International schools in Hong Kong are the focus of many parents' attention, and the 2024 Hong Kong International School Rankings provide an important reference for parents. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the top 10 international schools in terms of tuition fees, academic programmes and admission requirements.
Tuition fees vary widely, ranging from HK$180,000 at Victoria Shanghai School to over HK$250,000 at Hankey International School. In terms of academic structure, most schools adopt the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme. However, some schools, such as the Hong Kong International School, adopt the American curriculum.
Admission criteria vary, with some schools requiring higher entry grades and others placing more emphasis on the all-round development of students.
It is worth noting that the IB scores of schools in 2023 have generally dropped slightly from last year. For example, Hankey International School's average IB score dropped to 38.95 from 40.79 last year, while Singapore International School (Hong Kong) dropped from 40 to 38. This trend reflects the challenges and changes in international education in recent years.
Highlights
- Hong Kong International Schools Ranking 2024 Reflects Latest Education Trends
- Top 10 international schools with tuition fees ranging from HK$180,000 to HK$250,000
- Most schools adopt the IB programme, while some offer American or British programmes.
- 2023 IB results generally down slightly from last year
- Admission requirements vary from school to school, with emphasis on the all-round development of students.
About Hong Kong International Schools
Hong Kong International Schools offer a wide range of educational choices for students. They adopt the British system and the International Baccalaureate programme. These schools not only cater for the needs of local students, but also attract many overseas students.
The strengths and development trends of international schools warranted attention. In particular, the comparison with local schools.
Advantages of International Schools
The strengths of international schools lie in three main areas: the bilingual teaching environment, the whole-person development philosophy and preparation for overseas studies. Students master both English and Chinese naturally as they learn.
This is a good foundation for their future development. International schools also emphasise the development of critical thinking and creativity in their students.
Trends in the development of international schools in Hong Kong
The development of international schools in Hong Kong has shown a rapid growth trend. Taking postgraduate education as an example, the number of self-financing postgraduate students at the University of Hong Kong has increased from 9,373 in the 2020/21 academic year to 12,674 in the 2022/23 academic year.
International Schools vs Local Schools
The most significant difference between international schools and local schools lies in their educational philosophy and curriculum. International schools provide a more international learning environment and a more flexible curriculum.
For example, the International A-level (IAL) programme offers over 70 subjects for students to choose from. Students usually choose three to four subjects for a two-year study programme. In contrast, local schools have a more structured curriculum but may have an advantage in terms of local progression.
| project | International Schools | Local Schools |
|---|---|---|
| medium of instruction | Mainly English | Chinese as the main language, English as the secondary language |
| Courses | International programmes (e.g. IB, A-level) | Local programmes (e.g. DSE) |
| Direction for further studies | Preference for overseas universities | Mainly local universities |
Top 2024 International Schools in Hong Kong
There is a new change in the ranking of international schools in Hong Kong in 2024. There are 26 international schools in Hong Kong offering education from kindergarten to secondary school. These schools are known for their quality education and multicultural environment, attracting students from all over the world.
Some schools achieved a full 45 points in the IB exams. Derek Zane International School had 7 students achieve full marks. Victoria Shanghai Public School had 3 students achieve this result. This demonstrates the high quality of education and the learning ability of students in Hong Kong international schools.
Apart from academic achievements, the multicultural environment of an international school is also attractive. Shatin College has students from over 30 countries. Li Po Chun United World College has students from 80 countries, demonstrating a truly international education.
International schools in Hong Kong charge higher tuition fees, ranging from HK$55,000 to HK$300,000 per year. For example, the annual fees of Hon Cheung College range from HK$208,000 to HK$218,000. Despite the high tuition fees, these schools provide students with a quality education and an international learning environment, laying a good foundation for their future.
Comparison of International School Academic Structure
International schools in Hong Kong offer a wide range of academic options. They mainly include the British system, the American system and the Canadian system. When choosing an international school, parents should consider their children's age, learning ability and future plans for further studies.
UK Academic Structure
The British School System is the most common academic structure in international schools in Hong Kong. The entry age is usually 5 years old, which is equivalent to K3 in Hong Kong, and the secondary school years are 7 years long, graduating in Year 13.
