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

About Hong Kong International School (HKIS)

Hong Kong International School (HKIS) is one of Hong Kong’s most established and respected international schools. Founded in 1966, it has grown from a small expatriate school into a large, multi-campus institution serving students from Reception through Grade 12. HKIS is known for its US-style curriculum, strong emphasis on whole-person development, and excellent university placement in North America, the UK, and beyond.

The school’s mission centres on nurturing students who are academically capable, socially responsible, and spiritually curious. HKIS is a Christian school in the Lutheran tradition; its values of respect, integrity, and service are woven into daily life while welcoming families of all faiths and backgrounds. Class sizes are kept manageable, and the faculty includes many long-serving teachers who know the school’s culture well. Parents often cite the sense of community, the breadth of co-curricular activities, and the clarity of the academic pathway (including AP and IB options in the senior years) as key reasons for choosing HKIS.

Who This Guide Is For

This guide is for parents who are researching HKIS, 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, or you are considering a move to Hong Kong, you will find here a structured overview and practical checklists to support your decision.

Curriculum and Programmes at HKIS

HKIS follows a US-style curriculum from the early years through to graduation. In the lower and middle years, the focus is on inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and a broad exposure to the arts, sciences, and humanities. Literacy and numeracy are emphasised, and students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning. The school uses standards-aligned frameworks that prepare students well for the rigours of AP (Advanced Placement) and IB Diploma in the senior years.

In the senior years, HKIS typically offers AP and/or IB Diploma pathways—confirm the current mix on the school website or at open days, as it can vary. Subject choice is wide: sciences, mathematics, languages, humanities, and the arts are all well represented. Students can tailor their programme to their interests and university goals. Language options often include Mandarin and other languages, and the school supports students who need EAL (English as an Additional Language) or learning support. If your child is also preparing for IGCSE or A-Level elsewhere, or needs extra support in specific subjects, one-to-one tutoring aligned with those curricula can supplement school work effectively.

Location and Facilities

HKIS operates on multiple campuses in Hong Kong—commonly in the Repulse Bay and Tai Tam areas (check the school website for current addresses and which year groups are on which campus). The campuses are purpose-built with libraries, science laboratories, IT suites, sports halls, swimming pools, and dedicated spaces for music, drama, and art. Outdoor play and sports facilities are a priority. Location is a major factor for families: traffic in Hong Kong can be heavy, so consider commute time, school bus routes, and your family’s routine when shortlisting. Many families choose to live in the same district or along a direct bus route to simplify the school run.

Fees and Costs: What Parents Should Budget

International school fees in Hong Kong are among the highest in the region. HKIS fees are typically in the upper range—often HKD 200,000–280,000+ per year or more depending on year level (indicative; always confirm on the school website). Fees usually cover tuition, most materials, and access to standard facilities. Additional costs that parents should budget for include:

• Application and assessment fees (non-refundable)
• Capital levy or debenture (if applicable—check current policy)
• Uniform, PE kit, and optional materials
• Transport (school bus or public transport)
• Optional activities (trips, after-school clubs, exams)

Planning for these extras helps avoid surprises. Families who want to supplement school with targeted tutoring (e.g. for IB, AP, or specific subjects) can do so at a fraction of the cost of a second school; flexible, one-to-one sessions can fit around the HKIS timetable.

Admissions Process and Timeline

HKIS has a structured admissions process. Typical steps (always confirm with the school):

1. Application – Complete the online application form and pay the application fee. Submit by the deadline for your intended start date.
2. Supporting documents – Previous school reports (often the last two years), passport/ID, and any relevant learning or medical information.
3. Assessment – Age-appropriate assessments, which may include English, mathematics, and reasoning. Format and length vary by year group.
4. Interview – Student and/or family interview. The school uses this to understand your child’s interests, strengths, and fit with the community.
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, especially in popular year groups. 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 HKIS

When you visit HKIS, use the following as a checklist so you leave with a clear picture:

Factor	What to check
Curriculum	Exact pathway (AP, IB, or both) and subject choice for your child’s year.
Language	Language of instruction and additional language options (e.g. Mandarin, EAL).
Class size	Typical class size for your child’s year and student–teacher ratio.
Support	EAL, learning support, and pastoral care—how they are delivered and who to contact.
Location	Commute time, school bus routes, and transport options from your home.
Fees	Total cost per year including levies, debentures, and typical extras.
Culture	Fit with your family’s values, your child’s personality, and the overall feel of the community.

Pros and Cons: A Balanced View

Pros: HKIS has a strong reputation, clear US/AP/IB pathways, modern facilities, and a track record of strong university placement. The community is large and diverse, with many co-curricular and service opportunities. Cons: Fees are high, entry can be competitive, and the fixed location and timetable mean that families who need more flexibility (e.g. extra support in specific subjects or exam prep) often use external tutoring to supplement. Considering both sides helps you decide if HKIS is the right fit and what additional support, if any, your child might need.

How Tutopiya Fits In

• Supplement: Your child is at HKIS but needs extra help in IB, AP, or specific subjects—Tutopiya offers one-to-one tuition aligned with the curriculum.
• Exam prep: Past papers, exam technique, and subject revision.
• Flexibility: Sessions scheduled around school and family; no commute.
• Continuity: If you relocate, your child can continue with the same tutor online.

Book a free trial with a tutor to see how Tutopiya fits your child’s HKIS journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Parents

Q: Does HKIS offer IGCSE or A-Level?
A: HKIS typically offers US/AP and often IB. For IGCSE or A-Level support, Tutopiya can provide tutoring alongside HKIS or for exam preparation.

Q: How do we prepare for HKIS entrance tests?
A: Tutopiya can help with maths and English at the right level for common international school entrance formats.

Q: Can we use Tutopiya if we travel often?
A: Yes. Tutopiya’s online model allows your child to continue with the same tutor from anywhere.

Key Takeaways

HKIS offers a US-style curriculum with AP and/or IB in the senior years. 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 (AP/IB) and fees for your child’s year will help you decide if HKIS is the right fit. If your child needs extra support in IB, AP, or exam preparation, one-to-one tutoring can supplement the school timetable flexibly.

Next Steps for Parents

1. Visit the HKIS website and, if possible, attend an open day or schedule a campus tour.
2. Confirm curriculum (AP, IB, or both) and total fees for your child’s year, including levies and typical extras.
3. Apply in good time—places can be limited. Gather reports and prepare your child for assessments.
4. If you need extra support (e.g. entrance-test preparation or subject-specific tutoring alongside HKIS), consider one-to-one tuition that fits around the school timetable. Book a free trial to see how it fits your family.

Supplementing Your Child’s Learning

If your child needs extra help with IB, AP, IGCSE, A-Level, or exam technique, one-to-one tuition can supplement HKIS without changing school. Flexible scheduling and online sessions mean no extra commute. Book a free trial or explore Tutopiya’s learning portal for more resources.