Canadian International School of Hong Kong vs Christian Alliance International School

	C Canadian International School of Hong Kong Hong Kong	C Christian Alliance International School Hong Kong
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year HK$156,300 - 254,300	Fees / year HK$136,300 - 228,300
Age range	Age range 2 - 18 years	Age range 5 - 17 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Canadian Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), Advanced Placement (AP), Canadian Curriculum, Christian Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 2,100	Pupils 1,700
Typical class size	Typical class size 18	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1991	Opened 1992
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Canadian International School of Hong Kong (CDNIS) is situated on the south side of Hong Kong Island, in the Aberdeen area. The campus is within walking distance of Wong Chuk Hang MTR station and is also served by local bus routes. It sits in a mixed residential and commercial neighbourhood close to Aberdeen Harbour.	Location Christian Alliance International School (CAIS) is situated in Butterfly Valley, Lai Chi Kok on the Kowloon side of Hong Kong. The campus is accessible via major public transport links, including nearby MTR stations and bus routes. The surrounding area is urban and well connected, with facilities that serve the local community.
Stages	Stages CDNIS educates children from age 2 through Grade 12. The school is divided into the Lower School (Early Years and Grades 1–5) and the Upper School (Grades 6–12, split into Transition Years, Grades 9–10, and Grades 11–12).	Stages The school runs as a through-train programme from Preparatory (Kindergarten) through Grade 12. This structure includes Primary (Prep–G6) and Secondary (G7–G12), with students in Grades 11–12 able to pursue the Alberta Diploma, Advanced Placement (AP), or the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP).
School type	School type The school is private and co-educational. It operates as a day school only, and students must live with a parent or legal guardian in Hong Kong. Boarding is not offered.	School type CAIS is a co-educational international day school with an enrollment of over 1,700 students. It does not provide boarding facilities, with all students commuting daily.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support CDNIS provides guidance counselling services in both the Lower and Upper Schools, supporting students academically and socially. However, the school website does not publish detailed information about specialised SEN facilities or provisions.	Additional learning support The school provides support for students with mild to moderate learning needs through its Student Support Services team. Provision includes learning support teachers and assistants who collaborate with classroom staff and families to help students access the curriculum. CAIS is not a specialist SEN school.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation The school integrates elements of the Ontario (Canada) curriculum and awards the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) alongside the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBDP).	Country affiliation CAIS is accredited by Alberta Education, Canada, to deliver the Alberta curriculum, and also offers AP and IBDP pathways.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation The school is not affiliated with any religion.	Religious affiliation The school is a Christian institution, founded by the Kowloon Tong Church of the Chinese Christian and Missionary Alliance (KTAC).
School day structure	School day structure The school website does not publish its standard daily start and end times or detailed schedules.	School day structure School days begin at 7:55 am (Primary) and 8:05 am (Secondary). Regular dismissal is mid-afternoon, with Monday featuring an earlier finish (Primary at 2:05 pm, Secondary at 2:35 pm). Published bell schedules also note dedicated chapel/assembly sessions and advisory times.
Bus service details	Bus service details CDNIS provides a school bus service operated by Kwoon Chung Motors (KCM). All full-day students are required to use the bus service, with routes across Hong Kong. The school allows options for one-way ridership and installment payments for bus fees.	Bus service details The school operates a bus service, referenced in its bell schedules and dismissal notices. Buses depart after school dismissal, including an earlier departure on Mondays. While full provider details are not published, the service is part of daily logistics and coordinated with start and end times for Primary and Secondary.