Hong Kong Academy vs Stamford American School Hong Kong - Ho Man Tin

	Hong Kong Academy Hong Kong	Stamford American School Hong Kong - Ho Man Tin Hong Kong
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year HK$119,000 - 273,900	Fees / year HK$217,100 - 264,000
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 5 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)	Curriculum IB (DP), American Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 550	Pupils 970
Typical class size	Typical class size 24	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2000	Opened 2017
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	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.	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 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).	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 HKA is a co-educational day school.	School type A co-educational day school serving students aged 5–18. There are no boarding facilities.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix Over 35+ nationality	Pupil nationality mix 28 nationalities
Additional learning support	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.	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 is truly international with families coming from 35+ countries and graduates going on to university and careers all around the world.	Country affiliation Affiliated with the United States through its American standards curriculum and accredited by WASC and CIS.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation The school has no religious affiliations.	Religious affiliation None indicated; Stamford is a secular international school.
School day structure	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	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 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.	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 * 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.	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 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.	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 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.	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 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.	House system 4 Houses: Boars, Monkeys, Dolphins, Popcuppines
Governance and ownership	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.	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 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.	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 1:6	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 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.	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) 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.	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 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.	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 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.	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 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 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 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.	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 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..	Sports facilities The campuses feature comprehensive facilities to support studies, arts, and athletics as part of the international program.
Academic facilities	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.	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 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.	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 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.	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 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.	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 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.	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 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.	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 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.	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 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.	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 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.	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 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.	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 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.	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 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.	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 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.	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 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.	Immersion programs Accelerated Learning Program Class provided in Stamford Elementary School
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards Green Building Council of Hong Kong Gold BEAM status Ritzy Hong Kong Education Awards: International School of the Year (2024-25).	Awards GBA Award - Public's Choice Award (STEAM Category) 2026
Accreditations	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.	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. 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.	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 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.	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 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.	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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