The Ultimate Guide to International Schools: British & American Programs
Looking for international schools that deliver a top-tier education abroad? This guide gives you the inside track on British and American curriculum schools across Hong Kong, UAE, South Korea, China, Taiwan, the Philippines, Japan, and Singapore.
Why Choose International Schools?
International schools serve globally mobile families who want consistency, quality, and a path to elite universities.
- Globally recognized curricula: British (IGCSE/A-Levels) and American (AP/High School Diploma) and the International Baccalaureate (IB), leading to internationally recognized qualifications.
- English-medium instruction
- University-focused outcomes
- Holistic education: STEAM, arts, sports, and social-emotional learning
- Support for English Language Learners (ELLs): Many schools offer specialized English as an Additional Language (EAL) programs or tiered language support to help students thrive in an English-speaking environment
These schools aren't just about academics—they're shaping the next generation of global leaders.
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British Curriculum: Structure + Strength
The British curriculum (National Curriculum for England) is built around Key Stages:
- KS1 & KS2 (ages 5-11): Core skills in Math, English, Science
- KS3 & KS4 (ages 11-16): Broad subjects + IGCSE/GCSE exams
- KS5 (ages 16-18): A-Levels or IB Diploma
Top British curriculum traits:
- Rigor + structure
- Internationally transferable
- Strong focus on academics and tradition (uniforms, house systems)
Common entrance exams:
- CAT4 (Cognitive Abilities Test)
- UKiset (for non-native English speakers)
British Curriculum International Schools Hong Kong
Discovery Bay International School
The school offers a comprehensive curriculum, progressing from the UK-based Early Years Foundation Stage and an enhanced English National Curriculum in Prep School to GCSEs, IGCSEs, and A-levels in Senior School. Mandarin is taught from Reception, and an iPad program enhances learning, while the Sixth Form emphasizes greater independence and responsibility.
Offers a wide range of sports (football, basketball, swimming, athletics, cross-country, badminton, track and field), academic clubs (FOBISIA Maths, Debating Club, Environmental Club), and international sports trips through FOBISIA. DBIS is a member of ISSFHK and participates in regular inter-school sports events.
Harrow International School
The curriculum progresses from the UK’s EYFS framework in Early Years, emphasizing cognitive development, to a broader Pre-Prep program (Years 1–5) with specialist teaching in music, PE, and multiple languages. In Prep School (Years 6–8), students follow a skills-based approach aligned with the UK National Curriculum, transitioning to subject-specific study in Senior School (Years 9–11) through IGCSE and GCSE courses. Sixth Form (Years 12–13) offers A-Level subjects and the Extended Project Qualification for advanced, independent learning.
Harrow Hong Kong provides a diverse extracurricular program, Harrow Horizons, integrating Super Curriculum Activities (SCAs) during the school day and Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs) after school, spanning academics, sports, and arts. Students also participate in service projects, leadership training (Leadership in Action Week), and enrichment opportunities like the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, alongside a broad sports program offering competitive and recreational options from rugby to horse riding.
Kellett School
Kellett School provides a modified English National Curriculum emphasizing high attainment in core subjects like Literacy, Numeracy, Science, and Digital Skills. Additionally, students benefit from specialist teaching across a range of areas including physical education, music, art, Mandarin, and public speaking.
Over 50 ECAs such as sports (soccer, athletics, cricket, fencing, swimming, tennis), expressive arts (choir, drama, musical, orchestra), and other clubs (chess, coding, science, Lego STEM, student newsletter).
English Schools Foundation
IB Middle Years Programme (Years 7–9), IGCSE/GCSE (Years 10–11), IB Diploma or BTEC/IB Career-related Programme (Years 12–13). Subjects include English, mathematics, science, humanities, creative and performing arts, design technology, and languages.
ESF Explore offers diverse extracurricular programs for all ages, from infants to teens, encompassing playgroups, sports, languages, arts, drama, and STEM learning, alongside various clubs and societies. These opportunities, including residential camps and academic enrichment, aim to spark curiosity, foster leadership and resilience, and help students discover their strengths through a wide range of engaging activities.
