Boarding schools in China provide a mix of strong academics, cultural experiences, and personal growth. These schools offer a supportive learning space. They feature modern campuses, varied curriculums, and skilled teachers.
Students from around the world build lifelong friendships while gaining global perspectives. Whether you’re looking for an international program or a school with strong Chinese traditions, there’s an option for every family.
Curious to learn about the best boarding schools in China? Let’s explore what makes them a great choice!
Top-Rated Boarding Schools in China
Here is a list of leading Chinese boarding schools with their facilities and features.
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01. International School of Beijing (ISB)
Beijing Shunyi International School (ISB) offers a safe, nurturing space for kids aged 2 to 18. ISB has over 40 years of experience. It offers a top-tier international education. Passionate teachers lead the program around the globe.
The School aims for academic excellence. It also supports students' emotional, social, and physical growth. Small classes, good facilities, and a mix of subjects help students learn better. This makes learning more personal for each student.
ISB cares about students' well-being. It offers great sports fields, science labs, and theatres. Plus, it has a medical-grade air filtration system. Parents can trust that their child is in a supportive and inspiring place, ready for the future.
Boarding Grades Supported: High School (Grade 9 and above)
Grades include: Kindergarten Classes 2 to 12
Is it registered with the Ministry of Education: Yes
Costs from 2025 to 2026:
Nationality of students: more than 50 countries and regions
Main language of instruction: English (Bindergarten 2-year-old class ~ 5th Grade bilingual parallel course)
Other languages of instruction: Chinese, French and Spanish
Average class size: 12 to 22 (depending on grade level)
Average teacher-student ratio: 1:8
School Hours: 8:15-15:25
School Doctor and Nurse: Yes
02. Harrow International School Beijing (AISL Beijing)
Choosing the right School for your child is a big decision, and Harrow Beijing makes it easy. Established in 2005, it offers top-tier education from kindergarten to high School. The School blends British traditions with Chinese culture, providing a well-rounded learning experience.
"Your child learns from experienced teachers in small classes. This means they get more personal attention. The curriculum is rigorous, and students secure places at top global universities".
Beyond academics, kids explore sports, arts, and clubs. Modern facilities and on-site medical staff ensure a safe and nurturing environment for every student.
Boarding Grades Supported: Year 6 and above
Grades Include: Kindergarten to Grade 13
Registered with Ministry of Education: Yes
Costs (2024/2025):
- Application Fee: ¥3,500
- Tuition: ¥219,400 – ¥339,400 (varies by grade; contact the school for details)
- Meals: ¥7,560 per year
Nationality of Students: Over 20 countries (UK, US, Canada, China, etc.)
Main Language of Instruction: English
Other Languages: Chinese (core subject), Spanish
Average Class Size: 20-24 students
Teacher-Student Ratio: 1:5 to 1:10
School Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Medical Staff: Qualified nurses on campus
03. Western Academy of Beijing (WAB)
Beijing Jingxi School is a top non-profit international school. It offers the well-known IB programme. Established in 1994, it provides a well-rounded education for students aged 3-18. With a diverse student body from over 50 countries, small class sizes. Also, with a low teacher-student ratio, students receive personalised attention.
The School boasts excellent academic performance, modern facilities, and enriching extracurricular activities. School officials focus on creating a safe and supportive environment. At the same time, qualified staff deliver excellent educational experiences.
Parents can feel sure their children are in a caring place. It also gives strong academic support.
Boarding Grades Supported: High School (Grade 9 and above)
Grades: Kindergarten to 12th Grade
Age range: 3-18 years
Ministry of Education Registration: Yes
Tuition Fees: Varies by Grade (ranging from ¥1,023,840 to ¥2,633,040 per year)
Nationality of Students: Over 50 nationalities, including the US, Canada, Korea, and Australia
Main Language of Instruction: English
Other Languages: Chinese, Dutch, French, Finnish, Spanish, Swedish, German
Average Class Size: 14 (kindergarten), 22 (primary & secondary)
Teacher-Student Ratio: 1:7
School Hours: 8:30 AM – 3:20 PM
School Doctor & Nurse: Full-time and part-time registered foreign nurses in all departments
04. Dulwich College Shanghai
Dulwich College Shanghai has two campuses for their foreign students: Pudong and Puxi.
Pudong Campus
Shanghai Dulwich Pudong has been a top international school since 2003, offering a well-rounded education with strong academic success. The School follows the British curriculum for younger students, IGCSE for middle grades, and the IB Diploma for senior students. Students develop confidence, resilience, and a love for learning by focusing on personalised learning.
