Concordia International School Shanghai vs Shanghai American School

	C Concordia International School Shanghai Shanghai, China	S Shanghai American School Shanghai, China
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year RMB 243,000 - 320,000	Fees / year RMB 246,000 - 304,100
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP), SEN focussed, Bespoke Curriculum, IBCP (International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme)	Curriculum Reggio Emilia Approach, IB (DP), Advanced Placement (AP)
Pupils	Pupils 1,200	Pupils 2,900
Typical class size	Typical class size 20	Typical class size 18
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1998	Opened 1912
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Concordia International School Shanghai is located in the Jinqiao (Biyun) neighbourhood of Pudong, Shanghai; the visitor entrance is at 345 Huangyang Road and the school's mailing address is 999 Mingyue Road (postcode 201206). The campus sits in an international residential and commercial area with nearby metro and bus links (Taierzhuang Road / Line 9 is a short walk) and is reachable from both Pudong and Puxi.	Location Two purpose-built campuses: Pudong (1600 Lingbai Road, Pudong) and Puxi (258 Jinfeng Road, Minhang). Both campuses are in residential parts of Shanghai with car- and taxi-access; Pudong campus is inside The Links community and has controlled vehicle access. For precise directions, campus maps and gate procedures see the school's campus access/contact pages.
Stages	Stages The school serves students aged about 3 to 18 and is organised into Early Childhood, Elementary School, Middle School and High School divisions (Preschool through Grade 12).	Stages SAS is a Pre‑K through Grade 12 school with Early Childhood (Pre‑K), Elementary, Middle and High School divisions. The high school offers pathways including Advanced Placement (AP) and the International Baccalaureate (IB).
School type	School type Concordia is a co‑educational day school delivering an American‑style curriculum; it does not offer boarding. The school operates as an international school for students holding foreign passports.	School type Independent, non‑profit, co‑educational day school operating two PreK–12 campuses (no boarding provision listed). The school describes itself as an American‑style international school serving expatriate families.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Concordia runs a Learning Support (LS) programme with LS specialists who work with classroom teachers to design interventions and accommodations. The programme supports a limited number of students with mild to some moderate learning needs through referral, in‑class support, and targeted interventions.	Additional learning support SAS provides English language support/EAL and has dedicated Learning Support staff and student‑support roles across divisions; non‑native English speakers may be assessed (WIDA screener) and limited EAL places are available. The school and external reviews note support for mild-to-moderate needs but say admission and provision for severe or complex special educational needs (SEN) are handled case‑by‑case and may be limited. Families with specific SEN requirements are advised to discuss needs with Admissions before applying.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation The school is approved by the Ministry of Education of China and the Shanghai Municipal Education Commission but is not an official national school of another country; it provides an American‑style education for expatriate families.	Country affiliation The school follows an American/international curriculum model (AP and American high‑school pathways) but is an independent international school rather than being officially affiliated with a single country's government.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Concordia was founded in the tradition of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and holds related school accreditation; it identifies as a Christian/Lutheran‑affiliated international school.	Religious affiliation SAS is non‑sectarian and does not have a religious affiliation.
School day structure	School day structure Typical school start times reported are about 8:00 AM for Early Childhood, Elementary and Middle School and about 8:30 AM for High School, with a usual school day finishing in the mid‑afternoon (around 3:20 PM). Specific schedules (for example exam blocks or early‑release days) are published on the school calendar and can vary by week or division.	School day structure Daily timings vary by division; the school handbook (elementary example) shows campuses open around 7:55 a.m. with student dismissal near 3:00 p.m., and division‑specific start/end times and break/lunch periods are used. Exact start/end times and any staggered schedules are confirmed by the school for each division and year.
