Canadian International School of Hong Kong vs Hong Kong Academy

	C Canadian International School of Hong Kong Hong Kong	Hong Kong Academy Hong Kong
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year HK$156,300 - 254,300	Fees / year HK$119,000 - 273,900
Age range	Age range 2 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Canadian Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)
Pupils	Pupils 2,100	Pupils 550
Typical class size	Typical class size 18	Typical class size 24
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1991	Opened 2000
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Canadian International School of Hong Kong (CDNIS) is situated on the south side of Hong Kong Island, in the Aberdeen area. The campus is within walking distance of Wong Chuk Hang MTR station and is also served by local bus routes. It sits in a mixed residential and commercial neighbourhood close to Aberdeen Harbour.	Location Hong Kong Academy is located in Sai Kung, New Territories, about 30–40 minutes from central Hong Kong. As the gateway to the UNESCO Global Geopark, Sai Kung is known for its family-friendly lifestyle: offering hiking, beaches and outdoor activities as well as a huge variety of cafes, restaurants and shops, with good access via major roads and school bus routes. Families living in urban areas such as Hong Kong Island or Kowloon typically use the school bus service for convenience, whilst those living locally often bike or walk to school.
Stages	Stages CDNIS educates children from age 2 through Grade 12. The school is divided into the Lower School (Early Years and Grades 1–5) and the Upper School (Grades 6–12, split into Transition Years, Grades 9–10, and Grades 11–12).	Stages HKA serves students from age 3 to 18. The school is divided into Primary (Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 5), Middle School (Grades 6–8), and High School (Grades 9–12) and is one of eight IB World Schools in Hong Kong that are fully authorised to offer the International Baccalaureate Primary (PYP) Middle (MYP) and Diploma (DP) programmes. All students graduate with the HKA Diploma and Global Citizens Diploma and the school is accredited by both the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
School type	School type The school is private and co-educational. It operates as a day school only, and students must live with a parent or legal guardian in Hong Kong. Boarding is not offered.	School type HKA is a co-educational day school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix Over 35+ nationality
Additional learning support	Additional learning support CDNIS provides guidance counselling services in both the Lower and Upper Schools, supporting students academically and socially. However, the school website does not publish detailed information about specialised SEN facilities or provisions.	Additional learning support Children who need learning support are admitted upon the same requirements as other students. The school is able to provide support services including tailored classroom strategies, small group or individual support, and collaboration with teachers and families to meet learning goals. The school can also offer English Language support for students who are new to studying in English.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation The school integrates elements of the Ontario (Canada) curriculum and awards the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) alongside the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBDP).	Country affiliation The school is truly international with families coming from 35+ countries and graduates going on to university and careers all around the world.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation The school is not affiliated with any religion.	Religious affiliation The school has no religious affiliations.
School day structure	School day structure The school website does not publish its standard daily start and end times or detailed schedules.	School day structure * Playgroup sessions run daily 8-11am Monday through Friday * Pre-K: 8am-12:30pm Monday-Friday * Kindergarten-Grade 5: 8am-3:10pm M/T/Th/F; 8am-12:20pm Wednesday * Grade 6-12: 7:50am-3:10pm M/T/Th/F; 7:50am-12:20pm Wednesday