Nord Anglia International School
English National Curriculum, enriched with global perspectives and collaborations (MIT, Juilliard, UNICEF). Post-16: IB Diploma Programme.
Diverse after-school clubs, sports, music, project-based learning, and access to the Global Campus network for international collaborations.
Dulwich College International
DCI schools utilize an enhanced National Curriculum of England, adapted for an international setting, providing a consistent educational experience from early years (DUCKS) through to senior school. This curriculum aims to foster a stimulating and challenging academic environment to help every student achieve their best.
Activities: Extensive, including sports (football, rugby, netball, swimming, cricket), arts (music, drama, art club), academic clubs (debating, Model UN, robotics, STEAM), and participation in international competitions like FOBISIA and Dulwich Olympiad.
British International Schools UAE
GEMS Wellington Academy
British National Curriculum The school follows the National Curriculum for England, with play-based learning and foundational skill-building in Early Years (FS1-Year 2). In Primary and Secondary (Years 3-11), core subjects such as English, Mathematics, and Science are emphasized. For Post-16 (Years 12-13), students choose from the IB Diploma Programme, the IB Career-related Programme, A-Levels, or a combined pathway.
GEMS Wellington Academy offers a broad spectrum of extracurricular activities spanning creative arts, academic enrichment, diverse sports, and leadership development, alongside unique options like mindfulness and robotics. These programs, enhanced by partnerships with organizations like ESM, are designed to foster holistic development, encourage exploration and independent expression, and ultimately boost academic progress and personal growth.
Dubai British School Emirates Hills
GEMS Wellington Academy primarily bases its curriculum on the National Curriculum of England, offering a structured learning approach that is enriched by the International Primary Curriculum in early years. The school emphasizes STEAM subjects through project-based learning and teaches Arabic language throughout all year levels. Secondary students in Years 9 to 13 pursue rigorous GCSE and GCE A Level courses.
DBSEH provides a broad, mostly free extracurricular program encompassing diverse sports, performing arts, and clubs, alongside engaging day trips and activities like coding and drone flying. The school further supports student development through its positive psychology philosophy, comprehensive university and careers guidance, and varied Sixth Form pathways including A Levels and BTEC qualifications.
British International Schools South Korea
Seoul Foreign School (SFS)
The Elementary School (SFES) provides an international curriculum within the IB PYP framework for Pre-K2 to Grade 5, enriched by specialist classes including Music, World Language, and STEM. The Middle School offers a robust curriculum with five foreign language tracks, strong music and Christian Studies programs, and participation in the Korean American Interscholastic Activities Conference (KAIAC). The High School (SFHS) delivers an international curriculum accredited by WASC, culminating in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma.
Seoul Foreign School provides diverse extracurriculars. High schoolers engage in academic competitions (AMC, MUN, Speech & Debate), performing arts, and sports across KAIAC and APAC. Middle schoolers participate in academic challenges, various clubs (including Film Club), and after-school sports. Both divisions' Student Senates also organize additional events.
British Education Korea
IB Middle Years Programme (Years 7–9), IGCSE/GCSE (Years 10–11), IB Diploma or BTEC/IB Career-related Programme (Years 12–13). Subjects include English, mathematics, science, humanities, creative and performing arts, design technology, and languages.
ESF Explore offers diverse extracurricular programs for all ages, from infants to teens, encompassing playgroups, sports, languages, arts, drama, and STEM learning, alongside various clubs and societies. These opportunities, including residential camps and academic enrichment, aim to spark curiosity, foster leadership and resilience, and help students discover their strengths through a wide range of engaging activities.
British International Schools China
Yew Chung International School
British and international blend. It features a bilingual program (English and Chinese), a focus on character development, and a wide array of co-curricular activities. The school also provides robust academic programs, including the IGCSE and IB Diploma Programme in secondary school.
Yew Chung International School of Beijing provides extensive co-curricular activities, with three 8-week rounds annually for primary students offering diverse options like Kung Fu and Hip-hop Dancing. Secondary students engage in a robust sports program with core sports like basketball, football, and volleyball, competing in ISAC and ACAMIS events across China, and benefit from strong arts offerings including annual musicals and visual arts clubs. The school prioritizes student engagement, allowing them to propose new activities to cater to their interests.
