Canadian International School of Hong Kong vs DSC International School

	C Canadian International School of Hong Kong Hong Kong	D DSC International School Hong Kong
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year HK$156,300 - 254,300	Fees / year HK$147,100 - 168,100
Age range	Age range 2 - 18 years	Age range 4 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Canadian Curriculum	Curriculum Canadian Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 2,100	Pupils 50
Typical class size	Typical class size 18	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1991	Opened 1987
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 DSC International School is situated on Hong Kong Island, within a residential and commercial district that is well connected by the MTR and local bus routes. The area is known for its accessibility, nearby parks, and family-oriented amenities, providing a convenient setting for commuting families.
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 provides a through-train education from Pre-Grade 1 to Grade 12, all located on one campus. It covers Early Years, Elementary, and Secondary levels for students aged 4 to 18 years.
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 DSC International School is an independent, co-educational day school offering the Ontario (Canadian) curriculum. There are no boarding facilities.
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 structured Learning Support through specialists, counsellors, and social workers, focusing on social-emotional and academic needs. Tailored assistance is available for English as a Second Language (ESL) learners and students requiring extra support.
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 The school is affiliated with Canada, being registered with the Ontario Ministry of Education and authorized to award the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation The school is not affiliated with any religion.	Religious affiliation The school is non-religious and does not follow any faith-based teaching.
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 The daily schedule varies by level: Early Years and Elementary typically run from around 8:15 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., while Secondary classes operate from 8:10 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The structure includes morning sessions, lunch, and afternoon classes.
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 DSC offers a school bus service managed by an external transport provider, with routes covering Hong Kong Island and the New Territories. Parents register directly with the provider, and routes are adjusted yearly based on student demand.
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 non-refundable application fee of HK$1,000 is required for all new students at the time of submission. New students must also pay a refundable tuition deposit equivalent to one month’s tuition fee, which is credited to the final month’s payment upon withdrawal with adequate notice. A refundable textbook and resource deposit of HK$1,000 is charged for Grades 1–12. Tuition Fees (Per Year) Pre-Grade 1: HK$147,100 (billed at HK$14,710 per month) Grades 1–8: HK$155,700 (billed at HK$15,570 per month) Grades 9–10: HK$161,500 (billed at HK$16,150 per month) Grades 11–12: HK$168,100 (billed at HK$16,810 per month) Fees are billed monthly over 10 months (September to June). There are no debenture or capital levy fees charged. Additional Fees ESL Fee (Grades 1–8): HK$4,010 per month (if applicable) Uniforms and school bus services are charged separately through external suppliers. School materials and optional extracurricular activities may incur additional costs. Transportation Fees A school bus service is provided through an external transport company serving routes across Hong Kong Island and the New Territories. Families register directly with the provider, and fees depend on route and distance. Refund Policy The tuition deposit and resource deposit are refundable upon withdrawal, following the school’s written notice requirements. Other fees, such as application and monthly tuition, are non-refundable. Payment Options Payments can be made via PayPal, cheque, or bank transfer, as outlined on the school’s Admissions and Tuition Fees pages.
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 All students wear a full school uniform on campus and at school events, with uniforms available at the on-campus shop. PG1A/B wear the PE uniform daily, while Grades 1–12 wear standard uniform items; footwear must be sport shoes and hoodies are not worn in PE.
Food options	Food options Catering is provided by Maxim's Group for on-site meals.	Food options The school provides a lunch service on campus via an external provider.
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 —
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 The school is an independent private school in Hong Kong offering the Ontario curriculum. It is registered in Hong Kong as primary and secondary school number 215791 and in Ontario, Canada as private school number 879037. The governance structure includes a School Board, a Senior Executive Management Committee, and a Head of School registered with the Hong Kong Education Bureau; the school is a member of CTF Education Group.
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 DSC International School follows the Ontario (Canada) curriculum from Pre-Grade 1 through Grade 12, leading to the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), awarded by the Ontario Ministry of Education. The Early Years program (Pre-Grade 1) is inquiry-based, emphasizing foundational literacy, numeracy, and early STEAM learning. In the Elementary years (Grades 1–6), students study core subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and the Arts, supported by instruction in Chinese (Putonghua) and French. The Secondary program (Grades 7–12) builds on the Ontario framework, offering a wide range of courses in English, Mathematics, Science, Business, Humanities, and the Arts. Senior students complete required credits, community service hours, and the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test to earn the OSSD. Throughout all levels, English is the primary language of instruction, with additional support provided for English language learners.
