The Shanghai school landscape
Shanghai's international school market is divided into two distinct types. Pure international schools (SAS, Concordia, Dulwich, BISS, YCIS, Wellington) admit only foreign-passport children and follow international curricula entirely. Bilingual private schools (e.g. SUIS, NAIS Pudong) admit Chinese and foreign students and combine the Chinese national curriculum with IB or British pathways.
Shanghai is now the most expensive Chinese city for international schools. Premium schools (Dulwich, Wellington, SAS) charge $40,000 to $45,000 per year and waiting lists at the top end can run 12 to 24 months. Most expat packages include education allowances of $40K to $55K per child to cover this.
Confused about Shanghai's two-track school system?
Foreign-passport-only schools versus bilingual schools work very differently. Our guide explains eligibility, curriculum and outcomes.
Most popular neighbourhoods for families
Jinqiao (Pudong) is the largest expat family community, home to SAS Pudong, Concordia, Dulwich Pudong and Shanghai Community International. Hongqiao (Puxi) houses BISS, YCIS Puxi, SAS Puxi and Wellington College. The Former French Concession hosts smaller boutique international schools and the Japanese and German schools. Lujiazui appeals to families wanting a city centre lifestyle. Read our neighbourhood guide to living in Minhang with international schools. For a greener, more affordable base in the south west, read our guide to living in Songjiang with international schools. For a villa focused, school rich district in south Pudong, read our guide to living in Kangqiao with international schools.
