Admissions

We provide a Christ-centered education that extends beyond the classroom, equipping students for university, life, and eternity. Our focus is nurturing academic, spiritual, and personal growth, helping students fulfill their God-given potential. Our vision: graduates embodying “Excellence for Life, Anchored in Christ.”

We know choosing a school is significant. Our Admissions Team guides you; explore ICS and encounter Christ personally. We eagerly await your welcome!

Why
Choose
ICS ?

application Process

We’ve designed our admissions process to be transparent, fair, and simple. Get started by creating an account—the application takes about 45–60 minutes, and you can save as you go.
Start Your Application

To complete the online application, please have these documents scanned and ready to upload:

  • Recent passport-sized photo (taken within the last 8 months)
  • Birth certificate
  • Passport
  • HKID (if applicable)
  • For non-residents: Valid visa or proof of visa status
  • School records: Last two years for elementary applicants, last three years for secondary applicants
  • Specialist reports (if applicable): For students with a history of or current learning or social-emotional support, provide recent reports (within 12 months), e.g., educational psychological evaluation, psychiatrist letter, or individual education plan
  • Student Reference Form: students applying for Grade 3 or higher must submit a teacher reference form. This form should be completed by your child’s teacher and sent directly to the Admissions Office. You can download the form here.
G3-5 Student Reference Form
G6-12 Student Reference Form
Ensure all documents are accurate and complete to avoid delays in processing your application.

Eligible candidates will be invited to academic assessments, but spots are limited. Assessments, tailored to grade levels, typically occur on school mornings.

Reception 1 (Kindergarten Entry Year)

All Reception 1 applicants who apply before the assessment date will be invited to participate. The assessments include play-based activities to evaluate language, cognitive skills, and motor development. Parents will also attend an interview to provide additional insights.

Reception 2 (Kindergarten 2nd Year)

Admissions assessments will be determined based on space availability. The assessments include play-based activities to evaluate language, cognitive skills, and motor development. Parents will also attend an interview to provide additional insights.

Pre-Grade 1 (Elementary Entry Year)

Shortlisted candidates for Pre-Grade 1 will be invited for assessment. These evaluations include play-based, age-appropriate activities that examine learning behavior, language comprehension, social and cognitive development, along with basic writing and reasoning skills. On the same day, parents will also participate in an interview to supplement their child’s assessment.

Grades 1-10

Students will be tested on their proficiency in English reading, writing, and mathematics to evaluate their academic and language abilities.

Grades 11-12

Applicants must provide standardized test scores like the PSAT, SAT, or GCSE. If unavailable, students can take the [Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE)](https://www.erblearn.org/families/isee-by-erb/) through the Educational Records Bureau (ERB) to demonstrate readiness for an advanced curriculum.

  • For Grades 1-12, frequency of assessments will be determined based on space availability.
  • Candidates who meet the academic criteria will be invited for in-person interviews with their parents.
  • International applicants may be invited to complete assessments and interviews online.
Learn More About ICS

Admissions decisions are reviewed by the Admissions Committee and communicated within 30 days of the interview. Families offered admission must complete registration and submit the tuition deposit within the timeframe in the offer letter (usually 10 business days) to secure their child’s spot.

If there are no immediate openings, students who have passed the admissions assessment/ interview are placed in a Wait Pool, which is valid for one academic year. If no vacancy arises, families will need to reapply for the next year.

To secure your child’s enrollment, please complete the offer acceptance process and submit the tuition deposit within the timeframe outlined in the offer letter, typically within 10 business days.

Assessment Dates

Assessment Date for RECEPTION 1 (2025-26)

  • 26, 27 NOV 2025

Assessment Date for Pre-Grade 1 (2025-26)

  • 13, 14 NOV 2025

Assessment Date for Grade 1 & 2

  • December/ January 

Assessment Date for Grades 3 - 10

  • October to May

more questions?

ICS operates under a rolling admissions policy, meaning that applications are accepted throughout the year, space permitting. This flexible approach allows families to apply at a time that aligns with their circumstances. However, families are encouraged to apply early to secure a spot, as spaces in certain grade levels often fill quickly. International families relocating to Hong Kong should apply as early as possible
While these forms are not required at the time of application submission, if an admissions assessment or interview is offered, the Student Reference Form must be submitted before an admissions decision can be finalized.
ICS warmly welcomes students and families from all faiths, as well as those who may not identify with any specific religion or tradition. At ICS, we believe that an exceptional Christian education nurtures the whole person, preparing them to fulfill their distinct life purpose. Students have regular Bible lessons, chapels, retreats, and optional discipleship groups that nurture students’ spiritual well-being.
The application site for the upcoming academic year typically opens in August. Each application is only valid for the one academic year. Families are encouraged to apply early, as spaces are limited and admissions are highly competitive.
English is the primary language of instruction at ICS, and proficiency in English is essential for success in our programs. Students applying to ICS are required to demonstrate a level of English proficiency appropriate for their grade level.
We provide short-term learning support for individuals seeking extra guidance to stay on track and achieve their goals. Students who have history or are currently receiving learning or social-emotional support should provide relevant specialist reports within the past 12 months, e.g. educational psychological evaluation, letter from psychiatrist, individualised education plan, etc.

