Canadian International School of Hong Kong vs Stamford American School Hong Kong - Ho Man Tin

	C Canadian International School of Hong Kong Hong Kong	Stamford American School Hong Kong - Ho Man Tin Hong Kong
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year HK$156,300 - 254,300	Fees / year HK$217,100 - 264,000
Age range	Age range 2 - 18 years	Age range 5 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Canadian Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), American Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 2,100	Pupils 970
Typical class size	Typical class size 18	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1991	Opened 2017
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 Stamford American School Hong Kong is situated in a central, residential area of Kowloon, with a new campus opening in West Kowloon in 2025 for upper grades. The main site is easily reached via MTR, bus, and cross-harbour routes. A door-to-door bus service connects families across Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories.
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 is divided into Elementary (Pre-Primary–Grade 5), Middle (Grades 6–8), and High School (Grades 9–12). Senior students pursue the American High School Diploma or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.
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 A co-educational day school serving students aged 5–18. There are no boarding facilities.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix 28 nationalities
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 offers EAL programs, learning support, enrichment, and counseling through a dedicated Student Support team. The website does not specify specialist facilities for particular learning needs.
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 Affiliated with the United States through its American standards curriculum and accredited by WASC and CIS.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation The school is not affiliated with any religion.	Religious affiliation None indicated; Stamford is a secular international school.
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 Classes run Monday–Friday, 7:45 a.m. to 2:40 p.m. with breaks for recess and lunch. The academic year is divided into two semesters.
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 A comprehensive bus service covers Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories. Routes are door-to-door where possible and organized by an external provider in coordination with the school.
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 The application and assessment fees are currently waived for all new applicants. Upon acceptance, each student must subscribe to one of two Capital Levy Options, unless covered by a debenture. Option A requires a one-time, non-refundable payment of HK$150,000, valid for the duration of the student’s enrolment. Option B requires a non-refundable annual payment of HK$30,000, along with a Tuition Fee Offset of HK$30,000, which is deducted from the final semester’s tuition before the student leaves the school. Tuition Fees (Per Year) Pre-Primary – Grade 2: HK$217,100 Grades 3 – 5: HK$220,500 Grades 6 – 8: HK$239,900 Grades 9 – 10: HK$247,300 Grades 11 – 12: HK$264,000 Fees are billed by semester as follows: Semester 1: May Semester 2: October Families may also select a 10-month direct-debit plan covering all enrolled children. All tuition fees are expressed in Hong Kong Dollars (HK$) and include textbooks and workbooks. Tuition fees are non-refundable, non-transferable, and not prorated. Additional Fees The following are not included in tuition and are billed separately: field studies and excursions; transportation and school meals; external exams and courses such as IBDP, ACT, SAT, AP, or Virtual High School; and the replacement of lost or damaged devices, textbooks, and library books. Additional EAL and learning-support services may incur extra charges, assessed on an individual basis. Debenture Options Families or corporate employers may purchase a Debenture, granting priority in admissions and exemption from the Capital Levy. The Individual Debenture costs HK$500,000, is valid for eight consecutive academic years, and is refundable on a sliding scale. Corporate Debentures are offered at three tiers: Platinum (HK$5,000,000), Standard Plus (HK$3,000,000), and Standard (HK$2,000,000). All debentures are subject to approval under the school’s admissions policy. Sibling Discount A 50% discount on the Capital Levy Fee (Option A or B) is granted for the third child of the same parent, while the fourth child and beyond receive a full waiver. Eligibility is based on the number of siblings currently or previously enrolled or graduated from the school. Refund Policy The Capital Levy and Tuition Fee Offset are non-refundable once paid. Tuition fees paid in advance may be partially refunded with three months’ written notice prior to withdrawal. Once a student is confirmed and admitted, deferrals to a later academic year are not permitted; families must reapply. Debenture holders receive refunds in accordance with their signed agreements. Payment Options Payments can be made via local cheque or bank transfer to Flora Education Limited, the school’s operating entity. Families may also opt for a monthly direct-debit plan. All fees are billed in Hong Kong Dollars (HK$).
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements N/A
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 Full school uniform is required at all times; it should be neat, clean, modest, and in good repair. Uniforms are ordered through Aston Wilson and include summer and winter sets. Students wear black shoes with the uniform, and white sneakers for PE; navy socks with the uniform and white socks for PE.
Food options	Food options Catering is provided by Maxim's Group for on-site meals.	Food options Canteen services are provided by Chartwells, offering a varied and nutritionally balanced international menu. Chartwells operates a Smart Food Program aligned with USDA Dietary Guidelines.
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 4 Houses: Boars, Monkeys, Dolphins, Popcuppines
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 part of Cognita, a global network of schools. Governance is managed by Cognita with regional leadership; the Head of School is accountable to the Regional Chief Executive Officer.