Harrow and Wellington College
Implements the British education system, offering IGCSEs and A Levels, and places a strong focus on academic excellence and fostering intellectual growth.
Athletics: Options such as football, basketball, swimming, and additional team or individual sports. Creative Pursuits: Programs in drama, music, visual arts, and design technology. Enrichment Clubs: Choices like Lego building, robotics, Model United Nations, among others.
British International Schools Taiwan and The Philippines
Taipei European School
Taipei European School (TES) provides a unique trilingual education, allowing students to follow the British, German, or French national curricula within their respective sections. For instance, the British section progresses from Nursery through Year 6, then through Key Stages, IGCSE, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, focusing on academic excellence, holistic development, and multilingualism.
Taipei European School (TES) offers a diverse array of co-curricular and extracurricular activities across its primary and secondary campuses, encompassing sports, performing and visual arts, STEAM clubs, academic societies, and language clubs. Students can engage in activities like robotics, Model United Nations, debating, music ensembles, drama productions, dance, and various cultural and service clubs, all designed to foster personal growth, leadership, and community engagement.
British School Manila
BSM offers a comprehensive curriculum from EYFS through Year 13, starting with an adapted English National Curriculum, progressing through Edexcel and Cambridge (I)GCSEs in Years 10-11, and culminating in the IB Diploma Programme in Years 12-13. Emphasizing global citizenship and a holistic approach, BSM blends academic excellence with service learning, sports, arts, music, and a wide range of extracurricular activities.
British School Manila's After School Activities (ASA) program offers over 180 weekly sessions across five strands: Academic, Creative Arts, Physically Active, Service & Sustainability, and Science, Innovation, Design, & Entrepreneurship (SIDE). These programs are designed to foster an active, balanced lifestyle, promote a sense of belonging and resilience, and cater to diverse interests from Model United Nations and orchestra to competitive sports and robotics.
British International Schools Japan
The British School in Tokyo
The British School in Tokyo (BST) implements the English National Curriculum from Nursery through Year 13, emphasizing literacy, numeracy, and inquiry-based learning, alongside strong cultural integration with Japan. Secondary students pursue IGCSEs, and while currently offering A Levels in Key Stage 5, the school plans to transition to the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) for Years 12 and 13 from 2026.
BST complements its academic program with over 200 extracurricular clubs and activities, fostering individual interests and talents. These include competitive sports, music, drama, art, academic societies, and leadership opportunities, such as Model United Nations, debating, and various cultural and service initiatives, all designed to build confidence, teamwork, and holistic development.
Musashi International School Tokyo
Musashi International School Tokyo (MIST) delivers a comprehensive international curriculum based on the Cambridge International framework, spanning kindergarten through high school. Instruction is in English across core subjects like English, Mathematics, Science, and ICT, alongside Art, Music, Japanese, and Physical Education. Students progress through Cambridge Primary, Lower Secondary, IGCSE, and International A Level programmes, preparing them for global higher education.
MIST offers diverse extracurricular activities, primarily through student-led clubs such as Dance, Calligraphy, and Table Tennis, all governed by student councils. These activities emphasize leadership development and community engagement, providing students with opportunities to pursue cultural, artistic, and athletic interests.
British International Schools Singapore
Tanglin Trust School
It emphasizes academic excellence and personal development through extensive extracurriculars. From Nursery to Year 9, Tanglin follows a custom framework based on the UK EYFS and National Curriculum, with Middle School (Years 7–9) focusing on values like Curiosity, Confidence, and Community. In Years 10–11, students pursue a range of (I)GCSEs, while Sixth Form offers A-levels, the IB Diploma Programme, and the Extended Project Qualification.
Tanglin Trust School offers a rich co-curricular program spanning sports, arts, academics, and cultural enrichment. Sports include archery, football, rugby, swimming, and more. Arts and culture activities range from Chinese dance and musical theatre to film and rock band. Academic and skills-based clubs feature robotics, coding, debating, and the Duke of Edinburgh Award. Other offerings include yoga, MasterChef, and language clubs such as Urdu and Hindi.
