The Ministry of Education has approved 86 international schools across the country, including 20 in Beijing and 18 in Shanghai, to be opened to foreigners by January. Private schools have also opened to foreigners, with tuition and boarding fees about 50,000 yuan (US$6,500) a year, slightly lower than international schools.

 

There are no regulations or rules preventing foreign children from entering public schools in China. "Foreign children are welcomed to study in public schools in China," says Zhao Lingshan, an official with the Department of International Cooperation and Exchanges under the ministry.

 

However, some public schools feel reluctant to enroll foreign children due to security considerations and management responsibility. To attract more foreign talent, some cities and provinces have promised to provide more convenient service to foreign experts' spouses and children.

 

(China Daily June 15, 2007)