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Application Processes, Costs & Timeframe for International Schools

To apply to international schools in Hong Kong you may realise that most schools have waiting lists, many demand debentures (or having a debenture is clearly an advantage), high tuition fees, entry interviews/assessments start at a very young age, and English fluency is expected to reach a certain standard for a very young child, and final decisions on acceptance of a place is expected within two to three weeks.

When you come to understand this, it is possible to tackle the admissions process efficiently and effectively. We would like to share with you some information from the very beginning.

 

APPLYING TO HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS

There are several critical issues to understand:   

WAITING LISTS

International schools in Hong Kong have long waiting lists and most of them receive hundreds of applications every year.

There are many factors that can affect a child’s priority position on a waiting list, including but not limited to debenture holders, siblings, and children of school staff. Ultimately, waiting lists continuously change and applicants may find themselves moving up or down the waitlist though an application is filed from birth or before others who have gained a place.

It is imperative that you begin your school search as soon as possible. You might expect that your first-choice school may not have a vacancy for your child, and your child may not pass the assessment.

What you need to know before you begin:

  • British or American Passport holders would not receive priority at any international schools
  • The English Schools Foundation (ESF) is one of the most popular school systems in Hong Kong.  Applications are accepted starting in September.  Application deadline is in October. (Late applications are accepted, but are put at the bottom of the chronological pile.)
  • Most international schools will not accept late application and others will put your name on a ‘late submission list’(Singaporean International School, Canadian International School, ESF, Chinese International School )
  • British curriculum schools will only accept Y11 (and up) students if they come from the British system, as they have already prepared for the GCSE.

What you need to know when you start your application process, you may need at least 6 months or longer to prepare in advance:

  • SEARCH: familiarise yourself with the schools by searching the free interactive search database on education-ladder.com
  • SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE: school placement consultants, realtors, and relocation agents can offer advice.
  • APPLY EARLY: even if the move to Hong Kong might not happen for 2 years, submit applications anyway. The applications submission period is usually from September to November.
  • SUBMIT MULTIPLE: applications to a number of schools since your first choice may not be available. Ensure all documentation and records are complete.
  • VISIT: It is always advisable to visit the school as early as possible. Meet with the teachers and observe the classes. Always make an effort to meet with a Principal or admissions officer.
  • FOLLOW-UP: with schools at least one week after you submit the application.
  • REACH OUT: to admissions officers frequently and send updated reports and other new information on your child’s achievements.
  • PREPARE: your child for the interview and testing; make sure they are relaxed on the day.

We will continue the other factors on the coming week!



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