Bus service details	Bus service details Concordia offers optional paid bus transportation with morning, afternoon and late/activity routes; routes cover much of Pudong and some areas of Puxi. Families who pay for daily bus service may also use activity buses for no additional charge on participating ECA/athletics days. The bus service is run as a school‑arranged transport option and the fee is separate from tuition.	Bus service details The school operates an optional student transport system: younger students are escorted by bus monitors to/from classrooms and parents must register for routes and seats. Route coverage, contracted bus providers, fees and pick‑up/drop‑off arrangements are managed by the school and can change year to year, so Admissions or the Transport office should be contacted for current operators, routes and costs.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application fee - Application fee: RMB 2,500 (non‑refundable). One‑time/new‑student fees - Capital (placement) fee: RMB 25,000 (one‑time, billed on acceptance; non‑refundable). - One‑time ELL support fee (where applicable, K–12): RMB 20,000. - Grade 6–12: families must provide a recent Apple laptop for student use (school specifies minimum model/specs). Tuition (per student) — full year and semester options - Preschool / Pre‑Kindergarten: Full year RMB 243,000 — Semester payment option RMB 124,000 per semester. - Kindergarten – Grade 5: Full year RMB 305,000 — Semester payment option RMB 155,000 per semester. - Grade 6 – Grade 8: Full year RMB 312,500 — Semester payment option RMB 158,750 per semester. - Grade 9 – Grade 12: Full year RMB 320,000 — Semester payment option RMB 162,500 per semester. Other recurring / optional costs - Bus transportation (optional, per student): RMB 22,000 per year. - School lunch (optional): ranges by division — approx. RMB 27–40 per day depending on grade. - Uniforms (K–12): approximate RMB 1,000 per year for Grades 1–12; Preschool/Pre‑K do not require the standard uniform. - Educational travel and some grade‑specific costs: variable and billed separately. Boarding - Not applicable. Concordia operates as a co‑educational day school; no boarding program or boarding fees listed. Billing schedule and payment terms - Two payment options: single full‑year payment (once per year) or two instalments (semester payments). Specific invoice dates and due‑date instructions are issued by the school. Payment in RMB is standard; USD payments use a school set exchange rate updated on the first day of each month. Refunds - No detailed public refund schedule is provided on the school's published tuition/fees pages; one‑time acceptance and capital fees are listed as non‑refundable. For any refund or withdrawal terms, the school's billing/finance office handles individual cases. Accepted payment methods and banking details - Accepted methods: cash, check (U.S. checks accepted for tuition/fees), wire transfer, Alipay, WeChat Pay for some payments. School provides RMB and USD bank account details for transfers. Important: include student name on remittance to ensure correct credit.	Fee details Application and One‑time Entry Fees - Application fee: RMB 2,800 (non‑refundable). - One‑time entry fee for new entrants: Pre‑Kindergarten & Elementary: RMB 28,000; Middle & High School: RMB 33,000. This applies once at first enrollment (re‑entry after two years non‑enrollment normally requires payment again). Enrollment Fee - Non‑refundable Enrollment Fee: RMB 32,000 (applies to secure a place; due by April 1 for returning students; for new entrants due within five working days of invoice). Annual Tuition and Per‑term (installment) Amounts - Pre‑Kindergarten: Annual tuition RMB 246,000 — two equal installments of RMB 123,000 (due June 1 and November 1). Enrollment fee is additional. - Elementary (K–5): Annual tuition RMB 279,400 — two equal installments of RMB 139,700 (due June 1 and November 1). Enrollment fee is additional. - Middle School (6–8): Annual tuition RMB 287,200 — two equal installments of RMB 143,600 (due June 1 and November 1). Enrollment fee is additional. - High School (9–12): Annual tuition RMB 304,100 — two equal installments of RMB 152,050 (due June 1 and November 1). Enrollment fee is additional. - Prepayment discount: 1% discount if tuition installments are prepaid in advance under stated conditions (details apply). Billing Schedule and Payment Terms - Annual tuition billed as two equal installments due June 1 and November 1. Enrollment and entry fees billed according to invoice and timelines described above. All bank charges are the payer's responsibility. Other Fees and Typical Additional Costs - Transportation (optional): RMB 11,400 per semester (payable per semester). - Lunch: hot‑meal program available; cost varies by selection and is billed separately. PE uniforms (Grades 6–10) are purchased from the school shop. External exam fees (AP/IB) and school trip costs are invoiced separately. Students in Grades 6–12 must provide their own MacBook and backup drive (BYOM requirement). Refunds - Application Fee and Enrollment Fee are non‑refundable. Tuition refunds follow a structured schedule tied to written withdrawal dates (specific refund percentages and conditions apply for withdrawals on or before August 1, between August 1 and the first semester start, on or before December 1, and after December 1). Transportation refunds are prorated minus a handling charge. Outstanding obligations may be deducted from refunds. Accepted Payment Methods - By RMB or USD wire transfer to the school bank account; by RMB or USD debit/credit card direct to the school bank account; or by RMB cash deposit to the school bank account. Payments under RMB 5,000 may be paid in RMB cash at the Finance Office. All fees are set in RMB but may be paid in USD by wire using the Bank of China exchange rate on the school's published date. All bank/processing charges are the payer's responsibility.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements The school is a co-educational day school; boarding is not offered.	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniforms are required for all students from Kindergarten through Grade 12, with PE uniforms for Grades 5-12. Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten students do not wear the uniform; uniforms can be purchased through the school, and size charts and price lists are available.	Uniform requirement Uniforms are required for all students in Grades 6 to 10 who take Physical Education; PE uniforms (a T-shirt and shorts) are available for purchase at the Eagle Shop.
