Shanghai American School
International School in Shanghai
Quick answer
Shanghai American School (SAS), founded 1912, is a non-profit international school with two Shanghai campuses serving 2,900 students from 48 nationalities aged 3 to 18. The school combines an American curriculum with the IB Diploma Programme at upper school plus AP courses, accredited by IBO, WASC and ACAMIS. Tuition $5,289-$6,394 per year — exceptional value for one of Asia's oldest American international schools. Long-established premier choice for diplomatic and corporate expat families in Shanghai.
Key facts
- Curriculum: IB, American leaving qualifications include IB Diploma and AP and ACT.
- Tuition: $5,289–$6,394/yr published annual range.
- Avg class size: 18 Shanghai international school · 2,900 students total.
- 48 nationalities top: US or Canadian.
- Ages: Ages 3 to 18 school day starts at 8:00.
- Accreditations: IBO, WASC, ACAMIS verified.
2,900
48 (US or Canadian)
18 avg
Rolling
1912
IBO, WASC, ACAMIS
IB Diploma and AP and ACT
About Shanghai American School
Established in 1912, Shanghai American School is Shanghai’s most storied international school. Visitors to SAS tend to come away with the same conclusion: “I wish I would’ve gone to school here when I was a kid.” It’s an understandable observation. Because the educational experience of SAS excels in many ways. Looking for a rigorous academic environment that can prepare your child for some of the world’s most laudable colleges, universities and fine arts programs? You can find that here. Seeking a philosophy that will nurture your child both inside and outside the classroom? Let us tell you about our dozens of clubs, service learning opportunities, and sports teams that range from participatory up to a varsity-level program that has earned 101 APAC championships. Searching for top facilities? Ours are unmatched in Shanghai, and our not-for-profit status means all revenue that goes into the school stays in the school, continually making the SAS experience even better. All of which has c
Learning & language support (SEN / EAL)
This school states some support, but key details aren't published — confirm the gaps below before applying.
Why this matters
Special-needs provision at international schools varies widely and is rarely guaranteed by the school itself — and local legal duties differ by country. Confirm what this school provides, in writing, before you commit.
- EAL/ESL support listed
Not published
- —Learning-support provision not published
- —Educational-psychologist availability not stated
- —In-house specialist staff not listed
Questions to ask the school
- What in-house learning-support specialists do you employ (SENCo, learning-support teachers, speech & language therapist, occupational therapist), and what is each one's caseload?
- Is an educational psychologist on staff or available by referral?
- Can you support a child with my child's specific need (e.g. dyslexia, ADHD, autism), and have you done so this year? Ask for concrete examples.
- Is there an additional fee for learning support or EAL — and how much per year?
- Is learning support guaranteed for the full enrolment, or can it be withdrawn later?
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Annual tuition (USD) | $5,289 – $6,394 |
| Annual tuition (local) | 元278000-元336100 |
| Fee year | 2025-2026 |
| Est. all-in cost (modeled)how we calculate | $8,642(+48%) |
| Est. first-year total (modeled) | $10,642 |
| Cost position in Shanghai | 11th percentile(budget-friendly) |
IB, American
IB Diploma and AP and ACT
IB Diploma, Advanced Placement, SAT, ACT
The most recent academic profiles for SAS can be found at https://www.saschina.org/academics/high-school.
Mandarin, French, Spanish. SAS also has supported students studying literature in Arabic, Norwegian, Dutch and Korean, to name a few.
unknown
English as an Additional Language
8:00 – 15:00
At the cafeterias of SAS, selection is the prevailing theme. For Middle and High School, students are greeted with Asian and Western choices including salads, sandwiches, noodles, pasta, pizza, and vegetarian dishes. Pre-K and Grade 1 students’ set menus include proteins, vegetables, fruit or dessert, and a drink. Grade 2-5 students’ options include international food selections, salads, sandwiches, fruit or dessert, and a drink.
Yes
Imported from a directory listing and not independently verified — confirm fees and details with the school.
Is Shanghai American School right for your family?
A School Fit Brief scores this school against your children's ages, learning needs, and budget — with hidden fee analysis, admissions timing, and a ranked shortlist of alternatives in Shanghai.
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At a Glance
Fee Position in Shanghai
Budget-friendlySchool Profile
Class Size
Student Diversity
Highly diverse
Common: US or Canadian
Estimated Real Cost
Tuition + registration, transport, uniform, exams
Decide on this school — and four others
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Disclaimer: School profiles are source-backed decision aids, not endorsements or official rankings. Tuition figures are approximate and may not include registration fees, uniforms, transport, or exam costs. Always verify directly with the school before applying. WhereNext is not affiliated with any school listed. This is not admissions consulting, legal advice, or official school placement guidance.