Dover Court International School
Dover Court International School (DCIS) follows the English National Curriculum alongside the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), with a strong emphasis on thematic and inclusive learning. Students progress from the Early Years Foundation Stage through iGCSEs in Secondary School, and can choose the IB Diploma Programme or BTEC qualifications in Sixth Form. EAL support is available for students up to Year 9.
Dover Court International School offers a wide range of co-curricular activities, including sports, music, visual arts, and global initiatives like STEAM workshops and UN Youth Conferences. Students can also participate in residential trips, the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, Model United Nations, and specialized programs through the school’s partnership with IMG Academy.
What Is the International Baccalaureate (IB)?
Many global schools offer the International Baccalaureate (IB)—a well-established and internationally recognized education program for students aged 3 to 19. Known for its academic depth and global outlook, the IB is designed to help students become curious, independent learners who are prepared for university and life beyond school.
The IB is offered in three stages:
- Primary Years Programme (PYP) (ages 3–12): Focuses on inquiry-based learning across language, math, science, social studies, and the arts, encouraging children to make real-world connections from an early age.
- Middle Years Programme (MYP) (ages 11–16): Covers eight subject areas, from language and literature to design and physical education, with an emphasis on critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and project-based work.
- Diploma Programme (DP) (ages 16–19): A rigorous two-year curriculum where students choose six subjects, complete a research essay, take a Theory of Knowledge course, and engage in Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) projects. It’s widely accepted by universities worldwide and prepares students well for academic life.
The IB’s international recognition, emphasis on personal development, and adaptable framework make it a strong choice for families seeking continuity in education across countries. While the program is academically demanding, it offers valuable preparation for higher education and a globally connected future.
American Curriculum: Flexibility + Innovation
The American curriculum follows US standards like Common Core and NGSS:
- Elementary (K-5): Literacy + numeracy foundations
- Middle School (6-8): Inquiry, STEAM, interdisciplinary work
- High School (9-12): Electives, AP courses, IB option in some schools
What sets it apart?
- Project-based learning
- Multiple pathways (AP, IB, Diploma)
- Strong STEAM integration
- English Language Learning support for international students at most schools
Key tests & assessments:
- MAP, PSAT, SAT, SSAT
- School readiness interviews + English language screening
American International Schools Hong Kong
Hong Kong International School
A strong core curriculum in English, math, sciences, social studies, and world languages, alongside mandatory Chinese language study in R1–G5. Students benefit from a wide range of opportunities, including AP courses, electives, experiential learning programs, and online options through the Global Online Academy.
After-school activities in Health & Wellbeing, STEM, Service, Spirituality, Sports, Performing, Culinary, and Visual Arts. Sports academies (soccer, basketball, swimming), and a variety of clubs and programs for all ages.
Stamford American School
Stamford American School follows U.S. standards including AERO, Common Core, and NGSS, offering an inquiry-based curriculum that leads to a High School Diploma with the option of the full IB Diploma or individual IB courses. Signature programs like STEMinn and Cornerstones provide hands-on, real-world learning experiences, while a wide range of co-curricular activities further enrich student development.
Stamford offers a diverse range of co-curricular activities (CCAs) across athletics, STEM, arts, and special interests, structured into progressive programs like Lions Academies and exploratory options such as After-School Activities. Students also engage in outdoor education camps that promote leadership, independence, and social-emotional growth.
American International Schools Dubai
American School of Dubai
ASD follows a U.S. standards-based curriculum aligned with the Common Core/AERO standards, offering core subjects such as English, math, science, and social studies, as well as world languages including Arabic, French, and Spanish. The school uses Standards-Based Grading and Reporting (SBGR), requires a minimum of 25 credits for graduation, provides AP and AP Capstone programs with required exams and weighted grades (but no honors or service learning), and offers a wide range of electives in creative arts, physical education, and IT, with students typically taking at least four core academic courses annually.
Arts (dance, music, theater, choir, band, orchestra), academic clubs (debate, MUN), sports, aquatics, after-school recreation, intramural leagues, and over forty student organizations in academics, leadership, and service.
Liwa International School for Girls
Liwa International School for Girls implements the American Common Core curriculum, aligned with California State Standards, from KG to Grade 12, emphasizing core academic skills, creativity, and personal development. This curriculum, delivered primarily in English with Ministry subjects in Arabic, prepares students for international benchmarks like SAT, AP, and TOEFL exams.
