By Declan Doheny, ISB Communications
Published on Friday, August 21, 2026
For the third consecutive year, the International School of Beijing (ISB) has been ranked the No. 1 international school in China by Hurun Education.
The recognition places ISB at the top of the 2026 Hurun Education International Schools Open to Non-Chinese Passport Holders list, reaffirming our position as one of the country’s most respected international schools. It is a proud milestone for our entire community and a powerful recognition of the quality and consistency that define an ISB education.
Three consecutive years at No. 1 tell a story that extends far beyond any single ranking. They reflect the expertise of our educators, the strength of our programs and the Dragon Spirit our students and families bring to school each day.
Recognition from across the education sector
Hurun Education’s 2026 rankings were informed primarily by peer review, drawing on 304 valid responses from school leaders and international education experts across China. Participants were asked to identify the schools they most respected for providing a strong overall education and preparing students for future study. Graduate destinations, co-curricular opportunities and school reputation were also considered. The 2026 list is the eighth edition of the national ranking.
Being recognized by peers across the sector makes this achievement especially meaningful. It signals sustained confidence in ISB’s educational approach and in our ability to prepare students to navigate an increasingly complex world with purpose.
At ISB, that work begins with challenging and joyful learning. It can be seen in classrooms where students are encouraged to think deeply and take intellectual risks. It continues through rich co-curricular experiences that help young people discover new strengths, form meaningful relationships and pursue their interests.
“To be recognized as China’s leading international school for a third consecutive year is an extraordinary honor. It reflects the talent and dedication of our educators, the ambition of our students and the strength of the community that surrounds them. While we are proud of this recognition, our greatest measure of success will always be the experience of our students and our commitment to ensuring that every child is known, challenged and supported to thrive.”
Trevor Laboski, ISB Head of School
A shared achievement
This recognition belongs to the entire ISB community. It belongs to the teachers who bring expertise and care to their classrooms each day. It belongs to the colleagues who create the conditions in which students can thrive. Most importantly, it belongs to our students, whose curiosity and determination bring our mission to life.
For more than 45 years, ISB has continued to evolve while remaining grounded in the values that have shaped our school. We are proud of our history, but our focus remains firmly on what comes next: strengthening the student experience and preparing every learner for the opportunities ahead.
Rankings offer an important moment to celebrate, but they also inspire us to keep moving forward. As a not-for-profit school, every decision we make is guided by what will best serve our students and strengthen their learning.
Three years at No. 1 is an achievement worth celebrating. It is also a reflection of what is possible when an entire community shares a commitment to excellence.
Congratulations, Dragons. This recognition belongs to all of us.