12 Best International Schools in Shenzhen: Fees, Curricula & Admissions
12 Best International Schools in Shenzhen: Fees, Curricula & Admissions

12 Best International Schools in Shenzhen: Fees, Curricula & Admissions

Explore 12 of the best international schools in Shenzhen, comparing fees, curricula, age ranges, boarding and admissions to find the right school for your child.

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35 minutes read

Introduction

Shenzhen has become one of China’s most popular cities for international families, with a wide range of schools offering British, American, IB, Canadian and bilingual education pathways.

Choosing the right international school in Shenzhen can be difficult because schools vary in curriculum, tuition fees, age range, admissions requirements, boarding options and student eligibility. Some follow the British curriculum, while others offer American, IB or other international programs.

In this guide, we compare 12 of the best international schools in Shenzhen, covering their curricula, tuition fees, age ranges, admissions, boarding options and key features to help families find the right school for their child.

Top International Schools in Shenzhen

Thinking about which international school to choose for your kid in Shenzhen? Here is detailed information on the top 12 expat schools in Shenzhen. Moreover, 

01. Bromsgrove School Mission Hills

Bromsgrove School Mission Hills is a bilingual school in Shenzhen that combines British and Chinese educational approaches. It serves children from the early years through the senior years and is known for its strong focus on academic learning, character development and a broad school experience.

The school works in partnership with Bromsgrove School in the UK, a historic British school with more than 550 years of history. This partnership gives students access to an educational model that combines British traditions with a modern school environment in Shenzhen.

Bromsgrove School Mission Hills campus with sports field and modern school buildings
Bromsgrove School Mission Hills campus with sports field and modern school buildings

History & Background

Bromsgrove School Mission Hills was created through a partnership between Mission Hills and Bromsgrove School in the UK. The aim is to provide a school experience that brings together the strengths of Eastern and Western education.

The school describes itself as an innovative bilingual school that blends British and Chinese best practice while also focusing on academic excellence and holistic development. It is designed for families who want their children to grow in both English and Chinese while developing confidence, discipline and strong learning habits.

Curriculum

Bromsgrove School Mission Hills offers different learning pathways for different age groups. Pre School uses a bilingual, inquiry- and play-based approach in English and Chinese. Prep School follows the National Curriculum in England while integrating parts of the Chinese primary curriculum.

For older students, the academic pathway progresses through Cambridge Lower Secondary to IGCSE, alongside elements of China’s compulsory education curriculum. The school also places strong focus on bilingual learning, critical thinking and preparation for future study.

International Schools in Shenzhen Video

Watch this video to learn more about international education and school options in Shenzhen.

Learning Environment & Academic Outcomes

Bromsgrove School Mission Hills offers a modern learning environment with classrooms, sports facilities, music, drama, art and other co-curricular activities.

The school focuses on both academics and personal development, helping students build confidence, creativity, leadership and strong learning skills. Its bilingual approach can suit families looking for a balance of British-style education and Chinese language and culture.

Admission Information

Here are the key things parents should know:

  • Who can apply? The school welcomes applications from Chinese nationals and foreign passport holders alike.
  • School stages: The school currently offers Pre School, Prep School, and Senior School pathways.
  • How to apply: Families need to complete the school’s online application form and submit the required supporting documents.
  • Assessment process: Admissions are selective, and the type of assessment depends on the student’s year group.
  • School visits: Parents who want to know more can request information sessions and school tours through the school.
  • Contact: Families can contact the admissions team directly for the latest information on available places, school requirements and current fee details.
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Tuition Fees

Current public listings show the following Bromsgrove School Mission Hills tuition fees:

  1. Pre School: Approximately RMB 29,900–55,000 per term.
  2. BMH PLUS: Approximately RMB 30,000 per term.
  3. BMH UK Class: Approximately RMB 71,000 per term.
  4. Additional costs: Boarding, transport, meals, uniforms and optional activities may add to the total cost.

Parents should confirm the latest tuition fees and any additional charges directly with the school before applying.