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application Fees An application fee of HKD 2,350 is required for EY1–Grade 11 applicants, with an assessment fee of HKD 1,650 if shortlisted. Nursery applications carry a combined application and assessment fee of HKD 1,800. These fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. Entry & Reservation Fees A one-time Entry Fee of HKD 12,500 is charged to all new students. In addition, an HKD 80,000 Reservation Deposit is required to secure enrollment. This is credited toward the first term’s tuition and levy but is non-refundable for new students. Tuition Fees (Per Year) Nursery (Half-day, bilingual): HKD 138,600 (paid in 11 instalments) EY1 (Half-day, bilingual): HKD 156,300 EY2 (Full-day, bilingual): HKD 203,100 Preparatory – Grade 2 (Bilingual): HKD 210,900 Grade 3: HKD 191,800 Grades 4–5: HKD 193,600 Grade 6: HKD 212,800 Grades 7–8: HKD 216,600 Grades 9–10: HKD 237,700 Grades 11–12: HKD 254,300 Fees for EY1–Grade 12 are billed in two instalments per year. Nursery tuition is billed in 11 instalments. Additional Fees * Annual Capital Levy: HKD 38,000 per student (unless covered by a debenture) * Uniforms, extracurricular activities, and some resources are billed separately. * Grades 4 and above include a technology fee, and Grades 11–12 include IB Diploma exam and textbook fees in tuition. Debenture Scheme Debentures are not compulsory, but holders receive admissions priority if other requirements are met. Debentures can be transferred on the second-hand market. Transportation Fees The school bus service is operated by Kwoon Chung Motors (KCM). Fees vary by route and are billed directly by the provider. Options for one-way ridership and installment payments are available. Boarding Fees The school does not offer boarding facilities. Refund Policy Tuition (EY1–G12) may be refunded on a pro-rata 10-month basis if three months’ written notice is provided. Reservation deposits for new students are non-refundable. Most other fees are non-refundable. Payment Options Payments can be made via bank transfer, PPS, e-banking bill payment, or direct debit. Cash and cheque are not accepted.	Fee details Application Fees A one-time application fee is required for all new students. The fee is HKD 1,500 for Preparatory–Grade 3 and HKD 1,800 for Grades 4–12. This is non-refundable and must be paid by cheque at the time of application. Tuition Fees (Per Year) Fees are billed in 10 monthly installments across the academic year. The annual tuition fees for 2025–26 are as follows: Preparatory: HKD 136,300 Grade 1–3: HKD 151,800 Grade 4: HKD 159,600 Grade 5: HKD 171,200 Grade 6: HKD 183,000 Grade 7–9: HKD 197,800 Grade 10–12 (Alberta/AP): HKD 216,300 Grade 11–12 (IB Diploma Programme): HKD 228,300 Capital Contributions Families must select one of the following options: Individual Capital Note (ICN): HKD 560,000 (first child), reduced amounts for additional siblings. Refundable or transferable with administrative fees. Annual Capital Levy (ACL): HKD 30,000 per year, non-refundable. This applies if the student is not covered by an ICN or Corporate Capital Note (CCN). Corporate Capital Note (CCN): An option for companies to secure places for nominated students. Sibling Discount Second child: 10% Third child: 15% Fourth child and beyond: 20% Additional Fees A reservation fee equal to one month’s tuition is payable upon acceptance and credited toward the first installment. Administrative fees apply for reissued invoices or mailed documents. Other costs such as uniforms, extracurricular activities, and learning materials are billed separately. Refund Policy Tuition is non-refundable for any month in which a student attends, even partially. The Annual Capital Levy is also non-refundable. ICN refunds are subject to school policies and administration fees. Payment Options Payments are accepted by cheque or bank transfer. Cash is not accepted.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement The school uses a uniform supplied by Untold Horizons. A new uniform was introduced in August 2023, and the previous uniform may be worn until June 2025. The uniform list varies by year group, and new students should not buy a PE/house shirt until they have been assigned to a house. House shirts are Bear, Raven, Mountain Lion, and Orca. Uniforms can be purchased from the online store or the second-hand uniform supplier, Retykle. Sports uniforms are provided for Timberwolves teams, with an activity fee of $500 per sport.	Uniform requirement The school requires full school uniform on campus and at CAIS-sponsored activities. Uniforms are designed and distributed by Uniform Station Limited, with online ordering available and in-person purchasing options. Students maintain modest and neat appearances, and all uniform items should be clearly labelled.
Food options	Food options Catering is provided by Maxim's Group for on-site meals.	Food options Hot lunch services are provided by Sodexo, offering nutritionally balanced meals. Meals can be pre-ordered online for Grades 7–12 through the Sodexo meal enrollment program.
House system	House system The school operates a house system with four houses: Bear, Raven, Mountain Lion, and Orca. Students wear house PE shirts, and house assignments are part of the onboarding process.	House system The school has a four-house system: Alyward, Simpson, Taylor and Yu. House activities include dodgeball, intramural sports, trivia nights and drama competitions to foster cross-grade connections and house-based competition.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is a private international school registered under the Education Ordinance of Hong Kong and is registered as a non-profit organization with the Inland Revenue Department. It has a two-tier governance structure consisting of the Council of Members and the Board of Governors. The Board is elected by the Council of Members and holds fiduciary responsibility for the school's direction and operations, while the Head of School and senior administration manage day-to-day operations.	Governance and ownership CAIS is a non-profit international school wholly owned by Kowloon Tong Church of the Chinese Christian and Missionary Alliance (KTAC).