The School provides a safe and supportive environment, welcoming foreign and European students alongside primary students. The well-equipped campus, small class sizes, and low student-teacher ratio ensure quality education. Full-time doctors and nurses are available, giving parents added peace of mind.
This creates a clear learning process. Foreign students, like those from Europe, get quality teaching. The educational program nurtures young minds, making it a trusted Chinese school for international families.
Boarding Grades Supported: Year 7 and above
Grades Include: Nursery to Year 13
Age Range: 2 to 18 years
Ministry of Education Registration: Yes, for international students meeting Shanghai’s international school admission policy
Costs:
- Application Fee: ¥3,500 (non-refundable)
- Tuition: ¥266,000–¥390,000 per year
- Transport: ¥19,845 (round trip)
- Meals: ¥33–¥45 per day
Nationality of Students: British, American, Australian, Hong Kong, Singaporean, and more
Main Language of Instruction: English
Other Languages: Chinese, French, Spanish
Average Class Size: 16–22 students
Average Teacher-Student Ratio: 1:4 to 1:22
School Hours: 8:15 AM – 3:30 PM
School Doctor and Nurse: Full-time medical staff available
Puxi Campus
Shanghai Dulwich Puxi is a top-tier international school offering world-class education in Minhang District. With a 400-year heritage from Dulwich College, the School blends rigorous academics with diverse extracurricular activities. Students thrive in a safe, modern 40,000 sqm campus that inspires learning.
The curriculum spans from early years to pre-university programs like IGCSE, IB, and A-Level, ensuring a strong foundation for future success. Small class sizes, experienced teachers, and a holistic approach support students’ academic and emotional well-being. Parents can rest assured their children receive the best preparation for university and beyond.
Grades Include: Nursery to Year 13
Age Range: 2 to 18 years old
Registered with the Ministry of Education: Yes (for eligible expatriate students per Shanghai regulations)
Annual Fees (2024-2025):
- Application Fee: ¥3,500
- Tuition: ¥137,800 – ¥390,000 (varies by Grade)
- Additional Costs: ¥15,000 refundable resource fee, ¥2,500 uniform, ¥18,900 annual bus fee, ¥35/day meals
Student Nationalities: 30+ countries, including the UK, USA, Australia, and Singapore
Main Language of Instruction: English
Other Languages: Mandarin, Spanish, French, German
Average Class Size: 18 students
Teacher-Student Ratio:
- Nursery: 1:4
- Preschool: 1:8
- Kindergarten: 1:10
- Year 1-13: 1:22
School Hours:
- Nursery: 8:10 AM – 3:00 PM
- Year 1-13: 8:10 AM – 3:30 PM
Special Programs: University preparation, competitive academics, extracurriculars like swimming, music, drama, Model UN, and environmental clubs
School Facilities: Olympic-size swimming pool, sports complex, theatre, STEAM labs, library, and modern air purification systems
School Medical Staff: Full-time nurses from Shanghai United Family Hospital
05. Wellington College International Shanghai
Wellington International School in Shanghai welcomes children aged 2 to 18. With over 1,600 students from 40+ nationalities, it provides a rich cultural experience. The School follows the British curriculum, IPC, IGCSE, and IB Diploma, ensuring top-quality education.
English is the primary language, and Chinese, French, and Spanish are also taught. Class sizes are small, and the student-teacher ratio promotes personalised learning.
The School offers modern facilities, including a swimming pool, theatre, and science labs. A full-time doctor and nurse ensures students' well-being. Parents can trust that their children will learn in a nurturing and diverse environment.
Boarding Grades Supported: Year 7 and above
Grades: Nursery to Year 13
Age Range: 2-18 years
MOE Registration: Yes (Foreign National School)
Annual Fees: ¥283,900 - ¥379,600 (plus additional costs)
Student Nationalities: 40+ countries
Main Language: English
- Other Languages: Chinese, French, Spanish
- Class Size: 20-22 students per class
- Teacher-Student Ratio: Nursery 1:6, Main School 1:7
School Hours:
- Nursery to Year 2: 8:15 AM - 3:15 PM
- Year 3 & above: 8:15 AM - 3:15 PM (4:45 PM with activities)
Medical Staff: Full-time doctor and nurse
06. Harrow International School Shanghai
Harrow Shanghai is a prestigious international school that follows British education traditions while preparing students for success in mainstream society. It offers an option for students from 18 months to 18 years old, including international students and those from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan.