Key Takeaways
1
Shenzhen offers several types of international education. Families can choose from IB, British, American, bilingual and international high-school pathways, so the best choice depends on your child's age, curriculum goals and future study plans.
2
International school fees in Shenzhen vary greatly. Among schools with verified 2026–27 fees in this guide, QSI tuition starts at RMB 140,400 for younger children, while Harrow Shenzhen reaches RMB 372,900 for older year groups.
3
Passport and eligibility rules are not the same at every school. For example, QSI accepts eligible foreign-passport and Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan students, while SCIE says its admissions are open to students from all backgrounds regardless of household registration or previous schooling system.
4
Families looking for a full IB pathway have several options. International School of Nanshan Shenzhen (ISNS), for example, offers the IB Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme from early education through secondary school.
5
Harrow Shenzhen is a major British-curriculum option for ages 2–18. Its Upper School includes IGCSE and A-Level pathways, and boarding is available for families looking for a residential school option in Shenzhen.
6
SCIE is mainly designed for international high-school students. Students follow IGCSE in the first two years and can choose A-Level or AP pathways in the final two years. Its 2026–27 tuition is RMB 278,000 per year.
7
Parents should compare the total cost, not tuition alone. Application fees, deposits, school buses, meals, uniforms, boarding and other services can increase the yearly cost, so always check what is included before choosing a school.

02. The Affiliated International School of Shenzhen University

The Affiliated International School of Shenzhen University, commonly known as AISSU, is an international high school in Shenzhen. It mainly serves students preparing for overseas universities through international high-school programs such as IGCSE and A-Level.

The school has been operating since 2008 and has built a strong focus on international university preparation, English learning and academic support.

AISSU international high school campus in Shenzhen
AISSU international high school campus in Shenzhen

History & Background

AISSU was established in 2008. Over the years, it has focused mainly on helping high-school students move from the Chinese education system into international programs.

The school uses small classes and also provides university guidance to help students prepare for applications to universities in the UK, US, Hong Kong and other destinations.

Curriculum

AISSU mainly offers IGCSE and A-Level programs. The school is connected with international examination boards including Cambridge International, Pearson Edexcel and OxfordAQA.

Students normally begin with IGCSE subjects before moving into A-Level study. The school also offers other pathways, including GAC-ACT and art programs, for students with different university plans.

The curriculum focuses strongly on English, mathematics, science and other academic subjects while helping students prepare for international university applications.

Learning Environment & Academic Outcomes

AISSU has a focused academic environment with small classes, student activities, university guidance and boarding options.

For the 2026 university application season, the school reported more than 1,200 university offers, including:

  • 3 offers from the University of Oxford
  • 162 offers from UK G5 universities
  • 19 offers from U.S. Top-30 universities
  • 129 offers from Hong Kong's top five universities

These figures are reported by AISSU and show the school's strong focus on overseas university preparation.

Admission Information

Here are the main points parents should know:

  • Who can apply? AISSU mainly accepts students entering international high-school programs, including students moving from the Chinese school system.
  • Entry grades: Most students apply around Grade 9 or the beginning of high school. Transfer places may also be available for older students.
  • Entrance assessment: Applicants may need to complete tests in subjects such as English and Mathematics, followed by an interview.
  • Application dates: Entrance-test dates are arranged during the admissions year, so families should check the latest schedule before applying.
  • University planning: Students receive support for overseas university applications and course selection.

Tuition Fees

The latest publicly available tuition information lists:

  1. Zhanhua International Division: Approximately RMB 248,000 per year.
  2. AISSU Yunhaigu: Approximately RMB 258,000 per year.
  3. Additional costs: Boarding, meals, examinations and other services may cost extra.

These are the latest publicly available fee figures; families should check the current school-year fees before applying.

03. Shenzhen Foreign Languages GBA Academy

Shenzhen Foreign Languages GBA Academy (SGA) is a Grade 1–12 school in Shenzhen that combines the Chinese National Curriculum with the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework. The school welcomes both Chinese and international students and offers day and boarding options.

SGA is a full IB Continuum School, offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP).

Shenzhen Foreign Languages GBA Academy campus with red-roofed buildings and green courtyard
Shenzhen Foreign Languages GBA Academy campus with red-roofed buildings and green courtyard

History & Background

SGA was founded in 2017. It was established with support from the Shenzhen Municipal Government and is managed by Shenzhen Foreign Languages School. It is also an education pilot project approved by China's Ministry of Education.

