International School of Dongguan vs Utahloy International School Guangzhou

	I International School of Dongguan Guangzhou, China	U Utahloy International School Guangzhou Guangzhou, China
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year RMB 126,000 - 233,600	Fees / year RMB 132,300 - 290,800
Age range	Age range 3 - 17 years	Age range 6 months - 17 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), IB (MYP), IB (PYP)	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)
Pupils	Pupils 400	Pupils 700
Typical class size	Typical class size 5	Typical class size 18
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2012	Opened 1998
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location ISD is located at 11 Jin Feng Nan Road in Nancheng District, Dongguan — roughly midway between Shenzhen and Guangzhou, in the city centre area of Dongguan. The campus is a purpose-built international campus with sports and arts facilities; public buses and the Dongguan Metro (Line 2) serve the area nearby.	Location Utahloy International School Guangzhou is at 800 Sha Tai Bei Road in Baiyun District, Guangzhou — a lakeside campus in the north of the city. The school provides pick-up zones across major districts (Tianhe, Zhujiang New Town, Haizhu, Yuexiu, Liwan, Panyu and Zengcheng) via its bus service, which can be useful if you are relocating from those neighbourhoods. For the exact campus address and to arrange a visit, contact the admissions office.
Stages	Stages ISD serves Early Childhood (Pre‑K through Senior Kindergarten), Elementary (Grade 1–5) and Secondary (Grade 6–12). The school offers the IB Diploma Programme for Grades 11–12.	Stages UISG delivers the full IB continuum: Early Years (nursery/early years), Primary (PYP), and Secondary (MYP and IB Diploma). Program pages on the school site outline age-group provision from early childhood through Year 12.
School type	School type ISD is a co‑educational day school; the campus and public materials describe it as a day school rather than a boarding school. The school was established in 2012 and presents itself as an international school operating in China.	School type UISG is a co-educational, secular international day school serving expatriate and eligible Hong Kong/Macau/Taiwan families; it does not offer boarding. The school is operated under the Utahloy Education Foundation (UEF) umbrella.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support ISD runs an English Language Learners (ELL) program to support students for whom English is not a first language, and core classes include English language goals alongside content goals. Secondary‑school pages note differentiated instruction and co‑teaching models; the counseling team provides academic, social and emotional support for students. For specifics about individual education plans or intensive SEN provision, the admissions office is the best contact.	Additional learning support The school runs a whole-school English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme (using WIDA frameworks and tiered support) and offers targeted small-group and in-class support. Admissions notes and application forms state that families must provide reports if a child has diagnosed learning needs; UISG aims to support English-language learners and students with mild learning support needs while assessing the school's capacity to meet more significant needs.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation The school does not list an affiliation to a particular country; it operates as an international school in China and references an American Core Standards curriculum alongside its IB Diploma Programme authorization.	Country affiliation The school is not affiliated with a single foreign country; it is an international school in China operated by the Utahloy Education Foundation (UEF).
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation There is no religious affiliation stated on the school website; ISD presents itself as a secular international school.	Religious affiliation UISG is secular and does not have a religious affiliation.
School day structure	School day structure ISD publishes an annual school calendar (term dates, holidays and PD days) but the public site does not publish a detailed, level‑by‑level daily timetable for student start/end times and break/lunch periods. The school does schedule campus visits and tours Monday–Friday (noted as 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for tour appointments); contact admissions for the current daily schedule for each age group.	School day structure Buses are scheduled to arrive at school between about 7:50–8:15am and regular afternoon buses depart around 3:30–3:40pm; a late bus for after-school activities typically leaves at about 5:15pm. Office hours and admissions availability are listed as Monday–Friday 8:00am–5:00pm; for exact daily bell times, break and lunch schedules for specific year groups, check with Admissions or the division offices.