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details CDNIS delivers the full International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum, beginning with the Primary Years Programme (PYP) in the Lower School from Early Years through Grade 5. Students in Grades 6–10 follow the Middle Years Programme (MYP), which provides a broad foundation across subject areas. In Grades 11–12, students pursue the IB Diploma Programme (DP), with courses designed to prepare them for university study worldwide. Alongside the IB, CDNIS integrates the Ontario curriculum, and graduates earn the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) in addition to the IB Diploma. The school also offers a bilingual English–Chinese track in the Early Years, with Mandarin taught as a subject throughout the school.	Curriculum details Christian Alliance International School follows the Alberta (Canada) curriculum from Preparatory through Grade 12, which provides the framework for core subjects including English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies, alongside specialist subjects such as Visual Arts, Music, Physical Education, and Design Technology. In the upper grades, students can pursue Advanced Placement (AP) courses and examinations in selected subjects, allowing them to gain additional university recognition. For Grades 11–12, CAIS also offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) as an alternative pathway, with subjects across all six IB groups, including English A, Chinese A, Economics, Sciences, Mathematics, and Visual Arts. Chinese language learning is part of the curriculum from Preparatory onwards, with pathways into AP Chinese and IBDP Chinese in the senior years. The main language of instruction is English, with Chinese, French, and Spanish taught as additional world languages.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar View document	Academic calendar View document
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning CDNIS outlines a dedicated Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) framework that emphasizes self-awareness, resilience, empathy, positive relationships, and responsible decision-making. SEL is described as critical to student success and is embedded in the curriculum across grade levels. The school publishes specific learning goals, such as developing coping skills, building empathy, and fostering collaborative relationships.	Social & emotional learning CAIS integrates social and emotional development through its Pastoral and Advisory Care Team (PACT) programme in the secondary school. The published bell schedules show dedicated Community Time for primary students and Advisory Time for secondary students, which provide opportunities for relationship-building and personal development. Regular Chapel and Assembly sessions also contribute to students’ spiritual and emotional growth. Student Services include counselling support, though detailed SEL initiatives beyond these structures are not published.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The school provides Guidance Counselling services in both the Lower and Upper Schools, offering academic and social-emotional support. However, CDNIS does not publicly specify the types of SEN needs it supports, nor does it describe specialist facilities, staff qualifications, or targeted SEN programmes. Therefore, it cannot be considered a specialist SEN institution.	Special educational needs (SEN) CAIS provides support for students with mild to moderate learning needs. Services are delivered by Learning Support teachers and assistants, who collaborate with classroom staff and families to help students participate in mainstream classes and access the Alberta curriculum. The school is clear that it is not a specialist SEN institution and does not publish provision for severe or complex needs.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The school does not publicly disclose information regarding EAL.	English as an additional language CAIS has a structured English Language Learners (ELL) programme. The school publishes an ELL Policy outlining how students are assessed, supported, and monitored, with the goal of enabling them to succeed in the mainstream Alberta and IB programmes. Support is tailored to student needs, and placement decisions are reviewed periodically to ensure progress.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing CDNIS provides guidance counselling programmes at both the Lower and Upper School levels. These services are described as proactive, preventive, and responsive, with counsellors supporting academic progress, social development, and transitional needs. In the Upper School, transition counselling is available to help students adjust to new year levels and academic expectations.	Mental wellbeing CAIS Student Services include counselling for emotional and mental wellbeing, with support available to students who need guidance. The school also notes that referrals may be made to external professionals if required. Published information highlights the availability of pastoral structures and counselling but does not specify additional programmes or initiatives related to mental health.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding CDNIS publishes a Child Safeguarding Policy, stating a zero-tolerance approach to mistreatment or abuse. Recruitment practices and school operations are aligned with international child protection guidance, and all staff are expected to follow safeguarding protocols. The school notes its commitment to creating a safe environment and explicitly references safeguarding responsibilities as part of its community standards.	