Hong Kong has long been recognized as a center for global business, finance, and education. Its unique blend of East and West cultures, coupled with its strategic location and world-class infrastructure, has made it a prime destination for expats and students seeking an international education. And when it comes to international education, the International Baccalaureate (IB) program is widely regarded as one of the best. In Hong Kong, there are several IB schools that offer students a chance to get an education that is recognized worldwide. But with so many options to choose from, how do you navigate the landscape of IB schools in Hong Kong Island? In this blog post, we will explore the IB school scene on Hong Kong Island, highlight some of the top IB schools in the city, and help you make an informed decision on which school is right for you.
What is the International Baccalaureate Program?
The International Baccalaureate (IB) program is an internationally recognized educational program that offers a comprehensive curriculum for students aged 3-19. The program is designed to develop students who have excellent breadth and depth of knowledge, are critical thinkers, and are equipped with the skills needed for success in college and in life. The IB program is unique in that it is recognized and respected by universities and employers around the world. It is also recognized by many international schools as the gold standard in education.
Why Choose an IB School on Hong Kong Island?
Hong Kong has a long-standing reputation for excellence in education. The city is home to some of the best international schools in the world, and the IB program is a popular choice among parents and students alike. Here are some of the reasons why you should consider IB schools in Hong Kong Island:
- Recognition: The IB program is recognized by universities and employers around the world, making it a popular choice for families who value a globally recognized education.
- Multicultural Environment: Hong Kong is a melting pot of cultures, and international schools in the city reflect this diversity. Students at IB schools in Hong Kong have the opportunity to interact with students from all over the world, which helps to broaden their horizons and develop an international mindset.
- Quality of Education: IB schools in Hong Kong are known for their rigorous academic programs, excellent facilities, and experienced teachers. These schools offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, sports, and clubs to help students develop their interests and skills.
Top IB Schools on Hong Kong Island
There are several IB schools in Hong Kong Island, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Here are some of the top IB schools in the city:
1. Canadian International School of Hong Kong (CDNIS)
The Canadian International School of Hong Kong (CDNIS) is a leading international school that offers a comprehensive education to students from around the world. Founded in 1991, CDNIS has developed a reputation for excellence in academics, sports, and the arts. One unique aspect of CDNIS is its offering of both the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) and the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), allowing students to receive two internationally recognized curriculums upon completing high school. This gives students the opportunity to customize their education according to their individual strengths, interests, and future goals.
Address: 36 Nam Long Shan Rd, Aberdeen, Hong Kong
Curriculum: IB PYP, IB MYP, IB DP, OSSD
Tuition ($HKD): $121,500-$215,300, additional $36,000 capital levy per year if don’t have debenture
2. Chinese International School (CIS)
The Chinese International School (CIS) is a prestigious international school that provides a dynamic and holistic education for students from kindergarten to Grade 12. Established in 1983, the school is renowned for its rigorous academic standards, cultural diversity, and commitment to developing students into global citizens. One of the unique features of CISHK is its Grade 10 program, which requires students to spend a year studying in Hangzhou, China. This program provides an immersive language and cultural experience that allows students to deepen their understanding of Chinese language, history, and culture. The school’s experienced faculty and extensive resources ensure that students are well-prepared for this exciting and challenging program.
Address: 1 Hau Yuen Path, Braemar Hill, Hong Kong
Curriculum: IB MYP, IB DP
IB DP Grade Average 2022: 40.9
Tuition ($HKD): $183,600-$291,200, additional $28,000 capital levy per year if don’t have debenture
3. French International School (FIS)
The French International School is a highly respected educational institution that offers students the opportunity to receive a bilingual education in either the French or international stream. The French stream follows the curriculum of the French Ministry of National Education and provides students with a deep understanding of French culture and language, while the international stream, which is more expensive, follows the International Baccalaureate curriculum and prepares students for entry into top universities around the world. With campuses located in both Happy Valley and Tseung Kwan O, the French International School provides students with a supportive and inclusive learning environment that promotes academic excellence, creativity, and social responsibility.