Bus service details	Bus service details CDNIS provides a school bus service operated by Kwoon Chung Motors (KCM). All full-day students are required to use the bus service, with routes across Hong Kong. The school allows options for one-way ridership and installment payments for bus fees.	Bus service details Hong Kong Academy offers a comprehensive school bus service. Buses serve many areas across Hong Kong, including Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories. Each bus has a trained bus attendant to assist and supervise students during their ride with schedules designed to ensure safe and timely transport.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application Fees An application fee of HKD 2,350 is required for EY1–Grade 11 applicants, with an assessment fee of HKD 1,650 if shortlisted. Nursery applications carry a combined application and assessment fee of HKD 1,800. These fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. Entry & Reservation Fees A one-time Entry Fee of HKD 12,500 is charged to all new students. In addition, an HKD 80,000 Reservation Deposit is required to secure enrollment. This is credited toward the first term’s tuition and levy but is non-refundable for new students. Tuition Fees (Per Year) Nursery (Half-day, bilingual): HKD 138,600 (paid in 11 instalments) EY1 (Half-day, bilingual): HKD 156,300 EY2 (Full-day, bilingual): HKD 203,100 Preparatory – Grade 2 (Bilingual): HKD 210,900 Grade 3: HKD 191,800 Grades 4–5: HKD 193,600 Grade 6: HKD 212,800 Grades 7–8: HKD 216,600 Grades 9–10: HKD 237,700 Grades 11–12: HKD 254,300 Fees for EY1–Grade 12 are billed in two instalments per year. Nursery tuition is billed in 11 instalments. Additional Fees * Annual Capital Levy: HKD 38,000 per student (unless covered by a debenture) * Uniforms, extracurricular activities, and some resources are billed separately. * Grades 4 and above include a technology fee, and Grades 11–12 include IB Diploma exam and textbook fees in tuition. Debenture Scheme Debentures are not compulsory, but holders receive admissions priority if other requirements are met. Debentures can be transferred on the second-hand market. Transportation Fees The school bus service is operated by Kwoon Chung Motors (KCM). Fees vary by route and are billed directly by the provider. Options for one-way ridership and installment payments are available. Boarding Fees The school does not offer boarding facilities. Refund Policy Tuition (EY1–G12) may be refunded on a pro-rata 10-month basis if three months’ written notice is provided. Reservation deposits for new students are non-refundable. Most other fees are non-refundable. Payment Options Payments can be made via bank transfer, PPS, e-banking bill payment, or direct debit. Cash and cheque are not accepted.	Fee details Application Fees * Pre-K1–2: HKD 1,500 (non-refundable) * K–G12: HKD 3,000 (non-refundable) Entrance Fee * First child: HKD 25,000 (one-time, non-refundable) * Each additional child: HKD 12,500 Tuition Fees (per year / semester) * Pre-K1–2: HKD 119,000 (HKD 59,500 per semester) * K–G5: HKD 229,500 (HKD 114,750 per semester) * G6–G8: HKD 252,600 (HKD 126,300 per semester) * G9–G10: HKD 263,300 (HKD 131,650 per semester) * G11–G12: HKD 273,900 (HKD 136,950 per semester) Additional Costs * Tuition Deposit: HKD 30,000 (credited toward tuition, non-refundable) * Family Debenture: HKD 630,000 (resellable on departure, covers one child from Capital Levy) * Annual Capital Levy: HKD 32,000 per student (if no debenture held) * Other costs: Uniforms, school bus, meals, IB Diploma exam fees, after-school activities, and overnight trips (Grade 3–11 trips cost HKD 4,000–20,500 in 2024–25). * Learner support may incur additional fees depending on student needs Billing Schedule and Payment Terms * Semester 1 fees due: 15 May 2026 * Semester 2 fees due: 16 Nov 2026 * Overdue payments: 2% interest per month after 14 days; HKD 200 for dishonoured cheques. * Three months’ written notice (or three months’ tuition) required for withdrawal Payment Options Payment options are provided on school invoices.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement The school uses a uniform supplied by Untold Horizons. A new uniform was introduced in August 2023, and the previous uniform may be worn until June 2025. The uniform list varies by year group, and new students should not buy a PE/house shirt until they have been assigned to a house. House shirts are Bear, Raven, Mountain Lion, and Orca. Uniforms can be purchased from the online store or the second-hand uniform supplier, Retykle. Sports uniforms are provided for Timberwolves teams, with an activity fee of $500 per sport.	Uniform requirement Students must wear uniform however they can choose to wear the combination of HKA school uniform items in which they feel most comfortable and ready to learn. Freecycle uniform items are available at no charge.
