American Schools in China are a great choice for both local and expat families as they offer globally recognized curricula, outstanding academics plus a nurturing environment for children. Discover our selection of the best American Schools in China, including reviews, fees, and why families choose them.
Table of Contents
Why families choose the American Curriculum?
When it comes to selecting an educational path for their children, many families in China opt for schools that offer the American curriculum, drawn by its unique blend of structured yet flexible educational offerings. This curriculum not only paves the way for academic excellence but also instills a broader perspective, preparing students for global challenges and opportunities.
Comprehensive and Balanced Education
The American curriculum is renowned for its holistic approach to education, which emphasizes not just academic excellence but also the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Subjects are taught in an integrated manner, encouraging students to see connections between disciplines. This method helps in nurturing a well-rounded intellect, equipped to tackle the complex problems of today's world.
Focus on Innovation and Creativity
One of the core components that attract families to the American curriculum is its emphasis on creativity and innovation. Schools encourage students to think independently and creatively, fostering an environment where original ideas and entrepreneurship can flourish. This is particularly appealing in the rapidly evolving global landscape, where such skills are highly valued.
Flexibility in Academic Choices
Flexibility is another significant advantage of the American educational system. Students have the liberty to choose from a wide array of electives and extracurricular activities, which allows them to explore their interests deeply and develop specialized skills in areas they are passionate about. This personalized approach not only enhances their engagement with the learning process but also builds a strong foundation for future career paths.
Preparation for Global Universities
For many families, the ultimate goal of opting for an American curriculum is to prepare their children for higher education in the United States or other Western countries. The curriculum aligns closely with the prerequisites of top global universities, making it easier for students to meet entry requirements and excel in these environments. Furthermore, the use of English as the primary medium of instruction removes language barriers, providing a smooth transition for students pursuing studies abroad.
Development of a Global Perspective
The American curriculum inherently promotes a global outlook, encouraging students to understand and appreciate various cultural perspectives. This is particularly crucial in today's interconnected world, where being globally aware and sensitive to multicultural nuances are key traits of successful individuals. Schools implement various programs and activities that expose students to diverse cultures and global issues, enriching their education and personal growth.
In summary, the American curriculum's appeal lies in its ability to blend academic rigor with flexibility, creativity, and a global perspective, making it a preferred choice for families aiming to equip their children with the skills needed for a successful future in a globalized society.
Top rated American Schools in China 2025
This American Schools list is informed by World Schools data—we consider parents and students reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.
Keystone Academy
China - Beijing
Keystone Academy is an innovative and unique school in China and the world.
Why parents choose this school
Georgia School Ningbo (GSN)
Zhejiang - Ningbo
Georgia School Ningbo (GSN), is licensed by the Zhejiang Province Ministry of Education and is the first licensed independent school for international families in the Ningbo region.
Why parents choose this school
Why parents choose this school
Why parents choose this school
Christian Alliance International School
Hong Kong - Hong Kong Island
CAIS is a non-profit international school of 1,500+ students representing more than 25 nationalities based in Hong Kong.
Why parents choose this school
International School of Beijing
China - Beijing
With a non-profit model, research-based approach to education, and world-class facilities on our beautiful campus, ISB ensures our students can achieve impressive outcomes and discover their passions.
Why parents choose this school
Yew Chung International School of Shanghai
China - Shanghai
YCIS Shanghai marks our first footprint in the Chinese mainland. Over the past 30 years, the school has expanded with six campuses across Puxi, Pudong and Lingang, offering a unique education pathway and competitive international curriculum for expatriate children aged 2 - 18.
Why parents choose this school
Stamford American School Hong Kong
Hong Kong - Hong Kong Island
Stamford American School Hong Kong is a K-12 IB World School that creates an inspiring world of education for students aged 5 to 18 that builds self-belief and empowers individuals to succeed.
Why parents choose this school
Concordia International School Shanghai
China - Shanghai
Concordia International School Shanghai offers a comprehensive American education, from Preschool to High School, focusing on holistic development and strong academics, including Advanced Placement.