The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and WASC, and it is also a member of the Boarding Schools' Association (BSA).

Curriculum

SGA combines the Chinese National Curriculum with the IB framework from Grade 1 to Grade 12. Students can follow the full IB pathway:

  • PYP: Primary Years Programme
  • MYP: Middle Years Programme
  • DP: Diploma Programme

The school uses both English and Chinese in different parts of the program and focuses on inquiry-based learning, teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

Learning Environment & Academic Outcomes

SGA offers small classes and has a 1:7 teacher-to-student ratio. Its campus includes science labs, art and music spaces, sports facilities, a swimming pool, theatre, library, maker spaces, and student boarding facilities.

SGA's first DP graduating class was in 2025. The school reported that its nine graduating students received 66 university offers as of April 25, 2025.

Admission Information

Here are the main points parents should know:

  • Who Can Apply? SGA welcomes students from China and other countries, with no nationality or household-registration restriction stated by the school.
  • Available Grades: The school provides education from Grade 1 to Grade 12.
  • School Type: Both day and boarding options are available, with boarding offered for secondary students.
  • How to Apply: Families can apply through the school's admissions process and can also attend regular Open Days to learn about the curriculum, admissions and campus.

Tuition Fees

SGA has published its official 2026–27 tuition fees:

  1. Grades 1–5: RMB 165,200 per year
  2. Grades 6–10: RMB 178,400 per year
  3. Grades 11–12: RMB 210,000 per year
  4. Boarding for Grades 6–12: RMB 12,000 per year

Tuition includes textbooks, teaching materials, learning software, library resources, sports and fitness facilities, and campus internet access.

04. Shenzhen (Nanshan) Concord College of Sino-Canada

Shenzhen (Nanshan) Concord College of Sino-Canada (SCCSC) is a bilingual international high school in Nanshan District, Shenzhen. Founded in 2001, the school combines Chinese and Canadian education and mainly serves students in Grades 10–12.

Students can follow different pathways for universities in Canada, the United States, the UK, Hong Kong and other destinations.

Shenzhen Nanshan Concord College of Sino-Canada main entrance gate with CCSC logo
Shenzhen Nanshan Concord College of Sino-Canada main entrance gate with CCSC logo

History & Background

SCCSC was founded in 2001 as a Sino-Canadian cooperative school. It has developed into a bilingual high school with both day and boarding options.

The school currently has more than 900 students and is also a member of Round Square, an international network of schools that supports leadership, service, cultural exchange and global learning.

Curriculum

SCCSC offers several pathways for different university goals.

A key part of the school is its Chinese-Canadian dual diploma pathway. Students who complete the required courses can earn both a Chinese high school diploma and a Canadian high school diploma from New Brunswick, Canada. The Canadian Information Centre currently lists SCCSC as an authorized New Brunswick offshore school.

Current school information also lists:

  • Sino-Canadian bilingual pathway
  • AP courses
  • HKDSE pathway
  • Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan entrance-exam pathway

This gives students more than one option when planning for university.

Learning Environment & Academic Outcomes

SCCSC offers small classes, boarding, student clubs and support for university applications. Students can also take part in leadership, service and international exchange activities.

For the 2026 graduating class, published school information reported 1,013 university offers and around RMB 40 million in scholarships.

Admission Information

Here are the main points parents should know:

  • Who Can Apply? The school mainly accepts junior-high graduates and transfer students entering Grades 10 or 11.
  • Nationality: Students from China and other countries can apply. Current admissions information does not list a household-registration restriction.
  • Entrance Test: Applicants may need to complete school assessments in English and Mathematics.
  • Admission: Shenzhen students may apply through the local high-school admission system, while students from other areas may use the school's independent admission route.
  • Boarding: Boarding is available for students.

Tuition Fees

Published 2026 admissions information lists the following fees:

  1. Main international high-school programs: RMB 160,000 per academic year. This includes tuition, textbooks, teaching materials and exercise books.
  2. Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan pathway: RMB 118,000 per academic year.
  3. Boarding: RMB 8,000 per academic year, including bedding.
  4. Meals: Paid separately through the school's meal-payment system.
  5. Uniform: Purchased separately.