Food options	Food options Catering is provided by Maxim's Group for on-site meals.	Food options The school has an in-house catering team, hkaEATS, which prepares 3 choices of hot meals on site daily as well as providing snacks and cafe-style salads and sandwiches. Students may also bring home-prepared snacks and lunch to school.
House system	House system The school operates a house system with four houses: Bear, Raven, Mountain Lion, and Orca. Students wear house PE shirts, and house assignments are part of the onboarding process.	House system Students all compete against other schools as the Dragonflies, focussed on the core values of sportsmanship, teamwork and commitment. Every student is allocated to one of 4 internal houses: Panda, Dragon, Tiger and Phoenix.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is a private international school registered under the Education Ordinance of Hong Kong and is registered as a non-profit organization with the Inland Revenue Department. It has a two-tier governance structure consisting of the Council of Members and the Board of Governors. The Board is elected by the Council of Members and holds fiduciary responsibility for the school's direction and operations, while the Head of School and senior administration manage day-to-day operations.	Governance and ownership The school operates as a non-profit international through-train institution and is governed by a Board comprised of volunteer parents and alumni.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details CDNIS delivers the full International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum, beginning with the Primary Years Programme (PYP) in the Lower School from Early Years through Grade 5. Students in Grades 6–10 follow the Middle Years Programme (MYP), which provides a broad foundation across subject areas. In Grades 11–12, students pursue the IB Diploma Programme (DP), with courses designed to prepare them for university study worldwide. Alongside the IB, CDNIS integrates the Ontario curriculum, and graduates earn the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) in addition to the IB Diploma. The school also offers a bilingual English–Chinese track in the Early Years, with Mandarin taught as a subject throughout the school.	Curriculum details Hong Kong Academy (HKA) follows the full International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum. Students in Primary School (Pre-K1 to Grade 5) follow the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), which emphasizes inquiry-based learning across core subjects. In Middle School (Grades 6–10), students study within the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), which includes eight subject groups including languages, science, mathematics, the arts, design, social studies and PE. In High School (Grades 11–12), students undertake the IB Diploma Programme (DP), an internationally recognized qualification for university entrance. The curriculum also integrates Mandarin and Spanish as additional languages, alongside English as the language of instruction. Beyond academics, the program includes service learning, performing arts, outdoor education, and sustainability initiatives as part of the school’s broader educational approach.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio 1:6
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar View document	Academic calendar View document
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning CDNIS outlines a dedicated Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) framework that emphasizes self-awareness, resilience, empathy, positive relationships, and responsible decision-making. SEL is described as critical to student success and is embedded in the curriculum across grade levels. The school publishes specific learning goals, such as developing coping skills, building empathy, and fostering collaborative relationships.	Social & emotional learning HKA’s counselling team leads a wellbeing programme which includes a curriculum delivered through weekly classes as well as providing individual, family and small group interventions when needed. Students are encouraged to develop self-advocacy and resilience, and all teachers are trained to address physical, social, and emotional issues. Parents are welcome to call upon counsellors for guidance and the school offers parenting workshops on a range of socio-emotional, technical and strategic topics.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The school provides Guidance Counselling services in both the Lower and Upper Schools, offering academic and social-emotional support. However, CDNIS does not publicly specify the types of SEN needs it supports, nor does it describe specialist facilities, staff qualifications, or targeted SEN programmes. Therefore, it cannot be considered a specialist SEN institution.	Special educational needs (SEN) The school is able to provide learning support and English Language learning support but is not a specialist SEN institution. Additional fees may apply for learner support depending on the student’s needs.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The school does not publicly disclose information regarding EAL.	English as an additional language Hong Kong Academy provides structured support for students who are developing English proficiency through its English Language Learners (ELL) programme. The school assesses students’ skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing during admissions and, if needed, places them in the EAL programme. Specialist teachers collaborate closely with classroom teachers to offer differentiated instruction and scaffolding so that students can access the full curriculum.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing CDNIS provides guidance counselling programmes at both the Lower and Upper School levels. These services are described as proactive, preventive, and responsive, with counsellors supporting academic progress, social development, and transitional needs. In the Upper School, transition counselling is available to help students adjust to new year levels and academic expectations.	