The School provides a rigorous academic curriculum, including IGCSE and A Levels, alongside AP and SAT preparation. Students thrive in small class sizes, benefiting from personalised attention and diverse extracurricular activities.
With world-class facilities and a strong leadership programme, Harrow Shanghai stands out among Chinese boarding schools, even though it operates as a day school.
Boarding Grades Supported: Year 6 and above
Grades Include: Nursery (18 months) to Year 13
Age Range of Accepted Students: 18 months to 18 years
Is It Registered with the Ministry of Education? No (Only for foreign passport holders and Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan students)
Costs:
- Application Fee: ¥3,000
- Tuition: ¥270,000 – ¥370,000 per year
- Resource Fee: ¥25,000 per year
- Meals: ¥6,300 per year
Nationality of Students: 20+ countries, including the UK, US, Canada, Australia, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan
Main Language of Instruction: English
Other Languages of Instruction: Chinese, Spanish
Average Class Size: 16-22 students (varies by Grade)
Average Teacher-Student Ratio: 1:5
School Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:15 PM (includes extracurricular activities)
School Doctor and Nurse: Full-time campus nurse
07. Fettes College Guangzhou
Fettes College Guangzhou (FCG) is a bilingual, British-style boarding school offering a 12-year curriculum. Backed by the prestigious Fettes College in the UK and a leading Chinese education group, FCG provides high-quality academics and a well-rounded learning environment.
The School caters to students aged 2–17, welcoming all nationalities. With modern facilities, a strong faculty, and small class sizes, students receive personalised attention. FCG follows international and Chinese curriculums, preparing students for top universities. Parents can feel at ease knowing their children will thrive in a safe, globally focused, nurturing environment to support academic and personal growth.
Boarding Grades Supported: Year 6 and above
Grades: Kindergarten to High School
Age Range: 2–17 years
Registered with Ministry of Education: Yes
Costs:
- Primary: ¥120,000/Semester
- Middle: ¥135,000/Semester
- High School: ¥150,000/Semester
- Boarding Fees: ¥9,000–16,000/Semester
- Meals: ¥9,000–11,000/Semester
- Transport: Varies by route
Nationality of Students: Open to all
Main Language of Instruction: English
Other Languages: Chinese
Average Class Size: Small, with individual attention
Teacher-Student Ratio: Balanced for focused learning
School Hours: Full-day, structured schedule
School Doctor & Nurse: On-site medical staff available
08. ISA Science City International School
ISA Science City International School is located in the heart of the Greater Bay Area, just 25 minutes from Guangzhou’s CBD. Opened in 2020, it is a K-12 IB international school designed for 1,800 students aged 2-18. The School offers a world-class IB curriculum, fostering academic excellence and holistic development.
Its modern, eco-friendly campus and top-tier facilities provide a safe and stimulating learning environment.
A highly qualified faculty, diverse language programs, and extensive extracurricular activities ensure students receive a well-rounded education. Parents can trust ISA Science City to nurture their children’s academic and personal growth.
Boarding Grades Supported: G6-G12
Grades: Kindergarten to Grade 12
Age Range: 2-18 years old
Registered with Ministry of Education: Yes
Costs: Varies by grade level
Student Nationalities: International mix
Main Language of Instruction: English
Other Languages Offered: Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Italian, French, Spanish, Arabic
Average Class Size: Small for personalised learning
Teacher-Student Ratio: Low for better interaction
School Hours: Varies by grade level
Medical Staff: School doctor and nurse on-site
09. Shenzhen College of International Education (SCIE)
Shenzhen Foreign Language School, established in 2003, offers a robust A-Level curriculum internationally. The School is fully registered and provides quality education in English, with additional language options like Japanese, Spanish, and French. It accepts local and international students aged 14-18, with a student-teacher ratio of 10:1.
The School boasts modern facilities, including sports fields, a gym, and dedicated arts spaces. Extracurriculars enrich the academic experience, while boarding options and specialised support are available. With experienced staff and a focus on holistic development, parents can trust the School’s nurturing environment.
Boarding Grades Supported: High School (Year 10 and above)
Grades Include: IGCSE (G1, G2), A Level (A1, A2)
Age Range of Accepted Students: 14-18 years
Registered with Ministry of Education: Yes
Costs: Tuition (Regular: ¥248,000, Art: ¥278,000), Boarding (¥16,800–¥19,800/year), Exam Fee (¥500)
Nationality of Students: Primarily Chinese, accepts foreign students.