The total cost can therefore vary depending on the student's chosen program and personal expenses.

05. Avenues: The World School

Avenues Shenzhen is a bilingual school in Nanshan District that serves students from early childhood through Grade 12. It is part of the wider Avenues school network and focuses on English-Chinese learning, project-based education, technology, creativity and real-world problem-solving.

The school offers programs for students from about 1.5 years old through Grade 12, making it an option for families looking for a long-term school pathway in Shenzhen.

Avenues: The World School Shenzhen campus courtyard with landscaped gardens and brick buildings
Avenues: The World School Shenzhen campus courtyard with landscaped gardens and brick buildings

History & Background

Avenues Shenzhen opened in 2018, first with an early-childhood program. It later expanded to include primary and secondary education.

The campus is located in Xili, Nanshan District, near Tanglang Mountain and the Xili Lake International Science and Education City.

Curriculum

Avenues Shenzhen uses its own Avenues World Elements (AWE) curriculum. This combines the Avenues global learning framework with China’s nine-year compulsory education system.

The school is divided into:

  • Small World: around 1.5–2 years
  • Early Learning: ages 3–6
  • Primary: Grades 1–5
  • Middle Grades: Grades 6–9
  • Upper Grades: Grades 10–12

From early childhood through Grade 5, students learn in an English-Mandarin bilingual environment. The school also uses projects, inquiry, technology and real-world problems to help students build communication, teamwork and critical-thinking skills.

The Avenues World Elements curriculum is accredited by NEASC and WASC, giving the school an important international quality and accreditation signal.

Learning Environment & Academic Outcomes

Avenues Shenzhen has a modern campus with sports areas, music, theatre, art and design spaces. The school currently reports more than 110 faculty members, 35 athletic teams and students representing 15 countries and regions.

Its learning style focuses on bilingual education, projects, creativity, problem-solving and preparing students for future study.

Admission Information

Here are the main points parents should know:

  • Age Range: Students can join from early childhood through Grade 12.
  • Nursery: Children should be at least 3 years old by August 31.
  • Pre-K: Children should be at least 4 years old by August 31.
  • Kindergarten: Children should be at least 5 years old by August 31.
  • Grade 1: Children should be at least 6 years old by August 31.
  • How to Apply: Families can start an application through the school and can also attend an information session or book a campus visit.

Tuition Fees

Tuition at Avenues Shenzhen varies by program and grade level. Current public fee information shows approximately:

  1. Kindergarten: Around RMB 288,000 per year.
  2. Primary and Middle Grades: Around RMB 314,000 per year.
  3. Upper Grades: Tuition can reach approximately RMB 356,000 per year.
  4. Overall tuition range: Approximately RMB 258,000–356,000 per year, depending on the program and grade.

Additional costs such as boarding, meals, school transport and optional activities may apply.

Fees can change each school year, so families should check the latest amount when applying.

06. Oxstand International School, Shenzhen

Oxstand International School Shenzhen is a private high school in Luohu District. Founded in 2004, the school offers several study pathways for students who want to continue their education in China or prepare for universities overseas.

Oxstand International School Shenzhen entrance with bilingual signage and blue exterior wall
Oxstand International School Shenzhen entrance with bilingual signage and blue exterior wall

History & Background

Oxstand was approved by the Shenzhen education authorities in 2004. The school focuses on small classes and different study routes based on students' future plans.

It is located in Luohu District and offers both day and boarding options.

Curriculum

Oxstand currently offers several high-school pathways, including:

  • Chinese High School Program
  • Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan Entrance Exam Program
  • Japan Study Program
  • OSSD Canadian Program
  • International/AP pathway

Students can choose a program based on whether they plan to study in mainland China or apply to universities overseas.

Learning Environment & Academic Outcomes

The school uses small classes and reports a 1:8 teacher-to-student ratio. Students have access to sports areas, a library, art rooms, computer rooms and other learning facilities.

Oxstand also provides university planning for students following international programs.

Admission Information

  • Who Can Apply? The school mainly accepts high-school students.
  • How to Apply: Applicants may need to provide previous school records and complete an entrance assessment or interview.
  • Boarding: Boarding is available.
  • Location: Luohu District, Shenzhen.

