Choosing the right international school in Hong Kong can feel overwhelming. If you are a parent considering Hong Kong Academy (HKA) for your child, this guide is for you. We cover the school’s IB programme (PYP, MYP, DP), location and facilities, fees and costs, admissions process, what to look for when visiting, and practical next steps—so you can decide whether HKA is the right fit and how to prepare.

About Hong Kong Academy (HKA)

Hong Kong Academy (HKA) is an IB World School offering the full IB continuum: Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP). The school emphasises inquiry-based learning, inclusion, and community, and serves students from early years through to graduation. HKA is known for its commitment to diversity, social responsibility, and academic rigour within the IB framework. Parents often cite the strength of the IB programme, the inclusive and supportive culture, and the quality of the faculty as key reasons for choosing HKA.

The school’s ethos is built around the IB learner profile and a belief that every student can succeed with the right support. Class sizes are kept manageable, and the faculty includes many experienced IB teachers. HKA welcomes families who value an inquiry-based, internationally recognised curriculum and a strong sense of community.

Who This Guide Is For

This guide is for parents who are researching HKA, 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

HKA offers the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) in the early and primary years, the Middle Years Programme (MYP) in the middle years, and the Diploma Programme (DP) in the final two years. 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 Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). Subject choice and language options are wide—confirm current offerings on the school website. The school supports students in choosing HL/SL combinations that suit their interests and university goals.

If your child needs extra support in specific 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

HKA 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. The campus is designed to support inquiry-based learning and a broad co-curricular programme. 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

HKA fees are typically in the upper range for Hong Kong—often HKD 180,000–260,000+ 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 HKA timetable.

Admissions Process and Timeline

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

What to Look for When Visiting HKA

Factor	What to check
Curriculum	IB PYP, MYP, DP—subject choice and HL/SL options for your child’s year.
Language	Language of instruction and additional language options.
Class size	Typical class size and student–teacher ratio.
Support	EAL, learning support, inclusion, and pastoral care.
Location	Commute time and transport options from your home.
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: HKA has a strong reputation as an IB World School, a full PYP–MYP–DP continuum, an inclusive culture, and good university placement. The inquiry-based approach appeals to many families. Cons: Fees are in the upper range, entry can be competitive, and families who need extra support in specific IB subjects or exam prep often use external tutoring to supplement. Considering both sides helps you decide if HKA 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 HKA 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 HKA offer IGCSE or A-Level?
A: HKA offers the IB continuum (PYP, MYP, DP). For IGCSE or A-Level support alongside HKA, one-to-one tutoring can align with those curricula.

Q: How do we prepare for HKA 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

HKA 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 HKA 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 HKA 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.