doris
Ask doris
Currency
Search & filter all 7 schools Compare 7 schools in Shenzhen

American Curriculum International Schools in Shenzhen, China

Compare 7 American Curriculum international schools in Shenzhen, China. Filter by curriculum, fees (average RMB 220,244), location, and more to find the right international school now.

Edited by · B2C Marketing Manager

Schools listed
7
Curricula
11
Average annual fee
RMB 220,244
Fee range
RMB 107,600 – 326,760
More school facts
Most common curriculum
Advanced Placement (AP) (6 schools)
Average school size
850 pupils
Largest by enrolment
Shenzhen College of International Education
Oldest
QSI International School of Shenzhen (2001)
With boarding
3
About international schools in Shenzhen, China

American-curriculum international schools in Shenzhen typically follow a US-style K - 12 programme taught mainly in English, often leading to an American high-school diploma and commonly offering Advanced Placement (AP) or other American-style secondary options. Published annual day-school tuition in Shenzhen varies substantially by age and school tier, with realistic ranges running from roughly RMB 120,000 up to around RMB 360,000 a year and additional one-off and ongoing levies (enrolment deposits, capital fees, transport and meals) commonly added. Admissions are tied to the local academic calendar (an August/September intake) but many schools operate rolling admissions and use entrance assessments, interviews and document checks; places in popular year groups can fill early. Most mainstream international schools are authorised to admit children holding foreign passports (and frequently Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan residency), so relocating families should check eligibility, visa/immigration documentation and campus location when planning a move to districts such as Nanshan/Shekou, Futian or Bao’an.

Read our parent's guide to the American Curriculum →

Explore more — related searches, map view, upcoming events

FAQs for China

What does an "American curriculum" school in Shenzhen actually teach?
An American-curriculum school typically follows a US K - 12 framework with English as the primary language of instruction, a grade structure similar to US schools and a high-school diploma outcome; many schools also offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses or US-style elective pathways at secondary level. This approach emphasises broad subject choice, personalised assessment and extracurricular opportunities, though individual schools vary in exact course lists and academic emphasis.
How much should we budget for tuition and extra costs?
Published tuition for American-curriculum international schools in Shenzhen varies with age and school tier; parents can expect typical annual day-school fees roughly in the range RMB 120,000 - 360,000, with secondary fees often at the higher end. Families should also budget for application and enrolment deposits, possible capital or debenture charges, annual increases, bus fees, meals and extracurricular costs which are not always included in headline tuition.
Who is eligible to attend these international schools?
Most mainstream international schools in Shenzhen are authorised to admit children who hold foreign passports and commonly accept Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan residents, while mainland-passport pupils are generally restricted except where a school runs a separate international division permitted to do so. Eligibility rules are enforced by local education authorities, so relocating families must confirm passport/visa requirements and provide immigration documentation when applying.
When should we apply and what does the admissions process look like?
Begin enquiries as early as possible: many schools open applications for the new academic year months ahead of the August/September start and popular year groups can reach capacity quickly, so early submission improves chances. Admissions typically require an application form, proof of identity/visa, previous school reports, and school-led assessments or interviews for language and maths; some schools operate rolling admissions and also run open days or tours for prospective families.
What languages are used at school and how much Mandarin will my child learn?
Instruction is mainly in English, but most American-curriculum schools in Shenzhen include Mandarin Chinese as a taught language and may offer different pathways from beginner to native-level classes or bilingual strands. The amount and intensity of Mandarin tuition varies widely between schools, so check curriculum timetables and language-support provision if you want structured Mandarin progression or immersion.
What should relocating parents look for when comparing American schools in Shenzhen?
Look beyond headline fees to the full cost picture (deposits, capital levies, transport and extracurriculars), the language-support provision, accreditation or external validation of the programme, staff qualifications and SEN support, and practicalities such as campus location and school-bus routes. Also confirm passport/visa eligibility, admissions deadlines and class sizes, and visit schools where possible to assess culture, pastoral care and how well the school’s approach matches your child’s learning needs.}]}