The school offers a comprehensive range of extracurricular activities, including advanced arts, technology, and community outreach programs, designed to enrich learning experiences and foster leadership, teamwork, and social responsibility. These activities are integral to developing well-rounded, confident young women prepared for future leadership roles.
American International Schools South Korea
Seoul International School
SIS offers a rigorous, college-preparatory American curriculum from PreK to 12th grade, integrating technology at all levels and regularly updating content to meet international benchmarks with emphasis on computer literacy, sustainability, and community involvement. Elementary students use Eureka Math aligned with Common Core, while high schoolers pursue Regular or Honors Diplomas with diverse course requirements including PE, languages, arts, and electives.
Wide range of clubs and activities; students are encouraged to participate in at least one extracurricular activity.
Korea International School
The curriculum follows the US Common Core standards and emphasizes project-based learning in elementary school. At the Pangyo campus, elements of the International Baccalaureate (IB) program are also incorporated. KIS prioritizes academic rigor alongside the development of transferable skills.
KIS offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including clubs (creative, STEM, and sports), arts programs, and athletic opportunities, both during and after school. Students also engage in community service, take part in subject-based trips, and lead their own high school activities, fostering real-world learning and leadership skills.
American International Schools China
Shanghai American School
The school offers a comprehensive American-based curriculum that includes both Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs. Students can select from over 45 AP and IB courses, including the AP Capstone and the IB Diploma Programme, complemented by a wide range of extracurricular activities.
Students can engage in over 150 clubs, sports, and activities ranging from competitive athletics to the arts and community service, while also exploring opportunities in design and technology through SAS’s strong emphasis on tech integration.
Kunming International Academy
US.-based, college-prep curriculum accredited by WASC, spanning Pre‑K to Grade 12. Offers robust AP courses in high school, MAP testing in elementary, and a strong emphasis on Singapore Math in early years
(KIA) provides a wide array of extracurricular activities, including athletics like basketball, soccer, and track and field, alongside fine arts opportunities in art, music, and drama, such as orchestra and theatrical productions. Additionally, KIA offers various clubs catering to diverse student interests, including Student Government, and strongly emphasizes community involvement through service projects.
American International Schools Taiwan
Taipei American School
U.S.-based, college-prep curriculum accredited by WASC, spanning Pre‑K to Grade 12. Offers robust AP courses in high school, MAP testing in elementary, and a strong emphasis on Singapore Math in early years
Offers over 100 clubs and activities like musical theater, Chinese Culture Club, Green Club, various swim teams, technical theater, aviation, climbing, gaming, student newspaper, Kiva Club, Odyssey (Science), photography, Project Lit, Rainbow Tigers, speech and debate, calligraphy, remote English mentoring, Taiwan Culture Club, and table tennis.
Dominican International School
American and Catholic curriculum, with Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Strong focus on English language development and offers additional language classes in Chinese, Japanese, and Spanish.
Wide range including DIY, board games, gardening, bookworm, comic book design, soccer, outdoor fun, science squad, spelling bee, basketball, theater, TEDx, Spanish dancing, volleyball, boxing, American football, history and movies, newsroom/escape, guitar, and Model United Nations.
American International Schools The Philippines
Southville International School and Colleges
American curriculum that includes early childhood, primary, secondary, and college education. Focuses on the 5Cs Framework (Character, Competence, Collaboration, Creativity, and Commitment to Achieve) and offers specialized programs like Giftedness through Interdisciplinary Educational Strategies (G.I.D.E.S.), Communication Arts, and Applied Science.
Southville International School and Colleges (SISC) offers diverse extracurricular activities including Interest Clubs like Arts & Crafts and Science, along with various sports such as basketball, soccer, and volleyball, utilizing on-campus facilities. The school also provides a dedicated dance studio, and offers programs like Model United Nations and the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, while actively incorporating service learning to foster community involvement.
Stockbridge American International School
Integrated Philippine Department of Education standards with American education standards (NACEL International School System and AERO programs). Emphasizes critical thinking in science, practical application in mathematics, social studies for identity formation, and comprehensive English Language Arts.