Safeguarding The Student Services page at CAIS references child protection and safeguarding as part of its remit. While the website confirms that safeguarding policies are in place, detailed procedures and protocols are not published openly.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy View document	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The CDNIS campus covers 40,000 square metres and spans 14 levels on the south side of Hong Kong Island in Aberdeen. It features state-of-the-art facilities that support learning and are continually upgraded. The Leo Lee Arts Centre is a frequently used community facility with usage fees to offset costs. The Main Campus and the Early Years Centre provide learning spaces, including the teamLab Classroom and the Chinese Cultural Centre. A Photovoltaic Farm and other facilities such as a swimming pool, gymnasiums, a design studio, a library, and cafeterias support a wide range of learning experiences.	Facilities overview The CAIS campus is a single, purpose-built learning community located in Lai Chi Kok, Kowloon, West Kowloon. It comprises an Amenities Building, an Academic Building, an Aquatic Centre, and other specialized spaces, all connected to a central library and multiple learning areas. The Academic Building opened in 2017 and includes 70 classrooms, five science laboratories, two gymnasiums, a 200-seat lecture hall and a central whole-school library. The campus features a roof-top, FIFA-standard 7-a-side soccer pitch, a 611-seat Alliance Hall for performing arts, a ground-floor multi-purpose space, and a cafe-style courtyard. The Aquatic Centre houses a 25-meter, eight-lane pool with year-round water and air temperature control. The campus is located at 33 King Lam Street, Lai Chi Kok, and is about a five-minute walk from Lai Chi Kok MTR.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The campus includes a swimming pool on the Main Campus, multiple gymnasiums, and an artificial turf pitch that support on-campus athletics.	Sports facilities A roof-top 7-a-side soccer pitch meets FIFA standards and uses artificial turf for outdoor play. The on-site gymnasiums include a basketball court and a rock-climbing area with an auto-belay system, with the fourth floor housing high-performance facilities for basketball coaching, judo, ballet and related activities. Alliance Hall is a purpose-built 611-seat venue with strong acoustics for performing arts such as orchestra, dance and choral work. A ground-floor multi-purpose space and other flexible learning areas support sports, movement, and informal gatherings across the campus.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Academic facilities include a library, an Upper School Science Corridor, and a Design Studio. The teamLab Classroom provides immersive learning spaces, and the Main Building (Spine) houses classrooms across levels. The Chinese Cultural Centre and other spaces support a broad spectrum of learning experiences.	Academic facilities The Academic Building provides 70 classrooms, five science laboratories, two gymnasiums, a 200-seat lecture hall and a central library, along with nine multi-purpose areas and a fitness center. The building was opened in 2017 as part of CAIS's campus development. The campus sits at 33 King Lam Street, Lai Chi Kok, Kowloon, Hong Kong, and is within a short walk of Lai Chi Kok MTR and local amenities.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities CDNIS offers a wide range of extracurricular options, including special interest clubs, performance activities, Timberwolves sports, and an expansive After School Activities programme.	Extra curricular facilities World Languages are taught in English followed by Chinese, French and Spanish. The Chinese Studies program includes activities such as Parent-Child Story Competition, Chinese Reading Month, Book Battle, Mid-Autumn Festival Lantern Riddles, Chinese Calligraphy Competition, Drama Performance, Chinese Fun Fair, Chinese Speech Festival and Chinese Debate Competition. Chinese Studies can prepare students for AP Chinese Language and Culture, Alberta Diploma requirements, and IB Group 2 options. French and Spanish are offered at beginner, intermediate and IB Ab Initio levels in secondary, with an aligned progression across grades 7–12. The World Languages program details a sequence from Preparatory Chinese Studies through Grade 12, including elective and IB pathways. Alliance Hall and the Music Floor support performing arts, with dedicated spaces for music and dance across the campus.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History The Canadian International School of Hong Kong (CDNIS) was founded in 1991 as a private, independent institution. From its early years, the school has grown steadily to serve more than 2,100 students across its programmes. Today, it operates under the governance of its own Board, with no religious affiliation, and awards both the International Baccalaureate Diploma and the Ontario Secondary School Diploma. Over the decades, CDNIS has expanded its facilities and programming to include a full IB continuum and a bilingual Early Years pathway.	History Christian Alliance International School (CAIS) was founded in 1992 by the Kowloon Tong Church of the Chinese Christian and Missionary Alliance (KTAC). It has grown steadily since its establishment, originally operating from earlier sites before moving to its purpose-built campus at Butterfly Valley, Lai Chi Kok. The new campus officially opened in August 2017, providing expanded facilities for academics, sports, and the arts. The school continues to operate as a non-profit institution under the ownership of KTAC.