Tuition Fees

Current 2026 fee information lists:

  1. Regular High School: RMB 32,800 per semester
  2. Spanish/Japanese Gaokao Program: RMB 34,S800 per semester
  3. Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan Program: RMB 40,000 per semester
  4. China-Japan International Program: RMB 64,000 per semester
  5. OSSD International Program: RMB 94,500 per semester
  6. Boarding: RMB 5,000 per semester

Fees vary depending on the program chosen.

07. BASIS International School Shenzhen

BASIS International School Shenzhen is an international school in Shekou, Nanshan District. It serves students from early years through Grade 12 and is known for its strong academic program, English-language teaching and focus on STEM subjects.

BASIS International School Shenzhen modern building with geometric facade and landscaping
BASIS International School Shenzhen modern building with geometric facade and landscaping

History & Background

BASIS International School Shenzhen opened in 2015 and was the first BASIS Curriculum School outside the United States. It is part of the wider BASIS school network and follows the BASIS Curriculum from early years through high school.

Curriculum

The school follows the BASIS Curriculum, with strong attention to science, technology, engineering and Math.

Older students can take Advanced Placement (AP) courses and complete advanced high-school study before university. English is the main language of instruction.

Learning Environment & Academic Outcomes

The school offers science labs, arts and sports spaces, student activities and college counselling. Its academic program is designed for students who are comfortable with a challenging and fast-paced learning environment.

Across BASIS International and Bilingual Schools in China, 98% of the 2025 graduates received offers from universities within the network's listed top university groups. This figure is for the wider BASIS China network, not only the Shenzhen campus.

Admission Information

  • Who Can Apply? Students must hold a foreign passport or eligible Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan documents.
  • How to Apply: Families submit an online application and pay an assessment fee.
  • PreK–Grade 1: Admission may include group activities and observation.
  • Grade 2 and above: Students may take MAP tests in reading and mathematics, along with writing and English speaking/listening assessments.
  • Parent Interview: At least one parent may also need to attend a short interview.

Tuition Fees

The 2026–27 annual tuition fees are:

  1. PreK: RMB 272,080 per year
  2. Kindergarten: RMB 290,670 per year
  3. Grades 1–5: RMB 314,710 per year
  4. Grades 6–8: RMB 322,360 per year
  5. Grades 9–12: RMB 336,560 per year

A RMB 2,000 application/assessment fee applies to new applicants.

Tuition covers the school's core academic program. Books, stationery, meals, school buses, uniforms, some after-school activities and trips may cost extra.

08. Shenzhen Oasis International School

Shenzhen Oasis International School, or SOIS, is part of the Oasis school pathway in Futian District, Shenzhen. Green Oasis School (GOS) mainly serves primary students in Years 1–6, while students can continue to Shenzhen Oasis International School for middle school. Both schools share the same educational vision.

Shenzhen Oasis International School aerial view with sports field and modern campus buildings
Shenzhen Oasis International School aerial view with sports field and modern campus buildings

History & Background

Green Oasis School was established in 2001 and has developed into a bilingual school serving both local and international families. The school focuses on helping students grow academically while also developing independence, responsibility and confidence.

Curriculum

The Oasis schools follow an enhanced British curriculum based on the National Curriculum for England, while also meeting Chinese education requirements.

Students study subjects such as English, mathematics, science, Chinese, arts and physical education. The school aims to help students become confident in both English and Chinese.

Learning Environment & Academic Outcomes

The school combines academic learning with sports, music, art, technology, leadership and other activities. Its goal is to give students a strong foundation for the next stage of their education while supporting their personal and social development.

Admission Information

  • Who Can Apply? Green Oasis School is open to both local and expatriate families.
  • Primary Years: Green Oasis School mainly serves Years 1–6.
  • Middle School: Students completing Year 6 may continue to Shenzhen Oasis International School.
  • How to Apply: Families can apply through the school's admissions process and can also arrange a campus visit.

Tuition Fees

Current published fee information for the Green Oasis primary pathway is:

  1. Tuition: RMB 74,200 per semester
  2. Annual Tuition: Approximately RMB 148,400 per year
  3. Additional Costs: Meals, school buses, uniforms, field trips and external examination fees are charged separately.

The total cost may vary depending on the student's school stage and additional services.

