YCIS Shanghai has long taken pride in its students' outstanding academic achievements, reflecting both their strong academic foundations and their exceptional potential to thrive in the future. 

Our graduates go on to study at leading universities around the world, including the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, Stanford University, the University of Pennsylvania, Cornell University, Johns Hopkins University, Berklee College of Music, Parsons School of Design, and École Hôtelière de Lausanne. 

In the IGCSE examinations, approximately 50% of all grades awarded to YCIS Shanghai students were A*/A, while an impressive 74% were A*-B. Two students achieved the remarkable feat of 11 A* grades, three attained 10 A*/A grades, and twelve secured 9 A*/A grades or above. 

The 2026 IB results tell a similarly impressive story: 31% of our graduates scored 40 points or above, placing them among the highest-achieving IB students worldwide. What makes these results even more meaningful is that 60% of these top scorers have been with YCIS since early childhood. At YCIS Shanghai, the highest academic achievements are built over time. 

With students from more than 50 countries and regions speaking a wide range of home languages, YCIS Shanghai is a genuinely international community. English is the primary language of instruction, woven through classroom discussion, project enquiry, and interdisciplinary study. From Early Childhood through to Secondary, students develop confident expression and critical thinking through authentic language experiences. Beyond the classroom, the library, drama festivals, Model United Nations, and science investigation provide further opportunities for language to flourish.

At YCIS, Chinese is never treated simply as a “second language”; it is taught with the same level of rigour and importance as English. From the recitation of classical poetry to the critical discussion of contemporary literature, and from calligraphy to debate, our bespoke Chinese curriculum nurtures both aesthetic appreciation and intellectual expression, helping students develop a deep understanding of the language and culture. Students are placed in classes according to their language background and individual learning needs, ensuring they can make meaningful progress through daily Chinese language lessons. Learning themes are rich and varied, encompassing history, geography, literature, art, music, and traditional Chinese festivals.

YCIS Shanghai has developed a comprehensive and distinctive mathematics framework, delivered through small, differentiated groups. Students are flexibly grouped according to their learning readiness and learning pace: those ready for greater challenge deepen their understanding through international mathematics competitions, while those who need more support receive carefully structured scaffolding. Combined with ongoing formative assessment and one-to-one learning support, differentiation is never about labels — it is about every child being seen, supported, and stretched where they are in their learning environment, with clear, visible progress. 

At YCIS Shanghai, we are committed to preparing students to thrive in an uncertain world — equipping them with the skills, mindsets, and courage to explore infinite possibilities. 

Our Artificial Intelligence curriculum runs from the lower primary years through to Secondary, encompassing four core dimensions: engaging with, creating, managing, and designing AI. 

Younger students begin with simple recognition and interaction, while older students progress to systems analysis and design.  

The curriculum is embedded in a unified Technology course that integrates Computer Science and Design & Technology, and is further enriched through interdisciplinary project-based learning. Together, these experiences connect theory with practice and foster skills such as curiosity, adaptability and creative problem-solving. 

Building on this foundation, our dedicated EdFutures Division — part of the YCYW Education Network — provides Super-Curriculum Programmes in collaboration with leading universities such as the University of Oxford and Tongji University, and with world-class institutions including the Shanghai Astronomy Museum. These programmes bring learning vividly to life: from 

AI-powered medical simulations and particle physics experiments to underwater robot building and AI-controlled smart farms. 

In Early Childhood, YCIS Shanghai upholds the Yew Chung co-teaching model and "Play-based Learning" philosophy, supporting every child's holistic development across social, emotional, cognitive, physical, creative, bilingual, and character domains.Children grow through exploration, play, and discovery, laying a strong foundation for a lifelong love of learning. 

In Primary and Lower Secondary, our international curriculum integrates Eastern and Western educational philosophies. It not only builds solid academic foundations but also nurtures curiosity, independent thinking, and a global outlook. Beyond the classroom, rich enquiry and practical activities encourage students to participate actively and grow in every dimension. 

In Upper Secondary, YCIS Shanghai offers a range of international pathways, including IGCSE, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), and the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE).

Each pathway is carefully supported with structured teaching frameworks and personalised guidance, ensuring students thrive academically while exploring their passions. 

Founded in 1932, YCYW has built more than 94 years of educational heritage, with YCIS Shanghai established in 1993, now marking 33 years in the city. This rich history connects a global network of over 20 sister schools across China, the United Kingdom, and the United States, offering shared educational resources and opportunities for students to collaborate with peers from around the world. 

We warmly invite you to learn more about the YCIS educational philosophy, campus life, and academic pathways. 

We look forward to welcoming you to YCIS Shanghai.