Families from mainland China and Hong Kong make up the largest group of international pupils at British independent schools. This guide covers what is different for them: year groups, entry points, tests, visas and keeping in touch with a guardian.
Pupils from China and Hong Kong in UK schools
In January 2026 there were 5,576 pupils whose parents live in mainland China and 3,620 whose parents live in Hong Kong at Independent Schools Council schools, the two largest overseas groups. The number of pupils from mainland China fell in 2026 and Hong Kong numbers have been falling for several years, so schools are keen to welcome well-prepared applicants.
In a 2023 survey of Chinese families by the Boarding Schools’ Association, the most common reasons for choosing a UK boarding school were escaping the pressure of the home system and a well-rounded education. Parents’ main concerns were safety, bullying or racial discrimination and language, which is why the choice of school and guardian matters so much.
Which UK year group?
UK schools place children by their age on 31 August, not by their current grade or Form. A pupil who has finished Form 3 in Hong Kong, or the third year of junior middle school in China, may not join the year you expect. Enter your child’s date of birth in our School Year Calculator to check.
The most common entry points for Chinese families are Year 9 (13+), followed by Years 10 and 11. Some families also consider sixth form, choosing between A levels and the IB Diploma; see Qualifications and Courses.
Tests and interviews
- UKiset is widely used by UK independent schools to assess international applicants. It tests reasoning and English (reported on the CEFR scale) and includes an essay. It can be taken online with remote invigilation or at an approved test centre.
- Some schools set their own tests in English, maths and science, and most interview candidates online or in person.
- Interviews look for curiosity, character and spoken English as much as academic results. Our tutoring covers UKiset preparation, English and interview practice.
Visas
- Hong Kong families with a BN(O) visa: children who come as dependants of a BN(O) visa holder can attend UK schools, including independent boarding schools and state schools, without a separate Child Student visa.
- Other pupils need a Child Student visa, sponsored by the school. The application fee is £558, plus the Immigration Health Surcharge of £776 a year. Applicants usually give fingerprints and a photo at a visa application centre run by VFS Global; some can use the UK Immigration: ID Check app instead.
Guardianship and keeping in touch
Almost all boarding schools require a UK guardian for pupils whose parents live overseas. WBS Guardians keeps in regular contact with your child’s houseparent and tutors, attends school events on your behalf, arranges exeats and holidays, and sends you honest, regular updates on your child’s progress and wellbeing.
Costs
Average full boarding fees were £14,980 a term in January 2026 before VAT, and 20% VAT applies. See our fees guide.
To talk about your child, email info@whichbritishschool.com.