Canadian International School of Hong Kong vs Stamford American School Hong Kong - Ho Man Tin

	C Canadian International School of Hong Kong Hong Kong	Stamford American School Hong Kong - Ho Man Tin Hong Kong
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year HK$156,300 - 254,300	Fees / year HK$217,100 - 264,000
Age range	Age range 2 - 18 years	Age range 5 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Canadian Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), American Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 2,100	Pupils 970
Typical class size	Typical class size 18	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1991	Opened 2017
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 Stamford American School Hong Kong is situated in a central, residential area of Kowloon, with a new campus opening in West Kowloon in 2025 for upper grades. The main site is easily reached via MTR, bus, and cross-harbour routes. A door-to-door bus service connects families across Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories.
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 The school is divided into Elementary (Pre-Primary–Grade 5), Middle (Grades 6–8), and High School (Grades 9–12). Senior students pursue the American High School Diploma or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.
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 A co-educational day school serving students aged 5–18. There are no boarding facilities.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix 28 nationalities
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 The school offers EAL programs, learning support, enrichment, and counseling through a dedicated Student Support team. The website does not specify specialist facilities for particular learning needs.
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 Affiliated with the United States through its American standards curriculum and accredited by WASC and CIS.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation The school is not affiliated with any religion.	Religious affiliation None indicated; Stamford is a secular international school.
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 Classes run Monday–Friday, 7:45 a.m. to 2:40 p.m. with breaks for recess and lunch. The academic year is divided into two semesters.
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 A comprehensive bus service covers Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories. Routes are door-to-door where possible and organized by an external provider in coordination with the school.
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 The application and assessment fees are currently waived for all new applicants. Upon acceptance, each student must subscribe to one of two Capital Levy Options, unless covered by a debenture. Option A requires a one-time, non-refundable payment of HK$150,000, valid for the duration of the student’s enrolment. Option B requires a non-refundable annual payment of HK$30,000, along with a Tuition Fee Offset of HK$30,000, which is deducted from the final semester’s tuition before the student leaves the school. Tuition Fees (Per Year) Pre-Primary – Grade 2: HK$217,100 Grades 3 – 5: HK$220,500 Grades 6 – 8: HK$239,900 Grades 9 – 10: HK$247,300 Grades 11 – 12: HK$264,000 Fees are billed by semester as follows: Semester 1: May Semester 2: October Families may also select a 10-month direct-debit plan covering all enrolled children. All tuition fees are expressed in Hong Kong Dollars (HK$) and include textbooks and workbooks. Tuition fees are non-refundable, non-transferable, and not prorated. Additional Fees The following are not included in tuition and are billed separately: field studies and excursions; transportation and school meals; external exams and courses such as IBDP, ACT, SAT, AP, or Virtual High School; and the replacement of lost or damaged devices, textbooks, and library books. Additional EAL and learning-support services may incur extra charges, assessed on an individual basis. Debenture Options Families or corporate employers may purchase a Debenture, granting priority in admissions and exemption from the Capital Levy. The Individual Debenture costs HK$500,000, is valid for eight consecutive academic years, and is refundable on a sliding scale. Corporate Debentures are offered at three tiers: Platinum (HK$5,000,000), Standard Plus (HK$3,000,000), and Standard (HK$2,000,000). All debentures are subject to approval under the school’s admissions policy. Sibling Discount A 50% discount on the Capital Levy Fee (Option A or B) is granted for the third child of the same parent, while the fourth child and beyond receive a full waiver. Eligibility is based on the number of siblings currently or previously enrolled or graduated from the school. Refund Policy The Capital Levy and Tuition Fee Offset are non-refundable once paid. Tuition fees paid in advance may be partially refunded with three months’ written notice prior to withdrawal. Once a student is confirmed and admitted, deferrals to a later academic year are not permitted; families must reapply. Debenture holders receive refunds in accordance with their signed agreements. Payment Options Payments can be made via local cheque or bank transfer to Flora Education Limited, the school’s operating entity. Families may also opt for a monthly direct-debit plan. All fees are billed in Hong Kong Dollars (HK$).
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements N/A
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement Full school uniform is required at all times; it should be neat, clean, modest, and in good repair. Uniforms are ordered through Aston Wilson and include summer and winter sets. Students wear black shoes with the uniform, and white sneakers for PE; navy socks with the uniform and white socks for PE.
Food options	Food options —	Food options Canteen services are provided by Chartwells, offering a varied and nutritionally balanced international menu. Chartwells operates a Smart Food Program aligned with USDA Dietary Guidelines.
House system	House system —	House system 4 Houses: Boars, Monkeys, Dolphins, Popcuppines
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership —	Governance and ownership The school is part of Cognita, a global network of schools. Governance is managed by Cognita with regional leadership; the Head of School is accountable to the Regional Chief Executive Officer.
