Every parent wants the absolute best education for their kids. In Shanghai, that means finding a school that's way more than just textbooks and exams. Imagine a place where your child doesn't just learn but grows into a confident, curious global citizen.
Shanghai isn't just another big city. It's an education goldmine where international schools are changing the game. Parents are ditching traditional classrooms for something special - schools that speak to kids' hearts and minds. Whether a local family or an expat, you'll find learning environments that feel like home but think like the world.
We're talking about international schools in Shanghai China that do more than teach - they inspire. Some schools in Shanghai, China see kids as more than just students. They believe kids are future leaders, thinkers, and problem-solvers.
What are the Schooling Options for Foreign Students in Shanghai?
Moving to Shanghai with kids? Feeling a bit overwhelmed about school options? Don't worry - you've got some pretty awesome choices!
Looking for international schools in China? Alifa helps you find the best fit for your child. Contact us today for a free consultation and start the journey!
Option 1: Local Schools - The Authentic Shanghai Experience
These make up the majority and are popular among families aiming for overseas education. Most follow a dual-path approach, combining national and international curricula.
- Offers a dual-track system during compulsory education, blending international and Chinese curricula.
- Transitions to full international curriculum in high school, using foreign textbooks and exams.
- Open to all nationalities and residency statuses; students can still take local high school and college entrance exams.
The best part? Shanghai schools are super welcoming to international students now. Your child will need to pass some language and academic checks, but they'll be sitting in regular classes in no time.
Option 2: International Schools - A Global Classroom
Missing a taste of home? International schools are like a little piece of global territory right in Shanghai:
- International organizations, companies, and expat groups create these schools.
- Perfect for kids from all over - not just foreigners but also students from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan.
- Curriculum bonanza! Choose from American, British, IB, and more.
- Preschool to secondary - they've got you covered.
Option 3: International Divisions - The Best of Both Worlds
Some local schools have secret weapons - international divisions! Think of them as schools within a school:
- Separate facilities
- Special dormitories
- Unique curriculum
- Explicitly designed for international students and those from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan
Your Next Steps
Want to get started? Here's what you need to do:
- Contact the specific school you're interested in
- Check out their admission policies
- Prepare for some evaluation and enrollment processes
Remember, every school is different. Take your time, ask questions, and find the perfect fit for your little learner!
Pro Parent Tip: Shanghai's education scene is super dynamic. Schools are constantly evolving, so keep an open mind and do your research. Your child's perfect school is out there waiting!
Top 9 International Schools in Shanghai (2024-2025)
Let’s look at the key information of Shanghai's top 09 international schools.
Here’s the detailed information for each school.
1. Shanghai American School (SAS)
A beacon of academic excellence since 1912, Shanghai American School has transformed educational landscapes for over a century. Students study many subjects across two big campuses. Over 2,800 students from different countries learn and grow together.
The school offers special classes to help students get ready for top universities. They do more than just teach from books. Students also help the community, play sports, and enjoy art. The school wants children to grow in every way.
Facilities: State-of-the-art classrooms, sports fields, theaters, science labs, and libraries.
Website: https://www.saschina.org/
Address:
- Pudong Campus: 1600 Lingbai Road, Pudong
- Puxi Campus: 258 Jinfeng Road, Minhang
Departments: Elementary, Middle, High School.
2. Wellington College International Shanghai
Wellington College offers a top-notch bilingual curriculum that blends Eastern and Western education. Students follow the English National Curriculum. They engage deeply with IGCSE and International Baccalaureate programs.
The school helps students become leaders and think in creative ways. It teaches children from a young age until they are ready for university. Wellington's exceptional teachers foster an international community that encourages curiosity and personal growth.
Facilities: Sports fields, swimming pools, theaters, music rooms, and science labs.
Website: https://shanghai.wellingtoncollege.cn/
Address: 1500 Yao Long Road, Pudong
Departments: Early Years, Prep School, Senior School.
3. Shanghai Concordia International School
Concordia follows Christian values and teaches with an American program. The school helps students grow strong in character and learning. It welcomes children from pre-kindergarten to high school. Teachers give students a lot of care and support.
Every child gets personal help to do their best. Students can explore learning and grow in many ways.
Facilities: Modern classrooms, sports facilities, art studios, and STEM labs.
Website: www.concordiashanghai.org
Address: 999 Mingyue Road, Jinqiao, Pudong
Departments: Elementary, Middle, High School.
4. Yew Chung International School of Shanghai
A pioneer in bilingual education, Yew Chung seamlessly blends Eastern and Western educational approaches. Students experience a multicultural learning environment that celebrates diversity through the International Primary Curriculum and International Baccalaureate programs.
The bilingual curriculum empowers learners to become global citizens, mastering linguistic and cultural competencies. Holistic development remains at the core of their educational philosophy.
Facilities: Science labs, art studios, sports facilities, and music rooms.
Website: https://www.ycis-sh.com/en
Address:
- Pudong Campus: 1433 Dongxiu Road, Pudong
- Puxi Campus: 11 Huaqiao Road, Hongqiao
Departments: Early Childhood, Primary, Secondary.
5. Britannica International School Shanghai
Delivering the quintessential British educational experience, BISS offers a comprehensive pathway from nursery through Year 13. The school's standard of education reflects the highest international benchmarks, with a curriculum designed to challenge and inspire.
Students engage with the English National Curriculum, IGCSE, and IB programs, supported by a network of passionate educators committed to academic excellence.
Facilities: Sports fields, swimming pools, science labs, and arts facilities.
Website: https://www.britannicashanghai.com/
Address: 600 Cambridge Forest New Town, Pudong
Departments: Early Years, Primary, Secondary.
