How to Apply for High School (Grade 9 - 12)

Space Availability 2008/2009 Academic Year

At this time, we welcome applications from students who are native or fluent English speakers for the following grades: Kindergarten and Grade 1. A few openings remain for grades 2, 9, and 12. There are waiting lists for grades 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, and 11. Applicants for grades 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, and 11 whose siblings have been accepted will be given priority on the waiting list.

Please note that all applications must be reviewed by the Admissions Committee, which consists of teachers, counselors, and Principals. Committee members will be away between June 23rd and August 05th so we suggest you submit completed applications prior to June 20th.


The Admissions Office will remain open throughout the summer to receive applications. Admissions Committee members will return on Monday, August 5th , to review the applications received during this time.

Important message for all High School applicants:

If you wish to apply, it is important that you apply to enroll at the beginning of the school year or at the beginning of the second semester. The International School of Beijing high school program is modeled on a U.S. high school program which means that students in Grades 9 through 12 work towards earning a specific number of “graduation credits” each year.

A passing grade in a year long course earns one credit. A passing grade in a semester long course earns a half credit. When applying to our school, we will take into consideration credits achieved in your current school. For more specific number of credits needed per subject please see http://www.isb.bj.edu.cn/hs-graduation_requirements.aspx

If you begin ISB at the beginning of the second semester we take into consideration the number of credits reflected on your official transcripts. However, it must be stressed that, although we will do our best, we may not be able to timetable the same courses taken in your previous school.

How to Apply

In order to consider an applicant for admission, the following must be sent to the Admissions Office:

  • The application form. We understand that some of you may not have a Beijing address, a Chinese visa information, emergency contact information when submitting an application. You may submit this information to the Admissions Office once you have moved to Beijing.
  • Copies of school records for the 3 most recent years including progress reports (in English).
  • Recommendation form (G3-G12) from a current teacher or from a counselor.
  • Math recommendation form. (HS).
  • 2 passport-size photos of the student.
  • The medical form, completed by a physician, including a record of immunization. Please note that the physical examination must be completed within 6 months of enrollment.
  • A copy of the passport page with the child's picture. If the applicant holds residency from either Hong Kong, Macau, or Taiwan, please provide us with copies of the China entrance permits of the family members, and original certificate of employment in Beijing with the company seal.

Application Fee

The application fee of 240 USD only applies once your child has been accepted. This fee will be included in your tuition invoice.

Admissions Criteria

Admission and placement decisions are made by an Admissions Committee in each school division. These committees are composed of the division principal, counselor, teachers, and specialists. The following details are put into consideration:

  • The student's age.
  • School records and recommendations forms.
  • Results on any entrance screening, particularly writing samples.
  • Slot availability in the appropriate grade / program.

Please refer to our Admissions Flowchart for information about waitlists

Visiting the School before applying

If you wish to visit our campus and have one of the Admissions Office staff answer any queries you may have, please email admissions@isb.bj.edu.cn or call 8149-2345 ext. 1041/1042 to arrange a time and a date. This will ensure that sufficient time is allocated to help you.