Community	Community The CDNIS community includes students, families, and staff who participate in a wide range of activities beyond academics. The school promotes involvement through arts events (such as the annual Upper School musical), sports competitions under the Timberwolves athletics programme, and cultural celebrations like International Day. Community engagement also extends through service and sustainability initiatives, where students collaborate locally and globally to make an impact.	Community CAIS fosters community through events such as Parent Forums, Parent-Teacher Conferences, and cultural activities that bring together families, staff, and students. The school also convenes a School Council that includes parents, teachers, students, and community representatives. Student-led initiatives, including leadership roles through the Student Representative Council (SRC) and participation in service programmes, further strengthen the sense of shared community.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The school has an active Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) that supports family involvement and community building. While CDNIS’s website does not provide a detailed list of PTA committees or leadership, references highlight its participation in cultural and school-wide events, including International Day and community gatherings. The PTA plays a role in fostering connections between families and the school, coordinating volunteer opportunities, and enhancing the student experience through sponsored activities. Its contributions reflect an emphasis on parent partnership in student life, though specific groups and events are not extensively detailed publicly.	Parent teacher association CAIS refers to its parent engagement structures through formal Parent Forums and a School Council rather than a traditional PTA. Parent Forums include presentations, school updates, and opportunities for families to meet leadership teams. The School Council serves as an advisory body, with parent representatives contributing to discussions on school development and policies. Parents are also involved in networking opportunities and community events, including academic information sessions and university and careers evenings. Through these channels, families maintain an active role in shaping and supporting the life of the school.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual CDNIS is an IB World School offering PYP, MYP, and DP programmes. Enhancements include the Early Years Bilingual Programme and the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) for high school students. The school serves Nursery through Grade 12 across 16 grade levels and enrolls over 2,100 students from more than 40 nationalities. The school aims to inspire excellence, cultivate character, and empower engagement locally and globally.	Academic & intellectual The school is a through‑train international school in Lai Chi Kok, Kowloon, Hong Kong, serving students aged 5 to 18 in preparatory, lower primary, upper primary and secondary sections.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative CDNIS provides a broad performing and visual arts program with a wide range of extracurricular options. Lower School activities include the Junior Choir, Chinese Dance Team, the SEED environmental club, and the Lower School Student Council. The Upper School offers extensive performing arts opportunities and more than 70 activities, including inter-school sports, clubs, and intramurals. The Upper School hosts musicals, such as School of Rock.	Arts & creative —
Cultural & language	Cultural & language The school teaches English, Mandarin, French, and Spanish as part of the curriculum. The Early Years Centre provides a bilingual learning environment to guide language and cultural fluency. Chinese language and culture are represented through courses and language study within the curriculum.	Cultural & language —
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies CDNIS uses a four-House system (Bear, Raven, Orca, Mountain Lion) to promote community, spirit, and well-being. Lower School offers a range of after-school activities including the Junior Choir, Chinese Dance Team, SEED environmental club, and the Lower School Student Council; Timberwolves sports begin in Grade 4. Upper School provides more than 70 activities, including inter-school sports, a wide array of clubs, performing arts opportunities, and intramurals.	Social & hobbies —
Community & service	Community & service Through the House system, students engage in community service projects. House activities include volunteering and service events throughout the year.	Community & service —
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Lower School has a Student Council that provides student leadership opportunities. The House system and a broad activity program foster leadership development across year groups. Additional leadership and guidance resources are available through the school's guidance structures and student life programs.	Leadership & professional —
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Timberwolves sports and athletics are a central part of student life. After School Activities (ASA) provide enrichment and wellness opportunities beyond the classroom. The house system and a wide range of clubs support social connection, teamwork, and well-being across the school.	Lifestyle & wellbeing —
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school is an IB World School offering the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme, with Ontario Secondary School Diploma credits and a two-diploma graduation (IB DP and OSSD). English is the core language of instruction, Mandarin is offered as a language study from Early Years to Grade 10, French begins in Grade 6 and runs through Grade 8 (with the option to continue in Grade 9 in either French or Mandarin), and Spanish is available as a Diploma Programme language for Grades 11–12. There is a Chinese Studies program with dedicated streams to accommodate diverse language backgrounds.	Language provision The medium of instruction is English, and CAIS offers Chinese, French and Spanish as world languages. Chinese Studies is mandatory for Preparatory to Grade 6; Grades 7-9 may continue Chinese Studies or study French or Spanish. In Grades 10-12, Chinese Studies, French and Spanish are electives with pathways to the Alberta Diploma or the International Baccalaureate Diploma. Traditional script is taught in native/near-native classes, while Simplified script is used in non-native classes.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching The Early Years Programme offers a bilingual learning environment with 50% English and 50% Chinese content. The dual-language immersion model uses English and Chinese as both disciplines and mediums of instruction. The bilingual programme began in August 2022 for EY (EY1–EY2, 3–4 year olds) and will progressively include Grade 2 through Grade 5 by 2028/2029, until Nursery to Grade 5 are fully bilingual.	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs The dual-language immersion model allows students to experience both English and Chinese throughout the day. English and Chinese are used as languages of instruction for core subjects, with language outcomes in both languages.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards The school’s website does not list any institutional awards received.
