Choosing the right international school in Hong Kong can feel overwhelming. If you are a parent considering Yew Chung International School Hong Kong (YCIS) 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 YCIS is the right fit and how to prepare.

About Yew Chung International School Hong Kong (YCIS)

Yew Chung International School Hong Kong (YCIS) is one of Hong Kong’s well-established bilingual international schools. Founded by the Yew Chung Education Foundation, it has grown into a multi-campus institution serving students from early years through secondary. YCIS is known for its bilingual (Chinese–English) model, with co-teaching and dual-language immersion that aims to develop fluency and cultural literacy in both languages.

The school’s mission centres on nurturing globally minded learners who can move confidently between Eastern and Western academic and cultural contexts. Class sizes are kept manageable, and the faculty includes both native English and Chinese speakers. Parents often cite the strength of the bilingual programme, the clarity of the pathway to IGCSE and IB Diploma in the senior years, and the sense of community as key reasons for choosing YCIS.

Who This Guide Is For

This guide is for parents who are researching YCIS, 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 YCIS

YCIS offers a bilingual (Chinese–English) curriculum from the early years through to graduation. In the lower and middle years, learning is structured around dual-language immersion and inquiry-based approaches, with a strong emphasis on literacy and numeracy in both languages. The school uses internationally recognised frameworks that lead into IGCSE and IB Diploma in the senior years.

In the senior years, YCIS typically offers IGCSE and IB Diploma—confirm the exact exam board and subject list on the school website. Subject choice is broad: sciences, mathematics, languages, humanities, and the arts are well represented. Students can tailor their programme to their interests and university goals. The school supports students who need EAL (English as an Additional Language) or learning support. If your child needs extra support in specific IGCSE or IB subjects, or exam technique, one-to-one tutoring aligned with those curricula can supplement school work effectively.

Location and Facilities

YCIS operates on multiple campuses in Hong Kong (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. YCIS fees are typically in the upper range—often HKD 180,000–260,000+ per year 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 IGCSE, IB, 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 YCIS timetable.

Admissions Process and Timeline

YCIS 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 YCIS

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

Factor	What to check
Curriculum	Bilingual model, IGCSE and IB pathway, and subject choice for your child’s year.
Language	Balance of Chinese and English instruction and additional language options (e.g. 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: YCIS has a strong bilingual programme, clear IGCSE and IB pathways, multiple campuses, and a track record of strong academic and language outcomes. The community is diverse, with many co-curricular opportunities. Cons: Fees are in the upper range, 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 YCIS is the right fit and what additional support, if any, your child might need.

How Tutopiya Fits In

If your child needs extra help with IGCSE, IB, or specific subjects, one-to-one tuition can supplement YCIS 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 YCIS offer A-Level or US curriculum?
A: YCIS typically offers IGCSE and IB Diploma. For A-Level or US/AP support alongside YCIS, or for exam preparation, one-to-one tutoring can align with those curricula.

Q: How do we prepare for YCIS entrance tests?
A: Tutoring can help with maths and English at the right level for common international school entrance formats. Check with the school for the exact format and content.

Q: Can our child continue learning if we travel or relocate?
A: Yes. Online one-to-one tuition allows your child to continue with the same tutor from anywhere, which can be especially helpful during transitions.

Key Takeaways

YCIS (Yew Chung International School) offers IGCSE and 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 and fees for your child’s year will help you decide if YCIS is the right fit. If your child needs extra support in IGCSE or IB, one-to-one tutoring can supplement the school timetable flexibly.

Next Steps for Parents

1. Visit the YCIS website and, if possible, attend an open day or schedule a campus tour.
2. Confirm curriculum (IGCSE, IB) 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 IGCSE/IB subject tutoring alongside YCIS), consider one-to-one tuition that fits around the school timetable. Book a free trial to see how it fits your family.