Mental wellbeing HKA supports mental wellbeing with a counselling team and wellbeing teachers who work alongside staff to provide care. The school promotes student empowerment and addresses digital wellbeing and cyber safety as part of its wellbeing programs. Training is also offered for staff and volunteers to ensure proactive approaches to student wellbeing.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding CDNIS publishes a Child Safeguarding Policy, stating a zero-tolerance approach to mistreatment or abuse. Recruitment practices and school operations are aligned with international child protection guidance, and all staff are expected to follow safeguarding protocols. The school notes its commitment to creating a safe environment and explicitly references safeguarding responsibilities as part of its community standards.	Safeguarding HKA’s safeguarding framework is based on UNICEF’s Convention on the Rights of the Child and CIS accreditation standards. The school maintains a comprehensive child protection policy and code of conduct, updated annually. Staff, trustees, and volunteers receive safeguarding training, and the school works with local and international organisations to maintain best practices. Students are taught peer advocacy, social skills, and digital safety as part of safeguarding education.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy View document	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The CDNIS campus covers 40,000 square metres and spans 14 levels on the south side of Hong Kong Island in Aberdeen. It features state-of-the-art facilities that support learning and are continually upgraded. The Leo Lee Arts Centre is a frequently used community facility with usage fees to offset costs. The Main Campus and the Early Years Centre provide learning spaces, including the teamLab Classroom and the Chinese Cultural Centre. A Photovoltaic Farm and other facilities such as a swimming pool, gymnasiums, a design studio, a library, and cafeterias support a wide range of learning experiences.	Facilities overview The Hong Kong Academy campus is a state-of-the-art, purpose-built learning environment in Sai Kung. The two-story library provides cosy reading nooks, study spaces and online research areas. Specialist spaces include a 350-seat theatre and science labs with instructional and experimental facilities. There are dedicated spaces for counselling, speech and language therapy and occupational therapy, plus outdoor playscapes and a flexible cafeteria. A professional learning centre hosts workshops and parent education events and there is a community center located above the cafe which parents, students and staff are all welcome to use for events, exhibitions and quiet work. The campus is BEAM Plus Gold certified for sustainability and environmental performance.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The campus includes a swimming pool on the Main Campus, multiple gymnasiums, and an artificial turf pitch that support on-campus athletics.	Sports facilities The school has an 800-seat gymnasium, indoor climbing wall, a multi-purpose outdoor sports court, an all-weather football pitch, fitness studios and a weight-training gym. Students can access nearby public tennis courts, swimming pools and a full-scale athletics stadium within a short walk of the campus and the school partners with local sailing clubs as well as horse riding, golf and tennis academies..
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Academic facilities include a library, an Upper School Science Corridor, and a Design Studio. The teamLab Classroom provides immersive learning spaces, and the Main Building (Spine) houses classrooms across levels. The Chinese Cultural Centre and other spaces support a broad spectrum of learning experiences.	Academic facilities Primary and Secondary School classrooms have developmentally appropriate, distinct designs. The two-story library provides cosy reading nooks, study spaces and online research areas. Specialist spaces include science labs for instructional and experimental work, and a 350-seat theatre for performing arts. There are dedicated spaces for counselling, speech and language therapy and occupational therapy. Outdoor playscapes and a flexible cafeteria support social learning and dining.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities CDNIS offers a wide range of extracurricular options, including special interest clubs, performance activities, Timberwolves sports, and an expansive After School Activities programme.	Extra curricular facilities The schools’ co-curricular programme offers more than 100 after-school activities each semester. With options available right from Pre-K entry level co-curricular includes clubs, sports, instrumental music, STEAM and performing arts.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History The Canadian International School of Hong Kong (CDNIS) was founded in 1991 as a private, independent institution. From its early years, the school has grown steadily to serve more than 2,100 students across its programmes. Today, it operates under the governance of its own Board, with no religious affiliation, and awards both the International Baccalaureate Diploma and the Ontario Secondary School Diploma. Over the decades, CDNIS has expanded its facilities and programming to include a full IB continuum and a bilingual Early Years pathway.	History Hong Kong Academy was founded in 2000 by a group of educators and parents seeking to establish an inclusive, international school in Hong Kong. Originally housed in smaller premises, the school moved to it’s award-winning sustainable campus in 2013. It operates as a non-profit organisation, overseen by a board of trustees, ensuring that all resources are reinvested into the school.
