Country
British Schools in China
China's international school market operates under tight regulatory constraints. Fully international schools are generally restricted to students holding foreign passports, which limits the addressable market. Despite being the world's second-largest economy, the number of British curriculum schools available to international families is smaller than one might expect.
The British Schools Asia index currently includes four British curriculum schools in China, spread across three cities: Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen. Fee levels are among the highest in the region, with annual tuition ranging from approximately RMB 300,000 to RMB 342,000 (USD 41,400–47,200).
Ranked Schools
All British schools in China
Shanghai · Rank #23
Harrow International School Shanghai
Fees from USD 49,846 per year
Shanghai · Rank #25
Dulwich College Shanghai Pudong
Fees from USD 50,110 per year
Shanghai · Rank #26
Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi
Fees from USD 50,110 per year
Shanghai · Rank #27
Britannica International School Shanghai
Fees from USD 41,372 per year
Shanghai · Rank #28
Wellington College International Shanghai
Fees from USD 47,560 per year
Shanghai · Rank #29
Nord Anglia International School Shanghai, Pudong
Fees from USD 46,759 per year
Shanghai · Rank #30
The British International School Shanghai, Puxi
Fees from USD 46,759 per year
Shenzhen · Rank #31
Harrow International School Shenzhen
Fees from USD 47,210 per year
Beijing · Rank #32
The British School of Beijing, Shunyi
Fees from USD 42,366 per year
Beijing · Rank #33
The British School of Beijing, Sanlitun
Fees from USD 42,366 per year
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about British schools in China
Can local Chinese students attend British international schools?
Generally no. Fully international schools in China are restricted to students holding foreign passports. Some bilingual schools offer British-influenced curricula to Chinese nationals, but the fully British international schools indexed here require at least one foreign passport.
How much do British schools cost in China?
Annual tuition at British curriculum schools in China ranges from approximately RMB 300,000 to RMB 342,000 (USD 41,000–47,000). Fees vary by year group and school. Additional charges for registration, capital levies, and boarding (where available) apply.
Which cities in China have British schools?
The British Schools Asia index currently covers British curriculum schools in Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen. These three cities have the largest expatriate populations and the most established international school markets in mainland China.
Are A Levels or IB more common at British schools in China?
Both pathways are available. Some schools offer A Levels through their Sixth Form, while others transition to the IB Diploma after IGCSEs. Parents should check the specific post-16 pathway offered by each school.