Food options	Food options Food service is provided by Aramark, a global food service company. EC, ES, and MS/HS lunch menus are published for Concordia students.	Food options A hot lunch program is provided on both campuses, with prices varying based on the items purchased.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The Concordia Board governs Concordia International School Shanghai. The Board establishes the mission and sets policies, and entrusts the educational program and business matters to the administration, faculty, and staff.	Governance and ownership Shanghai American School is a not-for-profit, not-owned international school with two campuses.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Concordia delivers an American-style continuum from Preschool through Grade 12: the Early Childhood program (Preschool–K) is Reggio Emilia–inspired and integrates literacy, math, science, social-emotional learning and the arts with Mandarin and English-language support. The Elementary School (Grades 1–5) follows U.S. standards—Common Core for math and literacy, NGSS for science, C3 for social studies—and uses resources such as Bridges in Mathematics alongside daily Mandarin and balanced literacy instruction. Middle School (Grades 6–8) follows an American curriculum with an international focus; students study nine subject areas each year: Mathematics, Science, English, Social Studies, Physical Education, World Language, STEM, RSB and the Fine Arts. High School (Grades 9–12) requires a U.S.-style core (English, social studies, science, math, world language, fine arts, health, PE and spirituality) and offers Advanced Placement courses, Applied Learning pathways and Global Online Academy options; students meet defined credit-based graduation requirements to earn a Concordia high school diploma. Across all divisions the school embeds STEM, applied-learning, service, counseling and learning-support programs alongside extracurriculars and specialist arts instruction.	Curriculum details Shanghai American School's early childhood program (Pre‑K) follows a play‑based, Reggio Emilia–influenced model with on‑site ateliers for hands‑on exploration. The elementary program (K–5) is an American‑style curriculum emphasizing literacy across the curriculum, a conceptual approach to mathematics, science, social studies, arts, physical education and languages. Middle school (Grades 6–8) uses inquiry‑based and conceptual learning in core subjects while offering exploratory courses (design technology, theater, global languages, etc.) to prepare students for high school. High school (Grades 9–12) culminates in a U.S. high‑school diploma (minimum 24 credits with specified credit requirements by subject) and offers multiple qualification pathways: Advanced Placement (including AP Capstone), the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, or a hybrid combination of AP and IB courses. Detailed grade‑level course lists, graduation requirements, and the IB policy manual are published in the school's course catalogs and resources on the SAS website.
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 —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning Concordia describes a P–12 counselling and guidance programme that delivers social–emotional learning through classroom, small-group and individual sessions, and trains Student Ambassadors to welcome and support new students. The Early Childhood/Kindergarten guidance programme uses the Second Step curriculum for explicit SEL instruction (skills for learning, empathy, emotion management and problem solving). The high school has also recently revised its advisory programme to emphasise SEL at the grade‑level advisory level. Counselors work with teachers and parents to support transitions and adjustment, and confidentiality is stated as a priority in counselling.	Social & emotional learning SAS describes a schoolwide counseling programme that provides a safe, supportive space for students to develop social‑emotional skills and to navigate transitions (elementary page). School communications and staff lists also highlight dedicated counselors and counselling teams across divisions (middle and high school), indicating counsellors work with students on resilience, voice, and wellbeing. The school uses student‑led initiatives and community supports (student ambassadors, PTSA newcomers committee) to help students settle and build peer connections.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Concordia publishes a Learning Support Program (LSP) that is delivered by Learning Support (LS) Specialists who co‑plan with classroom teachers and provide interventions, accommodations and monitoring. The LSP states the school can support a limited number of students with mild and some moderate learning needs and uses a referral process for admission and exit. The school describes collaborative planning between LS Specialists, classroom teachers and parents as the primary model of support. Concordia does not present itself as a specialist SEN institution; its published materials indicate mainstream inclusion with targeted support for qualifying students.	Special educational needs (SEN) SAS publishes staff and stories that include Learning Support teachers and teaching assistants, showing the school has an internal learning‑support provision. The website does not set out a public list of specific types of special educational needs the school will support, nor does it declare on its public pages that it is a specialist SEN institution; detailed eligibility and scope are not described online. Therefore, families seeking exact information about the range or level of SEN provision are advised to contact Admissions or Student Services directly for formal guidance.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language Concordia publishes an English Language Learning (ELL) programme that uses WIDA assessment for identification, employs ELL Specialists to provide language scaffolds and co‑teaching, and offers English Language Development (ELD) courses for middle and high school students. The ELL page explains exit criteria (WIDA scores, classroom tasks and academic progress) and emphasises home‑school partnership and ongoing monitoring.	English as an additional language SAS states that non‑native English‑speaking applicants (Grade 1 and up) may be given a WIDA Screener/WIDA assessment during admissions to determine EAL support needs, and that spaces for such support are limited. The school's staffing pages and news posts also reference EAL teachers and EAL roles within the division teams. Library and learning resources list materials for English‑language learners (e.g., BrainPOP for English Language Learners), suggesting curriculum‑adjacent resources are available.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Concordia's published support for student mental wellbeing is delivered through its P–12 counselling team, which runs whole‑school, small‑group and individual work and operates a Care and Concern team to monitor social and academic adjustment. The School Health & Safety page notes on‑site registered nurses and explicitly states counselling staff provide support for emotional and stress‑related difficulties. The school has published a Middle School Wellness programme addressing six dimensions of wellness (spiritual, intellectual, occupational, physical, social and emotional).	