09. École Française Internationale de Shenzhen (EFIS)

École Française Internationale de Shenzhen, or EFIS, is a French international school in Shekou, Nanshan District. It mainly serves families looking for a French education while also giving students opportunities to learn English and Chinese.

The school welcomes children from around age 2 to 15, from early years through middle school.

École Française Internationale de Shenzhen EFIS brick campus with skyline backdrop
École Française Internationale de Shenzhen EFIS brick campus with skyline backdrop

History & Background

EFIS has served Shenzhen's French-speaking community for several years. It is located in Shekou, one of Shenzhen's main international areas.

The school follows the French education system and provides a multicultural environment for both French and international families.

Curriculum

EFIS follows the French National Curriculum, with French as the main language of instruction.

Students also study English and Chinese, helping them build skills in several languages.

The school covers:

  • Early Years / Kindergarten
  • Primary School
  • Middle School

The curriculum includes French language, mathematics, science, history, geography, arts, physical education and other core subjects.

Learning Environment & Academic Outcomes

EFIS offers a small international school environment with a strong focus on French language, culture and academic learning.

Students also have access to language learning, school activities and cultural programs that help them learn in an international setting.

Admission Information

  • Who Can Apply? EFIS is not only for French citizens. Families from other nationalities who want a French education can also enquire about admission.
  • Age Range: Approximately 2–15 years old.
  • Language: French is the main teaching language, with English and Chinese also included.
  • How to Apply: Families should contact the school and provide the required student and family documents before completing the enrollment process.

Tuition Fees

The latest detailed public fee schedule available shows:

  1. TPS / Age 2: Approximately RMB 55,000 per year
  2. Kindergarten / Ages 3–5: Approximately RMB 90,000 per year
  3. Primary / Ages 6–10: Approximately RMB 100,000 per year
  4. Middle School / Ages 11–14: Approximately RMB 110,000 per year

Additional registration, meals, transport and other school costs may apply.

Fees may change by school year, so families should check the current amount when applying.

10. Shenzhen Senior High School International Division

Shenzhen Senior High School International Division, also known as SID, is the international curriculum pathway of Shenzhen Senior High School Group. It is a public high school in Futian District and offers IB, A-Level and AP study options for students preparing for universities overseas.

Shenzhen Senior High School International Division clock tower and courtyard with red banners
Shenzhen Senior High School International Division clock tower and courtyard with red banners

History & Background

Shenzhen Senior High School was founded in 1997, while its international curriculum program began in 2009.

The school is directly connected to Shenzhen's public education system. It became an IB World School in 2017, and the IB currently lists it as a state, co-educational school offering the Diploma Programme.

Curriculum

SID offers several international high-school pathways:

The school's current 2026 information confirms that IB and A-Level programs are actively running, while AP is also part of its international curriculum system.

Students study subjects such as English, mathematics, science, economics and other university-preparation courses.

Learning Environment & Academic Outcomes

SID is based within Shenzhen Senior High School's Center Campus and gives students access to classrooms, science facilities, sports areas, student clubs and university guidance.

The school continues to run active IB and A-Level programs in 2026 and regularly publishes student academic activities, competitions and graduation updates.

Admission Information

  • School Level: High school.
  • Who Can Apply? Admission mainly targets students entering senior high school.
  • Entrance Assessment: Applicants to the international curriculum pathway may need to complete English and Mathematics tests.
  • School Type: Public school.
  • Location: Futian District, Shenzhen.
  • Boarding: Boarding is available for high-school students.

Tuition Fees

Because Shenzhen Senior High School is a public school, its fees are much lower than private international schools.

  1. Tuition / school fee: RMB 1,131 per semester
  2. Approximate annual tuition: RMB 2,262 per year
  3. Boarding: RMB 450 per semester
  4. Approximate annual boarding fee: RMB 900 per year

Other service or activity costs may apply depending on the student's program and needs.

11. Shenzhen College of International Education

Shenzhen College of International Education, or SCIE, is an international high school in Futian District, Shenzhen. Founded in 2003, it prepares students for universities around the world through IGCSE, A-Level and AP pathways.