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 Stamford American School Hong Kong follows an American standards-based curriculum built on the AERO and Common Core Plus frameworks. The program integrates inquiry-based learning from the early years through high school, emphasizing core subjects alongside science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and innovation through the school’s STEMinn program. Students study Mandarin or Spanish as part of a daily modern-language program, with a bilingual English–Mandarin track available in the elementary years. In high school (Grades 9–12), students pursue the American High School Diploma and may also choose to complete the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme or selected IB courses. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for a range of international university pathways while maintaining strong academic progression across all grade levels.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio 1:14
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results Class of 2025 IB Results Average 35 92% Pass Rate Bilingual Diploma 24% Highest IB Score 44 University Offers 200+
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression IBDP Stamford High School Diploma IB Courses
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented Available, please contact admissions team for further details
Academic calendar	Academic calendar View document	Academic calendar View document
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning —	Social & emotional learning Stamford American School Hong Kong incorporates social and emotional learning into classroom practice and pastoral care across all grade levels. The school’s published materials describe SEL as part of its focus on student wellbeing, supported through mindfulness, resilience, focus, and self-regulation activities. In the elementary years, SEL lessons and class discussions are integrated into daily routines, helping students build interpersonal and emotional awareness skills. Trained counselors and classroom teachers support this work, and the school promotes a “culture of care” to ensure students feel safe and supported.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) —	Special educational needs (SEN) The school provides learning support for students who may need additional help to access the curriculum, but it is not a specialist SEN institution. Support is coordinated by the student support team, which includes teachers, counselors, and learning specialists. Interventions and accommodations are individualized following assessments and teacher recommendations. Additional learning support fees may apply, assessed on a case-by-case basis.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language —	English as an additional language Stamford offers structured English as an Additional Language (EAL) support for students whose first language is not English. This includes push-in and pull-out models, small group sessions, and individualized instruction through the Accelerated Language Program (ALP). Placement and duration of support depend on student need, determined through assessment. EAL services are designed to help students develop the academic and social English skills required for full participation in mainstream classes.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing —	Mental wellbeing The school supports mental well-being through its counseling services, health and PE programs, and SEL framework. Counselors are available to students for individual guidance and support, and well-being content such as mindfulness and focus strategies is embedded across the curriculum. The school emphasizes student safety and emotional balance as part of its everyday practice. Dedicated health professionals, including school nurses, provide medical and well-being assistance during the school day.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding —	Safeguarding Stamford American School Hong Kong maintains clear safeguarding and child protection practices as part of its “Student Well-being and Safety” policy. The school operates under Cognita’s global safeguarding framework, which includes oversight of child protection, health, and safety procedures. Staff are trained in safeguarding responsibilities, and students are encouraged to raise concerns with counselors or designated well-being staff. The school publicly highlights its commitment to maintaining a safe environment and fostering respectful relationships among all members of its community.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy View document
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview —	Facilities overview The school operates two campuses: Ho Man Tin at 25 Man Fuk Road, Ho Man Tin, Kowloon, and West Kowloon at Imperial Cullinan, 10 Hoi Fai Road, Tai Kok Tsui, Kowloon.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities —	Sports facilities The campuses feature comprehensive facilities to support studies, arts, and athletics as part of the international program.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities —	Academic facilities Academic programs are built on an American standards-based curriculum using AERO and Common Core Plus frameworks, with high school preparation through IBDP options.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities —	Extra curricular facilities Co-curricular activities and university counseling are offered as part of the student experience across campuses.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History —	History Stamford American School Hong Kong opened in September 2017 and is part of the Cognita Schools Group, a global education organization headquartered in London. The school was established to provide an American standards-based education with international pathways for students in Hong Kong. Since opening, Stamford has expanded its facilities and introduced the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for senior students. In 2025, the school will open an additional West Kowloon campus to accommodate the growing high school division.
Community	Community —	Community The school community includes families from diverse national and cultural backgrounds who participate actively in school life. Regular events such as cultural celebrations, seasonal festivals, and student showcases bring families and staff together throughout the year. The school also hosts wellbeing weeks, service initiatives, and parent workshops to strengthen connections between home and school.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association —	Parent teacher association Stamford’s Parent School Association (PSA) serves as the main body connecting parents and the school. The PSA welcomes new families, organizes community events, and supports fundraising activities for student and school projects. It helps coordinate cultural celebrations and family-oriented gatherings such as international days, parent coffee mornings, and charity events. The PSA also collaborates with school leadership to provide parent feedback and encourage participation in school initiatives. Through these activities, the PSA helps maintain open communication and an inclusive community spirit within the school.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual —	Academic & intellectual The school uses an American standards-based curriculum built on AERO and Common Core Plus, delivering a bilingual international program across its K–12 structure. High School students can pursue three diploma pathways: the Stamford American High School Diploma, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) or an IB Courses option alongside the Stamford diploma. The US Diploma is CIS- and WASC-accredited, and IB options provide access to DP exams and IB course credits where applicable. The Class of 2025 IB cohort achieved a 100% pass rate with an average score of 35, including top scores above 40, and a portion earned the Bilingual Diploma. The West Kowloon Campus is being developed to support high school and IBDP offerings.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative —	Arts & creative The school offers an Arts program within the High School and supports arts integration through its Cornerstones program and related studio spaces on its West Kowloon Campus. Visual arts, music, drama and other creative subjects are part of the regular timetable across divisions.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language —	Cultural & language Modern language study is integral, with daily Mandarin or Spanish instruction for all students (around 40 minutes per day). In elementary, there is an immersive English–Mandarin bilingual pathway, and high school language options include Mandarin and Spanish with IB course opportunities.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies —	Social & hobbies The school provides extensive co-curricular activities and wellbeing programs, including weekly social-emotional learning (especially in Middle School) and a broad range of after-school activities across sports, arts and clubs.
