Guide

School costs beyond tuition

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The tuition fee is the largest cost of an international school, but rarely the only one. Ask each school for a full list of charges before you compare them.

One-off fees

An application or assessment fee, usually not refundable.
An enrolment or registration fee when a place is accepted.
A refundable deposit, returned when your child leaves with enough notice.
In some cities, a capital levy or debenture. In Hong Kong, for example, many international schools use debentures or capital levies as well as tuition.

Recurring costs

School bus, which may be charged per term by distance.
Lunches, if not included.
Uniform and sports kit.
Trips, including residential trips in the upper primary years.
After-school clubs and care.
Learning support or EAL support, at some schools.
Devices, where schools ask families to buy a tablet or laptop.

Fee increases and notice

Ask how much fees have risen in recent years, and how much notice you must give before leaving. Many schools charge a term's fees if you leave without notice.

If an employer pays

If your employer pays school fees, check which items the allowance covers. Many cover tuition and the enrolment fee, but not buses, trips or lunches.