Shenzhen College of International Education contemporary campus with elevated walkways at sunset
Shenzhen College of International Education contemporary campus with elevated walkways at sunset

History & Background

SCIE was founded in 2003 with approval from the Shenzhen Education Bureau and was authorized to offer Cambridge IGCSE and A-Level programs. The school is also fully accredited by CIS and WASC.

Curriculum

Students normally follow IGCSE during the first two years. In the final two years, they can choose either A-Level or AP courses, depending on their strengths and university plans.

SCIE currently offers 15 AP courses alongside its A-Level pathway.

Learning Environment & Academic Outcomes

SCIE offers science labs, arts and sports facilities, student clubs and university counselling.

For the Class of 2026, the school reported more than 2,100 university offers for over 410 graduates. This included 35 Oxford and Cambridge offers, as well as offers from universities in the UK, US, Hong Kong, Canada and other countries.

International Schools in Shenzhen Video

Watch this video to learn more about international education and school options in Shenzhen.

Admission Information

  • Who Can Apply? SCIE accepts students from different backgrounds, regardless of household registration or previous school system.

Main Entry Points: Students can apply for IGCSE Year 1 or A-Level/AP Year 1.

  • Entrance Test: Applicants take written tests in English and Mathematics.
  • Interview: Students who pass the written-test stage are invited for an interview.
  • Registration Fee: RMB 600, non-refundable.

Tuition Fees

The official 2026–27 SCIE fees are:

  1. Tuition: RMB 278,000 per year
  2. Room and Board — without weekends: RMB 16,800 per year
  3. Room and Board — including weekends: RMB 19,800 per year

Tuition includes the physical examination, campus insurance and extracurricular activity fees.

International examination fees, off-campus trips, internships and summer programs are not included.

12. Maple Leaf International Academy Shenzhen

Maple Leaf International Academy Shenzhen, also known as Shenzhen Maple Leaf School, is a private boarding school in Longgang District. It serves students from primary school through Grade 12 and combines Chinese education with strong English and international learning pathways.

Maple Leaf International Academy Shenzhen building facade with colorful basketball courts
Maple Leaf International Academy Shenzhen building facade with colorful basketball courts

History & Background

The Shenzhen campus opened in 2018 and is part of Maple Leaf Educational Systems, which was founded in China in 1995.

The Shenzhen school includes primary, middle and high-school programs and can serve up to around 1,500 students.

Curriculum

The curriculum changes as students move through the school.

  • Primary and Middle School: Students follow the Chinese national curriculum together with English-focused and school-developed courses. Chinese and international teachers work together in the learning program.
  • High School: Students follow the Maple Leaf World School Program and can also take AP courses and STEM subjects.

The Maple Leaf World School Program has been reviewed by UK Ecctis, which found its senior-school standard comparable with major international high-school qualifications.

Learning Environment & Academic Outcomes

The school uses small classes and offers sports, arts, clubs, technology activities and university guidance.

In January 2026, Maple Leaf Education reported that a student from its Shenzhen campus received an offer from the University of Oxford to study Materials Science.

Admission Information

  • Age Range: Approximately 6–18 years old.
  • Available Grades: Grades 1–12.
  • Class Size: Around 20–25 students per class.
  • How to Apply: Students normally complete an application followed by a written test and interview.
  • Boarding: Boarding is available.

Tuition Fees

Current 2026 public fee information lists:

  1. Grades 1–6: RMB 128,000 per year
  2. Grades 7–9: RMB 134,400 per year
  3. Grades 10–12: RMB 158,400 per year
  4. Boarding: RMB 9,400 per year

Additional school costs may apply for meals, uniforms, learning materials and other services.

How to Choose the Best International School in Shenzhen

Tips for choosing the best international school in Shenzhen
International Schools in Shenzhen Selection Guide

Choosing the right school depends on your child's age, learning needs, future study plans and your family's budget. Compare the curriculum, tuition, location, admissions rules and school environment before making a final choice.

Make Your Must-Have List

Start with what matters most to your family. Do you prefer a British school, an American school, IB or another curriculum? Also consider your budget, your child's age, language needs, boarding, school location and passport eligibility. A clear list makes it easier to compare schools.

