Navigating International School Admissions Process

Looking for housing, community, and schools are just some of the items on the check list for new expats on their whirlwind tour of Shanghai. As a woman who has experienced it as an expat kid in Asia, as a university admissions officer, and now as Deputy Head of Marketing & Admissions for Yew Chung International School of Shanghai (YCIS Shanghai), Corrie Van Velzer shares a few tips on how parents can find the best school for their child.

“It’s not as complicated as an American college admissions process, but it is more time-intensive than you might think,” says Van Velzer. Aside from an application and an application fee, the process might also include an interview, placement test(s), or correspondence with the school from your home country. It is important to make sure your children’s transition into the right school community happens smoothly.

The campus visit is one of the most crucial decision influencers for prospective students and parents. “Our role in admissions is to give the parents a full experience of the atmosphere of the school, including seeing a class, assembly, sport, or after-school event. They can understand the unique aspects of the school, such as how YCIS Shanghai’s Chinese language programme is divided into 14 levels, or how our character programme instills moral values. They can really feel and understand this once they are on campus,” explains van Velzer.

Communicate your expectations before you come on the tour. Help the admissions staff by telling them what specific areas you are interested in. “Most parents only have an hour or two to soak in the essence of a school,” says Van Velzer, “so sharing your questions and concerns a few days in advance allows us to prepare small meetings with teachers and give customized tours based on your children’s needs.”

Do your research and school visits early. As families come and go throughout the year space availability fluctuates. If you plan to have your children together in one school for an August start, do your research early and apply by February or March to secure placement.

“Identifying the right school is the first major step toward ensuring a great experience for your family in Shanghai,” remarks Van Velzer.