Some schools in Hong Kong accept applications from birth...which might appear to be ridiculous and we would not disagree!
Rumours abound that parents can even apply before the baby is born, but this is urban legend. All applications require a birth certificate.
So, as soon as you have the birth certificate, you can apply. And, in the majority of cases, the date of receipt is important in determining your place in the queue – strictly chronological.
However, the date of application is usually the weakest form of priority, behind corporate debentures, siblings, etc.
All schools charge application fees and some charge additional assessment fees when the time comes.
The schools listed below accept applications from birth. However, it is very important to carefully consider which applications to submit and when. It is only recommended to apply to one or two schools so early and only when it is necessary. A school may accept an application at birth, but whether or not you NEED to apply is another story.
American International School (AIS)
Primary school starts at Kindergarten (5 years old), but the associated preschool starts at 3 years (K1).
Canadian International School (CDNIS)
Apply to start at Pre Reception at 3 years (K1).
Discovery Bay International School (DBIS)
Primary school starts at Year 1 (5 years old), but the associated kindergarten and playgroup starts at 3 years (K1).
French International School (International Section) FIS
Primary school starts at Reception (4 years old).
German Swiss International School
Primary school starts at Year 1 (5 years old), but the associated kindergarten and playgroup starts at 3 years (K1).
International Christian School (ICS)
Primary school starts at 5 years old, but the associated kindergarten starts at K1 (3 years old).
International College – Hong Lok Yuen (ICHK – HLY)
Primary school starts at Reception (4 years old), but the associated kindergarten and playgroup starts at 18 months.
Japanese International School (JIS)
Primary school starts at Reception (4 years old).
Kellett School (Kowloon Bay)
Kellett School (Pokfulam)
Primary school starts at Reception (4 years old). Parents may select a preference for campus, with no guarantee that a place at that campus will be offered.
Kiangsu Chekiang International School (KCIS)
Primary school starts at Year 1 (5 years old), but the associated kindergarten starts at K1 (3 years old).
Kingston International School
Primary school starts at Year 1 (5 years old), but the associated kindergarten and playgroup starts at 12 months.
Lantau International School (LIS)
Primary school starts at Year 1 (5 years old), but the associated kindergarten and playgroup starts at 3 years (K1).
Nord Anglia International School (NAIS)
Primary school starts at Year 1 (5 years old), but the associated kindergarten and playgroup starts at 3 years (K1).
Yew Chung International School (YCIS)
Primary school starts at Year 1 (5 years old), but the associated kindergarten and playgroup starts at 6 months.