Mental wellbeing SAS describes multiple layers of mental‑wellbeing support: a divisional counselling programme, school counsellors in each division, and curricular/extra‑curricular activities that promote student wellbeing. The school also highlights wellness‑focused professional learning and events (for example, wellness themes in conferences and staff development) and lists athletic trainers and nursing staff who operate as part of health and wellbeing provision on campus. For clinical or specialist mental‑health services the website advises families to contact the school directly for specifics and referral processes.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Concordia's website indicates child safeguarding is part of its counselling and staff training work: the counselling team runs a Care and Concern group and the school has hosted professional events that included sessions on child safeguarding, reporting protocols and staff training. The School Health & Safety page also refers to emotional health and the role of counselling staff in supporting students. However, the school does not publish a standalone child‑protection policy document accessible from its public website pages that we could locate; a formal, dedicated child protection policy is not publicly disclosed on the site.	Safeguarding SAS publishes a Child Protection Policy framework and states that all faculty and staff undertake annual child‑safeguarding training; the school says it adheres to international standards and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child alongside local law. The site also notes safer‑recruitment practices (background checks and reference checks), a full‑time risk manager, 24/7 campus security, divisional nurses, a dedicated athletic trainer, and medical coverage for school events.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The Concordia campus is purpose-built and environmentally sustainable, designed to support learning, play, and artistic development. The campus uses geothermal heating and cooling, reducing energy costs and environmental impact, and rooftop space is used for horticultural education. Spaces are available for High School, Middle School, and Elementary School students to use during and after school for training and play. The Phoenix Center houses maker labs, a drama room, and a gym to support hands-on learning and physical development. The Rittmann Center for the Fine Arts includes a 300-seat theater, music rehearsal rooms, studios for 2D/3D art and photography, and a gallery; the center is being redeveloped starting June 2025 to add a swimming pool and other modern spaces. The FIFA-certified soccer pitch on campus supports training and competition.	Facilities overview Shanghai American School has two PreK–12 campuses in Shanghai, Pudong and Puxi. The campuses are built with university-level facilities to support collaboration and innovation. Both campuses feature an aquatic center, a performing arts center, green screen rooms, a recording studio, baseball and softball fields, a track, and multiple libraries. There are teaching kitchens, design studios and maker spaces, plus flexible classrooms designed to foster interdisciplinary work. The libraries provide English- and Chinese-language collections for students, parents and teachers.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The Phoenix Center includes a gym for indoor physical education and activities. The FIFA-certified soccer pitch on campus provides an international-standard venue for training and matches. Outdoor spaces on campus support training and competition across divisions. Concordia joined the Asia Pacific Activities Conference (APAC) to expand opportunities for regional athletic competition.	Sports facilities The campuses include an aquatic center, baseball field, softball field, track, and extensive playing fields. These facilities support the school's athletics program and physical education for PreK–12 students.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Maker labs are available in the Phoenix Center for hands-on learning, along with a drama room and a gym. The Rittmann Center for the Fine Arts contains a 300-seat theater, music rehearsal rooms, and multiple art studios and a gallery. The campus provides a STEM room for science, technology, engineering, and math learning, and a culinary art lab to support applied learning. Redevelopment of the Rittmann Center began in June 2025 to add a swimming pool and modern spaces for arts and activities.	Academic facilities Maker spaces and 25-meter pools are part of SAS's facilities. Laboratories support science education across divisions. There are middle school game areas. Design studios and other spaces support interdisciplinary learning. The libraries house English- and Chinese-language collections.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Concordia's Extracurricular Program includes activities, sports, and clubs that run parallel to the curriculum. Extracurricular activities are organized into Exploration, Fine Arts, Literacy, Service & Leadership, Sports & Movement, and STEM. The program offers 60 EC Extracurriculars for Early Childhood, 250 for Elementary School, 140 for Middle School, and 160 for High School. The Concordia Theatre program provides two high school productions and one middle school production each year, with an elementary musical produced annually. The school also participates in competitions such as the ASDAN International STEM Challenges.	Extra curricular facilities Shanghai American School offers a broad range of student clubs and after-school activities. The programs include athletic and arts activities in addition to other clubs.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History A group of U.S. individuals—backed by multinational corporations, American expatriates, U.S. foreign-service personnel and the People's Republic of China—began planning the school in 1997. Educators from Hong Kong International School were sent to Pudong and Concordia opened in September 1998. The school began under Head of School Dr. Allan Schmidt with 22 students and 14 staff. Concordia was founded in the tradition of LCMS schools, maintains formal connections with sister schools (Hong Kong International School and Concordia International School Hanoi), and operates independently in China rather than as part of other Concordia groups.	History Shanghai American School opened on September 17, 1912, beginning with 38 day and boarding students in a Victorian residence on North Sichuan Road. Its founding was organized by American missionary and expatriate communities to provide an American-style schooling option in Shanghai. Over the 20th century the school expanded, moved into purpose-built facilities and later evolved into a non-profit institution operating two campuses. The school's website maintains a detailed timeline that traces its growth, closures, relocations and re-openings alongside Shanghai's changing social and political context.