Address: 165 Blue Pool Road, Happy Valley, Hong Kong
Curriculum: IGCSE, IB DP
IB DP Grade Average 2022: 37.4
Tuition ($HKD): $123,244-$205,107, mandatory debenture of either $90,000 or $250,000
4. German Swiss International School (GSIS)
The German Swiss International School Hong Kong is a leading educational institution that offers students a unique bilingual education in both German and English. With two streams to choose from, students can enroll in either the German International Stream or the English International Stream. The German International Stream follows the German International Abitur (DIA), while the English International Stream follows the International Baccalaureate curriculum. Both streams provide students with a rigorous academic program that emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and cultural diversity. With a commitment to fostering a strong sense of community and social responsibility, the German Swiss International School Hong Kong provides students with a holistic education that prepares them for success in a rapidly changing world.
Address: 11 Guildford Rd, The Peak, Hong Kong
Curriculum: IGCSE, IB DP
Tuition ($HKD): $168,600-$219,700, additional $20,000 capital levy without a debenture
5. Independent School Foundation Academy (ISF)
The Independent Schools Foundation (ISF) is a leading educational foundation in Hong Kong that is committed to providing students with a world-class education that prepares them for success in a globalized society. With campuses in Pok Fu Lam and Cyberport, the foundation offers a comprehensive program that includes both the International Baccalaureate and the English National Curriculum. Students at ISF benefit from a dynamic learning environment that emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration, as well as a strong commitment to community service and social responsibility. The foundation’s mission is to empower students to become lifelong learners who are equipped to tackle the challenges of the 21st century with confidence and resilience.
Address: 1 Kong Sin Wan Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
Curriculum: IB MYP, IB DP
Tuition ($HKD): $211,610-$267,260, additional $40,000 per year capital levy
6. Island School
Island School is an international co-educational school located in Hong Kong and a founding member of the English Schools Foundation. Accredited by international organizations such as the Council of International Schools and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, the school accommodates over 1,200 students from 33 different nationalities. Island School offers the International Baccalaureate diploma program, an alternative BTEC program, and the International General Certificate of Secondary Education in Years 10-11. Although the school has relocated twice since its establishment in 1967, it has since returned to its permanent site at 20 Borrett Road in August 2022 after 4 years of redevelopment work.
Address: 20 Borrett Rd, Mid-Levels, Hong Kong
Curriculum: IGCSE, IB DP
IB DP Grade Average 2022: 38.48
Tuition ($HKD): $119,100-$144,700, one off capital levy $3,800-$38,000
7. Singapore International School (SISHK)
Singapore International School (SIS) is an international school in Hong Kong that provides kindergarten, elementary, and secondary education, including the International Baccalaureate Diploma First and Second Year programs. Founded in 1991 in Kennedy Town, SIS has since relocated to two campuses on Nam Long Shan Road, Hong Kong Island. The school, set up by the Ministry of Education of Singapore, follows the Singaporean curriculum and has grown to enroll over 1,500 students from various nationalities, with Hong Kongers and Singaporeans making up the majority of the student population.
Address: 23 Nam Long Shan Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong
Curriculum: IGCSE, IB DP
Tuition ($HKD): $91,100-$221,300, capital levy $20,000 per year for those without a debenture
8. South Island School (SIS)
South Island School is an international school located in Aberdeen, Hong Kong, founded by the English Schools Foundation (ESF). With 1,400 students and 107 teachers, the school offers GCSE/IGCSE, IB Diploma Programme, IB Career-related Programme, and BTEC qualifications to students from over 38 nationalities. South Island School is one of three ESF secondary schools on Hong Kong Island, with West Island School and Island School being the others. The school has received positive feedback for promoting global citizenship and intercultural learning, as well as fostering mutual trust among stakeholders according to a 2019 inspection report by the Council of International Schools and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Address: 50 Nam Fung Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong
Curriculum: IGCSE, IB DP, BTEC
IB DP Grade Average 2022: 37.1
Tuition ($HKD): $119,100-$144,700, one off capital levy $3,800-$38,000
9. St Paul’s Co-educational College (SPCC)
St. Paul’s Co-educational College is an Anglican secondary school located in Mid-Levels, Hong Kong, established in 1915 as a girls-only college until after World War II. The school offers the HKDSE and IBDP curricula in parallel and is the first Round Square school in greater China. Since 2001, it has been under the Direct Subsidy Scheme and has an affiliated primary school, making it a school of the “through-train” system.