Characteristics of the British academic system:
- Student age is based on 1 September of each year
- Some schools offer a one-year GCSE programme to help international students to adapt to
- The proportion of international students is usually divided into three categories: 0-15%, 16-35% and 35% and above.
U.S. Academic Calendar
The entry age for international schools adopting the US academic structure is similar to that of local schools in Hong Kong. The American system emphasises whole-person education and offers a more flexible and diversified curriculum.
Canadian Academic System
The Canadian academic system is also more common in international schools in Hong Kong. It emphasises the development of students' critical thinking and practical skills.
| academic structure | Entry Age | Secondary School Years | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| UK Academic Structure | Five years old. | 7 years | GCSE and A-Level Programmes |
| U.S. Academic Calendar | Six years old. | 6 years | AP courses, SATs |
| Canadian Academic System | Six years old. | 6 years | Emphasis on practice and critical thinking |
1. German Swiss International School
According to the latest rankings, German Swiss International School (GSIS) is among the top international schools in Hong Kong. The average IB score is as high as 40.72.
As for tuition fees, the tuition fees of German Swiss International School for the 2023/24 school year are as follows:
| Education Stage | Annual Tuition Fee (HK$) |
|---|---|
| primary school | 183,000 |
| middle school | 218,000 – 231,000 |
German Swiss International School has a priority admission system. Priority is given to students from German-speaking countries. The school emphasises the development of an international outlook and multicultural understanding.
"We are committed to providing an excellent educational environment for our students to develop into globally competitive individuals". - Headmaster, German Swiss International School
The educational philosophy and outstanding results of Derek Zimmerman International School have attracted the attention of many parents. Interested families should make early preparations and learn about the school's admission requirements and application process to increase their chances of enrolment.
2. Hankey International School
Hankey International School is one of Hong Kong's leading international education institutions, established in 1983 and located in North Point. It provides comprehensive education from kindergarten to secondary school. The school uses Putonghua and English as its main languages of instruction and was one of the first schools in Hong Kong to adopt the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme.
school background
Hankey International School is renowned for its academic excellence. in 2023, four of the school's students achieved full marks in the IB exams. This is a testament to the quality of teaching at the school.
The school's average International Baccalaureate (IB) programme score is 38, well above the global average. The pass rate is 100%.
course features
Hankey International School's programme features include:
- Bilingual Education: Focusing on the Cultivation of Chinese-English Bilingual Skills
- Whole Person Development: Emphasising students' all-round growth in academics, arts and sports
- International exposure: Expanding students' international exposure through a one-year study programme at the Hangzhou Campus
The school's international school bilingual education model provides a unique learning experience for students. This helps to develop globally competitive talents.
Admission Requirements
Admission to Hankey International School is highly competitive. The school emphasises students' academic potential, language skills and personal qualities. Applicants are required to demonstrate their academic ability and adaptability through entrance examinations and interviews.
| School Stage | Annual Tuition Fee (HK$) |
|---|---|
| primary school | 258,000 |
| middle school | 305,000 – 310,000 |
The tuition fees of Hankey International School are at a relatively high level among international schools in Hong Kong. This reflects its quality education resources and services. Parents need to consider financial planning when choosing a school to cope with the long-term investment in education.
3 - Singapore International School (Hong Kong)
Singapore International School (Hong Kong) was established in 1991 and is located in Wong Chuk Hang. It offers programmes for students from early childhood education to secondary school. This school adopts the International Baccalaureate (IB) examination, which is important among international schools in Hong Kong.
The school emphasises Chinese language education in international schools and provides comprehensive language training for its students. 2024, the school performed well in the IB exams. In 2024, the school performed well in the IB exams, with 2 students scoring 45 points, 4 students scoring 44 points and 7 students scoring 43 points.
Many went on to the top 50 universities in the world.
The educational philosophy of Singapore International School emphasises the development of the whole person. In addition to academic achievement, it also focuses on developing students' leadership skills, innovative thinking and international outlook. This approach to education has attracted many children of celebrities.
As a result, the school has gained a strong reputation in Hong Kong's international education community.
