How to Get Into Hong Kong International School (HKIS)

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17Nov

How to Get Into Hong Kong International School (HKIS)

By Admissions Assist, School Admissions Guides Comments Off on How to Get Into Hong Kong International School (HKIS)

Key Dates and Information

  • Location: Repulse Bay and Tai Tam, Hong Kong
  • Grades: Pre-K-12
  • Application deadline: 
    • Primary School priority deadline: October 1, 2023
    • Middle and High School priority deadline: November 1, 2023
  • Admissions tests: 
    • Pre-K-grade 2: in-person screening assessment
    • Grades 3-12: Measures of Academic Progress (MAP)

Introduction

Hong Kong International School (HKIS) is a top day school for grades pre-K through 12, with campuses located in Repulse Bay and Tai Tam, Hong Kong. HKIS offers American-style education.

It may feel intimidating to put together an application for a top school like HKIS, so Test Innovators has created this guide to help you through the process. We recommend using this guide in conjunction with our Admissions Assist Courses, which is designed to help you create a strong and cohesive application. 

In addition, it is important to do your research and share specific reasons why you are interested in HKIS. Take a look at their mission and vision and see what resonates with you. Check out their facilities and explore their campuses. Read about their approach to learning and their philosophy of education. Explore how Chinese studies are incorporated into the HKIS curriculum. Look into extracurricular activities and consider how you would like to get involved. Genuine excitement and passion will take you far in your application, so find your motivation for applying before you start. 

Application

The application to HKIS varies based on grade level. Applicants to HKIS must complete the following steps:

  • Complete the initial online application
    • First time applicant fee: HK$2000
    • Returning/reapplying applicant fee: HK$1500
    • Priority deadline: October 1, 2023
  • Request and submit the admissions report from the applicant’s current teacher
  • Submit progress reports/report cards from previous two years
  • Submit the health history form
    • Note: admitted applicants will also need to submit a physical examination form
  • Submit the applicant’s birth certificate (Pre-K and kindergarten applicants only)
  • Participate in the in-person screening assessment between January and March 2023
    • Families will be contacted by the admissions office to schedule the assessment
  • Complete the initial online application
    • First time applicant fee: HK$2000
    • Returning/reapplying applicant fee: HK$1500
    • Priority deadline: October 1, 2023
  • Request and submit the admissions report from the applicant’s current teacher
  • Submit progress reports/report cards from previous two years
  • Submit the health history form
    • Note: admitted applicants will also need to submit a physical examination form
  • Complete admissions assessments 
    • Applicants to grades 3-5 must complete the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP)
      • Applicants will be contacted by the admissions office regarding the registration process
  • Complete the initial online application
    • First time applicant fee: HK$2000
    • Returning/reapplying applicant fee: HK$1500
    • Priority deadline: November 1, 2023
  • Request and submit the admissions report from the applicant’s current teacher
  • Submit report cards from previous two years
  • Complete the student questionnaire
  • Submit the health history form
    • Note: admitted applicants will also need to submit a physical examination form
  • Complete admissions assessments 
    • Applicants must complete the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP)
      • Applicants will be contacted by the admissions office regarding the registration process
  • Complete the initial online application
    • First time applicant fee: HK$2000
    • Returning/reapplying applicant fee: HK$1500
    • Priority deadline: November 1, 2023
  • Request and submit the admissions report from the applicant’s current English teacher
  • Submit report cards from previous two years
  • Request and submit mathematics & science placement forms
    • Applicant’s current teacher(s) complete and return the forms
  • Complete the student questionnaire
  • Submit the health history form
    • Note: admitted applicants will also need to submit a physical examination form
  • Complete admissions assessments 
    • Applicants must complete the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP)

Interviews are not typically part of the HKIS admissions process, unless the admissions committee has questions for the student after reviewing their application. For more information on the application process to HKIS, please visit their admissions page. 

Note: HKIS does not offer financial aid at this time.

Admissions Tests

The following tests and assessments are required for applicants to HKIS:

  • Pre-K-grade 2: in-person screening assessment
  • Grades 3-12: Measures of Academic Progress (MAP)

Extracurricular Opportunities

Athletics

HKIS offers sports academies in basketball and soccer to help students reach their full potential as athletes. They also have an aquatics program, which is part of the curriculum for primary school students and offers continued opportunities for middle and high school students. Their middle school athletics program offers 13 sports including rowing, netball, and hockey, and their high school athletics program offers 14 sports including dance, rugby, basketball, and table tennis. Finally, HKIS pairs with several associated sports clubs that students are able to join. For more information on athletics opportunities at HKIS, please refer to their website. 

Arts and Extracurriculars

HKIS offers extracurricular activities, with several categories focused on the arts. Students can explore opportunities in visual arts, culinary arts, performing arts, and oratory arts. Additional extracurricular themes include health and wellness, service and spirituality, and STEM. Please visit their website for more information on extracurriculars offered. 

Clubs and Organizations

Students can also choose to get involved in middle school clubs and high school clubs. Clubs cover an array of student interests, such as UNICEF, Robotics Club, and National Honor Society. Check out all the opportunities that HKIS has to offer, and consider sharing how you hope to get involved in your application materials. 

Conclusion

Hong Kong International School has abundant opportunities for students to learn and grow in and out of the classroom. Preparation is key to creating a strong application and giving yourself the best chance for success.

 

Preparation Resources:

Start preparing today!

SSAT
ISEE
HSPT
PSAT
ACT
SAT
Admissions Assist

Originally published on October 18, 2022. Updated on November 17, 2023.

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