Bus service details	Bus service details The school website does not publish a clear school‑run bus/shuttle schedule. There are public bus routes and nearby stops within walking distance and Metro Line 2 stations serving the area (local transit apps list routes such as 12, 219, X11, 快线16 and 79 near the campus). For any school‑arranged transport (school buses or private shuttles), contact the admissions office — they can confirm available routes, pickup points and safety arrangements.	Bus service details UISG operates an optional two-way school bus service using licensed, government-authorised yellow school buses with licensed drivers and assistants; parents register during the admissions process or by contacting the Busing Office. Routes cover two main zones (Zone 1: Tianhe, Zhujiang New Town, Haizhu, Baiyun, Yuexiu, Liwan; Zone 2: Panyu, Zengcheng); route management and daily changes are handled through the SchoolsBuddy app and the school provides WeChat groups and QR codes for route communication. If your area is not currently covered the school asks families to contact the transportation team to investigate feasibility.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application fees - Non-refundable application fee: RMB 2,000 for Pre‑K to SK; RMB 3,000 for Grades 1–12. Paid in cash to complete the application. Tuition fees (payment options shown per grade band) - Grade 9–12: Per semester RMB 122,600; Single (annual) payment RMB 233,600. - Grade 6–8: Per semester RMB 117,200; Single (annual) payment RMB 223,300. - SK–Grade 5: Per semester RMB 110,800; Single (annual) payment RMB 211,000. - Pre‑K–JK: Per semester RMB 66,000; Single (annual) payment RMB 126,000. - Tuition includes: all text and resource materials, library/database memberships, high‑speed/wireless internet access, one PE uniform set, teacher‑led after‑school activities, sports/fitness facility access and annual maintenance. Billing schedule and payment terms - School issues tuition billing by email at least one week before each tuition payment due date. Fees may be paid by wire transfer or bank card. Wire transfer details and invoice information are handled by ISD Accounting (accounting@i‑s‑d.org). All bank charges are borne by the payer. Parents must include student name and grade on transfer instructions and email proof of transfer to the Accounting Office. - Payment plans offered: Annual single payment or two‑installment semester plan. Invoices specify the exact due dates. Late payment administrative charge of RMB 100 per day applies from the first day after the invoice due date; records are held after 20 days and the student may be suspended after 30 days of non‑payment. Boarding fees - Boarding is not applicable: ISD operates as a day school. (No boarding program/boarding fees.) Other costs and fees - English Language Learner assessment: initial test included in application fee; each additional retake RMB 500. - School bus (transportation) fee and lunch/meal plan are charged separately; specific rates are announced each year. Additional uniform items are available via the ISD uniform online store (tuition includes one PE set). Refund and withdrawal - Withdrawal must be submitted in writing to Admissions. A Withdrawal Administration Fee of RMB 20,000 applies. The policy uses a decreasing‑refund rule (a 10% reduction of refundable tuition for each successive month of enrollment after the school year begins) and provides specific examples of refund timing and amounts in the school's tuition and fees policy. Note: some time‑period examples and percentages are set out in the fees document; parents should follow the written withdrawal procedure to trigger refund calculations. Payment options summary - Accepted: Wire transfer (bank transfer) and bank card. Bank transfer fees charged to the payer; proof of payment must be emailed to ISD Accounting.	Fee details Application fees - Application fee: RMB 2,000. Non-refundable, non-transferable, one-time payment submitted with the application (valid for one school year). Tuition fees (per semester and per year group) - K (Half day): RMB 66,150 per semester; Total RMB 132,300 (2 semesters); Annual payment with 4% discount RMB 127,008. - K (Full day): RMB 94,500 per semester; Total RMB 189,000; Annual payment with 4% discount RMB 181,440. - K1 (Half day): RMB 68,250 per semester; Total RMB 136,500; Annual payment with 4% discount RMB 131,040. - K1 (Full day): RMB 97,500 per semester; Total RMB 195,000; Annual payment with 4% discount RMB 187,200. - K2: RMB 102,500 per semester; Total RMB 205,000; Annual payment with 4% discount RMB 196,800. - K3: RMB 111,000 per semester; Total RMB 222,000; Annual payment with 4% discount RMB 213,120. - G1: RMB 118,400 per semester; Total RMB 236,800; Annual payment with 4% discount RMB 227,328. - G2: RMB 117,400 per semester; Total RMB 234,800; Annual payment with 4% discount RMB 225,408. - G3: RMB 117,400 per semester; Total RMB 234,800; Annual payment with 4% discount RMB 225,408. - G4: RMB 117,400 per semester; Total RMB 234,800; Annual payment with 4% discount RMB 225,408. - G5: RMB 117,400 per semester; Total RMB 234,800; Annual payment with 4% discount RMB 225,408. - G6: RMB 125,900 per semester; Total RMB 251,800; Annual payment with 4% discount RMB 241,728. - G7: RMB 126,400 per semester; Total RMB 252,800; Annual payment with 4% discount RMB 242,688. - G8: RMB 126,400 per semester; Total RMB 252,800; Annual payment with 4% discount RMB 242,688. - G9: RMB 139,900 per semester; Total RMB 279,800; Annual payment with 4% discount RMB 268,608. - G10: RMB 139,900 per semester; Total RMB 279,800; Annual payment with 4% discount RMB 268,608. - G11: RMB 145,400 per semester; Total RMB 290,800; Annual payment with 4% discount RMB 279,168. - G12: RMB 145,400 per semester; Total RMB 290,800; Annual payment with 4% discount RMB 279,168. (Per-semester and annual figures as published by the school.) Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition may be paid by semester or annually; an annual payment attracts the stated 4% discount on tuition. The school issues an enrollment letter and a debit note with payment deadlines required to secure a place. Payments must meet the stipulated due dates to qualify for sibling bursaries and other conditional discounts. Mid-term admissions (after the first two weeks of the school year) are adjusted pro rata, weekly. Boarding fees - UISG is a day school and does not offer boarding facilities; there are no boarding fees at this campus. (A separate Utahloy campus offers boarding.) Other costs and fees - School and P.E. uniforms are compulsory for K to Year 10; uniform items are purchased through the school uniform shop (prices for individual items are listed in the uniform price list). Examination fees for external standard tests (IB, SAT, TOEFL, etc.) are additional and are not covered by tuition. The school notes an LSA fee and optional bus fees; bus fees are optional, partially subsidised by the school, and payable by semester or annually. Canteen/cafeteria meals have been included in the semester and annual fee structure for the published year. Refund information - Application fee: non-refundable. - ECAs and externally run activities: published ECA terms include limited refund rules (e.g., one-week grace period per term, refunds of missed lessons only in specified prolonged closure scenarios). The school's public pages do not publish a single, detailed general tuition refund/withdrawal policy; the enrollment letter/debit note and the school's Admissions Procedures and Policies brochure reference payment deadlines and conditions. For specific withdrawal or refund cases, the school's finance or admissions office provides the governing details. Fee payment options - Application fee: WeChat Pay is presented as the simplest option; bank transfer is available on request and the school requests a copy of remittance to admissions@uisgz.org and finance@uisgz.org. For scheduled tuition and other school fees, the school issues a debit note with payment instructions (finance contact available for bank details and queries). No public page lists credit-card acceptance as a standard method. Notes: the figures above are taken from the school's published 2025–2026 tuition and fees materials. Where the school's public pages give conditional or procedural statements (for example, sibling bursary conditions, bus fees, LSA charges, and ECA refund rules), those statements are reflected above; a general tuition withdrawal/refund schedule was not located on the publicly available pages cited.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements ISD offers a boarding program launched in 2024. The dormitory provides hotel-standard bedrooms for 2–3 students with ensuite washrooms and study desks, and includes facilities such as a fitness center and a dance/yoga studio; boarders share common spaces and laundry, and have access to the school's gymnasium, canteen, and sports facilities.	Boarding arrangements Boarding is launching at UISG with Dragon House for the start of the 2026-27 academic year. The boarding program supports holistic student development with academic support, pastoral care, and independent living in brand-new, purpose-built facilities. A dedicated residential staff provides 24/7 guidance and a safe, inclusive home. UISG is a member of the Australian Boarding Schools Association (ABSA).
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement ISD has a school uniform. The uniform is designed by ISD high school students and chosen by the student body; clothing must be modest, neat, and clean; clothing must be of solid color and free of advertisements or symbols for alcohol, tobacco, or drugs. Hats are permitted during athletic activities; bandanas are not considered hats.	Uniform requirement The UISG uniform is worn by all students from Kindergarten until Grade 10. Senior students in Grades 11 and 12 follow a smart/casual business dress code to prepare for tertiary study.
Food options	Food options The school has a canteen on campus.	Food options The UISG canteen provides high-quality, nutritious food with a daily menu featuring a mix of Asian and Western cuisines. The kitchen prepares meals daily, and a range of snacks is available in the campus cafe; in-house baking is done on-site.
House system	House system ISD uses a four-house system in the House League: Pi Xiu, Dragon, Phoenix, and Bi Xi. Students participate in mixed-age house teams and earn points throughout the year, leading to a year-end trophy.	House system Dragon House is UISG's boarding community and fosters belonging; it is described as a community to grow, learn, and belong.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership ISD is governed by ISD Education. It is a Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredited school and an IB World School, and it is a member of ACAMIS and EARCOS.	Governance and ownership UISG is part of the Utahloy International School Guangzhou network and is associated with Utahloy organizations including the Utahloy Education Foundation (UEF), Utahloy Alumni Association (UAA), and Utahloy Parent Teacher Association (UPTA).