Why parents choose this school
American International School of Guangzhou
Guangdong - Guangzhou
The American International School of Guangzhou is an independent, non-profit, multicultural, and co-educational day school for foreign children from preschool to Grade 12.
Why parents choose this school
Shanghai American School
China - Shanghai
Founded in 1912, Shanghai American School, one of Asia’s most respected international schools, is the kind of school you wish you would’ve attended when you were a kid.
Why parents choose this school
Why parents choose this school
How much do American Schools in China cost?
According to World Schools data, the yearly tuition fee for American Schools in China ranges between $15100 and $19600. However, the cost varies significantly depending on various factors such as the school curriculum, extracurricular activities, location, and facilities, and can go up to $48200.
The average yearly cost is $18100, around $1900 per month, and can go up to the maximum monthly cost of $4900.
Additionally, most schools will also charge a one-time registration fee, and you also need to count an extra budget during the year for extracurricular trips, holiday camps, etc.
If you would like to explore American Schools in China with yearly fee filters, please use our advanced search filters.
Understanding the US Curriculum
Parent and Student Reviews of American Schools in China
- AISG is a wonderful school! My child is experiencing an inquiry-based education and gaining the critical thinking skills needed for the future. I am very happy with AISG.Written January 8, 2024
- Concordia is a very special school. It not only focuses on academics, although it is very strong in academics, but also focuses on developing a kid’s other intelligences—for example drawing, technology, and even music—which makes kids more well-rounded.Written November 13, 2023
- Concordia not only fosters kids in their academic development but also allows them to learn how to fundamentally become better people, which has a lifelong influence on them. Therefore, Concordia fits well with the educational philosophy of our family.Written November 13, 2023
- One of the things that I really like about the way the Americans do education has been the emphasis on show-and-tell, the strong sense of confidence, the emphasis on communication… I think both my children have benefited greatly from that.Written November 13, 2023
- I can see that at Concordia my son is cared for as an individual. His strengths are nurtured and weaknesses addressed. The teachers are very professional and dedicated. And most importantly, kids are very motivated, and truly love the school and the environment.Written November 13, 2023
- As a proud alumni and parent of multiple children at HKIS, the school is more than just an educational institution; it’s a nurturing home for students to thrive and excel. Their mission and vision reflect a commitment to fostering holistic growth and well-being. HKIS prioritizes student development, not just academically but also emotionally and socially. My children have not only excelled in academics but have also become confident, compassionate, and well-rounded individuals.
The emphasis on well-being truly sets HKIS apart. The strong and vibrant community at HKIS is unparalleled. From the faculty welcoming students arriving at school in the early morning to the supportive parent network, it feels like a big family. This sense of belonging makes a significant difference in a child’s educational journey. The student learning experience is dynamic and engaging.
The school’s emphasis on transfer goals ensures that students are well-prepared for the future. My children love going to school every day, which speaks volumes about the quality of the education experience.
The powerful alumni network is a testament to the success of HKIS graduates, something I have experienced first-hand. Knowing that my children will have access to this network in the future provides immense peace of mind.
In conclusion, HKIS isn’t just a school; it’s a community that cares deeply about each child’s growth and well-being. I wholeheartedly recommend HKIS to any family looking for a nurturing and academically enriching environment for their child. It’s not just a school; it’s a home where dreams take flight.Written September 14, 2023 - In a world with dizzying choices for international schools, HKIS has exceeded our expectations at every turn. The values, the quality of the teachers, the facilities, all to the highest standard.
When looking for a school, we reviewed all the materials we could get our hands on. Each institution had an impressive mission statement and it seemed that all were well-equipped to provide a quality education. In the end, one line in particular from the HKIS handbook stood out and guided our selection:
“We appreciate childhood as a unique stage of the human life cycle. We value the quality of children’s lives in the present, not just as preparation for the future.”
The application process was straightforward. HKIS grants an assessment to all who submit by the priority deadline. The Admissions team was helpful and easily accessible throughout. No math test here – a group play-date determined if there was a fit.