6. Harrow International School Shanghai
Carrying the legacy of the renowned Harrow School, this institution provides an all-through education that prepares students for global university landscapes.
A-level programs and a rich extracurricular framework define the school's approach to holistic learning. Leadership development, academic rigor, and personal growth intertwine to create a transformative educational journey.
Facilities: Sports fields, swimming pools, theaters, and science labs.
Website: https://www.harrowshanghai.cn/
Address: No. 588 Gaoxi Road, Pudong
Departments: Early Years, Prep School, Senior School.
7. Shanghai Community International School
A remarkable bilingual institution that bridges Chinese educational traditions with international learning standards. Students navigate a unique curriculum that emphasizes cultural understanding and academic achievement.
The school's approach integrates Chinese and international educational philosophies, creating a dynamic learning environment that prepares students for global challenges.
Facilities: Modern classrooms, sports facilities, and science labs.
Website: https://www.scis-china.org/
Address: 1355 Dongfang Road, Pudong
Departments: Primary, Middle, High School.
8. Shanghai Starriver Bilingual School
Crafting educational experiences that transcend traditional boundaries, Star River offers a harmonious blend of Chinese and international learning approaches.
The school's bilingual program ensures students develop linguistic flexibility and cultural intelligence. Academic rigor meets creative exploration, preparing learners for a complex, interconnected world.
Facilities: Sports fields, science labs, art studios, and music rooms.
Website: https://www.ssbs.sh.cn/
Address: 1818 Huqingping Highway, Qingpu
Departments: Primary, Middle, High School.
9. Shanghai Pinghe School
Embracing both the Chinese National Curriculum and International Baccalaureate standards, Pinghe represents educational innovation.
Students journey through a carefully designed pathway that promotes bilingualism, global citizenship, and academic excellence. The school's commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals shines through its comprehensive educational framework.
Facilities: Sports fields, science labs, art studios, and libraries.
Website: https://www.shphschool.com/
Address: 261 Shuyuan Road, Pudong
Departments: Primary, Middle, High School.
How Do Foreign Children Enroll in Shanghai Schools?
We have summarized the types of schools available and key considerations for foreign students based on the new regulations.
Public Schools
Foreign children can apply to Shanghai’s public schools and receive the same basic education (elementary to high school) as local students.
Primary to Secondary School
- All public schools in Shanghai are open to international students, allowing them to study alongside local students.
- Some schools may charge international tuition fees, ranging from 10,000–50,000 RMB per year.
- Enrollment follows a “neighborhood priority” policy, with preference given to children holding a Shanghai residence permit.
High School
- Admission to public high schools is more restrictive for international students.
- Not all public high schools accept international students.
- Applicants must pass entrance exams or provide standardized scores (e.g., IGCSE, IB).
Application Requirements
- A valid foreign passport and Chinese residence permit (e.g., S1, Q1/Q2 visa, or family residence permit).
- Must meet the same age requirements as local students (e.g., 6 years old for Grade 1).
- At least one parent must work or reside in Shanghai and provide proof (e.g., work visa, residence permit, rental/property ownership).
- The school district’s enrollment criteria (based on registered or actual residence) must be met.
Application Process
- Check school availability – Some popular schools prioritize local students, and competition is fierce in expat-heavy areas like Pudong and Xuhui.
- Submit documents and pass review – Some schools require an interview or a Chinese language test.
- Enroll and register – Once approved, the student is officially registered and enrolled.
Important Notes
- Public schools teach primarily in Chinese, so assess your child’s Chinese proficiency beforehand. Some schools offer language support classes.
- The Chinese school system differs from foreign systems (e.g., 6 years of primary + 3 years of secondary), so confirm grade placement in advance.
- Applications typically open from April to June, with high school admissions extending into August. Early preparation is recommended.
- Education policies may change. Before applying, confirm the latest requirements with the school or the local education bureau (search “Government SH” for contacts).
Education Structure in Shanghai
Ever wondered how schooling works in Shanghai? Let me break it down for you in a way that makes sense!
The Early Years: Preschool Adventures
First things first - preschool isn't mandatory, but it's pretty awesome. We're talking about cute little nurseries and kindergartens that your tiny humans can enjoy. Kids typically spend about three years in kindergarten, getting their first taste of learning and socializing.
The Main Educational Ride
Shanghai does things differently from other places in China. Here's the scoop: kids go through a "5+4" school system. That means five years of primary school and four years of junior high. It's all part of China's nine-year compulsory education - the schooling your kids absolutely must complete.
Choices, Choices, Choices
Want public or private? Shanghai's got both! Parents have options, which is pretty cool. But here's a pro tip: during registration, you'll need to navigate some online platforms like "Suishenban" or "One-Stop Online Service" to get everything sorted.
The Big Exams: Milestones Ahead
Think of these exams as level-up moments in your child's education:
- Junior high students take the "Zhongkao" - the senior high or vocational school entrance exam.
- Senior high students tackle the legendary "Gaokao" - the national college entrance exam that's a big deal for future opportunities.
Remember, it's not just about the exams. It's about the incredible journey of learning, growing, and discovering who they're meant to be!
Conclusion
Choosing the right international schools in Shanghai China is more than a decision—it's a life-changing moment. Shanghai's international schools offer incredible opportunities for children to grow, learn, and become global citizens.
Your child's future is waiting, packed with potential, ready to be unleashed in these remarkable educational environments.
Alifa Edtech helps expatriate parents navigate China’s education system. We simplify school selection, ensuring your child finds the best fit among international and Chinese schools. Explore stress-free enrollment today!