Look Closely at Each School

Compare the curriculum, accreditation, class size, facilities, university guidance and admissions requirements. For older students, also check recent university offers and graduation pathways. If possible, visit your top 3–5 schools. A campus visit can help you understand the classrooms, teachers, facilities, travel time and overall school environment.

Plan for All the Costs

Tuition is only part of the total cost. Families may also need to budget for application fees, boarding, school buses, meals, uniforms, textbooks, activities and school trips.If you have more than one child, ask whether the school offers a sibling discount or other fee support.

Watch Out for Red Flags

Be careful if a school cannot clearly explain its curriculum, accreditation, tuition fees or admission rules. Parents should also check whether academic results and university offers can be verified.

Other warning signs may include unclear extra fees, frequent staff changes, poor communication with parents, or information on the website that is old or inconsistent.

A newer school is not automatically a bad choice, but families should look more closely at its teachers, curriculum, facilities and student support before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

¥ How much do international schools in Shenzhen cost?
Tuition varies widely by school, curriculum and grade. Many private international and bilingual schools in Shenzhen cost around RMB 100,000 to more than RMB 330,000 per year. Some public or specialist international high-school programs can cost much less. Parents should also compare boarding, meals, transport and other extra fees.
ID Can mainland Chinese passport holders attend international schools in Shenzhen?
It depends on the school. Some schools and bilingual programs accept mainland Chinese students, while some international schools require a foreign passport or eligible Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan documents. For example, SGA and Bromsgrove School Mission Hills accept Chinese students, while BASIS International School Shenzhen has different passport eligibility rules. Always check eligibility before paying an application fee.
What curricula are available at international schools in Shenzhen?
Shenzhen families can choose from several education pathways, including IB, British and Cambridge IGCSE/A-Level, AP, Canadian, French and bilingual Chinese-international programs. The right curriculum depends on your child's age, learning style and future university plans.
Which Shenzhen schools offer IB, A-Level or AP programs?
Several schools in this guide offer these pathways. Shenzhen Foreign Languages GBA Academy (SGA) offers the full IB PYP, MYP and DP pathway. SCIE offers IGCSE followed by A-Level or AP, while AISSU focuses strongly on IGCSE and A-Level. Shenzhen Senior High School International Division also offers international high-school pathways including IB, A-Level and AP.
Are boarding schools available in Shenzhen?
Yes. Several schools in Shenzhen offer boarding options. Examples in this guide include SGA, SCIE, Shenzhen Concord College of Sino-Canada, Oxstand, Maple Leaf International Academy and Bromsgrove School Mission Hills. Boarding age, weekday or weekend arrangements and fees differ by school.
When should families apply to international schools in Shenzhen?
It is a good idea to start researching schools around 9–12 months before your planned start date, especially for popular grades or boarding places. Admissions may include an online application, previous school records, English or mathematics tests and an interview. The exact process is different at each school.
+ What extra costs should parents expect besides tuition?
Tuition is not always the full cost. Parents may also need to pay for application or assessment fees, boarding, school buses, meals, uniforms, textbooks, examinations, activities and school trips. Always check what the tuition fee includes before comparing two schools.
Where are most international schools located in Shenzhen?
International schools are spread across Shenzhen, but many are found in Nanshan and Shekou, popular areas for international families. Other schools in this guide are located in Futian, Longgang, Luohu and Longhua/Mission Hills. Travel time is important, so families should compare the school location with where they plan to live.
Which is the best international school in Shenzhen for my child?
There is no single best school for every child. The right choice depends on curriculum, age, passport eligibility, tuition budget, language, boarding needs, location and future university plans. Families should shortlist a few schools and compare them carefully before applying.

Alifa Education Services

Need Help Choosing an International School in Shenzhen?

Choosing between Shenzhen international schools can be difficult when tuition, curriculum, passport rules and admission requirements are all different. Alifa Education Services helps families compare schools based on their child’s age, passport, grade level, curriculum, budget and future study plans. We can also support families with school applications, required documents, local guardianship and settling-in support in China. Share your child’s details with our team and we’ll help you find suitable Shenzhen school options.

📅 Get Free School Guidance →

Disclosure: Alifa Education Services is an independent education placement consultancy. We may earn a referral fee from partner schools when families enrol, at no extra cost to the family. Our recommendations are based on each student’s needs and school fit, not the referral fee.

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