Shenzhen, a bustling metropolis known for its rapid economic growth and technological innovation, is also home to a diverse expatriate community. Catering to the needs of expat families, Shenzhen boasts a variety of international and bilingual schools. Among the most popular are Shekou International School and Shenzhen American International School, which offer comprehensive international curricula and a range of extracurricular activities. With a number of options available, expat parents can find schools that provide high-quality education and a smooth transition for their children.Shekou International School (SIS)Grades: Nursery through Grade 12Location(s): Shekou, Nanshan DistrictWebsite: www.sis-shekou.orgShekou International School is renowned for its diverse student body and its commitment to the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. With state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, art studios, and sports fields, SIS provides a holistic education that emphasizes inquiry-based learning. Extracurricular activities range from robotics to performing arts, ensuring that students have a well-rounded experience.Shenzhen American International School (SAIS)Grades: Pre-K through Grade 8Location(s): Futian DistrictWebsite: www.szsais.orgShenzhen American International School offers an American-based curriculum with a global perspective. The school prides itself on its small class sizes and personalized attention to students. SAIS boasts modern facilities and a wide array of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art programs. The school's community is tight-knit, providing a supportive environment for expat children.Shenzhen International Foundation College (SIFC)Grades: Grade 1 through Grade 12Location(s): Nanshan DistrictWebsite: www.sifc.com.cnSIFC is known for its international curriculum that prepares students for universities worldwide. Offering both the IB and A-Level programs, the school caters to diverse educational needs. Facilities include a library, science labs, and sports complexes. SIFC also provides a variety of clubs and organizations, fostering leadership and other skills beyond the classroom.Quality Schools International Shenzhen (QSI)Grades: Age 2 through SecondaryLocation(s): Nanshan DistrictWebsite: shenzhen.qsi.orgQSI Shenzhen is part of a global network of schools that follows a North American-style educational model. The school emphasizes mastery learning and offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses for older students. With a spacious campus, QSI provides a variety of sports and arts facilities, as well as extracurricular activities that encourage student engagement and community service.International School of Nanshan Shenzhen (ISNS)Grades: Nursery through Grade 12Location(s): Nanshan DistrictWebsite: www.isnsz.comISNS is an authorized IB World School that offers the full IB continuum. The school's mission is to inspire future innovators and global citizens. ISNS boasts modern facilities, including a performing arts center and sports fields. The school's extracurricular program is extensive, with opportunities in athletics, arts, and service learning.Shenzhen Japanese School (SZJS)Grades: Elementary and Junior High SchoolLocation(s): Nanshan DistrictThe Shenzhen Japanese School is designed for Japanese expatriate children and follows the Japanese national curriculum. It provides a familiar environment for Japanese students to continue their education while abroad. The school focuses on maintaining Japanese cultural traditions and language, ensuring a seamless transition for students who return to Japan.Merchiston International School (MIS)Grades: Nursery through Grade 12Location(s): Longhua DistrictWebsite: www.merchiston.cnMIS is the first British international school in Shenzhen, offering a British-based curriculum and the Scottish Curriculum for Excellence in the senior years. The school's state-of-the-art campus features a theatre, swimming pool, and sports pitches. MIS provides a broad range of extracurricular activities, including Duke of Edinburgh's Award, music, drama, and various sports teams.Basis International School ShenzhenGrades: Pre-K through Grade 12Location(s): Nanshan DistrictWebsite: shenzhen.basisinternational.cnBasis International School Shenzhen offers a rigorous curriculum that prepares students for top universities around the world. The school emphasizes STEM education and critical thinking skills. With a diverse student body, Basis provides a multicultural environment that fosters global awareness and collaboration. Extracurricular activities include a wide range of clubs, sports, and academic competitions.