Community	Community The CDNIS community includes students, families, and staff who participate in a wide range of activities beyond academics. The school promotes involvement through arts events (such as the annual Upper School musical), sports competitions under the Timberwolves athletics programme, and cultural celebrations like International Day. Community engagement also extends through service and sustainability initiatives, where students collaborate locally and globally to make an impact.	Community The HKA community includes families from a wide range of cultural backgrounds, creating an internationally diverse student body. The school hosts community events such as cultural celebrations, performances, and exhibitions, which encourage participation from both students, faculty and families. Service and sustainability projects are also key aspects of community life, with students and parents contributing to local and global initiatives.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The school has an active Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) that supports family involvement and community building. While CDNIS’s website does not provide a detailed list of PTA committees or leadership, references highlight its participation in cultural and school-wide events, including International Day and community gatherings. The PTA plays a role in fostering connections between families and the school, coordinating volunteer opportunities, and enhancing the student experience through sponsored activities. Its contributions reflect an emphasis on parent partnership in student life, though specific groups and events are not extensively detailed publicly.	Parent teacher association Hong Kong Academy has an active Parent Teacher Community Organisation (PTCO) that plays an important role in school life. The PTCO organises community-building events such as the annual Community Fair, drives volunteer and social initiatives, and helps new families integrate into the school community] and supports fundraising initiatives.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual CDNIS is an IB World School offering PYP, MYP, and DP programmes. Enhancements include the Early Years Bilingual Programme and the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) for high school students. The school serves Nursery through Grade 12 across 16 grade levels and enrolls over 2,100 students from more than 40 nationalities. The school aims to inspire excellence, cultivate character, and empower engagement locally and globally.	Academic & intellectual Hong Kong Academy offers the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP) as part of the IB continuum. The IB framework emphasizes inquiry-based learning, the learner profile, approaches to learning, and international-mindedness. All students participate in the IB programmes; many pursue the IB Diploma, and graduates earn the HKA Diploma along with the Global Citizenship Diploma (GCD) certificate. Hong Kong Academy is the global headquarters for the Global Citizen Diploma (GCD) consortium, and the GCD credential accompanies graduation.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative CDNIS provides a broad performing and visual arts program with a wide range of extracurricular options. Lower School activities include the Junior Choir, Chinese Dance Team, the SEED environmental club, and the Lower School Student Council. The Upper School offers extensive performing arts opportunities and more than 70 activities, including inter-school sports, clubs, and intramurals. The Upper School hosts musicals, such as School of Rock.	Arts & creative The Performing Arts program covers music, dance, drama and theatre technology, with facilities including a 350-seat theatre and an 80-seat studio theatre. The program is led by Hong Kong-based and international practitioners and aims to develop confidence, resilience, collaboration and self-reflection. The school has been a member of the International Schools Theatre Association (ISTA) since 2017. The music stream offers instrumental lessons, songwriting, music production, and ensembles, with performances in school and at external venues.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language The school teaches English, Mandarin, French, and Spanish as part of the curriculum. The Early Years Centre provides a bilingual learning environment to guide language and cultural fluency. Chinese language and culture are represented through courses and language study within the curriculum.	Cultural & language Mandarin is taught from Playgroup through Grade 5 using simplified characters. In Secondary School, students can choose between Spanish and Mandarin, and in Grade 11 there is an option to study French. In Grades 11–12, students in the IB Diploma Programme can self-study native tongue languages to earn a bilingual diploma.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies CDNIS uses a four-House system (Bear, Raven, Orca, Mountain Lion) to promote community, spirit, and well-being. Lower School offers a range of after-school activities including the Junior Choir, Chinese Dance Team, SEED environmental club, and the Lower School Student Council; Timberwolves sports begin in Grade 4. Upper School provides more than 70 activities, including inter-school sports, a wide array of clubs, performing arts opportunities, and intramurals.	Social & hobbies Over 100 After School Activities are available each semester. Hong Kong Academy promotes building skills and pursuing passions through a wide range of activities, clubs, sports and performing arts opportunities for students of all ages.
