Shanghai is one of Asia's most cosmopolitan cities and a major hub for international business, attracting thousands of expat families every year. The city's international schools in Shanghai have grown in both number and quality, and today families can choose from some of Asia's finest educational institutions — including campuses that rank among the top international schools globally.
Why Expat Families Choose Shanghai
Shanghai is China's financial and commercial capital, offering a standard of living that rivals any major Asian city, with world-class restaurants, arts venues, healthcare and transport infrastructure. The city is divided into distinct districts: Pudong on the east side of the Huangpu River is home to the iconic skyline and many multinational headquarters, while Puxi on the west side — particularly the French Concession — is the preferred neighbourhood for many expat families. Most international schools are concentrated in both districts, making it straightforward to find a school close to where you live.
Curricula Available in Shanghai
International schools in Shanghai offer a wide range of curricula to suit families from different backgrounds. The International Baccalaureate (IB), covering the PYP, MYP and Diploma, is the choice of many internationally mobile families who value continuity across relocations. The British National Curriculum — including IGCSEs and A Levels — is also widely available, as is the American High School Diploma with AP courses. Several schools also incorporate Mandarin Chinese language and cultural learning, offering children a long-term competitive advantage.
Top International Schools in Shanghai
Nord Anglia International School Shanghai Pudong
Nord Anglia International School Shanghai Pudong is one of China's most highly regarded international schools. Part of the globally recognised Nord Anglia Education group, the school offers the full IB continuum from Early Childhood through to the Diploma Programme. The modern Pudong campus features specialist facilities for performing arts, sports, science and design technology, with small class sizes and strong pastoral care — particularly valuable for newly arrived families. Through partnerships with Juilliard and MIT, students access world-class expertise in arts and STEM. With over 60 nationalities represented, Nord Anglia Pudong offers a genuinely international learning environment. Annual fees range from approximately RMB 200,000 to RMB 310,000 ($27,000–$43,000 USD) depending on year group.
The British International School Shanghai Puxi
Also part of Nord Anglia Education, The British International School (BIS) Shanghai Puxi is the leading British curriculum school on the west side of the city. Following the English National Curriculum through to IGCSEs and A Levels, it is an excellent choice for families from the UK or planning to apply to UK universities. The established Puxi campus has a strong community feel with active parent associations and an extensive extracurricular programme covering sports, music, drama and community service. BIS Shanghai consistently achieves strong university placements at leading UK and international institutions. It is particularly well suited to families based in the French Concession, Jing'an and Changning districts. Annual fees range from approximately RMB 190,000 to RMB 295,000 ($26,000–$41,000 USD).
School Fees in Shanghai
International school fees in Shanghai are among the highest in Asia. Top IB and British curriculum schools typically charge RMB 180,000–320,000 per year ($25,000–$44,000 USD), with the most established schools at the higher end. Additional costs include enrolment fees (RMB 10,000–30,000), a capital levy for new families, uniforms, school lunches and extracurricular activities. Many multinational employers include education allowances in expat packages, which can substantially offset tuition costs — review your employer package carefully before committing to a school.
Choosing the Right District in Shanghai
Your choice of neighbourhood will often determine which school is most practical. Pudong — particularly Jinqiao and Zhangjiang — is home to many expat families and has good access to Pudong-based international schools. Puxi, particularly the French Concession, Hongqiao and Changning, offers a more European feel and is closer to Puxi schools. Traffic between Pudong and Puxi can be significant during rush hours, so most families choose to live near their preferred school.
Admissions Tips for Shanghai
Top international schools in Shanghai are in high demand, and places at popular year groups are competitive. Begin your application process as early as possible — ideally six to twelve months before your intended start date. Most schools accept rolling admissions and can accommodate mid-year starts where places are available. Assessment processes vary: younger students typically complete a play-based observation, while older students may sit academic assessments. Most schools hold regular open days, which are highly recommended before submitting an application.
To compare the full ranking of international schools in Shanghai, visit the best international schools in Shanghai on ISA.
Frequently Asked Questions About International Schools in Shanghai
What are the best international schools in Shanghai?
Nord Anglia International School Shanghai Pudong and The British International School Shanghai Puxi are among the top-ranked international schools in Shanghai, offering IB and British curriculum programmes respectively within the globally recognised Nord Anglia Education group.
How much do international schools in Shanghai cost?
Annual fees at leading international schools in Shanghai range from RMB 180,000 to RMB 320,000 ($25,000–$44,000 USD). Many multinational companies provide education allowances for expat employees that can offset a significant portion of these fees.
Which area of Shanghai is best for expat families?
Both Pudong (Jinqiao area) and Puxi (French Concession, Hongqiao) are popular with expat families. The best choice typically depends on your preferred school's location, as commuting between Pudong and Puxi can be time-consuming during peak hours.