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 DSC International School integrates social and emotional learning through its Well-Being Department, which includes counsellors, social workers, and support staff. The department provides individual and group counselling, transition support for new students, and parent workshops on emotional development. SEL is embedded across the curriculum through classroom discussions and activities focused on empathy, collaboration, and self-awareness. The school also runs the Wellness Studio, a space dedicated to mindfulness and emotional balance. These initiatives are coordinated by trained wellbeing professionals to promote healthy student relationships and emotional resilience.
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) The school provides support for students with mild learning or social-emotional needs through its Learning Support Team, which includes ESL specialists, counsellors, social workers, healthcare professionals, and ICT educational specialists. The focus is on inclusion within mainstream classes, with adjustments and additional support where appropriate. DSC does not identify itself as a specialist SEN institution, and there is no public listing of specific SEN categories supported. The school emphasises collaboration between teachers and specialists to assist students’ academic and personal development.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The school does not publicly disclose information regarding EAL.	English as an additional language English as an Additional Language (EAL) DSC International School offers a structured English as a Second Language (ESL) Program for students who are new to English-medium education. The program is based on Ontario’s STEP assessment framework, evaluating students’ listening, speaking, reading, and writing proficiency. Students in Grades 1–8 are placed into Level 1 or Level 2 ESL classes according to their English ability. Instruction focuses on helping students integrate into mainstream classes while developing academic English skills. This program is supported by qualified ESL teachers and is available until students achieve full English proficiency.
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 The school’s Well-Being Team provides counselling, wellness workshops, and transition programs for students and families. The Wellness Studio hosts mindfulness sessions and small-group activities designed to support emotional balance and stress management. Regular workshops for parents and teachers address topics such as student anxiety, emotional regulation, and resilience. The team also includes social-emotional counsellors and social workers, ensuring coordinated care and guidance.
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 DSC International School states that it maintains safeguarding and child protection measures consistent with local regulations and its registration under the Hong Kong Education Bureau (EDB). Governance information identifies registered leadership with both the Ontario Ministry of Education and Hong Kong EDB, ensuring compliance with education and welfare standards. While the website references safeguarding within the Well-Being section, detailed child protection policies are not publicly disclosed.
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 school provides a K-12 educational journey from Pre-Grade 1 to Grade 12, with all grades located on the same Taikoo Shing campus. The Early Years Program is play- and inquiry-based to nurture curious and creative learners. The school offers three international language options—Chinese (Putonghua), Japanese, and French—with both first and second language levels available. The campus is located on Tai Fung Avenue in Taikoo Shing, a short walk from the Tai Koo MTR station, with bus service available.
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 The school maintains an athletics program with competitive varsity teams and is recognized as an Elite Athlete-friendly School by the Hong Kong Sports Institute. DSC athletes have won medals and championship banners in local and international tournaments. The program provides opportunities to develop athletic skills and compete at a high level. The HKSI recognition indicates formal support for elite student-athletes.
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 Canadian Curriculum (Ontario) is the school's primary framework for K-12 education. The through-train program provides automatic progression from Elementary to Secondary. Graduates receive the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). The First Language Chinese program follows the National Curriculum designed by the People's Education Press in Beijing. International languages offered include Chinese, French, and Japanese starting from Pre-Grade 1.
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 DSC offers scholarships for Academic, Arts, and Athletic scholars, with monthly tuition waivers ranging from 25% to 80%. Open Day and Seminars are available for prospective families. The school emphasizes global pathways and university opportunities, with graduates gaining offers from top universities. The school promotes a multicultural environment with a diverse student body.
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 DSC International School, originally known as the Delia School of Canada, was founded in 1987 to provide a Canadian education pathway in Hong Kong. The school introduced the Ontario (Canada) curriculum and became officially registered with the Ontario Ministry of Education to grant the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). Over the years, DSC has expanded its programs and facilities to accommodate students from Early Years through Grade 12. The school continues to operate as a privately managed institution, maintaining its educational affiliation with Ontario, Canada.
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 The DSC community includes students, parents, and staff representing many nationalities and backgrounds. The school regularly hosts cultural and community events, such as the Diwali Gala, sports tournaments, and arts showcases, which encourage family participation. Annual celebrations and theme days reflect the school’s emphasis on inclusivity and cultural appreciation.
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 DSC’s Parent Teacher Association supports the school by helping organize community events and family activities. Parents contribute to initiatives such as cultural celebrations, sports days, and charity fundraisers. The PTA collaborates closely with teachers and staff to strengthen communication between home and school. It also assists in welcoming new families to the school community and coordinating volunteer opportunities throughout the year. While specific committee details are not listed online, the PTA is acknowledged as an active part of the school’s community network.