Community	Community Concordia's community is internationally diverse, with families representing more than 30 nationalities. Parents and staff engage through an active Parent Support Organization and regular school communications; typical community occasions organized or supported by parents include Back-to-School events, an International Festival and an annual Christmas Bazaar. The school also highlights student-led service and applied-learning projects—most recently the student social enterprise Xiaohusai, which earned external recognition—showing community engagement extends beyond on-campus events.	Community The SAS community includes students, families, faculty, staff, alumni and parent volunteers who participate in year‑round activities and traditions. Annual gatherings—Friday Night Lights and Community Day, campus Carnivals, and International Fairs—bring together the Pudong and Puxi campuses and attract broad volunteer and sponsorship support. Parent-run Booster Clubs and the PTSA support teams, performances and large events, and the school often uses livestreams and school channels to share activities with the wider community.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association All parents of enrolled students are automatically members of Concordia's Parent Support Organization (PSO). The PSO provides leadership opportunities (PSO Board positions) and plans major community events such as the Back-to-School Bash, International Festival and the Christmas Bazaar. It coordinates volunteer-run committees and sales—examples include Used Book Sales, Treat Sales and Used Uniform Sales—that both build community and raise funds. The volunteer-run Phoenix Shop, created by five parents in 2006, operates on campus to sell Concordia spirit wear and is staffed by parent volunteers during lunch and after school. The school runs parent meetings, Parent Connect sessions and parenting workshops (with recent meetings held via Teams), giving parents ways to connect, volunteer and access resources. The PSO also raises funds to support yearly activities and the PSO Program Grant that funds school projects and programs.	Parent teacher association The Parent, Teacher, Student Association (PTSA) is presented on the school site as a central organizing body that helps connect families and coordinate community programming. The PTSA organizes and supports signature events such as the Spring Carnival, International Fair, Winter Carnival, Teacher Appreciation Luncheon, the Chinese New Year Temple Fair and the senior breakfast. It also runs a newcomers committee and parent socials to help newly arrived families settle in and build peer networks. For large campus events, PTSA volunteers collaborate with student performers, parent volunteers and external sponsors to staff booths, manage entertainment and handle fundraising components. Booster Clubs work alongside the PTSA by focusing on game‑day support and cheering for athletic and performing arts teams. Details about PTSA committees, volunteer sign-ups and event calendars are published through the school's family portals and news stories.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Concordia International School Shanghai uses an American‑style curriculum that blends core subjects with Advanced Placement (AP) courses and Applied Learning experiences. The high school program parallels U.S. standards and includes English, Social Studies, Science, Mathematics, World Language, Fine Arts, Health, Physical Education, and Spirituality, with an AP Curriculum and Applied Learning opportunities. The school has a strong STEM program, including a school‑wide robotics initiative and recognition for STEM achievements. English is the primary language of instruction, and Mandarin is taught across grades with daily Mandarin lessons and two pathways in Mandarin study.	Academic & intellectual Between the two campuses, there are well over 100 after-school activities and student-led clubs. Options include computer programming, science experiments, Model United Nations, coding, photography, and VEX robotics. Scholarly clubs such as math and poetry are also available, with student-led initiative and mentorship.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Fine Arts offerings include Visual Arts, Music, Choir, and Theatre. Fine Arts are integrated into the curriculum and supported as part of the overall student experience.	Arts & creative Shanghai American School's performing arts program explores music, theatre, and dance, with opportunities to collaborate internationally and join honor societies such as Tri-M and Thespians. The program supports student performances and creative expression across campuses. APAC-style events also provide avenues for choir, dance, band, theatre, and orchestra participation.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Mandarin is offered from Preschool through Grade 12, with two pathways: Chinese Language & Literature and Mandarin as a Foreign Language. Elementary students have daily Mandarin lessons, with a program that emphasizes language immersion, culture, and literacy. The Mandarin program fosters cultural awareness, identity, and critical thinking through language study.	Cultural & language Model United Nations is among the clubs, offering opportunities to practice diplomacy and research skills. Cultural immersion activities include traditional Chinese games such as mahjong.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Concordia supports a broad range of extracurricular activities across academics, arts, and sports. National History Day (NHD), CISSMUN, and VEX Robotics are among the activities that engage students and build collaborative skills. Students also participate in APAC Championships and other interscholastic competitions.	Social & hobbies There is a vibrant club scene with over 140 clubs reflecting student interests, including film, origami, manga, photography, and gaming/e-sports. Clubs are student-led and mentored, with leadership oversight by the Student Council. Students can propose and start new clubs to match their passions.
