's located in central Hong Kong. With around 550 pupils and a strong reputation for academic excellence, it's a popular choice for families seeking a comprehensive IB education from early years through to university entrance.
American School Hong Kong is a well-established American curriculum school serving ages 5 to 18. It offers both the American Curriculum and IB Diploma, giving families flexibility in their educational pathway and strong preparation for universities worldwide.
American School Hong Kong follows the American Curriculum and IB Diploma Programme. It's located in Repulse Bay. The school offers both curricula, giving families flexibility in their educational pathway and strong preparation for universities worldwide.
Spanish School of Hong Kong serves ages 6 to 18 and offers Cambridge qualifications with instruction in English, Spanish, and Mandarin. If you want your child to develop multilingual skills whilst pursuing Cambridge qualifications, this school offers a unique approach.
Spanish School of Hong Kong follows the Cambridge curriculum with instruction in English, Spanish, and Mandarin. It provides an excellent option for families seeking multilingual education with globally recognised Cambridge qualifications.
German Swiss International School - Peak Campus serves ages 5 to 18 and offers the IB Diploma, British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, EYFS, and German Curriculum. If you want your child to develop German language skills alongside a rigorous international education, this school is worth considering.
German Swiss International School follows multiple curricula with instruction in English and German. It's located on Peak Campus. With approximately 1,250 pupils, it provides excellent facilities and a comprehensive range of educational pathways.
Lyc'ee Francais International offers the International Primary Curriculum, IMYC (International Middle Years Curriculum), British Curriculum, and French Curriculum for ages 6 to 11. If you want your child to develop genuine bilingual skills in English and French, this school takes language seriously.
Lyc'ee Francais International follows multiple curricula with instruction in both English and French. It's located at Jardine's Lookout. With around 740 pupils and a typical class size of 20, it provides an excellent bilingual education foundation.
HKCA Po Leung Kuk School serves ages 3 to 12 and follows the IB Primary Years Programme with instruction in English and Mandarin. If you're looking for an IB education with bilingual instruction from the early years, this school offers a strong foundation.
HKCA Po Leung Kuk School follows the IB Primary Years Programme with instruction in English and Mandarin. It provides an excellent bilingual IB education for younger students.
Carmel School - Holly Rofé Early Learning Centre serves ages 1 to 5 years and offers the IB Primary Years Programme, IB Middle Years Programme, and IB Diploma Programme. If you want your child to start with the IB from the earliest years, this centre provides that foundation.
Carmel School follows the full IB continuum with instruction in English. With around 350 pupils, it provides an excellent early learning environment grounded in the IB philosophy.
Important note: Nothing here is ranked or recommended. Doris does not promote or prioritise any school. Instead, it provides structured details so you can compare schools based on what matters most to your family.
Here is a comparison of annual fees for the 10 schools we mentioned across different grade levels. Keep in mind that these are approximate and subject to change. Additional costs (uniforms, materials, activities, lunch, transport) typically add HKD 20,000 - 50,000 per year.
|
School |
Primary (Year 1–6) |
Secondary (Year 7–11) |
Sixth Form (Year 12–13) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Stamford American School Hong Kong - West Kowloon |
N/A |
HKD 531,447,700 - 567,336,000 |
HKD 531,447,700 - 567,336,000 |
|
Stamford American School Hong Kong - Ho Man Tin |
HKD 466,547,900 - 567,336,000 |
HKD 466,547,900 - 567,336,000 |
HKD 466,547,900 - 567,336,000 |
|
YMCA Christian Academy (YCA) |
HKD 310,466,030 |
HKD 310,466,030 |
N/A |
|
Hong Kong Academy |
HKD 250,508,930 - 568,840,300 |
HKD 250,508,930 - 568,840,300 |
HKD 250,508,930 - 568,840,300 |
|
American School Hong Kong |
HKD 354,155,200 - 503,940,500 |
HKD 354,155,200 - 503,940,500 |
HKD 354,155,200 - 503,940,500 |
|
Spanish School of Hong Kong |
HKD 247,135,000 - 311,605,000 |
HKD 247,135,000 - 311,605,000 |
HKD 247,135,000 - 311,605,000 |
|
German Swiss International School - Peak Campus |
HKD 423,353,000 - 551,648,300 |
HKD 423,353,000 - 551,648,300 |
HKD 423,353,000 - 551,648,300 |
|
Lyc'ee Francais International |
HKD 319,446,701 - 346,790,577 |
HKD 319,446,701 - 346,790,577 |
N/A |
|
HKCA Po Leung Kuk School |
HKD 200,286,800 - 268,625,000 |
HKD 200,286,800 - 268,625,000 |
N/A |
|
Carmel School - Holly Rofé Early Learning Centre |
HKD 23,209,200 - 35,888,300 |
HKD 23,209,200 - 35,888,300 |
HKD 23,209,200 - 35,888,300 |
Understanding the admissions timeline is crucial for planning your relocation. The process isn't complicated, but timing matters. Here's a general timeline for international school admissions in Hong Kong.
This is the time to begin your research. Start looking at school websites, attend school open houses and information sessions if you can, and request prospectuses and application materials. You're trying to narrow down which schools are genuinely worth pursuing.
Submit applications to your preferred schools. Most schools will require you to pay an application fee and may ask for school reports and other documents. Keep track of deadlines—they vary by school.
Attend interviews at your shortlisted schools. This is when you'll visit schools in person, meet staff, and see whether your child is a good fit. You'll likely receive acceptance or waitlist notifications around this time. Once you've decided on a school, confirm your enrolment and pay any required deposits.
Complete your enrolment paperwork. This is also when you'll arrange visas and work permits. Start preparing for your relocation in earnest.