4. The ISF Academy
The ISF Academy is a leading international school in Hong Kong. It is known for its unique educational philosophy and academic excellence. Established in 2003, the school is committed to providing high quality bilingual education.
School Philosophy
The core philosophy of The ISF Academy is "Eight Virtues and One Mind". It emphasises a whole-person education that is both moral and intellectual. The school focuses on fostering moral quality and academic excellence in its students.
This approach to education aims to develop future leaders with an international outlook and traditional Chinese values.
Teaching features
As a leading provider of the IB programme for international schools, The ISF Academy adopts an inquiry-based approach to teaching and learning. Special emphasis is placed on bilingual education, creating an immersive language environment for students.
In comparison, the tuition fee of the Hong Kong International School is about HK$211,400 while that of the Hankey International School is as high as HK$258,200.
Notable Alumni
The ISF Academy has nurtured many talented people. These include the children of several business luminaries. These alumni have made significant achievements in their respective fields.
Their achievements not only demonstrate the quality of The ISF Academy's education, but also set an example for current students.
5. Victoria Shanghai School
Victoria Shanghai School is a leading international school in Hong Kong. It offers a comprehensive education from primary to secondary level. The school adopts the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme to provide students with a quality international education.
| project | Details |
|---|---|
| types of school | International Schools |
| course | IB course |
| Education Stage | Primary to Secondary |
| Average IB score in 2023 | 37.4 points |
| Annual Tuition Fee | Approximately HK$82,200 |
Apart from academic achievements, the school also emphasises the holistic development of students. It offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities to help students develop their talents and interests. This philosophy of education provides a solid foundation for the internationalisation of students in the future.
6. English Schools Foundation Shatin College / English Schools Foundation Kai Sun College / King George V School / South Island School / West Island School / Island School
ESF schools are important in Hong Kong's international education scene. These schools are known for their quality education and outstanding academic results. As a result, they have attracted the attention of many parents.
ESF Academy is one of the leaders. in 2023, it achieved an average score of 37.6 on the International Baccalaureate IB programme. This is well above the global average. Island School also performed well with an average score of 36.
The school fees for ESF schools are relatively high - HK$173,900 for grades 7-9, HK$152,200 for grades 10-11, and HK$160,100 for grades 12-13 in 2024. Nevertheless, many parents still consider it a worthwhile investment.
ESF schools are not just about academic achievement. It also endeavours to nurture the all-round development of students. For example, South Island School and West Island School offer a wide range of extra-curricular activities. They help students to develop their hobbies and interests. King George V School is renowned for its excellent language teaching.
Overall, ESF schools provide students with a high quality international education environment. They provide a solid foundation for their future development.
7 - Hong Kong Jewish International School
Hong Kong Jewish International School (HKJIS) is a unique educational institution located in the Mid-Levels area. It provides comprehensive education from kindergarten to secondary school. The education is a blend of Jewish traditions and international education concepts.
School Features
Residential life
The school offers international school boarding. This is an important way to foster independence. Through boarding, students are able to experience multi-cultural exchange.
Such a life also enhances students' self-care and social skills.
International Baccalaureate Programme
Hong Kong Jewish International School adopts the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme. Students have an average IB score of 36, which is excellent. This is in the upper-middle range of international schools in Hong Kong.
This reflects the quality of teaching and learning in the school.
| project | Details |
|---|---|
| academic structure | Kindergarten to Secondary School |
| Annual Tuition Fee | Approximately HK$151,100 |
| Average IB score | 36 points |
| Featured Courses | Jewish Traditional Education, International Baccalaureate Programme |
The Hong Kong Jewish International School offers a unique educational experience to its students. It combines Jewish traditions with an international outlook. The school's boarding system and IB programme provide a solid foundation for students' future development.