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details ISD serves Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 as a coeducational day school. English is the language of instruction. The curriculum combines an American Core Standard Curriculum with the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for Grades 11–12. ISD is an IB World School authorized to deliver the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. The teacher–student ratio is 1:5 and the school offers 90+ extracurricular options. ISD graduates have progressed to universities around the world.	Curriculum details Utahloy International School Guangzhou delivers the International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum across its Early Years, Primary and Secondary stages. The Primary Years Programme (PYP) runs from Early Years through Year/Grade 6 and is an inquiry‑based, transdisciplinary curriculum integrating language (English and Chinese), mathematics, science, social studies, arts, design and specialist PE/music, with a PYP exhibition at the upper primary level. The Middle Years Programme (MYP) covers Grades/Years 6–10; students take eight subject groups (Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals & Societies, Science, Mathematics, The Arts, Physical & Health Education, and Design), complete a Personal Project, and may sit Grade 10 eAssessments leading to an IB MYP certificate. The Diploma Programme (DP) is offered in the final two years (typically Years 11–12) and requires study across six subject groups (three Higher Level, three Standard Level) plus the core components—Theory of Knowledge, the Extended Essay and Creativity, Activity, Service—culminating in the IB Diploma. Across the school there is whole‑school EAL support, a Mother Tongue programme (Chinese, English, Korean, Japanese, French, German, Spanish), and provision for technology, arts and extensive extracurricular activities.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio The teacher–student ratio is 1:5.	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results ISD graduates study at some of the world's most prestigious colleges and universities. The first cohort of IB graduates completed in 2017. ISD is an IB World School.	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression ISD graduates pursue higher education at universities around the world. The first IB graduates were in 2017. ISD is an IB World School with authorization to deliver the Diploma Programme. ISD prepares students for higher education through an American core curriculum and the IB Diploma Programme for Grades 11–12.	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented ISD offers 90+ extracurricular options. The campus supports House League, After School Activities, Athletics, Creativities and Week Without Walls. The Maker Space includes robotics, a laser cutter and a 3D printer.	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning ISD provides support for students' social and emotional development through a Secondary Counseling Team that supports social, emotional, and academic wellbeing. ISD's Advisory is held twice weekly for all students, with topics that include growth mindset, stress management, and kindness. The Elementary and Secondary Counseling Teams have hosted a Bully Prevention Week to address cyberbullying and related issues.	Social & emotional learning UISG provides confidential individual and group counselling delivered by a Primary Counselor (Sharon Lun) and a Secondary Counselor (Julie Mullen); counsellors work with parents, teachers and leaders to support academic, personal/social and career development. The counselling service lists common areas of support such as adjusting to a new culture, anxiety, friendships, time management and examination stress. The school also runs whole-school programmes that promote belonging and student agency, including a House system, student council, student leadership roles and regular experiential learning (camps and field trips). These leadership and community activities are described as part of classroom and student experience provision.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) —	Special educational needs (SEN) UISG describes itself as an inclusive school and states it aims to offer appropriate services for English language learners and students with mild Learning Support needs; the admissions information asks families to provide detailed reports if a child has a diagnosed learning need or has received learning support previously. School communications and newsletters reference Learning Support Assistants and list a Secondary Learning Support Coordinator among staff/vacancy roles, indicating in-school learning support capacity. The website does not publish a detailed list of specific SEN categories it can support, nor does it describe itself as a specialist SEN institution. For specific diagnoses, placement or detailed provision the school requests prior documentation and conducts assessment during admissions.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language ISD recognizes that many students come from backgrounds where English is not their first language. The staff provide support to attain English language proficiency. Core classes have English language goals as well as content goals to aid language development.	English as an additional language UISG runs a whole-school EAL programme that uses the WIDA framework and specific resources (for example Read Write Inc, Comprehension and Fresh Start in Primary) to scaffold students' English development. Primary EAL uses collaborative push-in support and WIDA screening on admission; Secondary offers an “EAL Enhanced” pathway with small-group instruction, push-in/pull-out options and six-week cycles framed by WIDA assessments, with students exiting the programme once they can work independently in mainstream classes. EAL teachers monitor progress, provide standards-referenced feedback to families, and collaborate with classroom teachers and subject departments. Assessment and placement are based on admission data, prior evidence of proficiency and the school's WIDA screener.