Community & service	Community & service Xiaohusai is a student‑run social enterprise that sources fair‑trade tea from Yunnan farmers to fund scholarships and education initiatives. Xiaohusai earned the International School Award 2025 for its community impact. The school emphasizes service via projects such as gifts for migrant children and educational partnerships abroad.	Community & service Service clubs organize volunteering and community service initiatives. One example is clubs that bring sports to the children of migrant workers in China.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional The AP Curriculum is complemented by Applied Learning courses that extend beyond AP content and support leadership and professional skill development. College counseling offers guidance and preparation for university admissions. Student‑led initiatives, including Xiaohusai, provide hands‑on leadership, entrepreneurship, and teamwork opportunities.	Leadership & professional Clubs are professionally mentored and student-led, offering leadership development and opportunities to build professional skills. The Student Council oversees clubs and supports charter renewals.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellness is integrated through the Middle School Wellness program, which addresses six dimensions of wellness: spiritual, intellectual, occupational, physical, social, and emotional. The curriculum includes Health and Physical Education as core components. Sports, fitness, and mindfulness opportunities are emphasized through the extracurricular and athletic programs.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sports are a major component of well-being, with 13 sports offered on each campus. The aquatics program includes two 25-meter pools and cross-divisional participation, with SAS competing in APAC events.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision Mandarin is taught as part of the curriculum through a Mandarin Program. An English Language Learning (ELL) Program provides individualized language support across all divisions to help students access the curriculum. ELL includes English Language Development (ELD) courses in Middle School and High School. The curriculum is an American-style program aligned across Early Childhood through High School.	Language provision Languages taught include Chinese, French, and Spanish. Other languages are available through self-study options.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs Cultural immersion in Chinese language begins in Early Childhood Education. Students immerse themselves in the Chinese language from the start, and the Chinese program is more than language, fostering cross-cultural connections.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards (Only items explicitly shown on the school website and awarded to the school or a school division; dates are the dates shown on the site.) • ITEEA STEM School of Excellence, ITEEA 2024–25 — Concordia reports it was named an ITEEA 2024–25 STEM School of Excellence (the only K–12 school in Asia to receive the recognition); this is a program-level recognition from the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association that highlights the school's integrative STEM program work. (Jan 16, 2025). • China International School Innovative Competitiveness Top 50 (KingLead Research) — Concordia reports being ranked No. 2 in the national Top 50 (category: schools for children of foreign personnel) and No. 1 in Shanghai in KingLead's list; this is a national-level innovation competitiveness ranking reported by the school. (Newsroom post dated Mar 4, 2024). • Shortlisted / Top 10 (World's Best Schools Prizes) — the school reports being shortlisted as a Top 10 school in the "Supporting Healthy Lives" category of the World's Best Schools Prizes (T4 Education / World's Best Schools); the site describes this as a Top 10 shortlist for the school's wellness work. (Page referencing shortlist dated Aug 15, 2024). • Education Insights — Top 10 Most Valuable Schools in Asia (2023) — Concordia's website states the school was featured in Education Insights' list of the Top 10 Most Valuable Schools in Asia for 2023 and includes a school media interview reference; this is a third-party recognition noted on the school site. (Listed on the school homepage/newsfeed). • Newsweek / Education Insight coverage (Leading International Schools, 2023) — the school's homepage/newsfeed references being named in Newsweek Education Insight's coverage of leading international schools in 2023; the site presents this as a media recognition included in the school's public recognitions. • KingLead China International Kindergarten Ranking — Early Childhood division ranked 2nd nationwide (KingLead China International Kindergarten Ranking Top 30) — the school reports its Early Childhood division ranked No. 2 in China and No. 1 in Shanghai in the KingLead kindergarten ranking. (Newsroom post dated Jun 21, 2025). Notes: - I excluded awards and recognitions that the school's site attributes specifically to individual students or student groups rather than to the school as an institution (for example the site's item about a student-run social enterprise winning the International School Award names the enterprise/students as the recipient; per your instruction that is not to be included). - All items above were taken from the Concordia International School Shanghai website (English and Chinese pages on the concordiashanghai.org domain). If you'd like, I can expand any entry with the exact site paragraph or provide direct links to the specific news posts or pages cited above.	Awards Only awards and recognitions explicitly described on the SAS website and awarded to the school itself in the past five years (2021–2025): 1) Named #1 High School in China by Forbes China (published on SAS site Aug 14, 2025) — SAS's story on the site reports that the school's high school program placed first in the 2025 Forbes China International School Rankings; the item is presented as a school-level ranking. 2) Ranked #1 International School in Shanghai by Hurun Education (published on SAS site Sep 2, 2025) — the SAS site reports it was ranked #1 for foreign passport holders in Shanghai in the 2025 Hurun Education Top International Schools in China ranking. The same story also notes SAS earned a place on the HSBC Hurun Education Global High Schools 2025 list. These items are presented on the school site as recognitions received by the school. Note: I included only awards or recognitions that are described on SAS's own website and that are clearly attributed to the school (not to individual students or teams). If you'd like, I can also check other publicly available sources for additional recognitions and provide dates and source links.