Age and Grade Placement

Correct placement ensures your child thrives academically and socially. Following international standards, grade level placements are determined by age as of August 31.

Here are the age requirements for kindergarten and elementary school admission at ICS:

  • Reception One: Children must be 3 years old by August 31 of the entry year.
  • Reception Two: Children must be 4 years old by August 31 of the entry year.
  • Pre-Grade One: Children must be 5 years old by August 31 of the entry year.
  • Grade One: Children must be 6 years old by August 31 of the entry year.

For students who have completed Grade 1 or higher and who are young according to ICS’s age and grade placement guideline may, at times, be considered for a higher grade placement and will be evaluated individually. Grade placement appeals will be considered if the student is enrolled in a similar school system to ICS.

Exceptions may require additional evaluation or approval.

Admissions Priority

ICS holds its annual re-enrollment process from January to February, allowing current students and families to confirm their return for the next academic year. This process helps determine spot availability for new applicants. Re-enrolled students are given top priority for admission.

Admission for new applicants depends on:

  • Available spots in the applicant’s grade level
  • Maximum class or grade size 

Qualified applicants are prioritized in the order below, which also applies to wait pool candidates.

  1. Founding Mission Families:
    • Southern Baptist
    • Conservative Baptist
    • Eastern Mennonite
    • Free Methodist
    • Overseas Missionary Society
    • Send International
  2. Children of Faculty and Staff Members
  3. Corporate Debenture Holders
  4. Gospel Workers: Includes missionaries and pastors
  5. Siblings of Current ICS Students
  6. Children of Alumni

 

This admissions process is designed to ensure fairness and consistency while honoring our core values and commitments.

Foundation Scholars Program

Founded in 1992 for the purpose of providing a Christ-centered education to families in Hong Kong, ICS is continuing its mission by striving to serve a greater number of families through the Foundation Scholars Program.  The ICS Foundation Scholars Program exists to support the children of Gospel workers in Hong Kong by providing financial aid and supportive services that ensure their academic success.

We are very pleased to be able to offer this opportunity to families in Hong Kong. Please read our Terms of Eligibility to learn more.

Terms of Eligibility

Eligible candidates for the ICS Foundation Scholars Program need to meet 1 of the following criteria:

  1. Being a child of a Gospel worker in Hong Kong in need of tuition and language support,
    especially children of families from the following founding mission agencies:
    • The Free Methodist Church of Hong Kong 香港循理會
    • Culture Regeneration Research Society (HK) Ltd 文化更新研究中心（香港）
    • The International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention 美南浸聯會
    • Evangelical Free Church of China Hong Kong Overseas Missions Board 中國基督教播道會香港差會
    • Wycliffe Bible Translators (Hong Kong) 香港威克理夫聖經翻譯會
    • The Conservative Baptist of Foreign Mission Society 浸信宣道會
  2. Being a child of other Gospel workers in Hong Kong (e.g. ministers, missionaries, and
    parachurch organizations) in need of tuition and language support.
  3. Being a child in need of language support in grades 8-10.
    In addition, all candidates of the ICS Foundation Scholars Program need to meet a minimum English language proficiency requirement as measured by the Pearson TELL Assessment (lower-intermediate to intermediate proficiency).
    To determine whether you meet financial aid requirements, please complete the Financial Aid Estimator on the ICS website.

We very much look forward to offering these opportunities through the ICS Foundation Scholars Program. To apply or seek further information, please see the information below:

To apply for the ICS Foundation Scholars Program, please contact the ICS Admissions team at 3920 0001 or admissions@ics.edu.hk.

To enquire further about the ICS Foundation Scholars Program, please contact Ashley Nation at nationa@ics.edu.hk.

Tuition & Fees

Tuition for 2025-26 Academic Year

Tuition is charged by 10 installments and cannot be prorated.  All fees are in Hong Kong dollars, non-refundable and non-transferable unless otherwise indicated.
Grade Level
Annual Tuition (HK$)

Kindergarten (Reception 1 & 2)

$91,000

Elementary (Pre-Grade 1 - Grade 5)

$148,400

Middle School (Grade 6 - Grade 8)

$196,600

High School (Grade 9 - Grade 12)

$201,500

Other fees include but are not limited to items such as graduation fee. Fees for optional items include extracurricular activities, band instrumental rental, uniforms, school bus, and meals.

Application Fees

An application fee is payable for all applicants invited for assessment and is valid for one academic year. Incomplete applications will not be processed. The fee is non-refundable and non-transferable and must be settled prior to assessment.