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing The Secondary Counseling Team supports students' social, emotional, and academic wellbeing. Advisory is held twice a week, and individual appointments are available during school hours. The Elementary and Secondary Counseling Teams hosted Bully Prevention Week to promote wellbeing and kindness.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing support at UISG includes confidential counselling for individual and group needs, with counsellors explicitly addressing anxiety, depression, family or personal crises, and strategies for balanced lifestyles and resilience. The school operates two on-campus clinics staffed by nurses who log clinic visits, attend sporting and school events, and can access doctor support when needed. Wellbeing is further supported through curricular and co-curricular activities (life-skills/PSPE lessons in primary and secondary) and student leadership/house systems that build community and social skills. For medical or severe incidents the nurse will contact parents and, where necessary, accompany students to external medical care.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding —	Safeguarding UISG publishes a Child Protection & Safeguarding policy aligned with PRC law and referencing the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and WHO definitions of abuse and neglect. The school lists safeguarding measures including a clear child protection policy, annual child protection training for staff and volunteers, designated Child Protection Officers and a Child Safeguarding Team (named staff), a Staff Code of Conduct, criminal background checks for all staff/regular volunteers, and procedures for reporting and following up suspected abuse. The site states the Child Safeguarding Team trains teachers, parents and students and manages confidential child protection documentation. The school also says it cooperates with relevant authorities as part of its safeguarding procedures.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The ISD campus covers 12,000 square meters on about 8.5 acres. It includes an 800 square meter indoor basketball court with showers and changing rooms. The campus provides facilities for the arts, sciences, sports and technology, including a Black Box Theatre, music rooms, an art gallery, a pottery kiln, a screen and printing press, a photography studio, a library and a multimedia center. Science labs are modern and the sports facilities include an artificial turf field that accommodates two football pitches and a baseball diamond, two outdoor basketball courts, a full-size gymnasium and playgrounds. A Maker Space classroom is equipped with robotics, a laser cutter and a 3D printer.	Facilities overview The school's campus is lakeside, located along Golden Lake and bordered by forested hillsides. The campus spans nearly a kilometre along the lake, with learning spaces and classrooms offering views of the natural surroundings. Classrooms and learning spaces are modern, comfortable, purposefully designed, and suitably equipped. Cutting-edge technology is integrated into every classroom, and Primary and Secondary buildings include innovation and design spaces where students can develop solutions to real-world problems. An online campus tour is available to glimpse UISG's facilities.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities An 800 square meter indoor basketball court is on site with showers and changing rooms. An artificial turf sports field accommodates two football pitches and a baseball diamond. The campus has two outdoor basketball courts and two tennis courts. A full-size gymnasium and playgrounds support physical activity.	Sports facilities —
Academic facilities	Academic facilities ISD provides facilities for the arts, sciences, sports and technology. Arts facilities include a Black Box Theatre, music rooms, an art gallery, a pottery kiln, a screen and printing press, a photography studio, a library and a multimedia center. Science labs are modern and a Maker Space technology department classroom comes equipped with robotics, a laser cutter and a 3D printer.	Academic facilities Classrooms and specialized buildings are modern, comfortable, purposefully designed, and suitably equipped. Cutting-edge technology is a core feature of every classroom environment. Specialized innovation and design classrooms exist in both the Primary and Secondary buildings, enabling students to design solutions to real-world problems.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities ISD offers an After School Activities program that includes a range of pursuits beyond the classroom. Students pursue interests in music and the arts, sport, drama, technology, clothing design, and Chinese culture. STEM activities include a STEM fair, math tournaments and Hands-On Family STEM nights. Model United Nations provides diplomacy simulations. The arts program covers music, visual arts, photography and theater. National Honor Society supports scholarship, service, leadership and character.	Extra curricular facilities The school highlights engaging extracurricular activities as part of the student experience.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History The International School of Dongguan opened on August 16, 2012, serving K-12 students. The school began with 43 students. ISD now educates almost 400 students. ISD is internationally recognized by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). ISD graduates study at some of the world's most prestigious colleges and universities.	History Utahloy International School Guangzhou (UISG) was established in 1998 by the Utahloy Education Foundation Ltd (UEF); UEF is an education company supported by the Guangzhou Municipal Government and Guangzhou University and created UISG as its first school. The school's Chinese name has changed since its founding (an earlier registered name dates to July 14, 1998). UEF later expanded its network with a second Utahloy campus in Zeng Cheng in 2003.