Main Language of Instruction: English
Other Languages of Instruction: Japanese, Spanish, French, Chinese
Average Class Size: 26 students
Average Teacher-Student Ratio: 1:10
School Hours: 8:00-12:30, 13:40-16:30
School Doctor and Nurse: 3 full-time medical staff, 2 nurses in dormitories
10. International School of Nanshan Shenzhen (ISNS)
Shenzhen International School for Foreign Children (ISNS), established in 2002, offers a diverse and inclusive educational experience for students aged 3 to 17. The School provides a well-rounded IB curriculum from PYP to DP, focusing on critical thinking, creativity, and holistic development.
With state-of-the-art facilities, small class sizes, and a strong emphasis on global citizenship, ISNS ensures an enriching and safe environment for students. The school promotes a balanced educational experience, supports academics and extracurricular activities, and makes it an excellent choice for parents seeking quality international education.
Boarding Grades Supported: High School (Grade 9 and above)
Grades Include: Kindergarten to Grade 12
Age range of accepted students: 3 years to 17 years
Is it registered with the Ministry of Education: Yes
Costs:
- Application fee: ¥2500
- Registration fee: ¥50000
- Tuition: Kindergarten (K3-K5) ¥199,800/year, PYP (G1-G5) ¥209,000/year, MYP (G6-10) ¥227,400/year, DP (G11-12) ¥238,000/year
- Other fees: School bus ¥11,000/year, Lunch ¥39-45
Nationality of students: Canada, USA, Australia, South Korea, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and others
Main language of instruction: English
Other languages of instruction: Chinese, French
Average class size: 18-24 students
Average teacher-student ratio: 1:5
School Hours: 8:10 AM - 3:30 PM
School Doctor and Nurse: 2 full-time nurses
What Factors Parents Should Consider when Admitting their Kid in the Boarding Schools in China
Sending your child to a boarding school in China is a big decision. Taiwanese families weigh several key factors to pick the best fit—here are the top five.
Academic Quality
Parents want to know if their child will receive a top-tier education when picking a boarding school. They look at the School’s curriculum—does it follow international standards like IB or A-Levels, or does it focus on China’s national system?
Strong academic programs have experienced teachers, small class sizes, and a history of high exam scores. Parents also check if the School offers extra support, like tutoring for students who need help. A school with a solid academic reputation means your child will be well-prepared for university and beyond.
School Reputation
A school’s name carries weight. Families research how long the School has been around, its rankings, and what other parents say about it. A well-established school usually has better facilities, connections, and resources.
Parents might look at alumni success stories—do graduates go to top universities? Are they successful in their careers? A respected school doesn’t just provide education; it opens doors for networking and future opportunities.
Safety and Security
No parent wants to worry about their child’s safety. When evaluating boarding schools, families check security measures.
Are there guards, surveillance cameras, and controlled dorm access?
They also look at living conditions:
Are the dormitories clean and well-maintained?
Is there a nurse or doctor on campus?
Schools in safe neighbourhoods with clear emergency protocols give parents peace of mind. After all, a secure environment lets kids focus on learning and growing.
Language of Instruction
Will classes be taught in Mandarin, English, or both? This is a big concern, especially if the child isn’t fluent in one of the languages. Some schools offer bilingual programs or extra language support for non-native speakers.
Parents should consider how quickly their children can adapt—will they struggle at first, or does the school have systems to help them catch up? A good language setup ensures students don’t fall behind while adjusting to a new academic environment.
Future Opportunities
Education isn’t just about grades—it’s about what comes next. Parents look at university placement rates: Do graduates get into prestigious colleges? Does the School provide career counselling, internships, or partnerships with universities?
Strong alumni networks can also help with job opportunities later. A boarding school that invests in students’ long-term success makes the investment worthwhile.
Conclusion
Choosing a boarding school in China is a big decision, but focusing on academics, reputation, safety, language support, and future opportunities ensures the best fit for your child. Thorough research and campus visits can ease the transition.
With the right School, students gain top-tier education, lifelong skills, and global connections. The investment today paves the way for their success tomorrow.
Alifa Edtech helps expatriate parents navigate China’s education system. We make school selection easy. Your child will find the best fit in international or Chinese schools. Explore stress-free enrollment today!