For families relocating to Hong Kong, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right school. With its rich selection of international curricula—British, American, IB, French, German, and more—Hong Kong is a top destination for globally mobile families seeking high-quality education for their children. However, navigating the competitive admissions process, fees, campus culture, and location options can feel overwhelming.

This in-depth guide is designed specifically for expats moving to or already living in Hong Kong. We’ll walk you through the best international schools in the city and provide targeted insights on curriculum choices, admissions strategies, tuition fees, neighborhood considerations, bilingual programmes, and more.

Part 1: Top International Schools in Hong Kong for Expats

1. Hong Kong International School (HKIS)

Curriculum: American, AP
Location: Repulse Bay (Lower Primary), Tai Tam (Upper Primary to High School)
Tuition: HK$230,000–HK$270,000/year
Language: English, with Mandarin offered
Overview: A top-tier American school known for academic excellence, strong pastoral care, and its beautiful Southside campuses. HKIS is highly competitive and ideal for families planning a return to the U.S. or seeking a U.S. college pathway.

2. Chinese International School (CIS)

Curriculum: Bilingual (Mandarin/English), IB
Location: Braemar Hill, North Point
Tuition: HK$270,000+/year, with annual capital levies
Overview: A rigorous bilingual school that blends Chinese and international learning approaches. Its strong IB results and cultural fluency make it one of the city’s most sought-after institutions.

3. Kellett School (The British International School in Hong Kong)

Curriculum: British (IGCSE, A-Levels)
Location: Kowloon Bay (Senior), Pok Fu Lam (Primary)
Tuition: HK$183,000–HK$244,000/year
Overview: Known for its traditional UK-style education, academic rigour, and pastoral care. Kellett is highly popular with British families and those aiming for UK universities.

4. International College Hong Kong (ICHK)

Curriculum: IB PYP, MYP, DP
Location: Tai Po (Primary) and Sha Tin (Secondary)
Tuition: HK$130,000–HK$170,000/year
Overview: Offers a progressive approach to the IB with a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation. Lower fees and a community feel make it attractive to forward-thinking families.

5. French International School (FIS)

Curriculum: French National, IB (International Stream)
Location: Tseung Kwan O, Happy Valley, Jardine’s Lookout
Tuition: HK$138,000–HK$180,000/year
Overview: Offers both a French national curriculum and a robust international stream that leads to the IB Diploma. Ideal for French-speaking families or those wanting strong bilingual immersion.

6. German Swiss International School (GSIS)

German Swiss International School Hong Kong

Curriculum: German Abitur, British (IGCSE, A-Levels)
Location: The Peak
Tuition: HK$180,000–HK$210,000/year
Overview: A highly academic school offering both a German and an international British stream. Strong results and location on The Peak make it one of the most elite schools in Hong Kong.

7. Canadian International School (CDNIS)

Curriculum: IB (PYP, MYP, DP), Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
Location: Aberdeen
Tuition: HK$210,000–HK$250,000/year
Overview: CDNIS offers a dual qualification (IB + OSSD) and a spacious Southside campus. It’s a popular choice for Canadian and international families seeking IB with North American values.

8. Singapore International School (SISHK)

Curriculum: Singaporean, IB DP
Location: Aberdeen
Tuition: HK$110,000–HK$150,000/year
Overview: Follows the rigorous Singapore curriculum up to Secondary 4, then IB for senior years. Highly academic, with a strong focus on bilingualism and STEM subjects.

9. Harrow International School Hong Kong

Curriculum: British, IGCSE, A-Levels
Location: Tuen Mun
Tuition: HK$170,000–HK$220,000/year + debenture
Overview: A full boarding and day school with British traditions, Harrow offers prestige, campus life, and excellent university pathways. Boarding is rare in Hong Kong, making Harrow a unique option.

10. English Schools Foundation (ESF)

Curriculum: IB (PYP, MYP, DP), GCSE, BTEC
Location: Multiple campuses (Island School, West Island School, South Island School, King George V, Sha Tin, Renaissance College)
Tuition: HK$128,000–HK$148,000/year
Overview: The largest international school network in Hong Kong. Offers moderate tuition, broad inclusivity, and strong academic outcomes, particularly in the IB Diploma.

Part 2: Curriculum Comparison for Expat Families

British System: IGCSE + A-Levels, strong prep for UK universities. Schools: Kellett, GSIS, Harrow.
American System: US-style learning + AP exams. Schools: HKIS.
IB (International Baccalaureate): Globally accepted, inquiry-driven. Offered at most top schools.
French/German: Ideal for native speakers or relocating families. Schools: FIS, GSIS.
Canadian/Ontario: Dual diploma for flexibility. School: CDNIS.
Singaporean: Strong academics, Asian bilingual approach. School: SISHK.

Part 3: Admissions Tips for Expat Parents

Apply Early: Top schools fill fast. Apply 12–18 months in advance.
Prepare for Interviews/Assessments: Even kindergarten applicants may be assessed.
Debentures & Capital Fees: Many schools require corporate or personal debentures. Understand the financial commitment upfront.
Priority Systems: Some schools prioritize alumni, corporate debenture holders, or siblings.

Part 4: International School Fees in Hong Kong

Range: HK$120,000 to HK$280,000/year
Hidden Costs: Uniforms, bus service, extra-curriculars, capital levies
Budget-Friendly Options: ESF, SISHK, ICHK offer quality at lower fees

Part 5: Choosing a School Based on Neighborhood

Island South: HKIS, CDNIS, SISHK – scenic, international communities
The Peak/Mid-Levels: GSIS – prestigious, central
Kowloon & Tuen Mun: Harrow, FIS, Yew Chung – space, affordability
New Territories: ICHK, ESF Sha Tin – green campuses, larger plots

Part 6: Bilingual and Language-Focused Options

CIS: True Mandarin-English bilingual IB
FIS, GSIS: Native-level French/German instruction
SISHK: English-Chinese fluency with IB
Victoria Shanghai Academy: IB with Mandarin immersion

Part 7: Final Thoughts for Expat Families

Hong Kong offers an unparalleled range of international schooling options catering to different curricula, languages, and educational philosophies. Whether you’re raising bilingual children, preparing for university overseas, or seeking a values-driven environment, there’s a school to match your family’s goals.

Take time to visit campuses, speak with admissions teams, and engage with other expat parents. Education is not one-size-fits-all—and in Hong Kong, it doesn’t have to be.