Some schools in Hong Kong are entirely privately run — these are called "Private Schools." They are very different from government and aided schools, so it's best to understand them before choosing.
How Are Private Schools Different?
The biggest difference: Private schools do not participate in the EDB's school allocation system at all. Schools set their own admission criteria, tuition fees, and curriculum.
Pros of Private Schools
- Flexible admission timing: No need to wait for the EDB's allocation schedule — apply, interview, and receive offers anytime
- Flexible teaching methods: Some private schools use international curricula (like IB, PGA, etc.)
- Smaller class sizes: Some private schools have fewer students per class, allowing teachers to give more attention to each child
- Good for students with special needs: Some private schools have better support for SEN (Special Educational Needs) students
Cons of Private Schools
- Higher tuition: Annual fees range from tens of thousands to over HK$100,000 — not all families can afford this
- Variable quality: Private schools are run by different organizations, so quality varies widely — do your research
- May diverge from local system: Some private schools use foreign curricula, which may require adaptation if the child returns to local schooling
- No government subsidy: If a private school closes, students need to find alternative arrangements
Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Private School
- Can your family sustainably afford the tuition?
- Will this school's curriculum affect your child's future study options?
- What is the school's reputation and teaching quality?
- Are the facilities and location convenient?