Address: 33 MacDonnell Road, Mid-Levels, Hong Kong
Curriculum: HKDSE, IB DP
IB DP Grade Average 2022: 43.1
Tuition ($HKD): $64,300-$98,500, one off capital levy $3,800-$38,000
10. Victoria Shanghai Academy (VSA)
The Victoria Shanghai Academy (VSA) is a community of over 2,000 students, parents, faculty, and staff committed to academic and personal excellence. Founded as a bilingual school with an IB program, VSA emphasizes a student-centered, inquiry-based approach to teaching and learning. With a diverse faculty from over 15 nationalities, VSA offers students opportunities for growth and development in a vibrant arts and music program, successful sports program, and a wide range of after-school activities. The school emphasizes its guiding statements of Value, Strive, and Act, encouraging students to translate their learning into action and become well-rounded individuals.
Address: 19 Shum Wan Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong
Curriculum: IB PYP, IB MYP, IB DP
IB DP Grade Average 2022: 39.5
Tuition ($HKD): $149,600-$210,060, one off capital levy $60,000
11. West Island School (WIS)
West Island School is a co-educational international secondary school in Hong Kong that offers a British-influenced international curriculum. The campus is located on the slopes of Mount Davis and provides education to students from age eleven to eighteen. Students in Years Seven to Nine study the West Island School Middle Years Diploma, while students in Years Ten to Eleven follow either the IGCSE or the MYP IB Middle Years Programme, and students in Years Twelve to Thirteen follow the IB Diploma curricula. The school is a member of the English Schools Foundation and still receives a small but symbolic subvention from the Government that has been frozen since the 1997 Handover of Hong Kong.
Address: 250 Victoria Road, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong
Curriculum: IGCSE, IB MYP, IB DP
IB DP Grade Average 2022: 38.2
Tuition ($HKD): $119,100-$144,700, one off capital levy $3,800-$38,000
Choosing the Right Hong Kong Island IB Schools for You
Choosing the right IB schools in Hong Kong Island can be a daunting task. There are several factors to consider, including location, academic program, extracurricular activities, and cost. Here are some tips to help you choose the right IB school for you:
1. Research
Do your research and find out as much as you can about the IB schools in Hong Kong. Look at their websites, read reviews, and talk to current and former students and parents. This will give you a good idea of what the school is like and whether it is a good fit for you.
2. Consider Your Goals
Think about your goals and what you want to achieve through your IB education. Do you want to focus on academics, or do you want to participate in extracurricular activities? Do you want to study Chinese culture and language, or do you want a more multicultural experience? Consider your goals and choose a school that aligns with them.
3. Visit the Schools
Visit the schools you are interested in and take a tour. This will give you a chance to see the campus, meet the teachers, and talk to current students. You can also get a sense of the school’s culture and whether it is a good fit for you.
4. Consider the Cost
IB schools in Hong Kong can be expensive, so consider the cost before making a decision. Make sure you understand the tuition fees, as well as any additional costs for textbooks, uniforms, and extracurricular activities.
Conclusion
Choosing the right IB school in Hong Kong is an important decision that requires careful consideration. There are several excellent IB schools in Hong Kong, each with its own strengths and focus areas. By researching, visiting the schools, and considering your goals and needs, you can find the right IB school for you. The IB program is a rigorous and comprehensive program that prepares students for higher education and beyond, and studying at an IB school in Hong Kong can provide an enriching and rewarding experience.
FAQ
1. What is the difference between IB and AP?
The IB and Advanced Placement (AP) programs are both internationally recognized educational programs for high school students. The main difference between the two is that the IB program offers a more comprehensive and holistic approach to education, while the AP program focuses more on individual subject areas. The IB program also places a greater emphasis on community service and extracurricular activities.
2. Can I study the IB program in Hong Kong if I am not fluent in English?
Yes, many IB schools in Hong Kong offer English language support for non-native speakers. Some schools also offer Chinese language support for students who want to improve their Chinese language skills.
3. Are IB schools in Hong Kong Island recognized by universities around the world?
Yes, IB schools in Hong Kong are recognized and respected by universities around the world. In fact, many universities consider the IB program to be one of the best preparation programs for higher education.
4. How much does it cost to attend IB schools in Hong Kong Island?
The cost of attending an IB school in Hong Kong varies depending on the school and the program. Tuition fees can range from HKD 100,000 to HKD 300,000 per year. It is important to factor in additional costs such as textbooks, uniforms, and extracurricular activities.
5. How can I apply to an IB school in Hong Kong?
Each IB school in Hong Kong has its own application process, but most require students to submit an application form, academic transcripts, personal statements, and letters of recommendation. Some schools also require an entrance exam or an interview.