Clubs and organizations for holistic development, providing opportunities for socialization and honing talents and skills in various extra-curricular areas.
American International School of Japan
American School in Japan
Standards-based American curriculum culminating in an American high school diploma, incorporating Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Integrates Japanese language and cultural studies.
Over 170 activities in athletics, arts, service, and STEM. Includes musicals, Kanto Plains honor band/choir/orchestra, AIMS music program, speech and debate teams, various STEM clubs (coding, robotics, iGEM bioengineering), Japanese cultural lessons (calligraphy, tea ceremony, kendo), and community service programs.
International School of the Sacred Heart
Catholic school integrating Gospel values with a knowledge-rich curriculum based on the International Primary Curriculum. Covers core subjects (English, Maths, Science) and foundation subjects (Computing, History, Geography, Art and Design, Design and Technology, Music, PE, Languages, PSHE, RSHE).
Catholic school integrating Gospel values with a knowledge-rich curriculum. Covers core subjects (English, Maths, Science) and foundation subjects (Computing, History, Geography, Art and Design, Design and Technology, Music, PE, Languages, PSHE, RSHE).
American International Schools Singapore
International Community School
American curriculum based on Common Core State Standards for English and Mathematics, Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), and AERO standards for social studies. A Christian school, all students attend Bible class.
Wide range including creative writing, Service Club, Lego Club, Robotics, Table Tennis, Ceramics, Wheel Throwing, board games, computer math games, Taekwondo, Dance, Cheerleading, Choir, Basketball, Soccer, Volleyball, Model UN, cross-country, bowling, ukulele, and badminton. Offers competitive sports teams and a Coach Mentorship Programme.
XCL American Academy
XCL American Academy follows the AERO Curriculum and Common Core standards, emphasizing project-based and experiential learning to provide a rigorous education that prepares students for global transitions. The curriculum also promotes collaboration and enriches learning through specialist sessions in music, visual and performing arts, and physical education.
Unique and wide-ranging ECA program, including competitive and non-competitive sports, music, art, drama and dance, academic extensions, coding/STEM. Students also have access to world-class facilities like an Esports lab, Olympic-sized swimming pool, and rock climbing wall through a partnership with XCL World Academy.
How to Choose the Right School
Ask yourself:
- Where do you plan to attend university? (US? UK? Elsewhere?)
- How fluent is your child in English?
- Do you value structure or flexibility?
- What extracurriculars are must-haves?
- Does the school offer EAL or language support programs?
Checklist for families:
- Align curriculum with future goals
- Prep for English + cognitive testing
- Review admissions timeline early
- Visit campuses (virtually or in person)
International schools offer academic excellence, cultural diversity, and clear pathways to global universities. Whether you go British or American, what matters most is finding the right fit for your family.
Frequently Asked Questions About International Schools
The British curriculum (National Curriculum for England) emphasizes a structured, academic-focused approach with Key Stages culminating in IGCSE/GCSE and A-Level exams. The American curriculum follows US standards (like Common Core and NGSS), offering more flexibility, project-based learning, and a broader range of electives, often leading to a High School Diploma with AP or IB options.
Yes, many international schools, especially those following the American curriculum, offer specialized English as an Additional Language (EAL) programs, tiered language support, or dedicated resources to help non-native English speakers integrate and thrive in an English-medium environment.
Absolutely. International schools in Asia are specifically designed to provide a high-quality, globally recognized education that prepares students for admission to elite universities worldwide. They focus on rigorous academics, critical thinking, and a holistic education that fosters well-rounded individuals.
Consider your child's future university aspirations (e.g., US vs. UK universities), their current English fluency, your family's preference for a structured versus flexible learning environment, and the availability of desired extracurricular activities. It's also crucial to research the school's EAL/language support programs, review admissions timelines, and visit campuses if possible.
To prepare your child, focus on strengthening their English skills and exposing them to critical thinking and problem-solving tasks—key areas assessed in entrance exams like the CAT4 or MAP. If the school requires cognitive or language screening, consider buying a test prep pack from TestPrep-Online to boost confidence and readiness. Encouraging reading and inquiry-based learning is also highly beneficial.