Accreditations	Accreditations International Baccalaureate (IB) World School: authorised to offer the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP), confirming compliance with IB curriculum and quality standards. Council of International Schools (CIS): international accreditation confirming that the school meets globally recognised standards in teaching, governance, and student welfare. Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC): a U.S.-based accrediting body ensuring educational quality and institutional effectiveness.	Accreditations Alberta Education (Canada): CAIS is accredited by Alberta Education to deliver the Alberta curriculum and award the Alberta High School Diploma. This means the school is regularly inspected and meets Alberta’s standards for teaching, learning, and assessment. International Baccalaureate (IB) World School: CAIS is authorized to offer the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) in Grades 11–12. This indicates that the school follows IB standards and can prepare students for the internationally recognized IB Diploma.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Application submission Families begin by completing an online application form via the CDNIS Admissions Portal. Required documents typically include a copy of the child’s passport or Hong Kong ID, recent school reports, and a current photo. An application fee (and, where relevant, an assessment fee) must be paid at this stage. 2. Supporting documents and references Depending on grade level, families may need to submit a Student Reference Form completed by a current teacher. These references are used to better understand the applicant’s academic and social readiness for CDNIS. 3. Assessment and interview Applicants who progress are invited for an assessment or interview. Early Years students participate in play-based assessments, while older students complete literacy, numeracy, or group activities. Upper School applicants may also attend a personal interview. The school explains that the assessment format differs by grade. 4. Selection and review Applications are reviewed holistically, combining assessment results, references, and past reports. Students are then ranked as Excellent, Good, Marginal, or Not Suitable. Offers depend on meeting academic expectations and the availability of places. 5. Offer and enrolment Successful candidates receive a conditional offer, which must be confirmed by paying the reservation deposit and completing enrollment forms. If no space is available in the grade, eligible students are placed into the waitpool until a place opens.	Admissions 1. Application Submission Families begin by completing the online application form and mailing the printed form, required supporting documents, and the application fee cheque to the Admissions Office. The fee is HKD 1,500 for Preparatory–Grade 3 and HKD 1,800 for Grades 4–12, and it is non-refundable. Cash is not accepted, and all cheques must be payable to the school. 2. Assessment and Interview Applicants are invited for an admissions assessment if a place is available. The assessment length varies by grade level: about 1 hour for Preparatory–Grade 3, 2.5 hours for Grades 4–6, and 3 hours for Grades 7–12. Parents may also be interviewed, and additional documents, such as a Student Reference Form, are required for secondary applicants. 3. Admissions Decision Families are informed of the result within 30 days of the assessment. If a place is available and the student meets requirements, an offer of admission is extended. If not, but the student is eligible, they may be placed in the Wait Pool. 4. Enrollment Confirmation A student’s place is confirmed once the family pays the required Individual Capital Note (ICN or Annual Capital Levy (ACL by the deadline. A reservation fee equal to one month’s tuition is also due and will be credited against the first tuition installment.
Scholarships	Scholarships CDNIS has a scholarship programme listed under its Admissions section. Scholarships are intended to recognise student achievement and potential, but the school does not publish detailed information about specific eligibility criteria or award amounts on its main website. Families interested in scholarships are directed to the Scholarships section of the Admissions pages for current opportunities.	Scholarships CAIS offers scholarships specifically for students enrolled in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). These scholarships ensure that all IBDP students pay the same tuition as Alberta curriculum students, rather than the higher IBDP fee. This effectively reduces the cost of the IB pathway and makes it financially aligned with the school’s other senior programmes.
Waitlist	Waitlist CDNIS operates a waiting pool system when grades are full. Placement into the waitpool occurs after a student is deemed admissible, but no seat is available. Importantly, a student’s status in the pool does not roll over to the following academic year; families must reapply if they wish to be considered again.	Waitlist CAIS operates a Wait Pool system. Qualified applicants who have passed assessments but for whom no immediate space is available are placed into the Wait Pool. This placement is valid for one academic year, and families are contacted if a suitable place becomes available. Students in the Wait Pool are not guaranteed admission, but being placed there indicates they are eligible should space open.
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