Shanghai is China's most cosmopolitan city and one of Asia's great expat destinations. Its international school sector has expanded dramatically over the past two decades, keeping pace with the city's growth as a global financial and business centre. For expat families arriving in Shanghai, the school decision is both exciting and complex — the city offers genuine breadth of choice but also real variation in quality, approach, and fees. This guide helps you navigate the landscape in 2026.
Shanghai's International School Landscape
Shanghai has one of the largest concentrations of international schools in mainland China, with institutions spread across Puxi (the west bank of the Huangpu River) and Pudong (the east bank and financial district). Most internationally mobile families choose their residential area partly based on proximity to their preferred schools, as the city is large and commutes can be significant.
Schools in Shanghai are divided into international schools licensed to enrol students with foreign passports, and a smaller number of bilingual schools that also admit Chinese nationals holding Chinese passports. The former follow established international curricula; the latter increasingly offer hybrid programmes blending Chinese and international frameworks.
Curricula Available in Shanghai
The major international curricula represented in Shanghai include:
- International Baccalaureate (IB): Strong representation across the PYP, MYP, and DP levels. The IB Diploma is the most widely recognised qualification for university entry internationally.
- American curriculum: Several schools follow the American High School Diploma pathway with Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Popular with North American families and those targeting US universities.
- British curriculum: A number of schools offer IGCSE and A-Level programmes. British-curriculum schools typically attract families from the UK, Commonwealth countries, and Europe.
- Chinese-international bilingual: An emerging category serving families who want their children to develop Mandarin Chinese to a high level alongside international qualifications.
Top International Schools in Shanghai
Concordia International School Shanghai
Concordia International School Shanghai is one of the city's most respected international schools, offering the American curriculum from Pre-K through Grade 12. It has a strong reputation for academic outcomes, a rich co-curricular programme, and a close-knit community that spans many nationalities. Located in Pudong, it is well-positioned for families based in that district.
Nord Anglia International School Shanghai, Pudong
Nord Anglia International School Shanghai Pudong is part of the global Nord Anglia Education network and offers the IB curriculum from Early Years through to IB Diploma. The school benefits from the network's global collaborations with the Juilliard School, MIT, and UNICEF, giving students access to enriched programmes beyond the standard curriculum.
The British International School Shanghai, Puxi
The British International School Shanghai Puxi also forms part of the Nord Anglia group and offers a British-based curriculum from Early Years through to A-Levels and IB Diploma. Located on the Puxi side of the city, it is a popular choice for British-heritage families and those seeking Cambridge-assessed qualifications with strong university outcomes.
Key Districts and Location Considerations
Where you live in Shanghai significantly shapes your school options:
- Pudong (Jinqiao, Lujiazui): Home to many multinational headquarters and a large expat residential community. Excellent access to international schools in the Pudong and Kangqiao areas.
- Puxi (Hongqiao, Gubei, Changning): The western side of Shanghai, traditionally the heart of the expat community. Many well-established international schools are based here.
- Former French Concession and Jing'an: More urban living with a cosmopolitan feel. Schools are slightly less concentrated here but transport links to school areas are good.
Most international schools offer bus services that cover a wide radius, but it is always advisable to confirm coverage for your intended residential area before making a final school decision.
School Fees in Shanghai
International school fees in Shanghai are among the higher end in China, though they compare favourably to equivalent schools in Singapore, Hong Kong, or Tokyo. Approximate ranges for 2025–2026:
- Early Years / Nursery: CNY 130,000 – CNY 200,000 per year
- Primary (Grades 1–5): CNY 160,000 – CNY 250,000 per year
- Middle School (Grades 6–8): CNY 180,000 – CNY 270,000 per year
- High School (Grades 9–12): CNY 200,000 – CNY 310,000 per year
CNY 200,000 is approximately USD 28,000 or GBP 22,000. Most multinational employers posting staff to Shanghai include a school fee allowance, though the level varies considerably. It is essential to confirm your allowance before shortlisting schools, as costs at the city's premium institutions can be substantially higher than allowances intended to cover mid-market schools.
Admissions Process and Timelines
International schools in Shanghai generally operate on a September-to-June academic year. Admissions for the following year typically open in October or November, with most schools issuing offers between February and April.
Standard admissions requirements include recent school reports or transcripts, English language assessment for non-native speakers, and occasionally a written or online assessment for secondary-age students. Some schools require proof of the parent's employment status in Shanghai or a valid Chinese residency permit.
Mid-year entry is common given the frequency of corporate relocations to Shanghai. Schools generally accommodate rolling admissions subject to space, with EAL support available for students who are not yet fully English proficient.
Visa and Registration Requirements
International schools in Shanghai are only permitted to enrol students holding non-Chinese passports (foreign nationals). Families should ensure their child's visa and residence permit are in order before the application process begins, as schools typically request documentation of legal residency as part of enrolment. Your HR department or relocation agency can usually assist with the paperwork involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many international schools are in Shanghai?
Shanghai has a significant number of international schools — estimates vary between 50 and 80 depending on how international schools are defined, but the most established and accredited institutions number around 25 to 35. These range from large, full-continuum schools serving over 1,000 students to smaller specialist institutions.
Can families learn Mandarin Chinese at international schools in Shanghai?
Yes. Most international schools in Shanghai offer Mandarin Chinese as a subject, typically at multiple levels to accommodate both beginners and heritage speakers. Some schools have expanded Mandarin provision significantly, offering content-based instruction in Chinese alongside English to help children develop genuine bilingual proficiency during their time in China.
Is Shanghai a good city for expat families with children?
Shanghai is consistently rated among Asia's most liveable cities for expat families. The combination of world-class international schools, excellent healthcare, a vibrant expat community, strong infrastructure, and a culturally rich urban environment makes it an attractive posting. Most families who spend time in Shanghai report it as a positive experience for their children's education and development.
Find International Schools in Shanghai on ISA
Browse the full directory of international schools in Shanghai on International School Advisor to compare institutions by curriculum, year group, fee range, and district.
Among the schools listed on the platform: Concordia International School Shanghai, Nord Anglia International School Shanghai Pudong, and The British International School Shanghai Puxi. Each profile includes current admissions information, fee ranges, and accreditation details.
Visit International School Advisor to explore full school profiles and connect with the right international school in Shanghai for your family.