Community & service	Community & service Through the House system, students engage in community service projects. House activities include volunteering and service events throughout the year.	Community & service Acting Responsibly means students are encouraged to advocate and contribute to their communities. There are student councils in both primary and secondary school and students can apply to the student initiative fund to help them with resources for impact projects. The school's community emphasis focuses on learning, friendship and mutual respect. The PTCO and Alumni networks also support community involvement and volunteering opportunities.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Lower School has a Student Council that provides student leadership opportunities. The House system and a broad activity program foster leadership development across year groups. Additional leadership and guidance resources are available through the school's guidance structures and student life programs.	Leadership & professional Hong Kong Academy has an educational leadership team led by the Head of School and the Primary and Secondary School Principals, supported by curriculum coordinators and specialist roles. The University and Careers dimension helps students plan post-secondary options. The campus explicitly supports Professional Learning for faculty and staff as part of campus life.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Timberwolves sports and athletics are a central part of student life. After School Activities (ASA) provide enrichment and wellness opportunities beyond the classroom. The house system and a wide range of clubs support social connection, teamwork, and well-being across the school.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The Dragonflies sports program supports extensive competition across local and Asia level leagues with more than 80% of secondary students representing the school in at least one competitive sports team. Students are encouraged to compete through maths, literacy competitions and arts and there are many community activities for the adult community such as pickleball, climbing, reading groups, dance groups and more.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school is an IB World School offering the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme, with Ontario Secondary School Diploma credits and a two-diploma graduation (IB DP and OSSD). English is the core language of instruction, Mandarin is offered as a language study from Early Years to Grade 10, French begins in Grade 6 and runs through Grade 8 (with the option to continue in Grade 9 in either French or Mandarin), and Spanish is available as a Diploma Programme language for Grades 11–12. There is a Chinese Studies program with dedicated streams to accommodate diverse language backgrounds.	Language provision English is the language of instruction with Mandarin offered as a second language throughout and Spanish as an option in secondary school. The school offers an English Language Learners (EAL) program to accelerate English acquisition so students can access the curriculum; EAL uses differentiated instruction in collaboration with teachers and is informed by the WIDA framework. The student body is diverse, representing over 35 nationalities, with about 60% of students speaking two or more languages at home.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching The Early Years Programme offers a bilingual learning environment with 50% English and 50% Chinese content. The dual-language immersion model uses English and Chinese as both disciplines and mediums of instruction. The bilingual programme began in August 2022 for EY (EY1–EY2, 3–4 year olds) and will progressively include Grade 2 through Grade 5 by 2028/2029, until Nursery to Grade 5 are fully bilingual.	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs The dual-language immersion model allows students to experience both English and Chinese throughout the day. English and Chinese are used as languages of instruction for core subjects, with language outcomes in both languages.	Immersion programs In-class immersion is used for younger EAL students to support language acquisition within mainstream classes. EAL specialists work in collaboration with classroom teachers to differentiate instruction.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards Green Building Council of Hong Kong Gold BEAM status Ritzy Hong Kong Education Awards: International School of the Year (2024-25).
