A Parent’s Guide to the Leading International Schools in Beijing (2025 Edition)

Beijing is home to a well-established international-school market with a variety of curriculum styles (IB, British, American). With many options available, it helps to focus first on the largest, most established schools to get a sense of what “scale + quality” looks like. Below are five of the biggest and most respected international schools in Beijing, each with verifiable figures and summaries.

Beijing’s international school scene is mature, diverse, and highly competitive. Over the past two decades, the city has become home to some of the most respected international schools in Asia — schools known for strong academics, world-class facilities, and multicultural communities.

For families moving to Beijing or already settled here, finding the right school means balancing curriculum, location, and atmosphere. Below is a closer look at five of the city’s most established international schools, each offering its own approach to global education.

International School of Beijing (ISB)

Location: Shunyi District
Students: Around 1,800 from over 70 nationalities
Curriculum: English-medium, IB Diploma offered in Grades 11–12
Founded: 1980

ISB is one of Beijing’s pioneers in international education. With a long history, extensive resources, and a focus on both academic and personal growth, it remains one of the city’s most sought-after choices. The school emphasizes inquiry, leadership, and creativity — preparing students for global universities and workplaces.

Estimated tuition: ¥230,000–¥330,000 CNY per year

Dulwich College Beijing

Location: Shunyi District
Students: About 1,500 students
Curriculum: British National Curriculum, IGCSE, and IB Diploma
Founded: 2003

Dulwich College Beijing delivers a traditional British education with a global outlook. Students benefit from rigorous academics balanced with strong arts and sports programs. The school community is highly international and connected through the global Dulwich network, giving students exposure beyond China.

Estimated tuition: ¥245,000–¥370,000 CNY per year

Western Academy of Beijing (WAB)

Location: Chaoyang District
Students: Around 1,400
Curriculum: Full IB Continuum (Primary, Middle, and Diploma Programmes)
Founded: 1994

WAB has a reputation for innovation and inclusivity. It’s a non-profit international school that encourages independence and curiosity from an early age. The atmosphere feels open and creative — ideal for families who value flexibility, community, and global awareness as much as exam results.

Estimated tuition: ¥245,000–¥375,000 CNY per year

Beijing City International School (BCIS)

Location: Chaoyang District
Students: Around 1,300
Curriculum: Full IB Continuum with strong bilingual options
Founded: 2005

BCIS is known for its balance between East and West. It integrates Chinese and international elements in its programs, allowing both local and foreign students to thrive in an environment that celebrates cultural diversity. The smaller class sizes and creative teaching methods make it a good choice for families seeking a personalized learning experience.

Estimated tuition: ¥240,000–¥320,000 CNY per year

Canadian International School of Beijing (CISB)

Location: Chaoyang District
Students: Approximately 600–700
Curriculum: Canadian curriculum (New Brunswick) from nursery to Grade 12
Founded: 2005

CISB provides a North American education model in Beijing, combining Canadian academic standards with a global perspective. The school’s community is smaller and friendly, with close student–teacher relationships and a practical approach to university preparation.

Estimated tuition: ¥220,000–¥310,000 CNY per year

Choosing the Right International School in Beijing

Curriculum fit matters most.
British and IB programs dominate Beijing’s international scene, but Canadian and American systems are also available. Choose one that aligns with your child’s future education plans.

Commute is often underestimated.
Traffic in Beijing can be unpredictable, so consider how long the daily trip to school will take before committing.

Visit before you apply.
A tour gives you more insight than a brochure ever could. The way students interact, the tone of classrooms, and the feel of the campus matter more than rankings.

Apply early.
Top international schools in Beijing often have waiting lists, particularly for kindergarten and lower primary grades.

Final Thoughts

Beijing’s international schools reflect the city’s global energy and high academic expectations. From the long-established ISB to the bilingual approach of BCIS, families can find both variety and quality across the city’s top institutions.

Each school featured here offers a distinct atmosphere — whether large and structured, or smaller and community-driven — but all share the same goal: preparing young people for a fast-changing, international world.