Introduction
Are you looking for ways to make quality education more affordable for your child? K–12 scholarships in Shanghai can help. They open doors for families like yours. You can access top schools without the financial stress.
Picture the thrill of young learners at a new school. They discover Chinese culture, learn in modern classrooms, and meet kids from different countries. These scholarships are for primary and secondary school students. Schools and local government programmes help them. They make school costs lower for international families.
Many families have chosen this path. They notice their children’s academic and personal growth in a new setting. Cultural exchange makes things richer by offering a chance to explore the world early on.
This article looks at the best K–12 schools. It includes who can apply and a simple guide to the application process. You will also find practical tips that make the process smoother.
Want your child to win a K–12 scholarship in Shanghai?
Alifa Education Services is here to help you. We help you choose the best international school and create a strong application.
Book a free consultation today and take the first step towards global success.
Schools offering K-12 scholarships in Shanghai.
Looking for quality education in Shanghai without breaking the bank? Several top schools offer scholarships to make international education more affordable for families.
They include the following:
1. Shanghai YK Pao Experimental School
YK Pao School has a Junior Secondary Boys Scholarship for students who are starting in Years 6, 7, or 8. This scholarship offers 10% off tuition fees for three academic years. In Year 5, the school nominates and determines recipients to recognise all-round excellence.
Shanghai YK Pao Experimental School entrance with modern architecture and shared bicycles nearby.
Program Details:
- Junior Secondary Boys' Scholarship (Years 6–8)
- The university covers 10% of tuition fees over three years.
- Merit-based recognition programme
Eligibility:
- Students entering Year 6–8.
- Nomination required in Year 5.
- All-round excellence in academics and character.
- Bilingual education focuses on a Chinese and English curriculum.
2. Western International School of Shanghai (WISS)
WISS gives scholarships to smart and hardworking students from around the world. These students are great at thinking and creating. The school also helps families who need money to pay for school. This help goes to current students or new students in all grades.
Aerial view of modern international school campus with colorful buildings and recreational facilities.
Program Details:
- Academic merit-based scholarships
- Financial scholarships.
- Annual High-Performance Scholarship Award
- IB Diploma full academic scholarships and outstanding achievement partial scholarships.
Eligibility:
- Current or newly admitted students in Early Years through to Secondary.
- Demonstrated academic excellence and talent.
- Excellence in creativity and critical thinking.
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3. Shanghai American School (SAS)
Shanghai American School, founded in 1912, is China's oldest international school. It serves over 2,700 students from Pre-K to 12th grade across two campuses. The school offers both AP and IB Diploma programmes.
Yew Chung International School of Shanghai campus featuring brick buildings and athletic facilities.
Program Details:
- Limited merit scholarships are available.
- Employee family education benefits
- Foundation-supported aid programmes
Eligibility:
- Students must achieve exceptional academic performance.
- Priority for the children of school employees.
- Strong extracurricular involvement.
- Valid international student status
4. Concordia International School, Shanghai
Concordia International School Shanghai welcomes international families who are new to Shanghai. The school offers merit scholarships and financial aid to help students succeed in their complete education programme.
Concordia International School Shanghai featuring modern glass architecture with wooden accent panels throughout.
Program Details:
- Merit-based scholarships for outstanding students.
- Financial aid for qualifying families
- Academic excellence awards
Eligibility:
- Students demonstrate high academic achievement.
- Valid student visa and Shanghai residency.
- International curriculum participation
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5. Shanghai Community International School (SCIS)
Shanghai Community International School offers a full international education programme. They offer limited scholarships based on merit. Families with several children at the school receive special support.
Shanghai Community International School entrance featuring modern architecture with SCIS branding and international flags.
Program Details:
- Merit-based academic awards
- Multiple child enrolment discounts
- Limited scholarship opportunities.
Eligibility:
- Strong academic performance
- International student status
- Family residency in Shanghai.
- Sibling enrolment considerations
6. Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi
Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi provides a top scholarship programme for talented students. Students with high academic performance can get a 50% reduction in tuition fees. They also earn the title of Dulwich Scholars.
Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi campus featuring red brick buildings with modern architectural design elements.
Program Details:
- 50% tuition fee reduction for successful candidates.
- Formal recognition as Dulwich Scholars.
- Scholarship programme for the 2025-2026 academic year
- Assessment includes CEM-Stanine, reading age, maths, and English assessments.
Eligibility:
- Students in Years 7 to 12 (2025-2026 academic year)
- Both internal and external student candidates are eligible.
- Academic assessment against standardised criteria
- Personal statement required.
7. Nord Anglia International School Shanghai, Pudong
Nord Anglia Shanghai gives monetary awards to students who are good at what they study. These are for students from Year 1 to Year 12.