Our son enrolled in Lower Primary at the Repulse Bay campus, which comes with a series of age-graded playgrounds, a 25 meter pool with a hydraulic floor, and a “wonder lab” for budding scientists. Classrooms flow to open spaces with ocean views and birdsong from the mountains. A truly beautiful setting to help settle young minds.
Education at HKIS is differentiated by a rigorous focus on the science of learning. Guided-play in the early years teaches perseverance and critical thinking, not just memorization. A strong support structure is in place for specialized learning in middle and high school. Teachers provide regular updates to parents, and counsellors are available to children at every grade.
The environment is wonderfully positive. Teachers glow and children speak with confidence. Parents are given ongoing guidance on how to develop a child’s independence in problem solving, and importantly – what to avoid. The Head of School and Principals are easily accessible, each of whom has an uncanny ability to remember names and particulars of individual families.
Negatives? None. Our biggest surprise is just how much we enjoy the HKIS experience as grown-ups, knowing our son is happy and learning. The parent community is humble and non-competitive, and we have yet to meet a family that is not thrilled to be part of the school.
With just one year in school, our son has been influenced by HKIS values and often reminds his parents of the “4 Bees” – be kind, be responsible, be respectful, and be safe.Written September 14, 2023 - Flat out the best college prep I could have ever imagined. While my new friends and classmates were struggling through the first few weeks and months of engineering at a top university, I felt right at home with the rigor of the IB Programme. I’m also thankful for the CAS program that pushed me to explore new things and encouraged me to live a more balanced lifestyle.Written June 8, 2023
- ISB prepped me most for my current career by creating constant opportunities to interact with new people and places through APAC and China Studies trips, and forcing me to work and make friends with an ever-changing international group from a wide variety of cultural, economic and linguistic backgrounds.Written June 8, 2023
- Being at ISB has allowed me to develop my skills in learning new technologies and comfortably incorporating them in my work flow. Combine that with all the different nationalities and cultural backgrounds in the classroom, it became very clear to me I was in a very special place and well-positioned for the global economy.Written June 8, 2023
- ISB provided me with a solid academic foundation and eye-opening international experiences through my participation at THIMUN and BEIMUN events. I was able to handle my undergraduate and graduate classes with relative ease thanks to the rigor of the IB curriculum at ISB, which then positioned me well to pursue a career in international developmentWritten June 8, 2023
- Prior to the pandemic, I had moved to Hong Kong from California in May of 2019. I had only finished half of the seventh grade and I was applying to join the 8th graders, trying to enroll on February 3rd, a week after CNY 2020. Most schools were quick to brush off my application and wanted me to repeat 7th grade. However, Stamford gave me a chance to prove myself and start a new chapter. I hadn’t been the best student at my previous school so it wasn’t hard to see why most schools didn’t want me, but I couldn’t help but feel pretty devastated, I was at my lowest point, feeling like a failure. However, that’s when Stamford reached out. Stamford was the only school that let me try classes first to see if I could keep up with 8th-grade material. I felt revitalized, the entire staff was so communicative and incredibly flexible during my citizenship application process. I felt so motivated and excited, knowing that there are people that believe in me and what I can achieve. However, things didn’t all go as planned as the pandemic hit at the beginning of 2020, making my first day at school online. I was nervous for sure, as I had no idea what to expect, and if I would even make friends. All those doubts would fade as quickly as they came, as I quickly realized that Stamford prides itself upon its character and embracing core values. Everyone, from students to teachers was all such kind people. Within a few weeks of meeting my classmates, a couple of us had already set up a hangout. I had never felt such a sense of comradery and community until I was at Stamford. I knew right then and there that this was the school I was going to commit to for the rest of my high school journey. Ever since then, I’ve never felt more at home than I do now. Through thick and thin my school has backed me up and supported me. Due to the innovative and passionate teachers, I’ve been able to unlock the full potential that I’ve always envisioned myself to one day show. I’ve found school and learning as something to enjoy now, and it’s all thanks to the incredible staff here that has shaped me into the young man I am today. One of the most important things I credit the school so much for is how much we preach mental health awareness here. Personally, I think mental health is something that often gets overlooked, but having a strong mental mindset really plays a huge role in being the best version of yourself. I feel like we teach that really well here at Stamford. I’m so thankful to be a part of this ever-growing community. These past few years have been the most memorably special years of my life. I have learned so much and could not be more grateful for all of the wonderful people I’ve been so lucky to have met on my journey, as well as all of the opportunities this school has provided me to truly showcase my talents. Go Lions!Written March 2, 2023
