Shanghai is one of the most established international school markets in Asia. With dozens of accredited campuses across Pudong and Puxi, the question for incoming expat families is rarely "is there a school", but rather "which school is the right fit, and how do we secure a place on time".
This 2026 step-by-step guide walks you through international school admissions in Shanghai, from understanding eligibility rules and curriculum options to managing fees and document requirements for the new academic year.
Eligibility: Who Can Attend International Schools in Shanghai?
Chinese law distinguishes between two main categories of international schools:
- Foreign-passport-only schools: Open exclusively to children holding a foreign passport. Most legacy international schools (American, British, Singapore, German, French, Japanese schools) fall into this group.
- Bilingual private schools: Open to both Chinese and foreign families, follow the Chinese national curriculum at primary and lower secondary, then layer in IB, IGCSE or A-Level pathways from upper secondary.
Before you apply, confirm which category each school belongs to, because eligibility cannot be waived on appeal.
Available Curricula in Shanghai
- IB programmes (PYP, MYP, DP): Widely available across Pudong and Puxi.
- British curriculum: IGCSE and A-Levels at several long-established schools.
- American curriculum and AP: Strong choice for families planning US university pathways.
- National curricula: Including German, French, Singapore and Japanese options.
- Bilingual Chinese-English: A growing segment for families who want Mandarin fluency alongside an international qualification.
Top International Schools in Shanghai
Concordia International School Shanghai
A long-running American-curriculum school in Jinqiao, Pudong, offering AP courses and a strong record of US college placement.
Nord Anglia International School Shanghai Pudong
An IB World School with PYP, MYP and DP, plus the Nord Anglia network's partnerships with Juilliard and MIT for performing arts and STEAM enrichment.
The British International School Shanghai Puxi
British curriculum from Early Years through Sixth Form, including IGCSE and A-Levels. A reliable option for families on a UK university trajectory.
YK Pao School
A high-profile bilingual school offering a blended Chinese-international programme that leads into IGCSE and A-Levels at senior level. Highly competitive admissions.
Fudan International School
Linked to Fudan University, this school offers an international stream with strong academic positioning for families planning a Chinese or international university route.
Admissions Timeline: Step-by-Step
- September - October: Shortlist three or four schools that match your child's curriculum, age and location. Request open day slots.
- October - December: Submit the formal application form, the child's last two years of reports, recommendation letters and copies of passports and visas. Pay the application fee (typically RMB 2,000 - 3,000).
- December - February: Assessments and interviews. Most schools test English literacy, mathematics and a short conversational interview from Year 1 upwards.
- January - March: Offer letters issued. Accept within the deadline (often two weeks) and pay the deposit to secure the place.
- April - July: Complete medical forms, immunisation records, residence permit documentation and uniform orders before the August or September start.
International School Fees in Shanghai
Tuition at top Shanghai international schools in 2026 typically falls within these ranges (in RMB, annual):
- Early years: RMB 180,000 - 230,000
- Primary: RMB 230,000 - 280,000
- Middle years: RMB 260,000 - 310,000
- Senior school / IB DP / A-Levels: RMB 290,000 - 360,000
Add a one-off application fee, a refundable deposit (often equal to one term of tuition), a capital levy at some schools, transport fees (RMB 18,000 - 25,000) and lunch programmes.
Required Documents Checklist
- Child's passport and current China visa or residence permit
- Parents' passports and work permits
- Last two school years' transcripts in English
- Two teacher recommendation letters
- Immunisation record translated into Chinese
- Medical examination certificate (foreign or Chinese hospital, depending on school)
Compare and shortlist your Shanghai schools
Browse curriculum-specific shortlists, fees and reviews on International School Advisor to narrow your Shanghai shortlist before reaching out to admissions teams.
FAQ
Can Chinese passport holders attend international schools in Shanghai?
Only certain bilingual private schools are open to Chinese-passport students. Legacy foreign-passport-only schools cannot admit Chinese citizens, regardless of where the child has lived previously.
When do international schools in Shanghai open admissions for the next academic year?
Most schools open applications in September or October for the following August or September intake. Popular year groups can close by February, so apply early.
How long does the Shanghai admissions process take from application to offer?
Typically eight to twelve weeks from submitting the application to receiving an offer letter, assuming all documents are complete and the family attends the assessment promptly.