Community	Community The Parent Support Association partners with the school to support parents, teachers and students and to enhance community spirit. It aims to enrich education for each child and to propose and set realistic goals. It maintains transparent communication between the school and home. It works in partnership with the school director and the school community to improve children's education. It also seeks to empower parents to actively participate in their children's education.	Community UISG describes a multinational student body with multiple mother-tongue programmes and a range of student activities that reflect its cultural diversity. The school's news and events pages show recurring cultural and community events such as an International Festival of Light, primary school talent shows, and seasonal athletics and arts activities. The broader Utahloy community includes an alumni association and the Utahloy Education Foundation, which connect current families, graduates and local partners.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association ISD's Parent Support Association operates in partnership with the school to support parents, teachers and students and to enhance community spirit. It aims to enrich education for each child and to propose and set realistic goals. It maintains transparent communication between the school and home. It works in partnership with the school director and the school community to improve children's education. It seeks to empower parents to actively participate in their children's education.	Parent teacher association The Utahloy Parent Teacher Association (UPTA) was founded in 2006 and all parents and teachers at UISG are automatically members. UPTA serves as a regular communication channel between parents and the school and represents major language groups within the school community. UPTA plans and coordinates fundraising events where parents meet teachers and other families; funds raised are partly donated to charity and partly used to improve the school environment and support future activities. Meetings are held four times a year (dates appear on the school calendar) and all parents and teachers are welcome to attend. UPTA also supports school-organized workshops intended to help parents better understand the curriculum and school programmes.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual ISD provides instruction in English for students from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12. It is an IB World School authorized to offer the IB Diploma Programme for Grades 11 and 12. The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). The teacher–student ratio is 1:5.	Academic & intellectual The Extra Curricular Activities Programme offers over 160 activities annually for Grade 1–12, including sports, performing arts, virtual design, STEAM, academics, and community engagements/initiatives. The programme provides Primary ECAs and Secondary ECAs, with a detailed catalogue released before each session. Secondary ECAs include service opportunities that empower students to impact broader communities positively. The programme is designed to help students pursue interests and contribute to a well-rounded education.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Facilities for the arts include a Black Box Theatre, music rooms, an art gallery, a pottery kiln, a screen and printing press, a photography studio, a library and a multimedia center. The campus also houses a modern Maker Space with robotics, a laser cutter and a 3D printer to support creative projects. Sports and performance spaces include an indoor basketball court, two outdoor tennis courts, a turf field and a full-size gym, enabling a range of artistic and athletic activities.	Arts & creative Arts at UISG are identified as Visual Arts and Performing Arts. Arts education is integrated into the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and is an integral part of the IB Diploma Programme Visual Arts course. Performing Arts offers curricular and extra-curricular opportunities in Music and Theatre, while Visual Arts covers media such as drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, and digital art. UISG is a founding member of the International Schools Music Association of Guangzhou (ISMAG) and a member of ACAMIS, linking students to regional arts events.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language ISD is an IB World School offering the Diploma Programme, with instruction conducted in English. The school serves Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12, fostering a multicultural environment. ISD is a member of ACAMIS and EARCOS, which support international collaboration and cultural exchange.	Cultural & language The Mother Tongue Programme is embedded in the school day. The school's medium of instruction is English, and it promotes bilingualism and strengthening home languages. In Secondary, the Mother Tongue Programme continues through Language and Literature in seven languages: Chinese, English, Korean, Japanese, French, Spanish, and German. In Primary, the Mother Tongue Programme is based on the PYP Language Scope and Sequence and AERO standards. The languages offered include Chinese, English, Korean, Japanese, French, Spanish, and German.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies ISD offers more than 90 extracurricular options across arts, athletics, technology and service. The Maker Space and other facilities support hands-on clubs and projects. As a member of ACAMIS and EARCOS, ISD provides opportunities for interscholastic activities and cultural exchanges.	Social & hobbies Over 160 ECAs are offered each year for Grades 1–12, spanning sports, performing arts, virtual design, STEAM, academics, and community engagements/initiatives. Primary ECAs emphasize exploration, creativity, and inclusivity in a non-competitive environment, with a detailed catalogue released before each session. Secondary ECAs include a wide range of options, including staff-led, external provider, or student-led activities, with service opportunities designed to empower students to contribute to broader communities. The ECA programme enables students to pursue interests and develop new skills as part of their well-rounded education.
