Choosing the right international school in Hong Kong can feel overwhelming. If you are a parent considering Canadian International School Hong Kong (CDNIS) for your child, this guide is for you. We cover the school’s curriculum (including the full IB continuum), location and facilities, fees and costs, admissions process, what to look for when visiting, and practical next steps—so you can decide whether CDNIS is the right fit and how to prepare.

About Canadian International School Hong Kong (CDNIS)

Canadian International School Hong Kong (CDNIS) is one of Hong Kong’s leading international schools, offering the IB continuum (PYP, MYP, DP) from the early years through to graduation. The school has a strong focus on bilingual learning (English and often Mandarin or French), academic rigour, and university readiness. CDNIS is known for modern facilities, experienced IB teachers, and a diverse community. Parents often cite the clarity of the IB pathway, the quality of the facilities, and the strength of the community as key reasons for choosing CDNIS. The school welcomes families who value an inquiry-based, internationally recognised curriculum.

Who This Guide Is For

This guide is for parents who are researching CDNIS, comparing it with other Hong Kong international schools, or looking for detailed information on curriculum, fees, admissions, and what to expect. Whether your child is entering primary or secondary, you will find here a structured overview and practical checklists to support your decision.

Curriculum and Programmes

CDNIS offers the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP). In the PYP and MYP, learning is inquiry-based and transdisciplinary; in the DP, students choose six subjects (typically three at Higher Level and three at Standard Level), complete TOK, the Extended Essay, and CAS. Subject choice and language options are wide—confirm current offerings on the school website. If your child needs extra support in IB DP subjects, Internal Assessments (IA), or exam technique, one-to-one tutoring aligned with the IB can supplement school work effectively.

Location and Facilities

CDNIS is located in Hong Kong (check the school website for the current address). Facilities typically include well-stocked libraries, science laboratories, IT suites, sports halls, swimming pools, and dedicated spaces for music, drama, and art. Location affects daily commute; consider transport and family routine when shortlisting. Many families choose to live within a reasonable distance to simplify the school run.

Fees and Costs: What Parents Should Budget

CDNIS fees are typically in the upper range for Hong Kong—often HKD 200,000–280,000+ per year depending on year level (indicative; confirm on the school website). Additional costs that parents should budget for include application and assessment fees, capital levy or debenture (if applicable), uniform, transport, and optional activities. Families who want to supplement school with targeted tutoring (e.g. for IB DP subjects or exam prep) can do so with flexible, one-to-one sessions that fit around the CDNIS timetable.

Admissions Process and Timeline

Typical steps for CDNIS (confirm with the school): (1) Application – complete the online form and pay the application fee; (2) Supporting documents – previous school reports, passport/ID; (3) Assessment – age-appropriate assessments (e.g. English, maths); (4) Interview – student and/or family interview; (5) Offer and acceptance – if successful, you will receive an offer, often with a deadline to accept and pay a deposit. Apply well in advance; places can be limited. Preparing for entrance assessments can help your child feel confident on the day.

What to Look for When Visiting CDNIS

Factor	What to check
Curriculum	IB PYP, MYP, DP—subject choice and HL/SL options for your child’s year.
Language	Bilingual options and additional language support.
Class size	Typical class size and student–teacher ratio.
Support	EAL, learning support, and pastoral care.
Location	Commute time and transport options.
Fees	Total cost per year including levies and typical extras.
Culture	Fit with your family’s values and your child’s needs.

Pros and Cons: A Balanced View

Pros: CDNIS has a strong reputation, the full IB continuum, modern facilities, and good university placement. Cons: Fees are high, entry can be competitive, and families who need extra support in specific subjects or exam prep often use external tutoring to supplement. Considering both sides helps you decide if CDNIS is the right fit.

How Tutopiya Fits In

If your child needs extra help with IB DP subjects, IA, or exam technique, one-to-one tuition can supplement CDNIS without changing school. Flexible scheduling and online sessions mean no extra commute, and continuity if you relocate. Book a free trial or explore Tutopiya’s learning portal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Parents

Q: Does CDNIS offer IGCSE or A-Level?
A: CDNIS offers the IB continuum (PYP, MYP, DP). For IGCSE or A-Level support alongside CDNIS, one-to-one tutoring can align with those curricula.

Q: How do we prepare for CDNIS entrance tests?
A: Tutoring can help with maths and English at the right level for the school’s entrance format.

Q: Can our child continue learning if we relocate?
A: Yes. Online one-to-one tuition allows your child to continue with the same tutor from anywhere.

Key Takeaways

CDNIS offers the full IB continuum (PYP, MYP, DP). Fees are in the upper range for Hong Kong; budget for application fees, levies, uniform, and transport. Admissions involve application, documents, assessment, and interview—apply early. Visiting the campus and confirming curriculum and fees for your child’s year will help you decide if CDNIS is the right fit. If your child needs extra support in IB or exam preparation, one-to-one tutoring can supplement the school timetable flexibly.

Next Steps for Parents

1. Visit the CDNIS website and, if possible, attend an open day or schedule a campus tour.
2. Confirm curriculum (IB PYP, MYP, DP) and total fees for your child’s year.
3. Apply in good time and prepare your child for assessments.
4. If you need extra support (e.g. entrance-test preparation or IB tutoring), consider one-to-one tuition that fits around the school timetable. Book a free trial to see how it fits your family.