Harrow International School Shanghai vs Shanghai American School

	H Harrow International School Shanghai Shanghai, China	S Shanghai American School Shanghai, China
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year RMB 273,800 - 385,300	Fees / year RMB 246,000 - 304,100
Age range	Age range 1½ - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels, Advanced Placement (AP)	Curriculum Reggio Emilia Approach, IB (DP), Advanced Placement (AP)
Pupils	Pupils 450	Pupils 2,900
Typical class size	Typical class size 22	Typical class size 18
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2016	Opened 1912
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Harrow International School Shanghai is located in Pudong New Area at No. 588 Gaoxi Road, Shanghai (east of the Huangpu River). The school website gives the full address and a ‘How to find us' / map link for visitors; it is reachable by Shanghai's road network and by the school's dedicated bus routes.	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 pupils aged 18 months to 18 years and is organised into Early Years, Pre-Prep, Prep, Senior and Sixth Form phases (Early Years 1.5–5; Pre-Prep 5–9; Prep 9–13; Senior 13–16; Sixth Form 16–18).	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 Harrow Shanghai is a co-educational international day school for ages 18 months–18 years; the school's public pages describe the Harrow curriculum and pupil age range but do not advertise on-site boarding facilities.	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 The school runs an Academic Support programme that includes English as an Additional Language (EAL) provision and a Learning Support department for students with mild or time-limited learning needs; support is described as bespoke and coordinated with parents. The site also lists a named SENCO and related policies (e.g., SEND policy).	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 Harrow Shanghai is part of the Harrow family of schools and its curriculum is rooted in the English National Curriculum — the school describes itself as connected to the Harrow (UK) tradition.	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 The school does not state any religious affiliation on its public information pages; its materials focus on a British international curriculum and school values rather than a faith designation.	Religious affiliation SAS is non‑sectarian and does not have a religious affiliation.
School day structure	School day structure The school follows an academic calendar with term dates and a published school calendar; lessons are organised into the usual taught day with breaks and a lunchtime (school-provided lunch is offered). Exact start/end times and break times are set by year group and are published in the school calendar or provided by Admissions on request.	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 An optional school-bus service is available and run for many residential areas in Shanghai; the school names Peixing as a regular transport provider, notes that each bus carries an escort, and that parents of Early Years pupils must provide car seats if they use the bus. Routes and stops change each term to accommodate parents' requests. Bus fees and distance rules are listed on the fees page (service is optional and priced separately).	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 - A non-refundable, non-transferable application fee of RMB 3,000 is charged for each application. Resources fee - A refundable Resources Fee of RMB 25,000 is payable after acceptance and is held by the school for the duration of the pupil's enrolment. It is non‑interest bearing and will be refunded in RMB when the pupil leaves, subject to deduction against any outstanding sums or costs (for example outstanding tuition, exchange losses, charges for academic materials, transport, lost or unreturned books/equipment, courier fees). Tuition fees (per year group) — amounts shown as Annual / Autumn term / Spring term / Summer term - Cubs & Pre‑Nursery: RMB 273,800 / RMB 113,480 / RMB 85,110 / RMB 85,110. - Nursery & Reception: RMB 282,400 / RMB 117,040 / RMB 87,780 / RMB 87,780. - Year 1 – Year 5: RMB 328,600 / RMB 136,200 / RMB 102,150 / RMB 102,150. - Year 6: RMB 335,500 / RMB 139,070 / RMB 104,300 / RMB 104,300. - Year 7 – Year 9: RMB 358,500 / RMB 148,590 / RMB 111,450 / RMB 111,450. - Year 10: RMB 384,800 / RMB 159,500 / RMB 119,620 / RMB 119,620. - Year 11: RMB 384,800 / RMB 159,500 / RMB 119,620 / RMB 119,620. - Year 12: RMB 385,300 / RMB 159,710 / RMB 119,790 / RMB 119,790. - Year 13: RMB 385,300 (no termly payment option). - Annual payment is available only where the full annual tuition is prepaid by the school's specified prepayment date. Sibling discount - 2nd child: N/A; 3rd child: 5%; 4th child: 10%; 5th and subsequent child: 15%. Transport and catering - School bus (optional, within 30 km): RMB 22,670 per year or RMB 9,070 (Autumn) / RMB 6,800 (Spring) / RMB 6,800 (Summer). Lunch: RMB 8,100 per year (approx RMB 45 per day for lunch + two snacks). Catering provided by Sodexo; payment may be annual, termly or via top‑ups. Boarding - No boarding fees are listed (the school does not list a boarding provision or boarding charges on its fees page). Billing schedule, payment terms and methods - Payment may be made by bank transfer (RMB or USD) or by cash in RMB. For bank transfers, provide a copy of the remittance with pupil name and year group to the finance office. The school uses the official Bank of China middle rate for foreign‑currency transfers; any shortfall must be covered on demand or carried forward to the next invoice. Bank account details (RMB account) are provided by the school for payments. Late payment, withdrawal and refunds - Late payment: administration charge of RMB 2,500 plus interest at 1.5% per month on overdue balances; all administration and legal costs for recovery are payable by the parent/guardian. Withdrawal requires one term's written notice or a term's fees in lieu of notice. On timely withdrawal, the Resources Fee and any surplus funds will be refunded after outstanding amounts are settled and required documentation is returned. The school publishes a withdrawal/refund schedule with notification cut‑offs that determine termly tuition and bus refunds. Refunds of tuition are made after return of the Official Tax Receipt (Fapiao); refund of the Resources Fee requires an approved leaver form.	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 —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniform includes a dark blue blazer (Bluer) and grey trousers (Greyers); a Harrow hat is worn as part of the uniform.	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 options A hot lunch program is provided on both campuses, with prices varying based on the items purchased.
House system	House system The school has a House System divided into four Houses, with a House and tutor system that supports academic progress and inter-house competitions.	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is governed by Asia International School Limited; the Chair of Governors is Dr Rosanna Wong.	Governance and ownership Shanghai American School is a not-for-profit, not-owned international school with two campuses.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Harrow International School Shanghai bases its programme on the English National Curriculum, combining an examined strand (preparation for public exams) with a broader non‑examined curriculum for wider skills and enrichment. Early Years (18 months–5 years) follow a bespoke early years programme with dedicated facilities, moving into Pre‑Prep (ages 5–9) and Prep (9–13) which build knowledge and skills toward the Senior curriculum. The Senior School (ages 13–16) delivers IGCSE courses, normally taken in Years 10–11, and the Sixth Form (ages 16–18) runs a two‑year A‑Level programme (AS in Year 12, A‑Level in Year 13) with students typically studying three to four subjects. Mandarin is taught as a core language from Pre‑Nursery to Year 9 and becomes elective in Upper School with IGCSE and AS/A‑Level pathways available. The school also provides specialist music and drama lessons, performing and creative arts, and a broad extra‑curricular activities programme to complement formal qualifications.	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 Harrow Shanghai places SEL within its pastoral care structures, centred on a House and tutor system where each pupil belongs to a tutor group and meets their tutor daily; the Senior Housemaster leads wellbeing provision and oversight. The school describes tutor groups and the House system as the primary mechanism for monitoring and supporting students' personal development and character education. Wellbeing activities are delivered through the school's PSHE programme and targeted initiatives such as talks and themed weeks that cover topics like mental wellbeing, sleep hygiene and stress management. The website also highlights school-wide events (for example, Free Thinking/identity weeks and expeditions) that provide opportunities for reflection, collaboration and leadership.	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) Harrow Shanghai's Learning Support department provides targeted, bespoke interventions for students with mild learning challenges and for those who need curriculum adaptation or subject-specific support to reach their potential. The school says support is time-limited and designed to address specific gaps so students can access the mainstream curriculum; differentiation in class is also identified as a routine practice. The learning support descriptions cover students who display barriers to learning as well as those with higher-than-average aptitude needing extension. The school's published materials do not identify it as a specialist SEN institution; the online information focuses on in-school learning support rather than specialist external placements.	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 Harrow Shanghai publishes an English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme that offers bespoke language support for non-native English speakers with limited English, combining academic and pastoral support to help pupils integrate into mainstream British-style classes. The programme's stated aims include teaching all aspects of English, providing subject-specific support, helping students work independently in mainstream classrooms, and supporting staff with EAL best practice. The school describes EAL provision as individualised so pupils can progress at their own pace until they have the classroom language and confidence required to join mainstream lessons.	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 The school's wellbeing provision is managed through its pastoral structures and led at a senior level (Senior Housemaster), with the PSHE programme explicitly covering mental wellbeing topics and initiatives such as stress management and sleep hygiene. Harrow Shanghai also runs wider programmes and school events intended to build resilience and self-reflection (for example themed weeks and expeditions). Additionally, the school operates an on-site Clinic staffed for first aid and student health needs, and it publishes clinic opening hours and procedures for when a student becomes unwell. Together these elements are presented as part of the school's approach to promoting a safe and supportive environment for student wellbeing.	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 Harrow Shanghai states a clear commitment to child protection on its website and publishes its child protection page with named Designated Safeguarding Officers and a contact email for concerns (troundell@harrowshanghai.cn). The school requires staff and visitors to comply with its child protection and safeguarding policies and notes that all adults undergo safeguarding checks as part of recruitment processes. The published pages describe training, supervision, and guidance for staff to identify and respond to concerns, and direct parents to the appropriate safeguarding contacts within each school section. For more detail the school's child protection page lists named officers and contact routes.	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 school has a purpose-built campus in Waigaoqiao, Pudong. The Early Years area is in its own wing with dedicated play spaces. Upper School facilities include state-of-the-art classrooms, science laboratories, ICT suites and art studios. The sports complex features a double-sized indoor sports hall for eight sports, a rooftop running track, a 25-metre swimming pool, a gym and floodlit football and rugby pitches. The school has a modern music and drama complex with practice rooms, a Black Box and a lecture theatre, and the Simon Armitage Library occupies two levels with a multi-media centre.	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 school has a double-sized indoor sports hall that accommodates eight sports. It has a rooftop running track, a multi-purpose playground, a 25-metre swimming pool and a gym. Floodlit football and rugby pitches are available on site. Nearby facilities include additional pitches and water sports such as rowing, dinghy-sailing and dragon boats, as well as tennis and golf.	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 The school has state-of-the-art classrooms, science laboratories, ICT suites and art studios. The Early Years area has its own wing with dedicated spaces suitable for younger learners. The Simon Armitage Library spans two levels and includes a multi-media centre to support reading, research and independent study. The campus is equipped with an air filtration system and air conditioning designed to maintain good air quality for occupants.	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 The school has a modern music and drama complex with practice rooms, a Black Box and a lecture theatre, supporting performing arts. There are abundant play areas across the campus for informal activities. The Simon Armitage Library provides spaces for independent study and collaborative work through a two-level facility and a multi-media centre. Nearby facilities include additional pitches and water sports opportunities such as rowing, dinghy-sailing and dragon boats, along with tennis and golf in the surrounding area.	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 Harrow International School Shanghai opened in 2016 as part of the Harrow family of schools and is presented on the school website as one of the Harrow campuses established during the group's expansion in Asia. The school links its identity and traditions to Harrow School in the UK and to the wider AISL/AISL Harrow network that manages Harrow-branded schools in the region. Harrow Shanghai's founding and placement within the Harrow network are described on the school's history and main pages. The school's contact and corporate details reference Asia International School Limited as the regional principal/administrative address.	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 The school describes a close-knit community of around 500 pupils from roughly 350 families, many with Chinese cultural heritage, and notes that families are active and supportive participants in school life. Harrow Shanghai runs regular cultural and community events that include seasonal festivals, performances and fairs which engage parents, grandparents and extended family. Several news posts on the site document large community gatherings such as Chinese New Year celebrations and other school-wide fairs.	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 Parent involvement at Harrow Shanghai is channelled through the school's parent/staff community (referred to in event posts as Friends of Harrow). Parents and staff have organised and supported major events such as the Harrow Ball (used as a community social event and charity fundraiser — the inaugural ball page records RMB 135,200 raised for the WILL Foundation) and have performed and contributed at later balls and community evenings. Parent groups are also shown collaborating on cultural events (for example Chinese New Year fairs), student-led fairs and the school's ECA/activities expos, where parents help run stalls, food booths and performances. The school's news pages describe these activities and the fundraising/volunteering roles parents commonly take at Harrow Shanghai.	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 The school serves pupils aged 18 months to 18 years. The school is located at No. 588 Gaoxi Road, Pudong, Shanghai, China 200137. It was founded in 2016 as part of the Harrow family of schools.	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 —	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 The Harrow Curriculum is rooted in the English National Curriculum and includes two strands: an examined curriculum focused on IGCSE and A Levels, and a non-examined component.	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 —	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 —	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 —	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 —	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 The school uses English as the language of instruction and provides English as an Additional Language (EAL) support; CLIL is used to support language development. The school teaches Mandarin as a core language from Pre-Nursery through Year 9; from Year 10 Mandarin is an elective with IGCSE First Language pathway for native speakers, Second Language for intermediate students, and Mandarin Foreign Language for non-native speakers; AS and A-Level Chinese are taught in Years 12-13. The Harrow Curriculum is rooted in the English National Curriculum and includes an international dimension; it prepares students for IGCSE and A Level examinations and includes non-examined learning. Admissions use the Cambridge Placement Test to establish a baseline language ability, alongside a Global Scale of English (GSE) assessment; English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is provided as needed.	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 1) British Schools Overseas (BSO) status (awarded via ISI inspection, April 2024) — the school's published BSO inspection results note Harrow Shanghai became one of the first mainland China schools inspected by ISI and awarded BSO status; this is a formal external recognition of the school meeting UK-based standards. 2) Other school-level awards (2021–2025)	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 1) British Schools Overseas (BSO) status — Harrow Shanghai's BSO inspection report (April 2024) is published on the school website; BSO status is the UK government-recognised framework for inspecting British schools overseas and indicates the school met standards comparable to UK independent schools as judged by an approved inspectorate. 2) Inspection by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) — the school states it was inspected by the Independent Schools Inspectorate as part of the BSO process; ISI is an approved UK inspectorate that carries out BSO inspections and provides the external judgement on standards. 3) Registered with Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) — the Senior School page notes Harrow Shanghai is registered with CAIE; this registration allows the school to enter pupils for CAIE IGCSE/A-level (or CAIE) qualifications and follow CAIE syllabuses. 4) Registered with Pearson / Edexcel — the Senior School page records registration with Pearson/Edexcel; this permits the school to offer Pearson/Edexcel qualifications and enter pupils for those examinations. 5) Registered with AQA — the Senior School page records registration with AQA; this enables the school to deliver and enter pupils for AQA qualifications where appropriate. 6) Duke of Edinburgh's International Award centre (school-delivered programme) — the school's Duke of Edinburgh page states Harrow Shanghai delivers the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award; being an authorised centre means the school can register and support pupils through the internationally recognised youth development award.	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. Research and visit the campus. Parents are encouraged to book a campus tour or open day so you can see lessons, meet staff and ask questions; the school's site provides a “book a tour” link for this purpose. Visiting early will help you confirm whether the school's age ranges and curriculum fit your child; check the Age Guidelines for Entry page to confirm the correct year group for your child. 2. Complete the online application (one form per child). Applications are submitted through the school's OpenApply portal (the site links to “Apply Now”); each application must be accompanied by the required supporting documents and the non‑refundable application fee. The school specifically notes that because many year groups have waiting lists, it is best to apply early to avoid disappointment. 3. Pay the application fee and await assessment scheduling. A non‑refundable application fee of RMB 3,000 is charged prior to the assessment date; after you submit the OpenApply form and fee, the Admissions team will contact you to schedule the appropriate assessment and/or interview depending on your child's age. Be prepared for differences in assessment format by age (Early Years screening is different to academic testing for older children) and check communications from Admissions for precise instructions. 4. Attend the assessment and interview. The school will run the assessment(s) and interviews with the child (and sometimes with parents) as part of the selection process; older applicants will have formal academic assessments and interviews, while younger children will have age‑appropriate activities and observations. Make sure you bring or have uploaded any requested documents (previous school reports, identification and any materials the school asks for) and arrive prepared for things to take the scheduled time; the Admissions team will tell you what to expect for your child's year group. 5. Offer, acceptance paperwork and fees after an offer. If the assessment and interview are successful, the school will phone you and follow up with a formal offer letter from the Head Master. To accept, you must sign and return the Acceptance Form, the Terms and Conditions, the School Bus form (if required) and the Medical Form; after accepting an offer a refundable Resources Fee of RMB 25,000 is payable and held by the school for the duration of the pupil's enrolment. Review the Fees page carefully for the Resources Fee, tuition schedules and the school's withdrawal/refund rules before returning paperwork. 6. Tuition, payment and practical arrangements. The school publishes a tuition schedule and payment options for the 2025/26 year (tuition varies by year group) and accepts payments by bank transfer in RMB or USD; the Fees page also shows optional charges (bus, lunch) and sibling discounts. Take note of the payment deadlines, the school's late‑payment penalties and the bank account details on the Fees page if you plan to make a transfer; if you need fee clarification or an invoice, contact the Finance Office. 7. If you have questions or need help at any stage, contact Admissions directly. If you expect to request bursary support or to apply for a scholarship, notify Admissions at the application stage so they can explain the additional application steps.	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 Harrow Shanghai operates a scholarship programme and a separate bursary process. The scholarship programme is open to applicants for entry into Year 9 up to Lower Sixth (Year 12) and can provide remission of tuition fees of up to 100%; applicants undergo formal academic assessments, an online cognitive ability test and interviews with senior staff including the Head Master. Scholarship applications are made via the OpenApply form (tick the scholarship item) and the school says the application window remains open throughout the year, with awards made when suitable candidates are identified. Bursaries: The school also offers means‑tested bursaries to help talented students whose families have low household income. All prospective pupils may request consideration for a bursary at the application stage; parents who indicate they require assistance are asked to complete a confidential financial form and decisions are discretionary and reviewed annually. Bursary candidates must meet the school's academic entrance requirements; when demand exceeds availability, bursaries are awarded with reference to performance in the entrance examinations. For the bursary application form and details about the financial information required, contact Admissions or download the bursary form from the Scholarships & Bursaries 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 The school's Admissions page explicitly states that there are waiting lists for many year groups and therefore advises parents to apply early; that is the only direct information about a waitlist on the public pages. The site does not publish a detailed public description of how the waitlist/pool is ordered, how long offers typically take, or whether there are separate priority categories, so the practical mechanics (for example whether positions are offered strictly by application date, by assessment ranking, or by other criteria) are not specified online. For clear, case‑specific information (current queue position, expected wait times for a particular year group, and any paperwork required to remain on the list) the school asks families to contact Admissions directly; they can provide the most up‑to‑date guidance for your child's year group.	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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