Introduction
Expat parents in Shanghai want the best K-12 school for their children. They look for a world-class, English-language education that leads to top universities. Fudan International School (FDIS) is a perfect fit. Located next to the famous Fudan University, it was started in 2002 just for expat families.
FDIS curriculum offers deep learning with personal growth. Classes are small, with only 12 to 18 students. This gives each child personal attention. The school has an excellent record of sending its graduates to Ivy League, Oxbridge, and other top global universities.
This guide shares a detailed overview of Fudan International school. Read and decide whether this K12 school fits your kid.
Fudan International School Overview
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School History
Fudan International School (FDIS) was started in 2002. It is the international part of Fudan High School. Fudan High School is a top public school connected to Fudan University.
FDIS was one of the first top schools for international education in Shanghai. It was started by a key public school. It shows how Fudan High School is growing. It also has a mission to connect China’s education with the rest of the world.
For over twenty years, the school has used the deep learning history of Fudan University. It has grown into a model for international education in its region. It is an important member of Shanghai's school community. It acts as a bridge. It connects Chinese students to the world. It also connects international students, including children of foreign personnel, to China.
The school is recognized in top rankings like the Hurun and Forbes lists. It has won awards like “China’s Most Influential International Division.” It is also called an “IBO Accredited Outstanding School.”
School Location
FDIS is located on Guoquang Road in Yangpu District. It is right next to Fudan University’s main campus. It shares in the rich culture of the famous university.
The school is also near the Wujiaochang business area. Students can use nearby places like the Fudan University Library and the Jiangwan Sports Center. This helps them explore and be part of the community.
The school is easy to get to. It is a 5-minute walk to a subway station on Line 10. This line gives quick access to many parts of the city. Many bus routes also stop nearby. Special school buses also serve major living areas in Pudong and Minhang. This makes travel safe and easy for students.
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Eligibility and Student Profile
The admissions process at Fudan International School is made to find students who are a good fit. The school wants students who will do well in its classes and community. The school's main goal is to serve the needs of the international community in Shanghai.
To apply, students must meet one of these requirements:
- The student's mother or father has a foreign passport and a resident permit from Shanghai.
- The student's mother or father has a permanent residence card from the Ministry of Public Security.
- The student or their mother or father is from Hong Kong, Macao, or Taiwan.
- The student was born in another country.
The school does not accept new students in the second semester of Grade 10. It also does not accept new students in Grade 11 or Grade 12.
These grades are only for students who are already studying at FDIS. The school works to provide a helpful and welcoming place for all of its students. The admissions team is ready to answer questions and help families through the process.
Nationality and Residency Rules
Fudan International School has specific rules about nationality and residency. The school is a public school that is part of Fudan University. Its rules are made to serve the international community in Shanghai.
The rules for applying are the same as listed above. The school wants to make sure its student community is diverse and has many cultures. The school is committed to being a supportive and welcoming place for all students.
Age Rules for Grade 1 Entry
The school has specific age rules for students entering Grade 1. To apply for Grade 1 for the 2024-2025 school year, a child should turn 6 years old by August 31st. This rule helps make sure that students are ready for the learning and social life of the Grade 1 program.
Application Procedure
The application process at Fudan International School is both complete and clear. The school wants to be a helpful and welcoming place for all its students. The admissions team is always ready to answer questions and guide families.
The application process has a few steps. It includes an online application, sending in required papers, and doing an entrance test and family interview. The admissions team will look at all applications. They will then contact families to set up the test and interview. The school’s final decision is based on many things. This includes the student's school records, the test results, and the family interview.
Step by Step: How to Apply
Step 1: Submit the Online Application
The first step is to fill out the online application form. The form is on the school's website. It must be filled out completely before you can submit it. The form asks for information about the student. This includes personal details, school history, and family information. The admissions team will review the form and contact the family for the next steps.
Step 2: Provide Required Documents
Families must also send in several documents to support the application. These documents include a copy of the student's passport. They also need to send a copy of the student's school transcripts and birth certificate. The admissions team will check all the papers. They will contact the family if more information is needed.
Step 3: Complete Entrance Tests and Family Interviews
All students who apply to the school must complete an entrance test and a family interview. The test is made to check the student's academic skills. It helps the school see if the student is a good fit for its classes.
The family interview is a chance for the school to get to know the student and the family. It helps decide if the student will fit well in the school community. The school will look at the results of both the test and the interview to make a final decision.
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Transfer Student Admissions
Fudan International School accepts transfer students in grades 1 through 10. But, it does not accept new students in the second semester of Grade 10. It also does not accept new students in Grade 11 or Grade 12. These grades are only for students who are already at the school.
The process for transfer students is complete and clear. The school is a supportive and welcoming place for all students. The admissions team can answer any questions. They can also help families through the process. The steps are the same: submitting an online form, sending in documents, and completing an entrance test and a family interview.
Facilities
FDIS designs its spaces as "holistic learning environments." This helps students grow in a personal and complete way.