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 Stamford American School Hong Kong follows an American standards-based curriculum built on the AERO and Common Core Plus frameworks. The program integrates inquiry-based learning from the early years through high school, emphasizing core subjects alongside science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and innovation through the school’s STEMinn program. Students study Mandarin or Spanish as part of a daily modern-language program, with a bilingual English–Mandarin track available in the elementary years. In high school (Grades 9–12), students pursue the American High School Diploma and may also choose to complete the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme or selected IB courses. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for a range of international university pathways while maintaining strong academic progression across all grade levels.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio 1:14
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results Class of 2025 IB Results Average 35 92% Pass Rate Bilingual Diploma 24% Highest IB Score 44 University Offers 200+
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression IBDP Stamford High School Diploma IB Courses
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented Available, please contact admissions team for further details
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 Stamford American School Hong Kong incorporates social and emotional learning into classroom practice and pastoral care across all grade levels. The school’s published materials describe SEL as part of its focus on student wellbeing, supported through mindfulness, resilience, focus, and self-regulation activities. In the elementary years, SEL lessons and class discussions are integrated into daily routines, helping students build interpersonal and emotional awareness skills. Trained counselors and classroom teachers support this work, and the school promotes a “culture of care” to ensure students feel safe and supported.
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 learning support for students who may need additional help to access the curriculum, but it is not a specialist SEN institution. Support is coordinated by the student support team, which includes teachers, counselors, and learning specialists. Interventions and accommodations are individualized following assessments and teacher recommendations. Additional learning support fees may apply, assessed on a case-by-case basis.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The school does not publicly disclose information regarding EAL.	English as an additional language Stamford offers structured English as an Additional Language (EAL) support for students whose first language is not English. This includes push-in and pull-out models, small group sessions, and individualized instruction through the Accelerated Language Program (ALP). Placement and duration of support depend on student need, determined through assessment. EAL services are designed to help students develop the academic and social English skills required for full participation in mainstream classes.
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 supports mental well-being through its counseling services, health and PE programs, and SEL framework. Counselors are available to students for individual guidance and support, and well-being content such as mindfulness and focus strategies is embedded across the curriculum. The school emphasizes student safety and emotional balance as part of its everyday practice. Dedicated health professionals, including school nurses, provide medical and well-being assistance during the school day.
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 Stamford American School Hong Kong maintains clear safeguarding and child protection practices as part of its “Student Well-being and Safety” policy. The school operates under Cognita’s global safeguarding framework, which includes oversight of child protection, health, and safety procedures. Staff are trained in safeguarding responsibilities, and students are encouraged to raise concerns with counselors or designated well-being staff. The school publicly highlights its commitment to maintaining a safe environment and fostering respectful relationships among all members of its community.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy View document	Safeguarding policy View document
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 operates two campuses: Ho Man Tin at 25 Man Fuk Road, Ho Man Tin, Kowloon, and West Kowloon at Imperial Cullinan, 10 Hoi Fai Road, Tai Kok Tsui, Kowloon.
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 campuses feature comprehensive facilities to support studies, arts, and athletics as part of the international program.
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 Academic programs are built on an American standards-based curriculum using AERO and Common Core Plus frameworks, with high school preparation through IBDP options.
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 Co-curricular activities and university counseling are offered as part of the student experience across campuses.
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 Stamford American School Hong Kong opened in September 2017 and is part of the Cognita Schools Group, a global education organization headquartered in London. The school was established to provide an American standards-based education with international pathways for students in Hong Kong. Since opening, Stamford has expanded its facilities and introduced the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for senior students. In 2025, the school will open an additional West Kowloon campus to accommodate the growing high school division.
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 school community includes families from diverse national and cultural backgrounds who participate actively in school life. Regular events such as cultural celebrations, seasonal festivals, and student showcases bring families and staff together throughout the year. The school also hosts wellbeing weeks, service initiatives, and parent workshops to strengthen connections between home and school.
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 Stamford’s Parent School Association (PSA) serves as the main body connecting parents and the school. The PSA welcomes new families, organizes community events, and supports fundraising activities for student and school projects. It helps coordinate cultural celebrations and family-oriented gatherings such as international days, parent coffee mornings, and charity events. The PSA also collaborates with school leadership to provide parent feedback and encourage participation in school initiatives. Through these activities, the PSA helps maintain open communication and an inclusive community spirit within 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 uses an American standards-based curriculum built on AERO and Common Core Plus, delivering a bilingual international program across its K–12 structure. High School students can pursue three diploma pathways: the Stamford American High School Diploma, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) or an IB Courses option alongside the Stamford diploma. The US Diploma is CIS- and WASC-accredited, and IB options provide access to DP exams and IB course credits where applicable. The Class of 2025 IB cohort achieved a 100% pass rate with an average score of 35, including top scores above 40, and a portion earned the Bilingual Diploma. The West Kowloon Campus is being developed to support high school and IBDP offerings.
