Private Schools in Shanghai 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 Private Schools in Shanghai, including reviews, fees, and why families choose them.
Why families choose a Private school in Shanghai?
Shanghai, a vibrant metropolis renowned for its cultural richness and technological advancements, also stands out for its commitment to educational excellence. Many families, both local and expatriate, opt for private schooling to ensure their children receive a top-tier education tailored to global standards. The reasons for choosing private schools in Shanghai are multifaceted, encompassing enhanced academic programs, diverse international exposure, and specialized facilities that cater to holistic development.
Academic Excellence and Innovative Curriculums
Private schools in Shanghai are celebrated for their rigorous academic standards and innovative learning curriculums. These institutions often offer international baccalaureate (IB) programs, Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and British A-levels, providing students with a broad spectrum of subjects and in-depth study opportunities. The curriculum is designed not only to challenge the students but also to prepare them for global university admissions and future careers. Moreover, the low student-to-teacher ratios ensure personalized attention, allowing for a tailored approach that meets the individual needs of each student.
Global Perspective and Cultural Diversity
One of the most compelling aspects of private schools in Shanghai is their ability to imbue students with a global perspective. With a student body that spans multiple nationalities, children learn in a richly diverse environment that enhances their understanding of different cultures and global issues. This exposure is crucial in today's interconnected world and fosters a sense of international mindedness and empathy among students.
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Extracurricular Activities
Private schools in Shanghai are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities that rival those of prestigious institutions worldwide. From science laboratories and art studios to sports complexes and technology centers, these schools provide resources that support a wide range of learning styles and interests. Furthermore, the extracurricular activities offered, such as robotics, debate clubs, music, and sports, are extensive and varied, ensuring that every student can find an area to excel in and develop further.
Supportive Environment and Community Engagement
The ethos of community and support is strongly emphasized in Shanghai’s private schools. These institutions often foster a close-knit community where parents, teachers, and students collaborate closely to enhance the educational experience. Regular parent-teacher meetings and community events help build a supportive network, creating a nurturing environment that benefits both academic and personal growth.
In conclusion, the decision for families to choose private schooling in Shanghai stems from the desire to provide children with an education that not only excels academically but also promotes personal development and global awareness. The blend of rigorous academics, cultural diversity, superior facilities, and a supportive community makes private schools in Shanghai an attractive option for those seeking comprehensive and world-class education for their children.
Top rated Private Schools in Shanghai 2025
Nord Anglia International School Shanghai, Pudong
Why parents choose this school
The British International School Shanghai, Puxi
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Shanghai Community International School
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Dulwich College Shanghai Pudong
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Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi
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The Western International School of Shanghai (WISS)
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Yew Chung International School of Shanghai
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Shanghai French School (Lycée Français de Shanghai)
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Concordia International School Shanghai
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Wellington College International Shanghai
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Shanghai American School
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Tips for Choosing the Right Private School
Parent and Student Reviews of Private Schools in Shanghai
- 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
- My family and I have been embraced and welcomed by WISS community with open arms and we look forward to being a part of this family for many years to come.Written February 25, 2023
- My children have lived in many different countries and attended many different international schools, they are the happiest they have ever been.Written February 25, 2023
- I like the way WISS supports art and creativity. Kids are encouraged to develop their talent in all topics, from music to theatre, from painting to dancing, as well as all the other subjects, and they can express themselves in multiple ways.Written February 25, 2023
- We like WISS because of its community. The multi-cultural atmosphere has given everyone, especially our son, the awareness, appreciation, and respect that they need when encountering different kinds of cultures in their lives. But the best thing about the school is how their education is integrated with the world and with current events. What they learn isn’t kept in their books, but it is often applied in their daily lives.Written February 25, 2023
- It’s amazing here. There are so many people from all over the world and we are really engaged and involved in the WISS community and really feel it is our family here. We really like the method of teaching and the way the kids learn because it’s not just working in a very academic way. Its working on projects in a group and it’s really focused on teamwork.Written February 25, 2023
- The warm community at SCIS helped me develop a sense of personal motivation and independence. This facilitated my transition into university where the ability to take responsibility for your own work is essential.Written February 25, 2023
- SCIS played a key role in helping me to develop writing, analysis, and critical-thinking skills needed to succeed at the university level. Spending several years within SCIS’s small-school environment allowed me to receive personalized instruction from my teachers that proved critical in preparing me for life after high school.Written February 25, 2023
- The biggest part of being signed as a college athlete at North Park University in Chicago (an NCAA Division III college in the United States), representing SCIS is being able to really put the school on the map. I really wanted to give back to a community where I’ve been provided with such great opportunities growing up here since fifth grade. There are so many people who have influenced me, past coaches from soccer, volleyball, and basketball. It’s different parts of the components of these sports that made me who I am and a big part of it is SCIS and the commitment to the sports. Without playing basketball or volleyball and the learning experiences I’ve had, I wouldn’t be who I am today.Written February 25, 2023
- 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
- My family and I have been embraced and welcomed by WISS community with open arms and we look forward to being a part of this family for many years to come.Written February 25, 2023
- My children have lived in many different countries and attended many different international schools, they are the happiest they have ever been.Written February 25, 2023
- I like the way WISS supports art and creativity. Kids are encouraged to develop their talent in all topics, from music to theatre, from painting to dancing, as well as all the other subjects, and they can express themselves in multiple ways.Written February 25, 2023
- We like WISS because of its community. The multi-cultural atmosphere has given everyone, especially our son, the awareness, appreciation, and respect that they need when encountering different kinds of cultures in their lives. But the best thing about the school is how their education is integrated with the world and with current events. What they learn isn’t kept in their books, but it is often applied in their daily lives.Written February 25, 2023
- It’s amazing here. There are so many people from all over the world and we are really engaged and involved in the WISS community and really feel it is our family here. We really like the method of teaching and the way the kids learn because it’s not just working in a very academic way. Its working on projects in a group and it’s really focused on teamwork.Written February 25, 2023
- The warm community at SCIS helped me develop a sense of personal motivation and independence. This facilitated my transition into university where the ability to take responsibility for your own work is essential.Written February 25, 2023
- SCIS played a key role in helping me to develop writing, analysis, and critical-thinking skills needed to succeed at the university level. Spending several years within SCIS’s small-school environment allowed me to receive personalized instruction from my teachers that proved critical in preparing me for life after high school.Written February 25, 2023
- The biggest part of being signed as a college athlete at North Park University in Chicago (an NCAA Division III college in the United States), representing SCIS is being able to really put the school on the map. I really wanted to give back to a community where I’ve been provided with such great opportunities growing up here since fifth grade. There are so many people who have influenced me, past coaches from soccer, volleyball, and basketball. It’s different parts of the components of these sports that made me who I am and a big part of it is SCIS and the commitment to the sports. Without playing basketball or volleyball and the learning experiences I’ve had, I wouldn’t be who I am today.Written February 25, 2023
Summary
Parents choose private schools in Shanghai for their rigorous academic programs, global cultural exposure, and state-of-the-art facilities. These schools offer a holistic educational experience that prepares students for global challenges, fosters cultural understanding, and supports personal growth in a nurturing environment.