Teaching Spaces
Modern classrooms have smart interactive whiteboards, air conditioning, and fresh air systems. They are set up for different subjects.
For example, science labs connect to the campus garden. Language labs have special equipment for translating. Art studios have professional canvases and pottery tools. The main language of instruction is English, creating a fully immersive environment.
Laboratories & Innovation Center
The school has six labs that meet IB and AP standards. There are two labs each for physics, chemistry, and biology. A special "maker space" has <strong>cutting-edge technology</strong> like 3D printers and laser cutters. This helps students with project-based learning.
Library & Resource Center
The library has over 50,000 books. It has both Chinese and English academic works, journals, and digital resources. There are also private study rooms and reading corners. The library often hosts "cross-cultural book clubs."
Sports & Arts Complex
An indoor gym has courts for basketball and badminton, and a climbing wall. Outdoor areas include a soccer field and tennis courts to help students develop their physical skills. The arts center has a professional theater, choir rooms, and music studios. These support practice and performances.
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Curriculum
FDIS has a "dual-track + integrated" curriculum. This balances deep learning with personal growth.
Core Curriculum
The high school mainly offers the IB Diploma Programme (DP). This covers six subject groups and helps students develop critical thinking and a global view. The junior high uses a mix of the national curriculum and the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP). This builds a strong bilingual base and focuses on conceptual-based teaching.
Enrichment Programs
The school works with universities like Harvard and Cambridge. This provides online advanced courses like AP Calculus. It also has joint programs with Fudan University to help students learn more about Chinese culture and history.
Special Projects
The school offers "Cross-Cultural Leadership" workshops. It also has a "Research Mentorship" program where students do small research projects. Special paths are available for students with talents in arts or sports.
Tuition & Fees
The pricing at FDIS is clear. It covers both academic and non-academic support.
- School Tuition: The tuition fee is about RMB 180,000 per year for primary school. It is about RMB 200,000 per year for junior high. It is about RMB 220,000 per year for senior high.
- One-Time Fees: There is a RMB 20,000 registration fee for new students. There is also a RMB 10,000 facility deposit that is refundable.
- Other Expenses: Textbooks cost about RMB 5,000 per year. Uniforms are about RMB 3,000 in the first year. Lunch costs about RMB 40 per workday. Extra activities can cost between RMB 10,000 and 30,000 per year.
The total annual fees are about RMB 250,000 to 300,000. This puts FDIS in the mid-to-high price range for international schools in Shanghai.
Extracurricular and Co-Curricular Activities (ECAs/CCAs)
FDIS believes that holistic education happens outside the classroom too. It offers over 50 ECAs and CCAs in four areas:
- Academic Enrichment: This includes a Robotics Club, a Model United Nations (MUN), and a Debate Team.
- Arts & Sports: Students can join the orchestra, a drama society, or the basketball team.
- Community Service: Students can tutor migrant children or join an environmental club.
- Cultural Integration: A Chinese Calligraphy Club and workshops on cultural heritage help international students learn about local culture.
These activities enrich student life and help with university applications.
University Placement
FDIS graduates have great success getting into top universities.
- Overall Outcomes: 100% of students are admitted to top universities. 75% enroll in a QS/THE top 50 school.
- Popular Destinations: The most popular countries are the U.S. (40%), the U.K. (30%), Canada (15%), and Hong Kong (10%). Graduates go to schools like Yale, Stanford, Oxford, and Cambridge.
- Notable Cases: In 2023, a graduate won a full scholarship to Stanford. Others were admitted to top art schools like Parsons School of Design.
Visa Requirements
International students need a Chinese study visa (X1 or X2).
- Documentation: Students need an admission letter from the school, their passport, a physical examination record, and proof of finances.
- Application Process: Students submit these materials to a Chinese embassy. After getting the visa, they must apply for a Residence Permit within 30 days of arriving in China.
- Notes: An X1 visa is for stays over 6 months. It is important to start the application process 3 months early.
Rankings & Reputation
FDIS does very well in both local and international rankings.
- Local Recognition: It is ranked in the top 10 of Shanghai International Schools. It is also rated as a "Class A Foreign-Related School" by the Shanghai Municipal Education Commission.
- Global Reputation: The school is an official "IBO Outstanding School" and a "College Board AP Demonstration School." It is also ranked in the top 3 in East China for its resources and faculty. The teaching staff is highly qualified. They use modern management concepts to foster mental skills, an international mindset, and turn students into lifelong learners.
- Industry Influence: The school hosts global conferences and teacher training events. It shares its expertise on "international education in a Chinese context."
Conclusion
Fudan International School offers a top-tier blend of Chinese heritage and global education. Its strong IB curriculum and ties to Fudan University pave a clear path to the world's best universities.
Then, what is next?
To truly understand if it is right for your child, a personal visit is key.
For families overseas, Alifa Education Services can help. We visit schools and provide a detailed report which is honest, on-the-ground insights you need to make a confident decision.
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