Education and Schools in Shanghai

Read Education and Schools in China to learn more about the education system in the country.

Useful links

• Shanghai Municipal Commission of Education

Private schools in Shanghai

Shanghai’s private schools tend to either follow the state model or integrate aspects of other curricula. While they predominantly teach in Chinese, some, including the city’s Montessori and Waldorf schools, offer instruction in English.

Private schools in Shanghai attract students from diverse but generally wealthier backgrounds. Tuition tends to be costlier than that of public schools but is still lower than at international schools.

As expected, it can typically be assumed that the city’s private schools offer better facilities and a wider range of extracurricular activities than state schools.

International schools in Shanghai

Many expats in Shanghai prefer sending their children to international schools because they make settling in easier. These schools are common and a popular choice for families who want a smooth transition.

Shanghai has one of the largest selections of international schools in China. Most of these schools teach the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme or follow the curriculum of their home country. Classes are mainly taught in English or the school’s native language. Students often learn about local culture, and many schools teach Mandarin or Cantonese from an early age.

There is a wide variety of international schools in Shanghai, and they attract students from all over the world. Still, getting a spot in a good school can be challenging due to long waiting lists.

International schools can also be pricey, significantly adding to the cost of living. It’s a good idea to secure a place at a school before moving to Shanghai or as soon as possible. Even if your employer covers the high tuition fees, getting admitted can be competitive. The process usually involves an application, interviews, and placement tests.

International schools in Shanghai

Homeschooling in Shanghai

Homeschooling is becoming more popular with locals and expats in China, especially in larger cities such as Shanghai. This might be a legitimate option for expats staying in Shanghai for the short term who cannot afford private or international schools.

Unfortunately, homeschooling in China is essentially illegal. It is largely practised based on a legal oversight, despite the law explicitly stating that children have to attend school for at least nine years. The government has become increasingly vocal about its disapproval of homeschooling in recent years, and has issued numerous statements to this effect.

Homeschooled children in China have been prevented from writing the local school-leaving exams, which essentially means they cannot apply for entry to a Chinese university.

Special-needs education in Shanghai

The standard of special-needs education in Shanghai’s public schools varies, but these schools are largely considered inadequate. That said, China’s government has been working to improve special-needs education services across the country. The recently opened Shanghai Education Centre for Children with Autism is an example of the country’s commitment to providing resources for children living with disabilities.

Still, expat parents of children with disabilities or learning difficulties may prefer the support available in international schools.

Despite some progress towards inclusive education and integrating special-needs education in mainstream classrooms, support is often limited. It’s best to review school websites and contact them directly to discuss the availability of required and relevant services.

While some schools offer a range of facilities, support classes, assistant teachers, counsellors and assistive devices, other schools may only provide support for select disabilities and physical, psychological or behavioural disorders.

Tutors in Shanghai

Finding a tutor in Shanghai should not be too difficult for expat parents. Children who require extra help and guidance outside the classroom, particularly around exam time, can be tutored through online platforms or in person.

Tutors can be found through online portals such as Preply and a range of tutoring companies, including Shanghai Expat Tutors. Networking with other parents and friends can also help you decide on the best tutoring options. Adults who want to take extra classes and learn Mandarin can use these platforms in the same way.

Useful links

• Preply
• Shanghai Expat Tutors