Shanghai's International School Landscape in 2026
Shanghai is home to one of the largest and most mature international school ecosystems in Asia. Decades of foreign investment and a cosmopolitan expat community have driven the development of an international education sector that now includes dozens of schools across the city, offering virtually every major global curriculum. For families arriving in Shanghai — whether from Europe, North America, Australia, or elsewhere in Asia — the challenge is rarely finding a school, but rather choosing between a very strong set of options.
This guide focuses specifically on bilingual and international programmes in Shanghai, explaining the key curriculum choices, the top schools, what to expect in terms of fees, and how to navigate the admissions process.
Bilingual Education in Shanghai: What It Means in Practice
The term "bilingual" is used broadly in Shanghai's school market. At the most rigorous end, it refers to schools that teach genuinely academic content in both English and Mandarin Chinese — essentially giving students functional academic literacy in both languages by the end of secondary school. This model is growing in popularity among both expat and internationally-minded local families. At other schools, "bilingual" may mean Mandarin is taught as a subject alongside an otherwise English-medium curriculum.
For expat families, the key question is: how much Mandarin do you want your child to develop, and at what level of academic intensity? Schools vary significantly in their approach, and it is worth visiting and speaking with admissions staff to understand what bilingualism means in practice at each specific school.
Top International Schools in Shanghai
Concordia International School Shanghai
Concordia International School Shanghai is one of the most established and respected American-curriculum international schools in the city. It serves students from Pre-K through Grade 12, offering Advanced Placement (AP) courses and strong college counselling for US university entry. The school is well known for its community feel — somewhat unusual for a large international school — and its Christian ethos creates a welcoming, values-driven environment. Located in Jinqiao, Pudong, it is conveniently situated for families based on the east side of the city.
View Concordia International School Shanghai profile
Nord Anglia International School Shanghai Pudong
Nord Anglia Shanghai Pudong is part of the global Nord Anglia Education network and offers the British National Curriculum alongside IB programming and a range of enrichment initiatives developed in collaboration with world-leading institutions including MIT, RADA, and Juilliard. The school serves students from 2 to 18 years and provides a highly structured, ambitious academic environment. Its Pudong campus is well-equipped with exceptional sports and arts facilities.
View Nord Anglia International School Shanghai Pudong profile
Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi
Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi is the Puxi (west Shanghai) campus of the renowned Dulwich College International network, which traces its roots to the historic Dulwich College in London. The school offers the Dulwich curriculum — a combination of British and IB frameworks — and places a strong emphasis on the arts, sport, and academic excellence. Its Puxi location makes it particularly well suited for families based in areas like Changning, Jing'an, and Minhang.
View Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi profile
International School Fees in Shanghai
Shanghai's international school fees are among the highest in Asia, reflecting both the quality of the schools and the competitive market for expatriate talent. As a general guide for 2025–2026:
- Early Years (ages 2–5): RMB 150,000–RMB 220,000 per year (approx. USD 20,000–USD 30,000)
- Primary (ages 6–11): RMB 200,000–RMB 280,000 per year (approx. USD 27,000–USD 38,000)
- Secondary (ages 12–18): RMB 240,000–RMB 340,000 per year (approx. USD 33,000–USD 47,000)
Nord Anglia and Dulwich tend to sit at the premium end of the range. Enrolment deposits (often RMB 30,000–50,000), capital fees, and lunch and transport costs are additional. Most multinational employers providing relocation packages to Shanghai include full or partial school fee coverage.
Practical Admissions Advice for Shanghai
Shanghai's most popular international schools — particularly Concordia, Nord Anglia, and Dulwich — maintain waiting lists for several year groups, especially at primary level. Applying as soon as you know you are moving to Shanghai is the single most important step you can take. Most schools accept applications year-round and will place children on waiting lists even before a confirmed move date.
The admissions process at all major Shanghai schools involves submission of transcripts, teacher references, and a completed application. Secondary students typically sit placement assessments in English and mathematics. English language support is available at all schools, though the level of additional support provided varies, and families should disclose any language learning needs upfront.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mandarin Chinese taught at international schools in Shanghai?
Yes — virtually all international schools in Shanghai include Mandarin as a core subject. The intensity varies from language-as-subject (a few hours per week) to genuinely bilingual programmes where academic content is delivered in both English and Mandarin.
Which part of Shanghai is best for international families?
Pudong (east) and Puxi (west) both have strong international school options. Pudong areas like Jinqiao and Kangqiao are popular for American-curriculum families; Puxi areas like Changning, Jing'an and Minhang are well served by British and international schools.
How far in advance should I apply to international schools in Shanghai?
Ideally 6–12 months before your planned start date. Top schools like Nord Anglia and Dulwich fill quickly. Even if your move is not yet confirmed, registering your interest early secures your place in the queue.