8. Canadian International School of Hong Kong
With an average score of 39 points in the IB programme, the school is ranked the eighth international school in Hong Kong. The school places emphasis on developing students' international perspective and critical thinking. It emphasises global citizenship education and independent learning.
| project | Details |
|---|---|
| Tuition fee range | HKD$128,200 - HKD$227,100 |
| Bond Prices | HK$ $300,000 (non-compulsory purchase) |
| Admission Requirements | English Language Proficiency, Academic Aptitude Test, Interviews |
| Month of Admission | September-November, school starts in August |
| Acceptance rate of top 20 universities in the world | 4% |
The admission process includes an English language test, an academic assessment and an interview. Students are admitted to universities through the "non-joint admission" system. This provides a solid foundation for internationalisation.
The school's educational philosophy and curriculum are of great interest to parents and students alike. It is an important choice for international education in Hong Kong.
9. French International School of Hong Kong
The French International School of Hong Kong is one of the jewels of the local international education scene. It is renowned for its long history and unique multilingual education. As one of the first international schools in Hong Kong, it provides a rich and diverse learning environment for its students.
School History
The French International School of Hong Kong was founded in 1963 and has been in existence for over 60 years. The school upholds the traditions of French education while integrating international elements to create a comprehensive learning experience for students.
Courses
The school's programme covers early childhood education to senior secondary level. It has international and French departments. Students can choose to sit for internationally recognised examinations such as IB, IGCSE, DNB and BAC.
Academic Achievement
Students at the French International School of Hong Kong (FISHK) excel in international exams. 2021 saw the school achieve a pass rate of 100% in both the IB and IGCSE exams, demonstrating the quality of its teaching.
| Examination Items | satisfactory rate | average score |
|---|---|---|
| International Baccalaureate (IB) | 100% | 37.92 |
| IGCSE | 100% | – |
It is worth noting that the French International School of Hong Kong achieved an average IB score of 37.92. This is much higher than the global average of 30.32. The acceptance rate of the school's graduates into the world's top 20 universities is 9%.
This demonstrates the school's excellence in fostering international competitiveness.
The annual tuition fee at the French International School of Hong Kong is approximately HK$142,813. Compared with other top international schools, the tuition fee is relatively moderate. The school's multilingual education features, especially the bilingual teaching mode of French and English, lay a solid foundation for students' future international development.
10. Hong Kong International School
Established in 1966, Hong Kong International School is one of the oldest international schools in Hong Kong. It is located in Repulse Bay and offers quality education to students from Grade 1 to Grade 12. The school is known as an international school under the American School System and is committed to the holistic development of its students.
The school's curriculum follows strict American educational standards and is primarily assessed by the SATs. Students perform well on the SAT with an average score of 1350. This has enabled about 801 TP6T graduates to enter prestigious universities in the United States.
| project | Details |
|---|---|
| Year of Establishment | 1966 |
| academic structure | U.S. Academic Calendar |
| Grade range | Grades 1-12 |
| average SAT score | 1350 cents. |
| Annual Tuition Fee | Approximately HK$211,400 |
Although the tuition fee is relatively high at around HK$211,400/year, the quality of education and the progression results of Hong Kong International School attract many families. The school's educational philosophy and American academic system provide students with an international learning environment and broad opportunities for future development.
International School Admission Procedures
There are two types of admission procedures for international schools in Hong Kong: Circular Admission and New School Year Admission. Each of these methods has its own characteristics and is suitable for different students and families. It is important to understand these procedures to ensure a smooth transition to your favourite international school.
Recruitment cycle
Circular admission allows students to apply for admission at any time during the school year. This is a very flexible approach, especially for families who have just moved to Hong Kong. Students can start their studies immediately after passing an interview or test. However, the number of places is limited.
New School Year Enrolment
There is a fixed timetable for admission to the new school year. Most international schools start accepting applications in September or October of the year before the start of the school year. Interviews and tests are usually conducted at the end of the year and results are announced in March or April of the following year. This approach is more competitive, but gives parents and students more time to prepare.
Preparing for an Admission Interview
Interviews are critical for both the revolving admissions process and the new school year. Parents should help their children prepare for the following:
- Familiarise yourself with the culture and characteristics of the school
- Practise basic English communication
- Cultivating self-confidence and independence
- Prepare to demonstrate personal interests and talents
A thorough understanding of the international school admission process and good preparation for interviews will improve your child's chances of getting into the school of his/her choice. Parents should choose the most appropriate timing and method of application according to their own circumstances.
