Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Dalian

Dalian, a vibrant coastal city in the Liaoning province of China, is a hub for expatriates and digital nomads due to its booming economy and picturesque landscapes. While not as large as cities like Beijing or Shanghai, Dalian offers a handful of international and bilingual schools catering to the expat community. Among the most popular are Dalian American International School and Dalian Maple Leaf International School, both known for their comprehensive curricula and diverse student bodies. Here is a list of recommended schools for expat children in and around Dalian.

Dalian American International School (DAIS)

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Jinshitan National Holiday Resort, Dalian
Website: www.daischina.org

DAIS offers an American-based curriculum with Advanced Placement (AP) courses for high school students. The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, art studios, and sports fields. Extracurricular activities range from robotics to music and drama, providing a well-rounded education. DAIS is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA).

Dalian Maple Leaf International School

Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Several campuses in Dalian
Website: www.mapleleafschools.com

This school is part of the Maple Leaf Educational Systems, the largest international school system in China. It offers a curriculum that blends the Chinese National Curriculum with the British Columbia (Canada) Curriculum. Facilities include modern classrooms, science and computer labs, and sports complexes. The school also provides a variety of extracurricular activities and has a strong focus on preparing students for university education.

Dalian Japanese School

Grades: Elementary and Junior High School
Location(s): Zhongshan District, Dalian
Website: www.djs.ed.jp

Catering primarily to Japanese expatriates, this school follows the Japanese education system and curriculum. It is well-equipped with facilities that support both academic and physical education. The school aims to provide a seamless transition for students who may return to the Japanese education system in the future.

Dalian Korean International School

Grates: Kindergarten through High School
Location(s): Dalian Development Area
Website: www.dkis.cn

With a curriculum based on the Korean national educational system, this school serves the Korean community in Dalian. It offers a familiar environment for Korean students and includes Korean language and cultural studies in its curriculum. The school also provides various extracurricular activities to enrich students' school life.

Dalian French School (École Française de Dalian)

Grades: Preschool through Secondary School
Location(s): Shahekou District, Dalian
Website: www.efdalian.com

This school follows the French national curriculum and is part of the network of French schools abroad. It offers a bilingual education in French and English, with a focus on developing multilingual skills. The school has a diverse student body and provides a range of cultural and extracurricular activities.

Dalian German School (Deutsche Schule Dalian)

Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 5
Location(s): Ganjingzi District, Dalian
Website: www.dsdk12.net

As a German international school, it offers education based on the German curriculum. The school is designed to serve German-speaking expatriates and those interested in a German-style education. It provides a strong foundation in the German language and culture, along with a variety of after-school programs.

Concordia International School Dalian

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Dalian Development Area
Website: www.concordiadalian.org

Concordia International School Dalian offers an American-based curriculum with a Christian ethos. The school has a diverse student body and provides a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses for high school students. Facilities include a library, computer labs, and sports fields, and the school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities.