International School of Beijing and Yew Chung International School of Beijing are both in Beijing. Both schools offer IB programmes. International School of Beijing also offers Bespoke, and Yew Chung International School of Beijing also offers British and Cambridge IGCSE. Published annual fees are close, at RMB 150,900 - 356,000 for International School of Beijing and RMB 221,000 - 334,000 for Yew Chung International School of Beijing. International School of Beijing takes pupils from 2 to 19, and Yew Chung International School of Beijing from 2 to 18. International School of Beijing is the larger school, with around 1,809 pupils to Yew Chung International School of Beijing's 800. Typical class sizes are 22 at International School of Beijing and 7 at Yew Chung International School of Beijing.
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I
International School of Beijing
Beijing, China
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Y
Yew Chung International School of Beijing
Beijing, China
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| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
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Fees / year
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Fees / year RMB 150,900 - 356,000 | Fees / year RMB 221,000 - 334,000 |
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Age range
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Age range 2 - 19 years | Age range 2 - 18 years |
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Type
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Type Co-educational | Type Co-educational |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum IB (DP), Bespoke Curriculum | Curriculum British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, IB (DP) |
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Pupils
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Pupils 1,809 | Pupils 800 |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size 22 | Typical class size 7 |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language English, Mandarin | Instruction language English, Mandarin |
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Opened
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Opened 1980 | Opened 1995 |
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Bus service
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Bus service No | Bus service No |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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Location
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Location ISB's campus is in the Tianzhu / Capital Paradise area of Shunyi District at No. 10 An Hua Street, northeast Beijing — a neighbourhood that hosts several international schools and expatriate residential compounds. The campus is primarily accessed by car or taxi (Didi); event and visitor guidance refers people to the North Gate and notes limited on‑campus parking. It is roughly 25–35 km from central Beijing depending on route and traffic, so many families plan commute times around peak hours. | Location Main campus: Honglingjin Park, 5 Houbalizhuang, Chaoyang District, Beijing (postcode 100025). The campus is in the Chaoyang/Honglingjin Park area—central Chaoyang with straightforward road access and regular taxi/ride-hailing links; parents often reference proximity to embassy and expatriate neighbourhoods in Chaoyang. For exact directions and public-transport options check the school map or contact admissions. |
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Stages
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Stages ISB serves Early Years through Grade 12 and is organised into Early Years, Elementary, Middle and High School divisions (EY2–Grade 12). Placement and age guidelines are set out in the school's admissions/placement information. | Stages The school enrols expatriate students aged 2–18 (K2 to Year 13) and is organised into Early Childhood, Primary and Secondary phases. Programmes include IGCSE and the International Baccalaureate Diploma at upper-secondary level. |
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School type
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School type ISB is an independent, non-profit, co-educational day school (no boarding). It is an IB World School offering programmes through high school. | School type YCIS Beijing is a private, co‑educational international day school serving children of foreign personnel; it does not advertise boarding provision. The school is part of the Yew Chung/Yew Wah network of international schools. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix — | Pupil nationality mix — |
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Additional learning support
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Additional learning support ISB runs Student Support services that include Learning Support and English-as-an-Additional-Language (EAL) provision; the school publishes Learning Support and Language Support policies and assesses individual needs as part of admissions and ongoing support. For specifics about levels of provision or complex needs, the admissions or Student Support team should be contacted directly. | Additional learning support The school operates a Student Support Services team (learning support and counselling). Admissions guidance and third‑party listings indicate YCIS accepts students with mild learning difficulties on a case‑by‑case basis and provides in‑class and withdrawal support where appropriate; more complex needs may exceed the school's provision. Parents with children who have additional needs are advised to discuss requirements with Admissions early and share assessments/reports. |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation ISB does not have an official national affiliation — it operates as an international school serving an expatriate and international community. It is authorised to deliver IB programmes. | Country affiliation YCIS Beijing is part of the Yew Chung Yew Wah (YCYW) education network that originated in Hong Kong; it is not officially affiliated to a single national government. |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation The school is non‑religious / nondenominational and does not have a faith affiliation. | Religious affiliation The school does not list any religious affiliation on its official information pages; its programme and materials describe an international, bilingual education rather than a faith‑based approach. |
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School day structure
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School day structure A typical school day is reported to run roughly 08:20–15:20 (times can vary by division and year). ISB's academic year normally starts in early August and finishes in early–mid June; exact term dates and daily timetables are published on the school calendar each year. | School day structure Typical published schedules for YCIS Beijing indicate a morning start around 08:00 and the academic day finishing around mid‑afternoon (roughly 15:00–15:30), with co‑curricular activities running later in the afternoon on most days. The school publishes a full school‑year calendar (term dates, holidays, PD days) on its website; check the current year calendar for exact term and event times. |
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Bus service details
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Bus service details ISB coordinates an optional, contracted school-bus service for families; routes, door‑to‑door coverage and annual fees vary by distance and are arranged through the school or its transport contractor. Bus places are optional, subject to route availability, and require parent sign-up and payment — families should check the current routes, fees and sign-up process with ISB Admissions or Transport. | Bus service details YCIS Beijing provides a school‑bus option for families; bus arrangements are confirmed during the enrolment process and bus/meal options are referenced in admissions materials and third‑party school guides. Routes and vendor details are managed by the school (or an appointed provider) and parents normally register for stops and schedules through Admissions/School Services. Contact the admissions office for current route maps, stops and fees. |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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Fee details Application fees - Non-refundable Application Fee: RMB 2,800 (applies for the academic year of application only). One-time and prepayment fees - One-time Entry Tuition Fee (new students): RMB 15,000. Due at the same time as Tuition Fees. - Non-refundable Tuition Prepayment Fee: RMB 30,000 required to secure a place; this prepayment is applied against the annual tuition. Due dates: re-enrolling students on or before March 20, 2025; newly enrolled students within 7 calendar days of the invoice date. Tuition fees (annual) by year group - Early Years (EY2) Half Day: RMB 150,900. - Early Years (EY2) Full Day: RMB 245,900. - Early Years (EY3): RMB 246,900. - Early Years (EY4): RMB 249,900. - Kindergarten (KG): RMB 292,300. - Grade 1: RMB 297,500. - Grade 2: RMB 299,900. - Grades 3–5: RMB 303,900. - Grades 6–8: RMB 322,900. - Grades 9–10: RMB 345,000. - Grades 11–12: RMB 356,000. Billing schedule and payment terms - Annual tuition invoices: re-enrolling students due on or before June 1, 2025; newly enrolled students due within 20 calendar days of the invoice date. - Installment plans (available on a needs basis and subject to conditions): Two-Installment Plan — payments due June 1 and October 1, 2025; Four-Installment Plan — payments due June 1, August 1, September 1, and October 1, 2025. Application to use an installment plan must be submitted by May 20, 2025. A late payment surcharge of 2% per month, compounded monthly, applies to overdue fees. - Pro-rated fees for late entry are applied by quarter (minimum one quarter charged): Quarter 1 = 100%; Quarter 2 = 75%; Quarter 3 = 50%; Quarter 4 = 25% of annual fees. Boarding - ISB operates as a day school; no boarding fees are published for ISB. Other costs - Annual optional bus/transportation: RMB 16,500 to RMB 26,800 depending on distance (2025–2026). The Transportation Fee applies only to students who register for the service. - The publicly posted schedule does not list set amounts for uniforms, daily lunch, specific co-curricular or instrument hire fees; such ancillary charges may be invoiced separately. Refund information - Application Fee and Tuition Prepayment Fee are NOT refundable. Tuition refund deadlines: full-year tuition (less the non-refundable Tuition Prepayment Fee) refundable if withdrawal is received on or before July 1, 2025; tuition for the second semester refundable if withdrawal is received on or before November 1, 2025. Entry Tuition Fee refundable only if withdrawal is received by July 1, 2025 for Semester 1 starters or by November 1, 2025 for Semester 2 starters. Transportation refunds follow a short-window scale; fapiao must be returned for refunds. Fee payment options - Payments must be made by bank transfer (invoices are issued in RMB only). No cash payments are accepted. USD payments are converted to RMB at the Bank of China middle rate at time of receipt; all bank charges are the payer's responsibility. Bank details are printed on invoices and are available from the Business Office. | Fee details Application and one‑off fees - Application fee: RMB 2,500 (non‑refundable). - Placement / security deposit: RMB 20,000 (one‑time; refundable subject to the school's Departure & Refund procedures). Tuition fees — per term and annual by year group (day students) - K2 (Kindergarten) – Half day: Semester 1 RMB 49,200; Semester 2 RMB 73,800; Annual RMB 123,000. - K2 (Kindergarten) – Full day: Semester 1 RMB 80,400; Semester 2 RMB 120,600; Annual RMB 201,000. - K3 & K4 (Full day): Semester 1 RMB 92,000; Semester 2 RMB 138,000; Annual RMB 230,000. - Primary (Years 1–6) typical breakdown: Semester 1 RMB 110,800; Semester 2 RMB 166,200; Annual RMB 277,000. (Year‑by‑year variation applies within Primary—see next item). - Lower Secondary (Years 7–9) typical breakdown: Semester 1 RMB 121,200; Semester 2 RMB 181,800; Annual RMB 303,000. - Upper Secondary (IGCSE / IB — Years 10–13): Semester 1 RMB 128,400; Semester 2 RMB 192,600; Annual RMB 321,000. Note that annual tuition increases by year band; published annual amounts for different year groups range from approximately RMB 221,000 up to RMB 334,000 depending on grade. Billing schedule and payment terms - The school issues invoices and accepts payments by semester or annual arrangements as shown on invoices; semester payment amounts are commonly used (see semester figures above). The placement deposit is held against the student account and may be used to settle outstanding fees. - The school requests that bank transfers include the invoice or student reference number to ensure correct allocation of funds. Boarding - YCIS Beijing operates as a day school; there are no boarding charges for this campus. Other costs and optional fees - Bus service fees charged per route/distance (examples: RMB 15,000–RMB 18,500 annually depending on route). - Uniforms, lunches, some co‑curricular activities, individual instrumental lessons or external exam fees are additional and billed separately. - Sibling discounts on tuition only: commonly published at 15% for second child and 25% for third (applies to younger siblings). Refunds and deposit handling - The placement deposit is refundable after deductions for outstanding charges; standard processing timelines cited include refund within 45 days after completion of required departure procedures. The school may use the deposit to settle unpaid account balances. Fee payment options - Bank remittance (RMB or USD accounts), in‑person cash (RMB only), credit/debit card payments in person (service charges may apply), and online payment portals (examples cited: YooPay and WeChat) are accepted. The school provides bank account details for wire transfers. Personal cheques are not accepted. If you require these figures presented in a different format for your database, use the amounts above directly; the figures are given in Chinese yuan (RMB). |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements — | Boarding arrangements — |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement — | Uniform requirement — |
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Food options
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Food options There is an on-campus cafeteria for the Elementary and Middle/High School divisions. | Food options — |
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House system
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House system — | House system — |
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Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership ISB is a non-profit school governed by a 12-member Board of Trustees elected and nominated by the parent community. | Governance and ownership YCIS Beijing is part of the Yew Chung Yew Wah (YCYW) network. It holds accreditation from the Council of International Schools (CIS). The school uses a Western and Chinese co-leadership model, with a Regional Executive Principal, a Western Co-Principal, and a Chinese Co-Principal. |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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Curriculum details ISB delivers an International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum from Early Years through Grade 12: Primary follows the PYP, Middle School follows the MYP (typically Grades 6–10), and Grades 11–12 offer the IB Diploma Programme. High school students may pursue the full IB Diploma in Grades 11–12 or take individual IB courses alongside ISB's own High School Diploma; graduation requires a minimum of 24 credits. ISB's High School Diploma is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) and the Council of International Schools (CIS) and is recognized by China's NCCT. In Grades 9–10 students follow a broad academic program (English, mathematics, sciences, individuals & societies, world languages/EAL, PE) with room for electives to prepare for DP pathway decisions. Across all stages the school integrates Chinese language learning, STEAM, arts, service learning and extensive co‑curricular options, and the high school offers a Pathways program allowing combinations of DP and non‑DP courses with microcredentials/Impact Certificate opportunities. | Curriculum details Yew Chung International School of Beijing provides a bilingual English–Chinese programme from Early Childhood (around ages 2–4) through Upper Secondary (Year 13). Early Childhood follows the Early Years Foundation Stage and classrooms use a co‑teaching model with Chinese and international teachers; Primary (Years 1–6) follows the National Curriculum for England adapted with a bilingual focus. Lower Secondary (Years 7–9) continues the school's international/Yew Chung curriculum framework, while Years 10–11 prepare students for Cambridge IGCSE examinations. Years 12–13 offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). Chinese language and culture are compulsory across secondary with staged ability groupings (CFL/CAL); the school also provides EAL/IEP support, co‑curricular programmes and character education alongside the academic qualifications. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio — |
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Exam results
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Exam results — | Exam results — |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression — | Higher education progression — |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented — | Gifted and talented — |
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Academic calendar
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Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
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Social & emotional learning
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Social & emotional learning ISB describes an EY–12 Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) programme built around five competencies: Self-Awareness, Self-Management, Social-Cultural Competence, Nurturing Relationships and Purposeful Action. SEL is delivered through classroom integration, Elementary morning meetings and a Middle/High School mentoring programme, and is intended to be embedded across subjects rather than taught as a separate ‘detour' from academics. The school references research and uses Tripod's 7Cs framework to guide teacher practice and care for students. ISB explicitly values student voice, partnerships with families, resilience and emotional safety as part of its SEL approach. These details are published on ISB's curriculum SEL philosophy page. | Social & emotional learning YCIS Beijing describes a Student Support Services department that explicitly offers social, emotional and behavioural counselling, parent workshops, individual counselling and social‑skills groups to support students' SEL. The school also frames its curriculum around learning principles that recognise the social nature of learning and that emotions are integral to learning. YCIS highlights life‑skills and a wellness curriculum as part of its pastoral provision and encourages parent engagement through workshops and webinars. Specific staff roles named on the site include a School Counsellor and a Student Support Services lead who coordinate Learning Support, Student Counselling and University Guidance. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN) ISB's Student Support Services state the school enrolls students with mild, moderate and intensive learning needs and lists learning support teachers, EAL teachers, instructional assistants, a school psychologist, speech-language pathologists and an on-site private occupational therapist as part of the support team. The school describes targeted, evidence-based interventions, a comprehensive referral process, curriculum modification where necessary, and a Life Centered Education (LCE) class for students with intellectual disabilities in grades K–8 staffed by special education teachers and instructional assistants. ISB's FAQ and admissions guidance note that admission of students requiring support depends on available space and the school's ability to provide necessary resources. The Student Support pages also state that fees may apply for intensive-class tuition or a 1:1 teaching assistant. ISB's Student Support Services page provides these details. | Special educational needs (SEN) The school's Student Support Services webpage states that its Learning Support provision includes in‑class and withdrawal academic support, social‑skills groups and programmes for high‑ability students, coordinated with counselling and university guidance. YCIS presents these services as part of a broader Student Support Services department rather than as a separate specialist SEN campus. The school's website does not list specific diagnostic categories (for example dyslexia, ADHD or autism) that it supports, nor does it present itself as a specialist special‑needs institution. For clarity on whether particular types or levels of additional support can be accommodated, the school directs families to contact Student Support or Admissions. |
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English as an additional language
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English as an additional language ISB provides EAL support from Kindergarten through Grade 10 and, in High School, offers fully credited EAL courses aligned with Common Core ELA standards for reading, writing, listening, speaking and language. The high‑school EAL model is described as subject-specific and designed to foster independence, academic vocabulary, reading comprehension and writing skills; students exit EAL when multiple measures indicate a high level of English proficiency. EAL and classroom teachers collaborate to make grade-level curriculum accessible, and proficiency is assessed with multiple data points (for example WIDA and MAP are mentioned). These provisions are described in ISB's Student Support / High School course guide pages. | English as an additional language YCIS Beijing publishes information about an established EAL provision: the Secondary programme describes tiered levels (EIP — English Intensive Programme, EAL and ELL) to match beginner, intermediate and advanced needs, and notes pull‑out language and literacy classes and EAL options within IGCSE and IB programmes. The site includes interviews and descriptions of EAL leadership and teachers and explains that EIP offers more intensive vocabulary and grammar work for beginners. The school's news articles emphasise a dedicated EAL team and parallel language‑and‑literacy lessons tailored to students' levels. |
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Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing ISB's Counseling Department states it provides developmentally appropriate, student-centred counselling through classroom lessons, small groups and individual work, and that counselors lead SEL and health initiatives in each school section. Counselors also offer workshops, parent education, mediation and stress-management support, and they form part of the school's Crisis Response Team; the school notes that families may be referred to external services when more in-depth therapeutic support is required. The Student Support Services page frames these counselling services as part of a wider network (including SLPs and a school psychologist) that aims to promote students' social-emotional development. These counselling and student-support descriptions are published on ISB's curriculum and student support pages. | Mental wellbeing YCIS Beijing's Student Support Services includes individual counselling, social and behavioural support and parent workshops as part of its stated approach to wellbeing. The school has described a life‑skills and wellness curriculum and reports an in‑house wellbeing programme and 24‑hour bilingual counselling access for staff across the YCYW network. During periods of remote learning the school also published guidance that includes mindfulness activities and strategies for managing wellbeing at home. For more detailed, case‑specific mental‑health supports (for example clinical referral options), families are asked to contact Student Support directly. |
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding ISB publishes a Child Safeguarding Handbook and describes a safeguarding system that includes rigorous staff recruitment and vetting, criminal-background checks, an employee Code of Conduct, annual safeguarding training for staff and contractors, and policies for identifying and responding to children in need of protection. The school links its safeguarding work with its SEL curriculum and describes access and campus‑use guidelines for parents and visitors. ISB's safeguarding pages also reference external accreditation feedback (an independent accreditor's 2023 comment) and provide downloadable child-protection information. These safeguarding measures and policies are set out on ISB's Safeguarding page. | Safeguarding YCIS/YCYW states a formal commitment to safeguarding and child protection and the school requires staff to read and comply with Child Protection policies and procedures. Recruitment materials for YCIS/YCYW say the organisation aligns its practices with the International Task Force on Child Protection and implements checks such as identity and criminal‑record checks before appointment. The school website includes a Child Protection section and a privacy policy that addresses protection of children's personal information. For full details of procedures and reporting routes, the site refers readers to its Child Protection policy and the Student Support or admissions teams. |
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Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
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Facilities overview
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Facilities overview ISB is a fully accredited non-profit private school in Beijing serving students from Early Years through Grade 12. The campus spans 32 acres and includes Library Media Centers, two Performing Arts Centers, and two purpose-built sports domes. The campus features a 665-seat sports stadium and dedicated spaces for arts, science, and language learning. ISB serves around 1,800 students with a 1:8 faculty-to-student ratio. | Facilities overview YCIS Beijing is located at Honglingjin Park, 5 Houbalizhuang, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100025, China. It serves expatriate students aged 2 to 18 (K2 to Year 13) and offers Early Childhood to Upper Secondary education. It holds accreditation from the Council of International Schools (CIS). The learning environment is bilingual, with Chinese and Western teachers working with families to develop confident, caring, and curious learners. There are over 120 co-curricular activities and a culturally diverse community with students from more than 45 nationalities. The Yew Chung Yew Wah network provides more than 90 years of educational experience. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities ISB has two purpose-built sports domes and a 665-seat sports stadium. These facilities support a broad athletics program as part of ISB's cocurricular offerings. | Sports facilities — |
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Academic facilities
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Academic facilities ISB operates one of the region's leading international school Chinese language programs from Early Years to Grade 12. In Elementary School, ISB offers a Dual Language Program to develop proficiency in speaking and writing in two languages and cultures. ISB has its own Chinese Language and Culture Center and offers Chinese language accelerator programs. ISB offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (full diploma) and the ISB Pathways Program, and runs a 1:1 MacBook laptop program. World Languages include Chinese, French & Spanish. | Academic facilities The school offers the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). It has a proven track record of excellent educational results in these programmes. Recent university acceptances include Peking University, Tsinghua University, University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, London School of Economics and Political Science, University College London, Stanford University, University of California campuses, Cornell University, National University of Singapore, and The University of Hong Kong. The campus is located in Honglingjin Park, Chaoyang District, Beijing. The school is CIS-accredited. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities ISB offers more than 200 cocurricular programs. Co-curricular offerings include Athletics, Performing Arts, Activities, Aquatics, and Clubs and Service Groups. | Extra curricular facilities The school offers over 120 co-curricular activities. It provides In-School Instrumental Programme (IIIP) for private instrument lessons during school hours, with group instrumental activities such as orchestra, jazz band, and musicals. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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History ISB traces its origins to a small diplomatic school in Beijing in the 1970s and was formally established in 1980; the early institution grew out of schools run by several embassies (including the U.S., U.K., Australia, Canada and New Zealand). ISB operates as a non-profit and is overseen by a 12-member Board of Trustees responsible for governance, finances, and appointing the Head of School. Over time the school moved from temporary diplomatic sites to a purpose-built campus in Shunyi and expanded its facilities and programmes through the 1990s and 2000s. | History Yew Chung International School of Beijing (YCIS Beijing) opened in 1995. The school is part of the Yew Chung Yew Wah (YCYW) education network, a group of international and early‑childhood schools that operate across Hong Kong, mainland China and Silicon Valley. From its early years YCIS Beijing has used a bilingual Chinese–Western approach with paired Chinese and Western teachers in early years and primary classrooms and a co‑leadership model at senior levels. The campus was established to bring the Yew Chung pedagogy to expatriate families and has grown to serve several hundred students from many nationalities. |
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Community
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Community The ISB community includes students, parents, faculty, staff and alumni from many nationalities and is active year-round with school-wide cultural and social events. Regular community highlights include an annual International Day (a cultural parade and family-run country booths) and a large Spring Fair that draws thousands of visitors. Families and staff also connect through speaker series, performances, athletics and volunteer-organized activities that aim to build relationships across the school. | Community The school describes an active, multicultural community that holds regular cultural and community events such as Community BBQs, Global Community Day and festival celebrations (Christmas, Chinese New Year), and stage and music performances. These events are used to bring families, staff and students together and to mark cultural occasions in the school calendar. The community also engages in charity and wellbeing initiatives (for example, support for New Day Foster Home and a school Food Committee) that involve students and families. |
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Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association ISB's Parent Teacher Association (PTA) is a volunteer-led organisation whose membership is open to all parents and faculty and which supports new-family orientation and community-building. The PTA organises major community fundraisers such as the Spring Fair and helps coordinate International Day booths and the cultural parade. Beyond those flagship events, the PTA runs movie nights, dance programs, visiting-author talks and a parent speaker series, and it posts volunteer opportunities through the school portal. The Booster Club—run by parent volunteers—focuses on school spirit and hands-on support for athletics, performing arts and academic co-curriculars (team parents, concessions, spirit items, receptions, etc.). Contact details and sign-up information for PTA and Booster Club activities are available on the ISB website. | Parent teacher association YCIS Beijing refers to an organised parent body as the Parent Organisation (PO), which the school says is active in promoting community wellbeing. The PO is mentioned as supporting and participating in community events such as the Community BBQ and Global Community Day. The school's recent reporting also highlights parent involvement in charity work and wellbeing programmes (for example work linked to New Day Foster Home and the Food Committee). Through these activities the Parent Organisation helps connect families with school events and community service opportunities. The school's public communications present the PO as a regular contributor to campus community life rather than as a separate governance body. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual ISB is a non-profit international school in Beijing that serves students from Early Years through Grade 12. It has a four-decade history (established 1980) and a student body of around 1,800. The faculty-to-student ratio is about 1:8. The campus features include two performing arts centers, a dedicated sports dome, and a broad range of co-curricular offerings (200+ activities). The school emphasizes challenging and joyful learning, with a focus on literacy and STEAM, and it aims to develop students who are globally minded and socially responsible. | Academic & intellectual YCIS Beijing serves expatriate students aged 2–18 (K2–Year 13). The school offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) and IGCSE and has a track record of strong results in these programmes. It was established in 1995 and holds accreditation from the Council of International Schools (CIS). The campus is located in Honglingjin Park, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100025, China. |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative ISB offers a range of performing arts, visual arts, theater, and music programs as part of its co-curricular and curricular activities. The school supports student creativity through its arts facilities and performance opportunities across the Middle and High School years. | Arts & creative The school provides over 120 co-curricular activities (CCAs). The In-School Instrumental Programme (IIIP) offers in‑school music instruction. A Western and Chinese leadership model supports programming across arts and music at YCIS Beijing. |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language ISB provides a Dual Language Program (English and Chinese) from Early Years through Grade 5, designed to help students become bilingual, biliterate, and bicultural, with equity of English and Chinese language and culture and ongoing literacy in both languages. World languages offered include Chinese, French, and Spanish, with program structures in Middle and High School supporting language study across grades. | Cultural & language The school provides a bilingual learning environment with Chinese and Western teachers. The leadership team comprises Western and Chinese Co‑Principals. Students represent over 45 nationalities. The school is part of the Yew Chung Yew Wah network with a mission emphasis on science and technology, culture and arts, and love and charity. |
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Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies Co-curricular activities at ISB exceed 200 options, including clubs, arts, athletics, and service groups, providing students with opportunities to explore interests, build friendships, and develop new skills outside the classroom. | Social & hobbies Co-curricular Activities number over 120 offerings, providing clubs and groups beyond academics. IIIP contributes to music and performance opportunities. The diverse CCAs support a wide range of interests and talents. |
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Community & service
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Community & service ISB emphasizes real-world learning and service as part of its core focus on purpose and compassion. Students engage in service opportunities and community projects as part of their learning experience. | Community & service The mission emphasizes Building a Bright Future for Humanity and aligns with Love and Charity. YCIS Beijing is part of the Yew Chung Yew Wah network. The school provides a Careers and University Guidance Office to support student development. |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional ISB features leadership and professional development elements through its co-curricular programs, alumni engagement, and pathways that help students develop skills for college and beyond. | Leadership & professional The school is led by a Regional Executive Principal, Ms Christine Xu. The Western Co-Principal is Ms Shelley Swift and the Chinese Co-Principal is Ms Jessica Sun. The Careers and University Guidance Office supports college planning. |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing The school prioritizes social-emotional learning and relationship-building as part of creating a healthy school community. It maintains a strong emphasis on student well-being and a supportive learning environment. | Lifestyle & wellbeing Early Childhood focuses on whole-child development, building character, and instilling values. In Early Childhood, children aged two to four are immersed in a bilingual learning environment with Chinese and Western teachers. The school emphasizes a nurturing, values-based approach to education across the early years. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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Language provision ISB provides English-language instruction from Early Years through Grade 12. English Language Arts is a core subject, and EAL supports language development for students who need additional English support. World Languages include Chinese, French, and Spanish, with progression paths in Middle School (Foundation and Intermediate levels) and High School offerings such as Chinese, French & Spanish, and IB Self-Taught A. The Dual Language program also provides bilingual English-Chinese experiences. | Language provision English and Chinese are core languages of instruction. In Early Childhood, English and Chinese language skills are developed equally, and learners are encouraged to develop language skills in their mother tongue. In Primary and Secondary, Chinese is taught as CFL or CAL, with Chinese Studies part of the curriculum. In Secondary, most lessons are taught in English to prepare for IGCSE and IB, while Chinese language and culture remain central. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching ISB offers a Dual Language Program in English and Chinese. The program aims for students to become bilingual, bi-literate, and bicultural. Learning occurs in English and Chinese with emphasis on reading, writing, and communication in both languages. The program uses ISB's curriculum as the core and promotes equity between English and Chinese language and culture. | Bilingual teaching YCIS Beijing uses a bilingual teaching model across Early Childhood through Secondary. In Early Childhood, each class has one English-speaking and one Chinese-speaking teacher who co-plan and co-teach, and English and Chinese are developed equally. The school operates with a Western and Chinese co-leadership model. |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs — | Immersion programs The co-teaching model provides an immersive bilingual environment across the curriculum. English and Chinese language skills are developed through a bilingual curriculum with equal emphasis, including the Early Childhood years. English Language support is provided through EAL/EIP, including an English Intensive Programme, and Chinese culture is integrated through Chinese Studies and Experiencing China. |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards Awards and formal recognitions to the school itself on ISB's website in the past five years (items are those explicitly shown on ISB's site; I have excluded awards given to individual students or student groups): - International SOS Foundation — Duty of Care Award (awarded to ISB). Date reported on ISB site: November 6, 2024. One-line significance: an external recognition for organisational practices in health, safety and welfare of staff and community. - Hurun Education — named ISB the #1 International School in China (2025). Date reported on ISB site: August 20, 2025. One-line significance: a national ranking/recognition published by Hurun and presented on ISB's site as a formal honour to the school. - Forbes China — Forbes China International Schools Annual Selection (2025): ISB listed as #1 International High School in Beijing and #2 among international high schools in China. Date reported on ISB site: August 20, 2025. One-line significance: a national ranking published by Forbes China and presented on ISB's site as recognition of the school's standing. - Chinese Language Festival — Outstanding Participation Award (Mainland China region). Date reported on ISB site: June 17, 2021. One-line significance: an event-level award given to ISB as a school for its collective participation and entries in a regional Chinese-language festival. Notes: - All items above are taken from content published on ISB's official website or ISB's official blog (links and publication dates are given in the cited pages). If you'd like, I can pull the exact ISB pages into a single PDF or give the direct page links for each citation (or check for any additional formal recognitions listed elsewhere on the site). | Awards Awards the school has won (as listed on the school website) in the past five years (Jan 1, 2021–Jan 1, 2026): - Forbes China Outstanding International Schools Award (2023) — YCIS Beijing reports receiving the 2023 Forbes China Outstanding International Schools award; the school's news item describes the award as recognising performance across operations, teaching standards, financial strength and certifications. - 2023 Tencent International School Comprehensive Strength Benchmark Award — YCIS Beijing reports receiving this Tencent award in December 2023; the school's announcement indicates the award recognises overall institutional strength across academic, operational and programme dimensions. Note: the school website also references older recognitions (for example, a Cambridge ‘‘Award for Excellence in Education'' received by the YCYW/YCIS network in earlier years), but that award falls outside the 5‑year window you specified and therefore is not included above. The network's and campus pages refer to that historical recognition. |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations International School of Beijing — accreditations (as listed on ISB's website): - New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) — a U.S.-based regional accreditor that evaluates whole-school quality and governance; NEASC accreditation supports recognition of the ISB high-school diploma internationally. - Council of International Schools (CIS) — an international accrediting body that assesses school-wide standards (including teaching, leadership, safeguarding and facilities) and emphasizes continuous school improvement. - National Center for School Curriculum and Textbook Development (NCCT) — a PRC education authority recognition cited by ISB; it is the Chinese body referenced on ISB's site in relation to curriculum/textbook and official status in China. - International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) — ISB is authorized by the IBO to deliver the IB Diploma Programme for grades 11–12; that authorization permits ISB students to undertake the IB Diploma recognized by universities worldwide. | Accreditations Yew Chung International School of Beijing — accreditations listed on the school website: - Council of International Schools (CIS) — The school is accredited by CIS; CIS accreditation means an external, multi-year review has found the school meets internationally recognised standards for governance, teaching and learning, student welfare and continuous improvement. - International Baccalaureate (IB) World School — The Secondary School is authorised as an IB World School to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP); IB authorisation indicates the school has met the IB Organisation's requirements for curriculum, teacher training and assessment for the Diploma Programme. - Cambridge International Examinations Centre (IGCSE/ICE) — The Secondary School is an authorised Cambridge centre for IGCSE/Cambridge examinations; this authorisation allows the school to enter students for Cambridge qualifications and shows it follows Cambridge's administrative and examination centre standards. |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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Admissions 1. Start the online application and create an account: Begin by clicking the school's Apply Now link (the application is managed through ISB's online application portal). When you create your account and submit the online application you will be assigned a dedicated Admissions Officer who will be your main contact through the process. Parents should review ISB's School Age Placement Guide first so they understand which grade the child will be considered for before submitting materials. 2. Speak with your Admissions Officer and check required documents: Before or immediately after you submit the application, schedule a call or email exchange with your assigned Admissions Officer to confirm which documents are required for your child (transcripts, passport/visa documentation, proof of residency or visa status where applicable). For high school applicants note that original sealed transcripts will be required on arrival to finalize course scheduling and to confirm credits-to-graduation. Keep scanned copies ready (translated if necessary) so you can upload them promptly when asked. 3. Request confidential school recommendation form(s): In the application platform there is a section to provide teacher names, school names and email addresses so ISB can send Confidential School Recommendation Forms to current/previous teachers. Inform the nominated teachers to expect an email from ISB and to complete the recommendation promptly — missing or late recommendations slow the admissions review. This step is required for most applicants and is used together with transcripts and assessments during the committee review. 4. Pay the application fee and any entry fee invoiced: After submitting the online application you will receive an invoice; ISB's non-refundable application fee for the academic year is RMB 2,800 and (for new students in the 2025–2026 year) there is also a one-time entry tuition fee (listed on the Tuition & Fees page). These payments must be completed to move the application forward — keep proof of payment for your records. If your employer will be paying fees, mention that to the Admissions Officer early so the finance/agreements process can be coordinated. 5. Language testing and placement assessments: ISB arranges English language proficiency testing for non-native English speakers and Chinese testing for applicants to the Dual Language Program; these assessments are used for placement and to determine EAL support needs. Expect the Admissions Officer to schedule tests or to request recent assessment results; additional academic assessments may be requested by the Admissions Committee in order to ensure an appropriate placement. Families should be ready to provide past assessment reports and to allow time for any ISB-administered tests. 6. Family Introduction Meeting and committee decision: The final step before a decision is a Family Introduction Meeting (on campus or virtually via Microsoft Teams) with your Admissions Officer or a member of the team — this meeting gives the school context about the student and family. Once ISB has the completed application, recommendations, testing/assessments and the family meeting, the Admissions Committee typically completes its review approximately two weeks from the date the application is fully complete; the Committee may request extra documentation or assessments if needed. If admitted, the Admissions Office will issue offer details and invoicing; if a place is not immediately available the application may be placed in the school's wait pool in accordance with ISB admissions policies. Additional practical points parents should be aware of: ISB uses priority categories and visa/documentation rules (for example, Chinese nationals permanently resident in mainland China are not eligible under current regulations), so you should confirm your family's priority status with Admissions early. Sibling status, returning families and strong English proficiency can affect priority within categories; if you are applying for a start in August aim to complete steps early in the admissions cycle and, for sibling priority in some cases, complete the application by March 15 of the intended year of entry. Always keep originals (sealed transcripts) for arrival and be prepared for placement differences when moving between systems. | Admissions 1. Initial enquiry & online application. Parents should be prepared to provide basic details about the child (date of birth, current year level, nationality) and to ask about current space availability for the child's year group. 2. Submit application form + required documents and pay application fee. After completing the online form you will be asked to upload supporting documents (commonly: passport, recent school reports, and proof of residency/visa and health/immunisation records) and to pay the non‑refundable application fee; published external listings report an application fee of around RMB 2,500. Parents should confirm the exact document checklist and fees with Admissions before submitting because requirements can vary by age and nationality and because official amounts and accepted document formats may change. 3. Assessment / interview and placement check. For most applicants YCIS Beijing carries out age‑appropriate assessments and/or interviews (these can include classroom observations in Early Childhood, literacy/numeracy checks in Primary, and subject/English assessments or interview for Secondary) and reviews previous school records to recommend the correct placement. For IGCSE and IB entry the school notes that acceptance can be limited at particular times in the academic calendar because placement depends on prior subject coverage; parents should ask Admissions which subjects and levels can be taken mid‑year. Expect communications from the admissions team about scheduling the assessment and any language or learning‑support arrangements the school may offer. 4. Offer letter, placement deposit and invoice. If the school offers a place you will receive an offer letter and invoice; third‑party fee summaries for YCIS Beijing show a refundable placement/security deposit (commonly quoted as RMB 20,000) in addition to the first term/year tuition. Parents should check the payment deadline on the offer (deposit deadlines commonly secure the place) and confirm whether the deposit is refundable and under what conditions. Also ask about the school's published sibling discounts, early payment discounts, bus fees and other recurring charges so you can budget the full cost of attendance. 5. Registration, visa documentation and start planning logistics. After deposit payment the school will confirm registration and provide joining instructions (start date, orientation, uniform and supply lists, bus enrolment, medical/insurance requirements). International families should coordinate visa/residency documentation and any medical checks or local registration the school requires; contact Admissions early if your child will need English language support or has additional learning needs so the school can advise on available services. Finally, confirm the academic calendar and welcome/orientation sessions so your child's first week is planned in advance. |
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Scholarships
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Scholarships ISB's public materials do not advertise a general, school-wide tuition scholarship or need-based financial-aid program on the Admissions or Tuition & Fees pages. The school does operate advancement-funded programs — for example, the Student Empowerment Fund (SEF) and the Annual Fund — which provide grants for student projects and for targeted program support, but these are project/initiative grants rather than tuition scholarships or bursaries. If you need information about any occasional donor-funded opportunities or specific support, contact the ISB Advancement or Admissions offices directly; Advancement runs the SEF (for student project grants) and the Annual Fund which supports programs and grants. Parents needing tuition-assistance options should discuss this directly with Admissions so the school can confirm whether any limited, case-specific arrangements exist. | Scholarships YCIS Beijing participates in the YCYW Scholarship Programme and publishes scholarship rounds and winners on its site and news pages. The programme is merit‑based, open to both current and prospective students entering Years 7–13 (as announced for the 2024–2025 cycle), and includes multiple award streams—examples listed by the school are the Madam Tsang Chor‑hang Memorial Scholarship, IGCSE/IB/A Level awards, and subject & talent awards (academics, arts, music, sport and community service). The school's scholarship announcements and the scholarship application notice state that one online application can be used to apply for multiple awards, that candidates are assessed on academic record, leadership, contribution to the school community and demonstrated talent, and that there are published application deadlines (for the 2024–2025 round the deadline was published as 16 February 2024). Parents should check the current scholarship announcement or contact the Scholarships/Admissions team for the latest eligibility rules, deadlines, the scope of fee remission (partial vs. full), and whether awards are renewable year to year. |
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Waitlist
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Waitlist ISB operates a wait pool (sometimes described as a wait pool rather than a formal ranked “waiting list”) for applicants who meet the school's admissions criteria but for whom no place is immediately available. A student can be placed in this wait pool after the Admissions Committee has reviewed the application; when places open they are offered according to ISB's Admissions Policies and priority categories. The FAQs note a specific practical point: siblings of enrolled students who have completed the application process prior to March 15 of the intended year of entry are given priority in times of limited places. If you are placed in the wait pool, stay in contact with your Admissions Officer and ensure the school has up-to-date documents and contact details so they can offer a place quickly if one becomes available. | Waitlist YCIS Beijing's public admissions pages emphasise rolling admissions and advise families to contact the Admissions Office about specific enrolment availability, but the school website does not publish a formal waitlist policy or a detailed waitlist procedure. Because space can be limited—especially for particular secondary programmes or popular year groups—the usual practice is to contact Admissions to ask whether a place is available or whether your child can be placed on a holding list; Admissions can explain current availability, expected timelines and any priority categories (for example, internal YCIS transfers). If you need a definitive statement about waitlist placement, position, or how offers are released, request that information in writing from the Admissions Office so you have the school's current procedure and timelines. |
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