Accreditations	Accreditations • Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) — WASC is a US-based regional accrediting agency; the school states it completed its third seven-year WASC accreditation cycle in June 2022 (this confirms an ongoing formal review of school-wide quality and continuous improvement). • National Lutheran School Accreditation (NLSA) — NLSA is the accreditation commission for schools of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod; Concordia notes NLSA accreditation as part of its faith-based school accreditation and continuous-improvement process. • Approved by the People's Republic of China Ministry of Education and the Shanghai Municipal Education Commission — the school's about page states that it is approved by these local authorities to operate as an international school for children of foreign passport holders in Shanghai (this is a regulatory approval required to operate in China).	Accreditations 1) Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) — WASC is a U.S.-based regional accrediting body that evaluates K–12 schools against standards for school improvement, governance and student learning; SAS's history page and site footer note WASC accreditation for the school. 2) International Baccalaureate (IB) — SAS is an IB World School authorized to deliver the IB Diploma Programme; IB authorization indicates the school meets the IB Organisation's requirements for curriculum, teacher preparation and assessment practices. (SAS references its IB programme across its academic pages and in site affiliations.)
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Check eligibility and required government documents. Before you begin the online application, confirm your family meets Shanghai Municipal Education Commission (SHMEC) eligibility categories and that you can provide the required government documents (passports, residence permits, work permit/employment verification, birth certificate, etc.). Concordia requires at least one parent to be resident in Shanghai while the child is enrolled; failure to maintain required documents can lead to dismissal and forfeiture of fees, so gather certified/translated copies now. 2. Start the online application (OpenApply) and pay the application fee. Eligible applicants must complete the school's online application portal (concordiashanghai.openapply.cn) and upload initial documents; after submission you will receive a customized checklist in your applicant account. The application fee is paid through that process (the site lists a non-refundable application fee); keep the payment receipt and note the portal account login for future checklist items. 3. Upload supporting academic records, recommendations and any learning-needs documentation. The admissions checklist asks for previous report cards, test results, and teacher recommendations; if your child has diagnosed learning needs or specialized schooling requirements, include full documentation and disclose these up front because admissions decisions are made case-by-case based on available support. Concordia states that failure to disclose a full history of learning needs can result in dismissal, so be thorough and contact Admissions to discuss any supports your child may require. 4. Prepare for interviews and assessments (if required). Depending on grade level and the initial application review, Concordia may request an interview and/or English-language and academic assessments (math, reading comprehension, vocabulary, writing, etc.); Preschool/Pre-K have different language expectations than Kindergarten–Grade 12. If the grade has reached wait-pool status, the school notes that required assessments may be scheduled only when space becomes available, so ask Admissions about timing if you need a prompt assessment. 5. Receive the admissions decision and complete acceptance steps. The admissions committee evaluates academic/behavioral records, English proficiency, support needs and overall fit; the school will notify families of decisions by email. If you receive an offer, a non-refundable Capital Fee (listed on the tuition page) is billed upon acceptance and generally must be paid within the timeline provided in the offer to secure the place. 6. Complete enrollment paperwork, payments and operational arrangements. After acceptance, follow the Enrollment instructions (submit any outstanding SHMEC documents, arrange tuition payment in RMB or USD per the school's payment instructions, and be aware of one-time fees: ELL support fee where applicable, and laptop requirements for Grades 6–12). Also arrange optional services (bus, lunch, uniforms) and confirm start-of-term logistics; if you have questions about billing or currency conversion, contact the Business Office or Admissions directly.	Admissions 1. Submit the application online. Create or sign in to an OpenApply account, complete the student and parent sections, and submit the form. The “Grade Applying for” is automatically filled from your child's date of birth; if you want a different grade, use the “Requested Grade Level” field and explain why. After submission you'll receive an automated confirmation email and an Admissions team member will contact you within five business days. 2. Upload required documents and pay the application fee. After applying you'll get a checklist in your OpenApply account showing required documents (school reports, government documents and confidential recommendations) and instructions for how to submit them. The application invoice is usually raised within three to five business days; the non‑refundable application fee is listed on the school's fees page and must be paid before the Admission Committee evaluates the file. The Admissions team will let you know if any documents are missing or don't meet the requirements. 3. Application marked complete once paperwork and fee are received. When all required documents and the application fee are received the school marks the application as complete and the Admissions team will confirm the status and outline next steps. Keep copies of submitted school reports and the confidential recommendation contacts—SAS sends recommendation requests directly to the current school for grades and teachers specified in the checklist. Applications are not considered complete until all eligibility documents (including government/visa paperwork where required) are on file. 4. Interview and academic/English assessments (as required). Selected applicants (and parents) are invited to assessments and/or interviews; the exact format depends on grade level and the candidate's background. For families in Shanghai assessments are on campus and must take place during school hours (sessions can take up to four hours); overseas applicants may be assessed online. Non‑native English speakers (Grade 1 and up) may be given a WIDA screener to assess English proficiency—spaces for language support are limited, so strong English results influence placement. 