Introduction to the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme
The International Baccalaureate Programme (IB Programme) is a comprehensive education system. It aims to develop students' international outlook and critical thinking skills.The IB programme is divided into four stages: IBPYP (3-12 years old), IBMYP (11-16 years old), IBDP (16-19 years old) and IBCP.
For example, the German Swiss International School requires an enrolment deposit of HK$475,000. Hankey International School requires a HK$5,000,000 bond. These fees reflect the high quality and international recognition of the IB programme.
The academic achievements of the IB programme are impressive. In the case of Derry International School, 100% students passed the IBDP in 2021. Seven of these students achieved a perfect score of 45.
The average IB score at Hankey International School is 40.29, which is much higher than the global average of 32.99. These results demonstrate the quality of the IB programme and the excellence of the students.
- IBPYP: Suitable for students aged 3-12, fostering the spirit of enquiry.
- IBMYP: suitable for students aged 11-16, with emphasis on cross-curricular learning.
- IBDP: For students aged 16-19 years old, preparing for university.
- IBCP: Combining Academic Programme and Career Orientation
The diverse and international nature of the IB programme attracts students from different backgrounds. For example, Shatin College has students from over 30 nationalities.
LPCUWC has students from over 80 nationalities. This diverse learning environment helps to develop students' international outlook and cross-cultural communication skills.
in conclusion
Hong Kong has a rich choice of international schools. They provide high quality educational opportunities for students.In the 2022/23 school year, there are 45,587 international school places in Hong Kong, of which 20,864 are for secondary education.
These schools don't just provide an excellent academic education. They also emphasise the development of a global perspective in their students. This demonstrates the advantages of international education.
International school tuition fees vary. It ranges from $96,500 to $260,800 per year. For example, the tuition fee of Derry International School is as high as $161,450 to $203,420.
There is also an additional nomination rights fee of $475,000. In comparison, the annual fee for St Paul's Co-educational College (International Baccalaureate Programme) is $96,500. it does not require additional bond or nomination fees.
When choosing an international school, parents need to consider a number of factors. These include financial factors such as tuition fees and bond requirements.
Apart from financial considerations, attention should also be paid to the quality of education. This includes the resources and facilities of schools, the quality of teachers, the teacher-student ratio, and so on. There is also the quality of teaching, student support measures, academic results and performance in extra-curricular activities.
Taking all these factors into consideration, parents can choose the most suitable international school for their children. In this way, the advantages of international education can be fully utilised, laying a solid foundation for your child's future development.
FAQ
What are the major international schools in Hong Kong?
The main international schools in Hong Kong are German Swiss International School and Hankey International School. There are also Singapore International School and The ISF Academy. The Victoria School of Shanghai is also one of them.
ESF Shatin College and ESF Kai Sun College are also popular. King George V School and South Island School are also worth mentioning. West Island School and Island School are also popular.
The Jewish International School of Hong Kong and the Canadian International School of Hong Kong are also well known. The French International School of Hong Kong and the Hong Kong International School are other important choices.
What is the difference between an international school and a local school?
International schools provide an international education environment. They use the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme and bilingualism. Such an educational environment helps students expand their global horizons.
They also attach importance to multicultural understanding.
What factors affect the choice of international school?
When choosing an international school, parents should consider several factors. These include tuition fees and academic structure. The characteristics of the programme and the academic results are also important.
Admission requirements must also be considered.
What are the major academic programmes adopted by international schools?
International schools in Hong Kong mainly adopt the British, American and Canadian school systems. The British system starts at the age of five and lasts for seven years of secondary schooling.
The U.S. school system offers a Grade 12 programme. Parents should make their choice according to the age of their children and their plans for further studies.
What is the IB programme?
International Baccalaureate Programme(IB) is divided into four stages of education. These include IBPYP, IBMYP, IBDP and IBCP.
The IB programme emphasises whole-person development and international perspective. It is well recognised by the world's leading schools.
What is the admission procedure for international schools?
The admission procedures of international schools are divided into circular admission and new school year admission. Parents need to prepare in advance.
Pay attention to the specific admission timetable and admission interview requirements of each school.
