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Expat Exchange - Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Shenzhen 2024
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Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Shenzhen

By Joshua Wood, LPC

AGS Worldwide Movers
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Summary: If you're moving to Shenzhen 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 Shenzhen

Shenzhen, a bustling metropolis known for its rapid economic growth and technological innovation, is also home to a diverse expatriate community. Catering to the needs of expat families, Shenzhen boasts a variety of international and bilingual schools. Among the most popular are Shekou International School and Shenzhen American International School, which offer comprehensive international curricula and a range of extracurricular activities. With a number of options available, expat parents can find schools that provide high-quality education and a smooth transition for their children.

Shekou International School (SIS)

Grades: Nursery through Grade 12
Location(s): Shekou, Nanshan District
Website: www.sis-shekou.org

Shekou International School is renowned for its diverse student body and its commitment to the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. With state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, art studios, and sports fields, SIS provides a holistic education that emphasizes inquiry-based learning. Extracurricular activities range from robotics to performing arts, ensuring that students have a well-rounded experience.

Shenzhen American International School (SAIS)

Grades: Pre-K through Grade 8
Location(s): Futian District
Website: www.szsais.org

Shenzhen American International School offers an American-based curriculum with a global perspective. The school prides itself on its small class sizes and personalized attention to students. SAIS boasts modern facilities and a wide array of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art programs. The school's community is tight-knit, providing a supportive environment for expat children.

Shenzhen International Foundation College (SIFC)

Grades: Grade 1 through Grade 12
Location(s): Nanshan District
Website: www.sifc.com.cn

SIFC is known for its international curriculum that prepares students for universities worldwide. Offering both the IB and A-Level programs, the school caters to diverse educational needs. Facilities include a library, science labs, and sports complexes. SIFC also provides a variety of clubs and organizations, fostering leadership and other skills beyond the classroom.

Quality Schools International Shenzhen (QSI)

Grades: Age 2 through Secondary
Location(s): Nanshan District
Website: shenzhen.qsi.org

QSI Shenzhen is part of a global network of schools that follows a North American-style educational model. The school emphasizes mastery learning and offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses for older students. With a spacious campus, QSI provides a variety of sports and arts facilities, as well as extracurricular activities that encourage student engagement and community service.

International School of Nanshan Shenzhen (ISNS)

Grades: Nursery through Grade 12
Location(s): Nanshan District
Website: www.isnsz.com

ISNS is an authorized IB World School that offers the full IB continuum. The school's mission is to inspire future innovators and global citizens. ISNS boasts modern facilities, including a performing arts center and sports fields. The school's extracurricular program is extensive, with opportunities in athletics, arts, and service learning.

Shenzhen Japanese School (SZJS)

Grades: Elementary and Junior High School
Location(s): Nanshan District

The Shenzhen Japanese School is designed for Japanese expatriate children and follows the Japanese national curriculum. It provides a familiar environment for Japanese students to continue their education while abroad. The school focuses on maintaining Japanese cultural traditions and language, ensuring a seamless transition for students who return to Japan.

Merchiston International School (MIS)

Grades: Nursery through Grade 12
Location(s): Longhua District
Website: www.merchiston.cn

MIS is the first British international school in Shenzhen, offering a British-based curriculum and the Scottish Curriculum for Excellence in the senior years. The school's state-of-the-art campus features a theatre, swimming pool, and sports pitches. MIS provides a broad range of extracurricular activities, including Duke of Edinburgh's Award, music, drama, and various sports teams.

Basis International School Shenzhen

Grades: Pre-K through Grade 12
Location(s): Nanshan District
Website: shenzhen.basisinternational.cn

Basis International School Shenzhen offers a rigorous curriculum that prepares students for top universities around the world. The school emphasizes STEM education and critical thinking skills. With a diverse student body, Basis provides a multicultural environment that fosters global awareness and collaboration. Extracurricular activities include a wide range of clubs, sports, and academic competitions.

About the Author

Joshua Wood 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.


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