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Our Purpose.
Your Child's Future.
At Shu Ren, we inspire a lifelong love of learning through Mandarin immersion and the International Baccalaureate. This FAQ gives you quick answers to common questions as you explore what makes our school special.
Q: What is Shu Ren International School?
A: Shu Ren International School is a PK2 (2-year old) through Grade 5 International Baccalaureate (IB) World School located in Berkeley, California. We are one of the first Mandarin immersion IB schools in the United States, combining language, inquiry, and global citizenship to nurture confident, creative learners.
Q: Where is Shu Ren International School located?
A: Our campus is in Berkeley, California, and easily accessible to families across the East Bay and surrounding communities.
Q: What makes Shu Ren International School unique?
A: Shu Ren combines Mandarin immersion with the IB curriculum in a small, nurturing community. Students develop bilingual fluency, critical thinking, and cultural awareness while gaining the skills to thrive as global citizens.
Q: What curriculum does Shu Ren use?
A: Shu Ren follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP), which emphasizes inquiry-based learning, real-world connections, and the development of the whole child.
Q: What ages and grades does Shu Ren serve?
A: We welcome children from PK2 (age 2) through Grade 5.
Q: What language immersion programs are offered?
A: Shu Ren offers full Mandarin immersion in the early years and lower elementary grades. English is gradually introduced to ensure bilingual and biliterate proficiency.
Q: Do students need to speak Mandarin before enrolling?
A: No. Many students join Shu Ren with no prior Mandarin experience, especially in PK2 through Kindergarten. Our immersive approach and dedicated teachers help children quickly gain confidence in the language.
Q: How does Shu Ren prepare students for middle school and beyond?
A: Shu Ren students graduate fluent in Mandarin and English, equipped with strong academic and problem-solving skills through the IB program. Our alumni transition successfully to both IB and non-IB middle schools with confidence and adaptability.
Q: How do I apply to Shu Ren International School?
A: Families start with an online inquiry and a school visit. The application process involves submitting an online application, participating in a parent conversation, and conducting a child observation or visit. Our admissions team provides guidance every step of the way.
Q: When should I apply?
A: Applications typically open in the fall for the following school year. Limited spaces may be available on a rolling basis, depending on the grade.
Q: How much is tuition at Shu Ren?
A: Tuition varies by grade. Please see our Tuition & Financial Aid page for current rates.
Q: Does Shu Ren offer financial aid or tuition discounts?
A: Yes. Shu Ren offers need-based financial aid.
Q: What is the student-teacher ratio?
A: Shu Ren maintains small class sizes to ensure personalized learning and strong support for each child.
Q: Do you offer after-school or enrichment programs?
A: Yes. Shu Ren offers after-school programs, enrichment classes such as Chinese brush drawing, cooking, chess, dance, and Judo, as well as summer camps that focus on Mandarin and cultural experiences.
Q: What is the community like at Shu Ren?
A: Families describe Shu Ren as warm, welcoming, and globally minded. Our diverse community values cultural appreciation, inquiry, and connection.
Q: Is Shu Ren International School accredited?
A: Yes. Shu Ren is an authorized IB World School, accredited by both the International Baccalaureate Organization and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
Q: How can I visit the school?
A: The best way to experience Shu Ren is to attend an open house or schedule a personal tour. Children are welcome and often participate in fun activities during visits.