- AISG is a wonderful school! My child is experiencing an inquiry-based education and gaining the critical thinking skills needed for the future. I am very happy with AISG.Written January 8, 2024
- Concordia is a very special school. It not only focuses on academics, although it is very strong in academics, but also focuses on developing a kid’s other intelligences—for example drawing, technology, and even music—which makes kids more well-rounded.Written November 13, 2023
- Concordia not only fosters kids in their academic development but also allows them to learn how to fundamentally become better people, which has a lifelong influence on them. Therefore, Concordia fits well with the educational philosophy of our family.Written November 13, 2023
- One of the things that I really like about the way the Americans do education has been the emphasis on show-and-tell, the strong sense of confidence, the emphasis on communication… I think both my children have benefited greatly from that.Written November 13, 2023
- I can see that at Concordia my son is cared for as an individual. His strengths are nurtured and weaknesses addressed. The teachers are very professional and dedicated. And most importantly, kids are very motivated, and truly love the school and the environment.Written November 13, 2023
- As a proud alumni and parent of multiple children at HKIS, the school is more than just an educational institution; it’s a nurturing home for students to thrive and excel. Their mission and vision reflect a commitment to fostering holistic growth and well-being. HKIS prioritizes student development, not just academically but also emotionally and socially. My children have not only excelled in academics but have also become confident, compassionate, and well-rounded individuals.
The emphasis on well-being truly sets HKIS apart. The strong and vibrant community at HKIS is unparalleled. From the faculty welcoming students arriving at school in the early morning to the supportive parent network, it feels like a big family. This sense of belonging makes a significant difference in a child’s educational journey. The student learning experience is dynamic and engaging.
The school’s emphasis on transfer goals ensures that students are well-prepared for the future. My children love going to school every day, which speaks volumes about the quality of the education experience.
The powerful alumni network is a testament to the success of HKIS graduates, something I have experienced first-hand. Knowing that my children will have access to this network in the future provides immense peace of mind.
In conclusion, HKIS isn’t just a school; it’s a community that cares deeply about each child’s growth and well-being. I wholeheartedly recommend HKIS to any family looking for a nurturing and academically enriching environment for their child. It’s not just a school; it’s a home where dreams take flight.Written September 14, 2023 - In a world with dizzying choices for international schools, HKIS has exceeded our expectations at every turn. The values, the quality of the teachers, the facilities, all to the highest standard.
When looking for a school, we reviewed all the materials we could get our hands on. Each institution had an impressive mission statement and it seemed that all were well-equipped to provide a quality education. In the end, one line in particular from the HKIS handbook stood out and guided our selection:
“We appreciate childhood as a unique stage of the human life cycle. We value the quality of children’s lives in the present, not just as preparation for the future.”
The application process was straightforward. HKIS grants an assessment to all who submit by the priority deadline. The Admissions team was helpful and easily accessible throughout. No math test here – a group play-date determined if there was a fit.
Our son enrolled in Lower Primary at the Repulse Bay campus, which comes with a series of age-graded playgrounds, a 25 meter pool with a hydraulic floor, and a “wonder lab” for budding scientists. Classrooms flow to open spaces with ocean views and birdsong from the mountains. A truly beautiful setting to help settle young minds.
Education at HKIS is differentiated by a rigorous focus on the science of learning. Guided-play in the early years teaches perseverance and critical thinking, not just memorization. A strong support structure is in place for specialized learning in middle and high school. Teachers provide regular updates to parents, and counsellors are available to children at every grade.
The environment is wonderfully positive. Teachers glow and children speak with confidence. Parents are given ongoing guidance on how to develop a child’s independence in problem solving, and importantly – what to avoid. The Head of School and Principals are easily accessible, each of whom has an uncanny ability to remember names and particulars of individual families.
