Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Beijing
Summary: If you're moving to Beijing with kids, choosing a school if often your first decisions and impacts where you'll live. Here are some popular bilingual and international schools in Beijing
Beijing, is a bustling metropolis that offers a diverse range of international and bilingual schools to cater to the expatriate and digital nomad community. With a significant expat population, the city boasts numerous educational institutions that provide international curricula and a multicultural environment. Among the most popular are the International School of Beijing and the Western Academy of Beijing, both known for their high-quality education and extensive facilities. Here is a list of recommended international and bilingual schools in and around Beijing, which are within a 40-minute drive from the city center.
International School of Beijing (ISB)
Grades: PreK-12
Location(s): Shunyi District
Website: www.isb.bj.edu.cn
The International School of Beijing offers a comprehensive international education with an American-based curriculum that includes the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program for high school students. With state-of-the-art facilities, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and a diverse student body, ISB is committed to fostering global-mindedness and academic excellence.
Western Academy of Beijing (WAB)
Grades: PreK-12
Location(s): Chaoyang District
Website: www.wab.edu
WAB is a leading international school that offers the IB Primary Years, Middle Years, and Diploma Programs. Known for its innovative approach to education, WAB provides a vibrant learning community with excellent facilities, including a performing arts center, sports complex, and technology-integrated classrooms.
British School of Beijing (BSB), Shunyi
Grades: Pre-Nursery-13
Location(s): Shunyi District
Website: www.nordangliaeducation.com/our-schools/beijing/shunyi
BSB offers a British-style education with a global perspective, following the English National Curriculum and providing the IB Diploma Program. The school boasts excellent academic results, a wide array of extracurricular activities, and a strong focus on student well-being.
Yew Chung International School of Beijing (YCIS Beijing)
Grades: Age 2-18
Location(s): Chaoyang District
Website: www.ycis-bj.com
YCIS Beijing offers a unique bilingual education in English and Chinese, integrating Eastern and Western educational philosophies. The school provides the IB Diploma Program and is known for its strong language program, multicultural environment, and commitment to character education.
Dulwich College Beijing (DCB)
Grades: Toddler-13
Location(s): Shunyi District
Website: beijing.dulwich.org
DCB is part of the prestigious Dulwich College International family of schools, offering a British independent school education leading to the IB Diploma Program. The school emphasizes academic excellence, a well-rounded education, and a strong pastoral care system.
Canadian International School of Beijing (CISB)
Grades: PreK-12
Location(s): Chaoyang District
Website: www.cisb.com.cn
CISB offers a Canadian-style curriculum with options for the IB Diploma Program and Advanced Placement (AP) courses. The school is known for its inclusive and supportive community, modern facilities, and a wide range of extracurricular activities.
Beijing City International School (BCIS)
Grades: Toddler-12
Location(s): Chaoyang District
Website: www.bcis.cn
BCIS is an independent co-educational day school offering an international curriculum underpinned by the IB framework. With a focus on global citizenship and community service, BCIS provides a nurturing environment and encourages students to become critical and compassionate thinkers.
Harrow International School Beijing
Grades: Early Years-13
Location(s): Shunyi and Chaoyang Districts
Website: www.harrowbeijing.cn
Harrow Beijing is affiliated with the prestigious Harrow School in London and offers a British-based education with a global outlook. The school is renowned for its high academic standards, leadership opportunities, and strong emphasis on extracurricular involvement.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Driving in Beijing
- Cost of Living in Beijing
- Health Care in Beijing
- The Essential Guide to Beijing
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in China
- Best Places to Live in China
- Real Estate in China
- Pros & Cons of Living in China
- 10 Things to Know Before Moving to China
- Pros and Cons of Living in China 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to China