Community & service	Community & service —	Community & service The Extra Curricular Activities programme includes community engagements/initiatives and service opportunities for students, enabling positive impact on broader communities. Secondary ECAs provide service opportunities designed to empower students to contribute to local and global communities. The ECA framework supports student-led and staff-led community projects as part of UISG's approach to holistic development.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional —	Leadership & professional UISG hosts Model United Nations conferences, including RAMSMUN 2024 and PACKMUN III (2025), offering student leadership and global awareness experiences. The College Counseling programme provides academic advising, a broad college search, applications assistance, university visits, and fairs, with BridgeU used to guide planning. UISG runs the Life After High School career fair (March 26, 2025) to connect students with universities and industry.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing ISD supports sports, fitness and outdoor activities through its facilities, including an indoor gym, two outdoor basketball courts, two tennis courts and an artificial turf field. The campus's full range of athletic and performance spaces promotes physical well-being as part of a holistic education. These facilities enable students to participate in organized sports and wellness activities.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The Wolves Athletics Programme offers a wide range of primary, middle, and high school sports, with pathways for development from elementary to varsity levels and a focus on character, discipline, and teamwork. UISG participates in local conferences and leagues (e.g., GISSA, GISES, SDRC) and hosts year-round events and live streaming of competitions. The athletic program supports students' physical well-being and social-emotional development through competitive and recreational sport.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school uses English as the language of instruction. Mandarin is taught in the IB program with courses such as Mandarin A LIT and Chinese B, among other Chinese language offerings. ISD serves students from Early Childhood through Secondary (Pre-K through Grade 12) and provides English language learner support. The school is authorized to offer the IB Diploma Programme and is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). ISD is a member of ACAMIS and EARCOS.	Language provision The school provides a Whole School EAL Programme to support English language learners. It offers extensive Mother Tongue Programmes in Korean, Chinese, Japanese, French, German, and Spanish. These language supports complement academic learning across the IB Continuum.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards • Forbes China recognitions (June 2025) — the school's website reports that UISG was named in two categories of Forbes China's 2025 Annual International School Rankings: the “Foreign Passport High Schools” selection and the “German Curriculum International Schools” selection; these are recognitions published by Forbes China and presented on the school site as institutional honours. • National Spelling Bee Team — third place in the National Spelling Bee Team Competition (July 2023) as reported on the school website; the report presents this as a team/institutional result in a national competition.
Accreditations	Accreditations ISD is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and is an International Baccalaureate World School authorized to deliver the Diploma Programme. The Diploma Programme authorization was granted on March 30, 2015.	Accreditations • International Baccalaureate (IB) — Utahloy International School Guangzhou is an IB World School authorized to deliver the full IB continuum: Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP); this indicates the school meets the IB Organisation's authorization standards for those programmes. • Council of International Schools (CIS) — UISG was re‑accredited by CIS in 2025; CIS accreditation is an institutional accreditation that reviews whole‑school quality in international education, governance and student welfare. • Accrediting Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACS WASC) — UISG was awarded full ACS WASC accreditation (stated as valid through June 2029 on the school site); WASC accreditation is an external quality review used by many international schools to signal alignment with recognised standards for academic programmes, leadership and continuous improvement. • UNESCO Hong Kong affiliation — the school's website notes an affiliation with UNESCO Hong Kong as part of its institutional recognitions; such an affiliation indicates a formal link to UNESCO‑related programmes or networks focused on global citizenship and sustainable development.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Schedule a campus tour. ISD invites prospective families to schedule a campus tour to learn about the curriculum, facilities, and community. Campus tours run Monday to Friday from 8:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M., and an appointment is encouraged before you visit. 2. Start your application. Submit your application through our paperless admissions system using the Apply link. The admissions page directs you to start the online application and provides contact details for questions. 3. Admissions support. The admissions team provides guidance during the application process and can arrange campus tours as needed. 4. Transfer options and trial classes. For the 2025-2026 admissions season, ISD offers trial classes; prospective students can start the online application by scanning the QR code. Transfer students are welcome for the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 school years, and ISD invites families to visit the campus for a closer look. Ready to get started? Contact ISD admissions for more information.	