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 The school offers an Arts program within the High School and supports arts integration through its Cornerstones program and related studio spaces on its West Kowloon Campus. Visual arts, music, drama and other creative subjects are part of the regular timetable across divisions.
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 Modern language study is integral, with daily Mandarin or Spanish instruction for all students (around 40 minutes per day). In elementary, there is an immersive English–Mandarin bilingual pathway, and high school language options include Mandarin and Spanish with IB course opportunities.
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 The school provides extensive co-curricular activities and wellbeing programs, including weekly social-emotional learning (especially in Middle School) and a broad range of after-school activities across sports, arts and clubs.
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 curriculum includes service learning and creativity, activity, and service (CAS) components, integrated with IB practices and Cornerstones projects in High School, to support holistic growth and global citizenship.
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 Students have opportunities for leadership through student councils and house systems in High School, with dedicated university counseling and IB coordination to guide pathway decisions.
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 There is a strong emphasis on wellbeing and a balanced approach to growth, including MAP assessments to monitor progress and ensure appropriate challenge and support across grades.
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 school provides a seamless K–12 journey with an American standards-based curriculum that combines AERO and Common Core Plus standards with an inquiry-based approach. The High School offers the Stamford American High School Diploma, with the option to pursue the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma or select IB courses. The school also offers daily Mandarin and Spanish language instruction as part of the core curriculum, with 40 minutes per day. In high school, language study can include additional languages via self-study with faculty support.
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 The school offers a bilingual English/Mandarin stream in elementary (Pre-primary to Grade 5).
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 Accelerated Learning Program Class provided in Stamford Elementary School
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards GBA Award - Public's Choice Award (STEAM Category) 2026
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 Council of International Schools (CIS): An international accreditation body that evaluates schools against global standards in education quality, leadership, and governance. Stamford achieved full CIS accreditation in 2021, confirming its commitment to continuous improvement and international best practice. Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC): A U.S.-based accrediting organization that ensures schools maintain recognized standards for teaching, learning, and institutional performance. WASC accreditation confirms that Stamford provides high-quality education consistent with American and international benchmarks. International Baccalaureate (IB) World School: Authorization from the International Baccalaureate Organization enables Stamford to offer the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) in Grades 11–12. This certification recognizes the school’s ability to deliver a globally recognized, inquiry-based academic program. SAT Test Center: Approval by the College Board as an official SAT testing site allows Stamford students to sit for PSAT and SAT examinations on campus, promoting accessibility and informed academic guidance. Cognita Schools Group: Membership in the Cognita global network provides governance, safeguarding oversight, and shared quality standards across schools worldwide. Cognita ensures consistent policies in student welfare, health and safety, and educational quality.
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. Enquiry and School Tour Families begin the process by submitting an online enquiry form or booking a school tour through the Stamford website. The admissions team provides details about available grade levels, curriculum pathways, and space availability. Campus visits are encouraged so families can understand the learning environment and school expectations before applying. 2. Application Submission Applications are completed online through the school’s admissions portal. Required documents include recent school reports, a copy of the student’s passport or Hong Kong ID, and any relevant specialist reports. Application and assessment fees are currently waived. 3. Assessment and Review All applicants are assessed to ensure that the school can meet their learning needs. Assessments may include academic review, language proficiency testing, or interviews, depending on grade level. For older students (Grade 6 and above), additional written tasks or questionnaires may be required. 4. Admission Offer and Capital Levy Selection Successful applicants receive an offer letter via email. To confirm enrollment, families must select and pay for one of the two Capital Levy Options — Option A or Option B. Payment of this fee secures the student’s place at the school. 5. Enrollment and Orientation Once payment and acceptance forms are received, the admissions team issues a formal confirmation of enrollment. Families receive joining instructions, uniform details, and access to the school’s parent platform. Orientation sessions are organized before the start of each semester to help new students and parents transition smoothly into school life.
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 The school offers a range of scholarships for students entering or continuing in high school. Scholarships are awarded based on demonstrated excellence in academics, STEM, performing or visual arts, or athletics. The External Scholarship Program welcomes talented high school students (Grade 9-11) to join the world-class IB pathway and vibrant, global community. Outstanding applicants may even be awarded a tuition scholarship of up to 75% for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP).
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 Admissions are reviewed on a rolling basis, and places are offered according to seat availability and the date of completed application submission. Priority is given to applicants with siblings already enrolled, to families holding debentures, US citizens, and students with an enrollment record in other Cognita international schools.
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