  • Kindergarten (Reception 1 and 2): HK$1,000 (R1-R2)
  • Pre-Grade 1 – Grade 12: HK$1,500 (P1-G12)

Reservation Deposit

The Reservation Deposit / Registration Fee confirms the enrollment of a new student. The amount will be credited against the student’s first tuition installment. The fee will be forfeited if, for any reason, after accepting a place at ICS, the applicant decides not to attend.
School Level
Reservation Deposit /
Registration Fee (HK$)

Kindergarten

$970

Elementary School

$14,840

Middle School

$19,660

High School

$20,150

Debentures

The debenture is a one-time, non-interest–bearing promissory note issued by ICS. It is not secured by a mortgage or charge on any International Christian School property or assets. A debenture is only required for students entering Pre-Grade 1 to Grade 12. For details regarding the Debenture Program, please click here.

Transferable Individual Debenture

Individual Debenture Cost for Families:

  • HK$250,000 for the first child
  • HK$180,000 for the second child
  • HK$140,000 for the third child
  • No debenture is required for additional children beyond third child

Transferable Corporate Debenture

The Transferable Corporate Debenture is available for corporations only. For more information, please read our brochure here.

Financial Assistance

At ICS, we offer several financial assistance options to help make a Christ-centered education accessible. Our programs include:

Financial Aid

Financial Aid serves as a tuition subsidy designed to assist families facing financial challenges. It is necessary to reapply for financial aid each year. To estimate your potential financial aid award, please utilize the Financial Aid Estimator.

Family Discount

Family discount is a tuition discount offered to families with more than two children enrolled at International Christian School. This discount is applied first to the eldest child and then in descending order. Family discounts must be reapplied annually.

  • 1st & 2nd child – No discount
  • 3rd child – 10% discount on tuition fee
  • 4th child – 15% discount on tuition fee
  • Additional children – increases in 5% increment

Debenture Relief

Families with a proven financial need are eligible to apply for a discounted debenture.

Financial Aid and Debenture Relief amounts are based on a pre-determined matrix and are solely need-based. All Financial Aid and Debenture Relief applications are handled in strict confidence with each application being independently approved by the Finance Committee of the Board of Trustees. For financial assistance application forms and more information, please send a request to the Finance Office at finadm@ics.edu.hk or call 3920-0000.

Withdrawal Policy

When a student withdraws from ICS, written notification of the withdrawal from parents must be sent to the Admissions Office. It is helpful if the written communication explains the reason of early departure.

The school requires TWO full calendar months’ written notice of withdrawal or TWO full calendar months’ tuition if the notice period is less than this. Summer holiday does not count towards the notice period.

MORE Questions?

ICS operates under a rolling admissions policy, meaning that applications are accepted throughout the year, space permitting. This flexible approach allows families to apply at a time that aligns with their circumstances. However, families are encouraged to apply early to secure a spot, as spaces in certain grade levels often fill quickly. International families relocating to Hong Kong should apply as early as possible.
While these forms are not required at the time of application submission, if an admissions assessment or interview is offered, the Student Reference Form must be submitted before an admissions decision can be finalized.
ICS warmly welcomes students and families from all faiths, as well as those who may not identify with any specific religion or tradition. At ICS, we believe that an exceptional Christian education nurtures the whole person, preparing them to fulfill their distinct life purpose. Students have regular Bible lessons, chapels, retreats, and optional discipleship groups that nurture students’ spiritual well-being.
The application site for the upcoming academic year typically opens in August. Each application is only valid for the one academic year. Families are encouraged to apply early, as spaces are limited and admissions are highly competitive.
English is the primary language of instruction at ICS, and proficiency in English is essential for success in our programs. Students applying to ICS are required to demonstrate a level of English proficiency appropriate for their grade level.
We provide short-term learning support for individuals seeking extra guidance to stay on track and achieve their goals. Students who have history or are currently receiving learning or social-emotional support should provide relevant specialist reports within the past 12 months, e.g. educational psychological evaluation, letter from psychiatrist, individualised education plan, etc.

Kindergarten Experience Day

Our Kindergarten Experience Day gives your child an opportunity to join in fun activities exploring our Kindergarten learning environment, experiencing our hands-on, play-based approach to learning.

Registration Dates for Kindergarten Experience Day:

  • Saturday, 13 September 2025 | Saturday, 25 October 2025 (Sign-up available in early October)
  • 09:00AM - 10:00AM (Session 1), 10:30AM - 11:30AM (Session 2)
Register Now

Open House (Shek Mun Campus) 

Curious about what makes learning at ICS so unique?  Our Open Houses offer a comprehensive look at the ICS curriculum and vibrant student life, from Pre-Grade One all the way to Grade 12. You’ll get firsthand insights as teachers and high school students guide you through our campus. We’re hosting three opportunities to visit in August, September, and October. Registration Dates for our Open House:

  • Wednesday, 24 September 2025 | Tuesday, 28 October 2025 (Sign-up available in early October)
  • 04:00PM - 06:00PM
Register Now

School Tours 

Our school tours are available once a month from January to April. These sessions are primarily conducted in English.  Each session takes around 1 hour.

Coming Soon

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