Community & service	Community & service —	Community & service The curriculum includes service learning and creativity, activity, and service (CAS) components, integrated with IB practices and Cornerstones projects in High School, to support holistic growth and global citizenship.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional —	Leadership & professional Students have opportunities for leadership through student councils and house systems in High School, with dedicated university counseling and IB coordination to guide pathway decisions.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing —	Lifestyle & wellbeing There is a strong emphasis on wellbeing and a balanced approach to growth, including MAP assessments to monitor progress and ensure appropriate challenge and support across grades.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision —	Language provision The school provides a seamless K–12 journey with an American standards-based curriculum that combines AERO and Common Core Plus standards with an inquiry-based approach. The High School offers the Stamford American High School Diploma, with the option to pursue the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma or select IB courses. The school also offers daily Mandarin and Spanish language instruction as part of the core curriculum, with 40 minutes per day. In high school, language study can include additional languages via self-study with faculty support.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching The school offers a bilingual English/Mandarin stream in elementary (Pre-primary to Grade 5).
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs Accelerated Learning Program Class provided in Stamford Elementary School
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards GBA Award - Public's Choice Award (STEAM Category) 2026
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations Council of International Schools (CIS): An international accreditation body that evaluates schools against global standards in education quality, leadership, and governance. Stamford achieved full CIS accreditation in 2021, confirming its commitment to continuous improvement and international best practice. Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC): A U.S.-based accrediting organization that ensures schools maintain recognized standards for teaching, learning, and institutional performance. WASC accreditation confirms that Stamford provides high-quality education consistent with American and international benchmarks. International Baccalaureate (IB) World School: Authorization from the International Baccalaureate Organization enables Stamford to offer the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) in Grades 11–12. This certification recognizes the school’s ability to deliver a globally recognized, inquiry-based academic program. SAT Test Center: Approval by the College Board as an official SAT testing site allows Stamford students to sit for PSAT and SAT examinations on campus, promoting accessibility and informed academic guidance. Cognita Schools Group: Membership in the Cognita global network provides governance, safeguarding oversight, and shared quality standards across schools worldwide. Cognita ensures consistent policies in student welfare, health and safety, and educational quality.
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. Enquiry and School Tour Families begin the process by submitting an online enquiry form or booking a school tour through the Stamford website. The admissions team provides details about available grade levels, curriculum pathways, and space availability. Campus visits are encouraged so families can understand the learning environment and school expectations before applying. 2. Application Submission Applications are completed online through the school’s admissions portal. Required documents include recent school reports, a copy of the student’s passport or Hong Kong ID, and any relevant specialist reports. Application and assessment fees are currently waived. 3. Assessment and Review All applicants are assessed to ensure that the school can meet their learning needs. Assessments may include academic review, language proficiency testing, or interviews, depending on grade level. For older students (Grade 6 and above), additional written tasks or questionnaires may be required. 4. Admission Offer and Capital Levy Selection Successful applicants receive an offer letter via email. To confirm enrollment, families must select and pay for one of the two Capital Levy Options — Option A or Option B. Payment of this fee secures the student’s place at the school. 5. Enrollment and Orientation Once payment and acceptance forms are received, the admissions team issues a formal confirmation of enrollment. Families receive joining instructions, uniform details, and access to the school’s parent platform. Orientation sessions are organized before the start of each semester to help new students and parents transition smoothly into school life.
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 The school offers a range of scholarships for students entering or continuing in high school. Scholarships are awarded based on demonstrated excellence in academics, STEM, performing or visual arts, or athletics. The External Scholarship Program welcomes talented high school students (Grade 9-11) to join the world-class IB pathway and vibrant, global community. Outstanding applicants may even be awarded a tuition scholarship of up to 75% for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP).
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 Admissions are reviewed on a rolling basis, and places are offered according to seat availability and the date of completed application submission. Priority is given to applicants with siblings already enrolled, to families holding debentures, US citizens, and students with an enrollment record in other Cognita international schools.
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