Elegant view of Shenzhen College of International Education campus building showing green trees and modern architecture.
Program Details:
- Merit-based scholarships for exceptional students.
- Available across many academic areas.
- Recognition for outstanding talent and potential.
Eligibility:
- Students from Year 1 to Year 12.
- Exceptional potential in the chosen field.
- Understanding of international thinking and global citizenship.
- Demonstrated outstanding talent.
8. British International School Shanghai, Puxi (BISS Puxi)
BISS Puxi offers five types of scholarships: school work, science and tech, arts, leadership, and sports. These awards help students do well in what they love.
British International School Shanghai Puxi featuring innovative circular architecture with curved modern design elements.
Program Details:
- Five scholarship categories: academics, STEAM, performing arts, leadership, and sports.
- New scholarship programme recently launched.
- Streamlined four-step application process
Eligibility:
- Students across all year groups.
- Excellence in one of five scholarship areas.
- Demonstrated potential for impact and leadership.
- British International Curriculum participants
9. Shanghai Singapore International School (SSIS)
Shanghai Singapore International School provides scholarships for Grade 11 and 12 students. Students receive awards for doing well in school and growing as people in their complete K-12 programme.
Shanghai Singapore International School entrance displaying multiple international flags and modern glass architecture.
Program Details:
- Scholarships are available for Grade 11 and Grade 12 students.
- Merit-based awards focusing on academic results.
- The university may grant extra scholarships during the academic year.
- Founded in 1996 with strong international accreditations.
Eligibility:
- Students in Grade 11 and Grade 12
- Strong academic performance required.
- Character development and responsible citizenship
- International curriculum participation
10. Shanghai United International School (SUIS)
Shanghai United International School runs several campuses in Shanghai. They provide bilingual education that combines East and West teaching methods. Students can take IGCSE and IB Diploma courses. Outstanding students get special scholarship opportunities.
Shanghai United International School building featuring red brick architecture with bilingual signage and landscaping.
Program Details:
- Merit-based scholarships across multiple campuses
- Bilingual education with international curriculum options.
- IGCSE, IB Diploma, and East Meets West programmes
- 10 campuses across Shanghai with varied opportunities.
Eligibility:
- Students from primary to secondary levels.
- Excellence in bilingual education programmes
- International and Chinese curriculum participants
- Strong academic performance and appreciation of cultural diversity.
General Eligibility Criteria for Shanghai K-12 Scholarships
Shanghai K-12 scholarship criteria infographic showing academic, financial, language, documentation, and leadership requirements.
Academic Excellence Requirements
Most Shanghai schools want students to keep good grades in important subjects. Strong grades in mathematics, science, English, and other key areas characterize academic excellence. Schools want students who can think well and solve problems in their schoolwork.
Documentation and residency
Students need valid student visas for China. At least one parent must live in Shanghai. Foreign passport holders and long-term residents typically receive priority consideration. Proper legal documentation for extended stays is essential for all scholarship applications.
Language Skill Standards
Good English skills are key for international school scholarships. You often show these skills with tests like MAP English or TOEFL Junior. For bilingual programmes, Chinese language skills provide extra advantages. Interviews and written submissions assess communication abilities.
Financial Assessment
Need-based scholarships need documented financial information, including family income verification and expense documentation. Merit scholarships look at good grades, not how much money families have. But some programmes check both things when selecting students.
Character and Leadership
Schools value well-rounded students who demonstrate leadership experience in school or community settings. Participation in extracurricular activities, community service, and volunteer work strengthens scholarship applications. Character references from teachers and community leaders support these applications.
Extra Considerations for Families
Timing and Planning
Scholarship applications often follow different timelines than regular admissions. Check deadlines early. Some schools pick scholarship winners when students apply. Other schools have different times for scholarships. Plan applications at least one year in advance.
Alternative Support Options
Look beyond regular scholarships. Check if your company pays for school costs. Some expat packages include school money. Foundations also give grants to international families. Some employers provide education support as part of relocation packages.
Cultural Integration Support
Schools offering scholarships often provide extra support for cultural integration and language development. These programmes help international students get used to schools in Shanghai. They also help them keep their global views.
Conclusion
You've come this far in your scholarship journey, and that is already a big win. These opportunities offer real chances for growth, learning, and support.
Think back on the steps we've covered. Schools in Shanghai offer new skills, improved learning spaces, and a global view. What if a scholarship could lighten your load and open those doors even wider?
Questions about forms or choices might linger — but you're not alone. Reach out when doubts pop up. Real stories show that kids who keep trying do well in international schools. They gain confidence and open doors for their future.
Want your child to win a K–12 scholarship in Shanghai? Alifa Education Services is here to help you. We guide you from picking the right international schools to doing well on applications. Let’s help your child take the first step towards global success. Book a free consultation today!
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