Image Source: Island School
Institutional Overview
Curriculum:
Years 7–9:
Island School Explorations (Inquiry-based).
Years 10–11:
IGCSE and BTEC Level 2.
Years 12–13:
IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) or IB Career-related Programme (IBCP) with BTEC Level 3.
Levels:
Year 7 to Year 13 (Secondary only).
Student Body:
~1,200 students.
Campus
20 Borrett Road, Mid-Levels (Fully redeveloped state-of-the-art campus reopened in 2022).
Founded:
1967 (One of the founding schools of the English Schools Foundation).
Website:
Academic Profile
Average IB Score (2025):
37.1
Pathways
Offers one of the most robust IBCP (Career-related) pathways in Hong Kong, ideal for students focusing on Arts, Design, or Engineering via BTEC.
Notable Strengths:
Philosophy and Religious Studies, Liberal Arts, Creative & Performing Arts, and a uniquely strong “House System” that fosters vertical integration across year groups.
Admissions and Matriculation Statistics
Top 10 University Destinations:
UK:
Oxford, Cambridge, LSE, Imperial, Central Saint Martins (UAL).
North America:
NYU, UC Berkeley, University of Toronto, McGill.
Local:
HKU (Medicine/Law), HKUST.
Reputational Standing:
Known as the “liberal” school within the ESF network, producing confident, articulate graduates who often excel in humanities and creative industries.
Financials (2025/26 Academic Year)
Annual Tuition (International Stream):
Years 7–10:
~HK$181,100 (Non-subvented rate).
Years 11:
~HK$159,400 (Government subvented rate).
Years 12–13:
~HK$167,600 (Government subvented rate).
Non-Refundable Capital Levy (NRCL):
Year 7 Entry:
~HK$26,000 (Reduces annually for later entry years).
Nomination Rights (Debentures):
Individual Nomination Right (INR):
HK$500,000 (Provides priority on the waitlist; refundable under specific conditions).
Application Fee:
HK$2,800 (Centralized through ESF).
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 are “independent thinkers.” Island School is less of an “exam factory” than some of its peers; it rewards students who take risks, engage in debate, and participate in the school’s vibrant house culture.
The “Insider” Tip:
Island School is famous for its “Quest Week”, where the entire school stops for a week of global service and exploration. When interviewing, don’t just talk about your math grades; talk about a project you’ve led or a social cause you’re passionate about.
