List of 33 Best Schools in Shanghai (2026 Fees)

Shanghai, a bustling metropolis in China, offers educational opportunities for expatriate families seeking the best schools in Shanghai for their children. Navigating the educational landscape in a foreign country can be challenging, but fear not. We will provide valuable insights into the best schools in Shanghai, the types of schools available, the curriculum options, and where to find them. Whether you're an expat or a local parent, we aim to make the process of your school selection smoother.

Facts about Schools in Shanghai

Public vs. International: Shanghai boasts both public and international schools. Public schools follow the Chinese national curriculum, while international schools offer various international programs such as IB, American, British, and more.
Competitive Admissions: Admission to top schools in Shanghai can be highly competitive with entrance exams and interviews. Planning well in advance is a recommended approach.
Bilingual Education: Many international schools in Shanghai offer bilingual programs, allowing students to become proficient in English and Chinese.
Extracurricular Activities: Shanghai's schools often provide many extracurricular activities, from sports and arts to community service, fostering well-rounded development.

What are the Types of Curriculum in Shanghai?

International Curriculum: Many international schools in Shanghai follow recognized international curricula such as the IB, American Common Core, or British National Curriculum, providing a global perspective.
Chinese National Curriculum: Public schools follow the Chinese national curriculum, emphasizing subjects like Chinese language, mathematics, and science.
Bilingual Curriculum: Bilingual schools often blend elements of international and Chinese curricula, ensuring students are proficient in both languages.
Extracurricular Programs: Some schools offer specialized extracurricular programs, enabling students to explore specific interests or talents.

Where are the Best Schools in Shanghai Located?

Pudong: This district boasts several international schools and is popular among expat families due to its modern infrastructure and proximity to the financial district.
Puxi: The older part of the city, Puxi, also offers a variety of international and bilingual schools, along with a more traditional Shanghai experience.
Jing'an: Known for its vibrant expat community, Jing'an hosts a mix of international and bilingual schools, making it a favored choice for many families.
Minhang: This district is home to some renowned public schools and specialized institutions, especially in areas like science and technology.

Edarabia showcases all private schools in Shanghai through which parents can filter by tuition fees, curriculum, rankings & ratings. There are many public, private and charter schools near you that cater to both expat and local students.

Depending on the level of education; kindergartens (pre-schools), primary, secondary and high schools will all have varying tuition fees. Most K-12 schools offer different curriculums and extra-curricular activities to support the intellectual and physical wellbeing of students. Admissions for the top international schools in Shanghai tend to have waiting lists so it is recommended that parents apply well in advance to secure a spot for their children. Additionally, each school has ratings based on parent reviews and are ranked below accordingly.

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