5. Admissions review and placement in the wait pool. The Admissions Committee reviews applications holistically—considering academic potential, English proficiency, social/emotional development and family alignment with SAS's mission. Qualified applications are placed into a wait pool rather than being offered on a strict first‑come, first‑served basis; qualified applicants are then considered in rounds when seats become available. If the school determines it cannot support a student's individual needs or if the applicant pool is unusually strong relative to seats, the application may be closed. 6. Decision rounds and updates. SAS uses scheduled decision rounds (and rolling/adhoc updates) for each admissions cycle; the Admissions site lists the round dates and when families can expect an update for the 2026–27 cycle. Possible outcomes include an enrollment offer, placement in or continuation in the wait pool, remaining under consideration for further evaluation, or application closure. Because seat availability and applicant volumes vary by grade and campus, timelines can shift; the Admissions team will inform families if processing is delayed. 7. If offered: accept and complete enrollment requirements (deadlines and fees). If you accept an offer you'll be invoiced for the one‑time entry fee (for new entrants), the non‑refundable enrollment fee to secure the place, and the annual tuition per the published Schedule of Fees. Enrollment fees and payment deadlines are specific: returning students' enrollment fee is due by April 1 of the year prior to the school year; for newly admitted students the enrollment fee is due within five working days of the invoice due date. Read the tuition and refund policy carefully (refund rules vary depending on withdrawal date) and follow the stated methods of payment. 8. Campus selection, transfers and practical notes. Families choose Pudong, Puxi, or Two‑Campus consideration on the application; if you request Two‑Campus consideration you may be offered a place at either campus depending on seat availability. If an offered seat is at one campus and you request a campus change after an offer is made, your child may be returned to the wait pool (placement not guaranteed). Once enrolled, students are expected to attend their original campus for two years before a campus transfer is considered, and transfers are not guaranteed—factor commuting, housing and sibling/transport arrangements into your campus choice.
Scholarships	Scholarships Concordia's public website does not list a general family-facing scholarship or means-tested financial-aid program for incoming students. The site does show the Concordia Fund (a donor program that supports student/faculty enrichment projects) and describes employee tuition benefits for faculty children under specific employment arrangements, but it does not present an open scholarship application process or standard tuition-remission program for the general applicant pool. If you are seeking fee assistance, sponsored places, or employee-related tuition benefits, contact the Admissions or Human Resources offices directly to ask whether any limited-sponsored places, staff benefits, or special arrangements might apply in your case — contact details are provided on the school's contact page.	Scholarships Shanghai American School's public materials (admissions and tuition pages) do not advertise a general student scholarship or means‑tested financial aid program for external applicants. The school's published benefit information does show an internal tuition assistance benefit (Eagle Assistance Tuition Assistance) available to employees (one tuition assistance benefit per employed teacher/administrator as part of staff benefit packages). If you are seeking fee‑reduction, special considerations, or exceptions, SAS advises contacting the Admissions or Finance offices directly—these are handled case‑by‑case and are not described as an open scholarship program on the website. If you'd like, I can draft an email template you can send to admissions or finance to ask about any available assistance or special arrangements.
Waitlist	Waitlist Concordia operates a wait pool system rather than an automatic long public waitlist for grades that have reached capacity. The school's Admissions/Requirements pages flag specific grade levels as being at “wait pool” status and state that, when capacity is reached, applicants are placed in the wait pool rather than being immediately assessed or placed. Priority consideration within the wait pool is not an automatic placement; Concordia lists priority factors used when choosing among wait-pool applicants: siblings currently enrolled or applying, returning students in good standing, stronger academic English proficiency, and students with prior attendance at U.S. or American international schools. The site also explicitly notes that if a requested grade is at wait-pool status and an applicant requires an assessment, the assessment will be scheduled only if and when space becomes available — so families on the wait pool should expect possible delays to assessment and placement and should keep Admissions informed of any changes in status.	Waitlist Shanghai American School does not operate a simple first‑come, first‑served waitlist; instead it uses a qualitative “wait pool.” Qualified applicants who are not immediately offered a seat are placed into this wait pool and considered alongside other qualified candidates in scheduled decision rounds and on a rolling basis. The Admissions Committee reviews the pool in rounds (round dates and expected update windows are published for each admissions cycle) and issues outcomes that include offers, continued wait‑pool placement, requests for additional evaluation, or application closure. The school notes that priority consideration (not automatic placement) may be given in cases such as U.S. and other foreign citizens, applicants with international schooling backgrounds, stronger English proficiency, siblings already at SAS, and returning students in good standing; admissions also balance multilingual learner needs and cohort diversity when filling seats. For current seat availability and advice about applying outside the main cycle, SAS asks families to contact admissions directly because seats are often very limited.
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