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 DSC International School follows the Canadian curriculum with a through-train model for students aged 4 to 18. The school emphasizes coding, robotics, mathematics, and maker education as core strengths within an inclusive multicultural environment. Graduates have gained places at top universities worldwide, including institutions in Hong Kong, Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, the United States, the European Union, and Australia. DSC International School was established in 1986 as the first Canadian school in Hong Kong.
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 DSC offers an Artistic Creators Program within the OSSD+ Signature Program. The Signature Program includes Masterclass seminars to deepen artistic practice. Nuit Noire Showcase provides a platform to present the arts and helps students build portfolios for arts-related university pathways.
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 DSC offers three international languages: Chinese (Putonghua), French, and Japanese. In Grades 1 to 3, students have a 40-minute international language lesson daily; Early Years and Grades 4 to 8 have four 40-minute language lessons per week. In Secondary, French is offered as a second language, while Japanese is available as first and second language; Putonghua has first and second language programs. All students must take at least one second language course to fulfill graduation requirements.
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 DSC provides athletics and extracurricular activities; DSC Athletics has earned medals and championship banners in local and international tournaments. Students participate in a range of clubs and activities as part of school life. Experiential learning opportunities, such as real-world experiences, support social development and hobby engagement.
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 The OSSD+ Signature Program includes 100 community hours, completed locally and internationally. Career Integrated Learning provides 220 hours of work experience in a field related to the student's specialization. The program recognizes service and leadership with a Duke of Edinburgh Award and offers Masterclass seminars to support community engagement and leadership development.
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 OSSD+ Signature Program offers six streams for leadership and professional pathways: Athletic Scholars, Artistic Creators, Business Leaders, Engineering Designers, Global Influencers, and Scientific Innovators. Career Integrated Learning provides work placements and real-world experience. Students develop a professional portfolio and participate in Masterclass seminars to enhance workplace readiness and leadership capacity.
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 DSC promotes a balanced education that develops social, emotional, intellectual, and physical intelligence. All grades are located on the same campus, creating continuity and a sense of community. Athletics and a Health Team provide physical well-being support, and experiential learning experiences contribute to holistic development.
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 DSC offers three international languages: Chinese (Putonghua), French, and Japanese. English is the primary medium of instruction, and Chinese Putonghua is used as a medium for the Chinese program. In Elementary, International Languages are taught as part of the timetable: Grade 1–3 have daily 40-minute lessons, and Early Years through Grade 8 have four 40-minute lessons per week. In Secondary, French is offered in Grade 9, while Japanese and Putonghua have three courses each, and all students must take at least one second language to meet graduation requirements; the Chinese program includes First Language Chinese (Grades 1–8, following the national curriculum by the People's Education Press) and Second Language Chinese (Early Years–Grade 8), with Putonghua credit courses (Levels 1–3) in Grades 9–12 and external examinations available.
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 Ontario Ministry of Education (Canada) – DSC International School is officially registered as a private school with the Ontario Ministry of Education (School No. 879037). This accreditation authorizes the school to deliver the Ontario curriculum and grant the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). Hong Kong Education Bureau (EDB) – The school is registered with the Hong Kong Education Bureau (School No. 215791) to operate legally as an international school offering primary and secondary education within Hong Kong.
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. Initial Enquiry and School Tour Families are encouraged to begin by submitting an enquiry form or arranging a school tour or virtual consultation through the Admissions Office. During the visit, parents can learn about the Ontario curriculum, facilities, and student life. Admissions staff guide families through the documentation requirements and timelines for application submission. 2. Application Submission Parents complete the online Application Form and submit supporting documents, including academic reports, identification, and recommendation letters where required. A non-refundable application fee is payable upon submission. Once received, the Admissions Office acknowledges the application and begins the review process within approximately one week. 3. Interview and Assessment Applicants are invited for an interview and English proficiency assessment. The session usually lasts 30–90 minutes and includes a conversation about the school’s philosophy, curriculum, and student expectations. Students complete an English assessment covering oral, reading, and writing skills; however, proficiency does not determine admission outcomes due to the availability of the ESL Program for additional language support. 4. Offer and Orientation Successful applicants receive an official offer of admission with details about tuition, deposits, and start dates. Once confirmed, students and families attend an orientation session, and students in Grades 9–12 meet with the Guidance and Pathways Team to plan course selections and academic goals before classes begin.
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 DSC International School maintains a Scholarships page under its Admissions section. While it confirms that scholarships are available to eligible students, specific details such as eligibility criteria, application process, and award value are not publicly disclosed. Families are directed to contact the Admissions Office for up-to-date information regarding available scholarship programs.
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 The school’s website does not mention a formal waitlist or pool system.
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