Admissions 1. Check eligibility and read placement guidance. Before you start an application, confirm your child is eligible: UISG only admits students holding a valid foreign passport or those from Hong Kong, Macau, or Taiwan — children with a People's Republic of China passport are not eligible. Review the school's Year Level Placement guide so you apply for the correct year level; applying for the wrong year level can delay review or change placement outcomes. If you are unsure about eligibility or the right year level, contact the Admissions Office first. 2. Prepare required documents. UISG asks that you gather and prepare the Required Documents before submitting an application: these commonly include parents' and student passport copies and any Chinese residency/visa documentation, the student's birth certificate, a passport-sized photo, at least two years of official school reports plus a Certificate of Attendance/Enrollment, an up-to-date vaccination record, and (for Grade 1–12 applicants) a confidential reference requested through the online portal. If your child has a diagnosed learning need or has previously received learning support, you must provide detailed reports and history of support as part of the application. Documents should be in English or provided with an official translation to avoid processing delays. 3. Submit the application through the online portal and pay the application fee. Complete the online application via UISG's OpenApply admissions portal and upload the required supporting documents; the school will not process an application without the application fee. The application fee is RMB 2,000 (non-refundable and non-transferable) — parents are asked to include the student's full name on remittance and may remit via WeChat Pay or bank transfer (contact admissions for bank details). 4. Assessments and interview. Depending on age and prior English-medium schooling, applicants (especially Grades 4–12 without at least three years in an English-language school) may be asked to complete an English assessment or other subject/language assessments; these can be on campus or proctored online. The school requests a student and family interview (usually with the relevant Head of Division); the interview is used to understand the child and family, answer questions, and assess fit rather than to ‘‘test'' the child on the spot. Heads of Division may also request a trial class or additional assessments in some cases; budget time for these steps when planning a mid-year move. 5. Admissions review and decision. Admissions decisions are made after the Admissions Office, Heads of Division, and Head of School review the file, assessment results, references, and interview feedback; the school evaluates both the potential for the student to benefit from UISG and the school's capacity to meet the student's needs. After the process is complete you should receive a formal admissions response: an official enrollment letter (if accepted) plus a debit note listing payment deadlines required to secure the place. UISG aims to issue a decision quickly (the FAQ notes a typical decision within five working days after all steps are complete), though processing can be slower during holidays. If your child is denied, the school will issue a letter explaining the reasons. 6. If accepted — secure the place and note fee/payment policies. To secure an offered place you will be given payment instructions and deadlines; UISG offers an annual-payment 4% discount (shown on the published fee schedule) and applies sibling bursaries for second and subsequent concurrently enrolled children (bursary applies to basic tuition only). The school accepts mid-year enrollments when space is available; note the tuition policy: no basic tuition reduction is given for students admitted during the first two weeks of term, and students admitted after the first two weeks will have tuition adjusted pro rata by week. For transport, bus fees are optional and payable by semester or annually; meals are included in the 2025–26 fee structure. Keep the tuition & fees page and the Admissions Procedures & Policies brochure handy for the detailed financial terms referenced in your debit note.
Scholarships	Scholarships ISD offers a Merit-Based Scholarship Program. Details on eligibility and the application process are published by ISD. For inquiries, contact the admissions office.	Scholarships UISG does offer scholarship opportunities and runs specific scholarship programmes with published criteria and application procedures. Recent school announcements (April–May 2025) describe a RMB 1,000,000 scholarship programme for the 2025–26 year that is open to new students (Years 1–12) and existing students (Years 6–12), with awards ranging from full tuition to tiered cash awards; categories include academic, artistic, athletic, creativity, community service, and multilingual/cultural diversity scholarships. The school also runs targeted scholarships for specific year groups (for example Year 10 and Year 12 awards and UEF recognition awards) with stated application criteria and deadlines. Scholarship applications typically require completion of the admissions process first (payment of the non-refundable application fee where applicable), a completed scholarship application form, supporting documents (PDFs), required essays, and submission by the published deadline; for at least some internal scholarships the school asks applicants to email materials to secondaryoffice@uisgz.org. Deadlines and exact award amounts vary by programme and year — consult the UISG Scholarships page and the specific scholarship news posts for the current application windows and instructions, and contact admissions or the Secondary Office for clarifications.
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist UISG operates a wait pool (waitlist) system when a requested year level has reached capacity. If a year level is full at the time of application, the school will notify you that your child has been placed in the wait pool and will contact you if and when an appropriate space becomes available. Offers are generally made on a first-come, first-served basis for available places, and the Admissions Office will follow up with an enrollment timeline and next steps if a space opens. The FAQ and Admissions Procedures both explicitly describe this wait-pool arrangement and advise families to apply early if they need a place at the start of a semester.
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