The Education System in Hong Kong
Hong Kong’s education system includes both local and international schools, with education being highly valued culturally, making schools vibrant and competitive.
Harrow International School in Hong Kong
How Does the School System Work in Hong Kong?
The system is generally divided into three main categories:
1. Government Schools – These are fully funded by the government and free for students.
2. Subsidised Schools – Institutions like the English Schools Foundation (ESF) provide partially funded places, especially for local and non-Chinese-speaking children.
3. International Schools – These are private institutions, with tuition typically covered by parents, though some employers may contribute to the costs.
Since local schools primarily teach in Cantonese, many expat families opt for international schools, leading to significant growth in this sector. Hong Kong now has more than 50 international schools offering English-based curricula familiar to those from abroad.
One of the most established educational networks is the English Schools Foundation (ESF), which has its roots in the British colonial era. Today, ESF schools continue to provide a British-style education, and many expat families choose to live near these schools for convenience.
Hong Kong School Application Process
Applying to international schools in Hong Kong can be a complex and competitive process, particularly for expat families. Ruth Benny, founder of Top Schools, advises families to apply as soon as they confirm their relocation to Hong Kong. Due to high demand, it’s common not to secure a spot at your preferred school. Benny recommends applying to four or five schools to increase your chances of admission.
Many international schools have long waiting lists and accept applications well in advance—sometimes a year or two before enrollment. Schools like Discovery Bay School, French International School, German International School, Kellett School, and Kiang Su & Chekiang School even accept applications as soon as a child is born.
Admission procedures vary by school, but most require an assessment and interview process. Priority is often given to children based on nationality, siblings attending the school, and debenture holders, rather than the date of application.
Education Fees Overview
In addition to annual tuition fees, enrolling a child in a school comes with various costs. For instance, tuition fees at international schools can reach up to HK$250,000 per year, according to ITS Education Asia. Below are the common fees associated with school enrollment:
• Starting Costs: These include an application fee, assessment fee, and a deposit. Fees typically range from HK$1,000 to HK$3,500. Deposits, which can be as high as HK$10,000, are only charged when a placement is accepted. These fees are usually non-refundable.
• Annual Tuition: Tuition starts at approximately HK$100,000 for primary school and can go up to HK$250,000 for secondary school.
• Debentures: These are one-time payments up to HK$500,000 per child to fund school projects. Some debentures are refundable when a child leaves, but schools may retain 5-10%. Debentures can be a significant expense, especially for families with multiple children. Some employers may offer assistance or loans to help cover this cost.
• Additional Costs: Other expenses include school bus fees (ranging from HK$6,000 to HK$9,000 per year), uniforms (HK$500 to HK$1,500), and fees for textbooks, school trips, meals, and extracurricular activities.
Around 65% of students in Hong Kong also participate in additional tutoring outside school.
Popular International Schools in Hong Kong
Hong Kong offers a variety of international schools with curricula from different countries. Some well-known options include:
• British Curriculum:
• Kellett International School
• International Baccalaureate:
• Australian International School
• Canadian International School
• Chinese International School
• German Swiss International School
• US Curriculum:
• American International School
• Hong Kong International School
• International Christian School
Being Prepared
Choosing the right school for your children is essential for a smooth transition into Hong Kong’s education system. Research the schools and application processes before relocating to identify your best options. After arriving, follow up on applications and schedule school visits for your family.
Expat children in Hong Kong have the opportunity to grow up in a diverse international community, making the city a great destination for quality education.
