Are you saving up to cover international school fees for your child here or boarding school abroad? Or are you already looking into the cost of university tuition fees? We speak with financial planners Eight Wealth International about the importance of saving for education fees – in advance
Hong Kong’s international schools are an attractive proposition for families seeking a quality education for their kids. “Parents understand that these schools provide a globally recognised, high-quality curriculum, plus multi-lingual programmes, well-trained teachers, pathways to universities abroad, and a supportive environment,” says the team from Eight Wealth International.
There is, of course, a considerable financial investment involved. In fact, HK regularly ranks in the top 10 or so most expensive cities globally for international school fees. Parents can expect median fees of around HK$150,000 a year – though, for many schools, especially when it comes to students in higher grades, that figure is much higher. This is considerably more expensive than another popular expat destination, Dubai, which has the highest international school fees in the Middle East.
School fees are only one entry in the financial ledger, too. You might also have to stump up for transport, uniforms, meals, books, digital devices or the many extracurricular activities that kids enjoy and thrive on.
For some families, tuition fees aren’t limited to primary and secondary education. Eight Wealth says that saving for university tuition fees has become a leading priority. They point to research from 2024 showing 74 percent of parents reported actively saving for their child’s university education – considerably higher than a decade or so earlier. “This shift highlights the rising awareness of the high costs associated with higher education and the desire to support children’s futures financially.” One estimate puts the annual cost for an undergraduate studying in the UK and living in a one bedroom flat at £56,520 per year (HK$600,000)!
Thankfully, with the right preparation, planning and advice, it can become manageable. Eight Wealth International’s, Chris Woodhead outlines four approaches (among many) that can help alleviate financial stress.
A Financial Planners Strategy
#1 “Starting an education savings account at birth allows parents to benefit from compound interest over many years; regular, consistent contributions can amplify savings and instil a sense of financial responsibility.”
#2 “Using a home loan offset account helps reduce mortgage interest while simultaneously saving. By keeping savings in the offset account, families can lower their loan costs and redirect savings towards education.”
#3 “A long-term investment strategy, such as investing in diversified assets, can maximise growth potential over time. By focusing on long term gains and risk management, families can build a substantial education fund that outpaces inflation.”
#4 “Term deposits provide a secure way to save, with fixed interest returns over a specified period. While they offer lower returns, their stability can provide peace of mind and ensure funds are available when educational costs arise.”
“When it comes to saving for education,” adds Chris, “the feeling of regret can be quite significant. So, imagine the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’ve taken steps to support your child’s educational dreams.” Eight Wealth International helps families by creating opportunities for them to design thoughtful plans that ease financial worries.
About these financial planners in Hong Kong
Eight Wealth International is a Principal Partner Practice of St. James’s Place (Hong Kong) Limited. Chris Woodhead is an Associate Partner and has over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry.
9187 5505 | chris.woodhead@sjpp.asia
eightwealthinternational.asia
This article on a financial planner for saving education and tution fees first appeared in the Autumn 2025 issue of Expat Living magazine. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy!