Negatives? None. Our biggest surprise is just how much we enjoy the HKIS experience as grown-ups, knowing our son is happy and learning. The parent community is humble and non-competitive, and we have yet to meet a family that is not thrilled to be part of the school.
With just one year in school, our son has been influenced by HKIS values and often reminds his parents of the “4 Bees” – be kind, be responsible, be respectful, and be safe.Written September 14, 2023 - Flat out the best college prep I could have ever imagined. While my new friends and classmates were struggling through the first few weeks and months of engineering at a top university, I felt right at home with the rigor of the IB Programme. I’m also thankful for the CAS program that pushed me to explore new things and encouraged me to live a more balanced lifestyle.Written June 8, 2023
- ISB prepped me most for my current career by creating constant opportunities to interact with new people and places through APAC and China Studies trips, and forcing me to work and make friends with an ever-changing international group from a wide variety of cultural, economic and linguistic backgrounds.Written June 8, 2023
- Being at ISB has allowed me to develop my skills in learning new technologies and comfortably incorporating them in my work flow. Combine that with all the different nationalities and cultural backgrounds in the classroom, it became very clear to me I was in a very special place and well-positioned for the global economy.Written June 8, 2023
- ISB provided me with a solid academic foundation and eye-opening international experiences through my participation at THIMUN and BEIMUN events. I was able to handle my undergraduate and graduate classes with relative ease thanks to the rigor of the IB curriculum at ISB, which then positioned me well to pursue a career in international developmentWritten June 8, 2023
- Prior to the pandemic, I had moved to Hong Kong from California in May of 2019. I had only finished half of the seventh grade and I was applying to join the 8th graders, trying to enroll on February 3rd, a week after CNY 2020. Most schools were quick to brush off my application and wanted me to repeat 7th grade. However, Stamford gave me a chance to prove myself and start a new chapter. I hadn’t been the best student at my previous school so it wasn’t hard to see why most schools didn’t want me, but I couldn’t help but feel pretty devastated, I was at my lowest point, feeling like a failure. However, that’s when Stamford reached out. Stamford was the only school that let me try classes first to see if I could keep up with 8th-grade material. I felt revitalized, the entire staff was so communicative and incredibly flexible during my citizenship application process. I felt so motivated and excited, knowing that there are people that believe in me and what I can achieve. However, things didn’t all go as planned as the pandemic hit at the beginning of 2020, making my first day at school online. I was nervous for sure, as I had no idea what to expect, and if I would even make friends. All those doubts would fade as quickly as they came, as I quickly realized that Stamford prides itself upon its character and embracing core values. Everyone, from students to teachers was all such kind people. Within a few weeks of meeting my classmates, a couple of us had already set up a hangout. I had never felt such a sense of comradery and community until I was at Stamford. I knew right then and there that this was the school I was going to commit to for the rest of my high school journey. Ever since then, I’ve never felt more at home than I do now. Through thick and thin my school has backed me up and supported me. Due to the innovative and passionate teachers, I’ve been able to unlock the full potential that I’ve always envisioned myself to one day show. I’ve found school and learning as something to enjoy now, and it’s all thanks to the incredible staff here that has shaped me into the young man I am today. One of the most important things I credit the school so much for is how much we preach mental health awareness here. Personally, I think mental health is something that often gets overlooked, but having a strong mental mindset really plays a huge role in being the best version of yourself. I feel like we teach that really well here at Stamford. I’m so thankful to be a part of this ever-growing community. These past few years have been the most memorably special years of my life. I have learned so much and could not be more grateful for all of the wonderful people I’ve been so lucky to have met on my journey, as well as all of the opportunities this school has provided me to truly showcase my talents. Go Lions!Written March 2, 2023
Summary
The American curriculum in China attracts families with its holistic, flexible educational approach that emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and global perspectives. This educational pathway not only enhances academic skills but also prepares students for successful futures in a globalized world, making it an ideal choice for comprehensive learning.