Attend school orientation if the school offers it. Arrange your housing and transport. Complete final preparations for your move.
Keep in mind that timelines vary by school. Some schools have rolling admissions, whilst others have set application deadlines. According to the Education Bureau, it's recommended to start the school search at least 6–12 months before your desired start date.
Choosing where to live in Hong Kong significantly impacts your family's daily experience. Your choice of neighbourhood will be closely tied to your choice of school. Here are key neighbourhoods and their proximity to top international schools.
Mid-Levels is located in central Hong Kong, on the slopes of Victoria Peak. It's an upscale, central location with good transport links. Nearby schools include Island School, King George V School, and Harrow International School (nearby in Kowloon Tong). The commute to most schools is 15–30 minutes. Transport is excellent with MTR access via Central and Mid-Levels stations. You'll find parks, restaurants, shopping, and healthcare facilities. There's a strong expat presence. Housing is expensive but offers good value for a central location.
Repulse Bay is located on the southern side of Hong Kong Island. It has a beachside, relaxed atmosphere and is genuinely family-friendly. Nearby schools include Dulwich College, American International School Hong Kong (AISHK), and Hong Kong International School (HKIS). The commute to nearby schools is 10–20 minutes. Transport includes good bus connections and MTR access via Admiralty. You'll find a beach, parks, restaurants, and shopping. There's a strong expat presence. Housing is expensive but excellent for families seeking a more relaxed lifestyle.
Kowloon Tong is located in Kowloon, New Territories. It's a residential, family-oriented area with good schools. Nearby schools include Harrow International School, Kowloon Tong School, and many others. The commute to nearby schools is 5–15 minutes. Transport is excellent with MTR access via Kowloon Tong station. You'll find parks, schools, shopping, and healthcare. There's a growing expat presence. Housing is more affordable than Mid-Levels or Repulse Bay.
Discovery Bay is located on Lantau Island. It's expat-heavy, walkable, beachside, with a relaxed community atmosphere. Nearby schools include Discovery College and Lantau International School. The commute is 20–30 minutes to Discovery College and 10–15 minutes to Lantau International School. Transport includes ferry to Central and bus connections. You'll find a beach, parks, restaurants, shopping, and community facilities. There's a very strong expat presence. Housing offers good value with a quieter lifestyle.
Sai Kung and Clear Water Bay are located in the New Territories, eastern Hong Kong. They're peaceful areas with spacious homes and a nature-oriented feel. International school options are limited; you'd likely commute to Kowloon Tong or Repulse Bay schools. The commute to most international schools is 30–45 minutes. Transport includes bus connections with limited MTR access. You'll find beaches, parks, outdoor recreation, and restaurants. There's a growing expat presence. Housing is more spacious and affordable than central areas.
Planning your relocation to Hong Kong requires attention to detail. Here's a checklist to help you stay organised.
Research and apply to international schools. Secure your employment visa and dependent visas. Research neighbourhoods and housing options. Connect with expat communities online (Facebook groups, forums). Arrange international health insurance. Update your children's vaccinations and obtain health records.
Finalise school enrolment. Secure housing (or arrange a temporary serviced apartment). Book flights and arrange transportation. Arrange visa applications for your spouse and children. Notify your bank and insurance providers of your move. Arrange for household goods shipping if applicable.
Confirm your school start date and enrolment requirements. Arrange for utilities (electricity, water, internet). Set up banking arrangements (open accounts remotely if possible). Arrange for mobile phone plans. Notify relevant authorities in your home country of your move.
Complete school registration and orientation. Register with your embassy. Apply for HKID (Hong Kong Identity Card). Register with a GP and paediatrician. Open bank accounts if you haven't done so remotely. Set up utilities and internet. Explore your neighbourhood and local amenities. Join parent groups and community organisations.
Q: How long does the school application process take?
A: Most schools require 2 - 4 months from application submission to final decision. It's important to start the process early (9 - 12 months before your desired start date). Don't leave it until the last minute.
Q: What entrance assessments do international schools require?
A: Most schools require entrance assessments in English, Mathematics, and sometimes reasoning. Some schools also conduct interviews. Requirements vary by school and grade level. Ask each school what to expect.
Q: Can my child transfer between international schools mid-year?
A: Yes, but mid-year transfers are less common and may have limited availability. It's better to plan for a transfer at the end of the academic year (June/July). If you need to transfer mid-year, contact schools directly, sometimes they have unexpected spaces.
Q: What is the difference between the IB and British curriculum?
A: The IB is an international curriculum with a focus on holistic education and critical thinking. The British curriculum (IGCSE and A-Levels) is more traditional and subject-focused. Both are recognised globally. The choice depends on your family's preferences and future plans. Think about your child's learning style and your family's priorities.
Q: Are there scholarships available for international schools in Hong Kong?
A: Some schools offer scholarships based on academic merit or financial need. Contact individual schools for scholarship information. It's always worth asking, you might be surprised.
Q: What language support is available for non-native English speakers?
A: Most international schools offer English as an Additional Language (EAL) support. The level of support varies by school. Enquire about EAL provision when researching schools. Ask specifically about class sizes and how progress is assessed.
Q: How do I verify a school's accreditation?
A: Check the school's website for accreditation information. You can also verify IB World School status on the IB website, and CIS accreditation on the CIS website. Accreditation is a useful indicator of quality.
Choosing an international school in Hong Kong is a significant decision, but you don't have to do it alone. There are resources available to help you navigate the process. doris makes it easy to compare international schools in Hong Kong. Browse their comprehensive school directory, read parent reviews, and compare schools by curriculum, fees, location, and more.