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Discovery College
(DC)
Image Source: Discovery College
Institutional Overview
Curriculum:
Full IB Continuum: Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), IB Diploma Programme (IBDP), and IB Career-related Programme (IBCP).
Levels:
Year 1 to Year 13.
Student Body:
~1,550 students representing over 40 nationalities.
Campus
38 Siena Avenue, Discovery Bay, Lantau Island.
Founded:
2008 (Established as one of ESF’s two “Private Independent Schools”).
Website:
Academic Profile
Average IB Score (2025):
35.2 (Pass Rate: 96% for DP; 100% for CP).
Top Performance:
1 student achieved a perfect score of 45.
Language & Stream:
English primary instruction. Putonghua is mandatory through Year 11, with a strong focus on “International Mindedness” across all subjects.
Notable Strengths:
“Cobra Sports” (exceptionally strong athletics), Digital Design, and specialized IBCP Pathwaysincluding Aeronautics, Engineering, and Business in partnership with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
Admissions and Matriculation Statistics
Top 10 University Destinations:
UK:
Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, LSE, Imperial, Warwick.
Australia:
University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, University of Queensland.
Global/Local:
HKU, HKUST, University of Amsterdam, McGill, University of Toronto.
Reputational Standing:
Known for its inclusive, progressive, and “outward-looking” philosophy. It is often preferred by families who want a modern, less traditional school culture compared to the older ESF schools.
Financials (2025/26 Academic Year)
Annual Tuition (International Stream):
Years 7–10:
~HK$162,100
Years 11:
~HK$213,600
Years 12–13:
~HK$215,300
Non-Refundable Building Levy (NBL):
HK$8,060 per annum (paid monthly alongside tuition).
Nomination Rights (Optional for Priority):
Individual (INR):
HK$400,000
(Specifically for DC/RCHK; provides interview priority).
Application Fee:
HK$2,800.
Admissions & Application Windows
Admission Difficulty:
Selective.
Application Window:
Year 7:
September.
Other years, rolling applications.
Assessment Format:
Collaborative group activities and evidence of English language proficiency. Interviews with faculty.
The Consultant’s Take
Best Fit For:
Students who thrive in a community-centric, active environment. It is arguably the best school in Hong Kong for a student interested in Aviation or Sustainability, thanks to its unique IBCP partnerships. It is also ideal for families living in Lantau who want to avoid a long commute to Hong Kong Island.
The “Insider” Tip:
Discovery College must maintain a student body where at least 70% are HK Permanent Residents.
