Top 10 IB Schools in Shanghai

Shanghai is one of Asia’s most dynamic cities and a major hub for international education. With a large expat community, world-class infrastructure, and strong academic traditions, the city offers some of the best International Baccalaureate (IB) schools in China.

The IB curriculum is highly valued because it prepares students with critical thinking, research, and global perspectives — skills that are essential for admission into top universities worldwide. If you’re considering an IB school for your child, here’s a guide to the top 10 IB schools in Shanghai.

Why Choose IB in Shanghai?

• Global Recognition – IB diplomas from Shanghai schools are accepted by leading universities worldwide.

• Academic Excellence – Many IB schools in Shanghai consistently achieve high IB Diploma scores.

• Multicultural Student Community – Families from 50+ countries enroll in Shanghai’s IB schools.

• University Pathways – Graduates from Shanghai IB schools secure admissions to Ivy League, Oxbridge, and top Asian universities.

• Holistic Development – Schools emphasize sports, arts, leadership, and service alongside academics.

Top 10 IB Schools in Shanghai

1. Shanghai American School (SAS)

• Campuses: Pudong and Puxi.

• Offers IB Diploma Programme at the high school level.

• One of the oldest and most prestigious international schools in China.

• Strong US curriculum foundation with excellent university placements.

  

2. Concordia International School Shanghai

• Offers IB Diploma for senior school students.

• Known for rigorous academics and Christian values.

• Excellent facilities, extracurriculars, and university counseling.

  

3. Dulwich College Shanghai (Pudong & Puxi campuses)

• Prestigious British-heritage school offering IB Diploma.

• Consistently high IB results with top global university placements.

• Strong emphasis on arts, sciences, and leadership.

  

4. Wellington College International Shanghai

• British-heritage school offering IB Diploma.

• Known for academic excellence and holistic development.

• Strong performing arts and sports programmes.

5. Yew Chung International School of Shanghai (YCIS)

• Full IB continuum school (PYP, MYP, DP).

• Bilingual education (English + Mandarin).

• Focus on creativity, innovation, and global citizenship.

  

6. Shanghai High School International Division (SHSID)

• Offers IB Diploma with strong academic focus.

• Highly competitive with excellent IB results.

• Popular among both expat and local families.

  

7. Shanghai Singapore International School (SSIS)

• Offers IB Diploma in senior school.

• Strong academic record with pathways to top universities in Asia and beyond.

• Multicultural environment with strong emphasis on values.

  

8. Shanghai United International School (SUIS)

• Large school group with multiple campuses.

• Offers IB continuum programmes across selected campuses.

• Known for affordability compared to premium schools while maintaining high standards.

9. Nord Anglia International School Shanghai (NAIS Pudong)

• Part of Nord Anglia Education group.

• Offers IB Diploma Programme.

• Collaborates with MIT and Juilliard for STEAM and arts education.

  

10. Western International School of Shanghai (WISS)

• Full IB continuum school (PYP, MYP, DP, CP).

• Only school in Shanghai authorized for all four IB programmes.

• Strong arts, design, and innovation programmes.

  

How to Choose the Right IB School in Shanghai

When selecting an IB school in Shanghai, consider:

1. Curriculum Pathway – Do you prefer a pure IB school (like WISS or YCIS) or a British/American school offering IB in senior years?

2. Location – Shanghai traffic can be challenging; proximity to home matters.

3. Tuition Fees – Premium IB schools can exceed RMB 250,000–300,000 per year.

4. Academic Results – Check average IB scores and alumni university placements.

5. Bilingual Options – Some schools offer English + Mandarin education, which may suit long-term expat families.

6. Extracurriculars – Sports, arts, and innovation facilities vary widely by school.

   
   

   
   

Shanghai offers one of the strongest selections of IB schools in Asia, with options ranging from American and British-heritage schools to bilingual and full IB continuum institutions. Families can choose based on academic goals, cultural fit, and location within the city.

At Riforma, we help IB students in Shanghai excel by providing specialized tutoring in Math, Chemistry, and other IB subjects. Our one-to-one guidance helps students achieve top IB scores and gain admission to world-class universities.