Accreditations	Accreditations International Baccalaureate (IB) World School: authorised to offer the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP), confirming compliance with IB curriculum and quality standards. Council of International Schools (CIS): international accreditation confirming that the school meets globally recognised standards in teaching, governance, and student welfare. Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC): a U.S.-based accrediting body ensuring educational quality and institutional effectiveness.	Accreditations Council of International Schools (CIS): HKA is internationally accredited by CIS, which ensures the school meets global standards of quality in teaching, learning, and governance. Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC): Full accreditation by WASC, a U.S.-based body that evaluates schools worldwide for academic quality and institutional integrity. International Baccalaureate (IB) Continuum: HKA is authorised to offer the full IB continuum (PYP, MYP, and DP), which provides internationally recognised programmes across all grade levels. Global Citizen Diploma (GCD): HKA is the global host for the GCD, a requirement for graduation which recognises student achievements beyond academics in areas such as global understanding, community engagement, intercultural communication and personal development.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Application submission Families begin by completing an online application form via the CDNIS Admissions Portal. Required documents typically include a copy of the child’s passport or Hong Kong ID, recent school reports, and a current photo. An application fee (and, where relevant, an assessment fee) must be paid at this stage. 2. Supporting documents and references Depending on grade level, families may need to submit a Student Reference Form completed by a current teacher. These references are used to better understand the applicant’s academic and social readiness for CDNIS. 3. Assessment and interview Applicants who progress are invited for an assessment or interview. Early Years students participate in play-based assessments, while older students complete literacy, numeracy, or group activities. Upper School applicants may also attend a personal interview. The school explains that the assessment format differs by grade. 4. Selection and review Applications are reviewed holistically, combining assessment results, references, and past reports. Students are then ranked as Excellent, Good, Marginal, or Not Suitable. Offers depend on meeting academic expectations and the availability of places. 5. Offer and enrolment Successful candidates receive a conditional offer, which must be confirmed by paying the reservation deposit and completing enrollment forms. If no space is available in the grade, eligible students are placed into the waitpool until a place opens.	Admissions 1. Initial Inquiry and Tour Families begin by contacting the admissions office or booking a school tour. This allows prospective parents to see the facilities, meet staff, and understand the programmes offered. Tours are encouraged before completing an application. 2. Application Submission Applications are completed online and require supporting documents such as school reports, teacher recommendations, and, where applicable, assessments. An application fee is payable at this stage to cover processing and assessment. 3. Assessment Applicants may be invited for age-appropriate assessments, shadow days, or observations, depending on grade level. English proficiency and learning needs may also be reviewed at this point, involving specialists if required. 4. Review by Admissions Committee The admissions team, together with relevant school staff, reviews the application, academic records, and assessments. Decisions are made based on the student’s ability to access the curriculum and the availability of places. 5. Offer of Place and Acceptance Successful applicants receive an official offer of admission. Families confirm by paying the required entrance fee and tuition deposit within the given timeline to secure the place.
Scholarships	Scholarships CDNIS has a scholarship programme listed under its Admissions section. Scholarships are intended to recognise student achievement and potential, but the school does not publish detailed information about specific eligibility criteria or award amounts on its main website. Families interested in scholarships are directed to the Scholarships section of the Admissions pages for current opportunities.	Scholarships HKA offers Merit-Based Scholarships for new students entering Grades 6–10. Awards may cover 100% of tuition and capital levy or provide set amounts of HKD 150,000, HKD 115,000, or HKD 75,000 towards tuition. Up to five platinum scholarships and a limited number of gold, silver, and bronze awards are offered each year. Applicants must show strong academic records, excellent teacher references, and outstanding ability in an area such as mathematics, STEAM, languages, coding, public speaking, humanities, sports, visual or performing arts, leadership, or community service. Scholarship awards are reviewed annually and holders are expected to remain at HKA through to Grade 12.
Waitlist	Waitlist CDNIS operates a waiting pool system when grades are full. Placement into the waitpool occurs after a student is deemed admissible, but no seat is available. Importantly, a student’s status in the pool does not roll over to the following academic year; families must reapply if they wish to be considered again.	Waitlist HKA operates a waitpool system rather than a traditional numbered waitlist. Applicants who meet admissions requirements but cannot be placed due to space limitations enter the waitpool. Placement is determined by multiple factors including grade-level availability, sibling priority, and balance within the student body, rather than date of application.
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