FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
Since the establishment of the Academy, the spirit of giving has been an integral part of our DNA. As always, it is not the amount of money raised that is important; it is the spirit of generosity and foresight from those who give so our children might learn. All donations, regardless of the dollar-value, are treasured and received with our deepest gratitude.
In its brief history, the Academy has already earned an excellent reputation within the field of education in Hong Kong. However, the school refuses to rest on its laurels and is committed to a continued pursuit of growth and innovation by exploring new ways to equip students for success in an ever-changing global landscape. This means ongoing investment in talented teachers, improvement of facilities, expansion of the curriculum, and development of excellent academic and student programs, which relies on the generosity of our benefactors.
Tuition fees are carefully managed and support general school operations as well as basic costs associated with offering our core curriculum. The Foundation relies on donations for the wide range of specialist learning programs designed to provide unique educational opportunities for our students, which in turn enable the Academy to remain at the forefront of education.
As stated previously, tuition fees only cover the basic costs of educating a child at the Academy. The financial model that underpins our schools’ operations depends on three principal sources of revenue: tuition fees, endowment income, and donations. Raising funds is a vital component of that financial equation and is essential for the future development of the Academy. This financial model, based on developing a large endowment and a culture of giving, is also widely adopted by the best private schools around the world to ensure a truly excellent learning experience.
The Academy does not receive any subsidies from the Hong Kong Government for its operations. An initial grant was given to the school for the first phase of campus construction, but the Government has not funded the construction of additional facilities, nor does it provide any type of financial support for our programs. This is an important distinction between the Academy and local schools / Direct Subsidy Schools (DSS) in Hong Kong which receive direct financial support from the Government.
Absolutely! As a donor, you have a direct impact on each student’s learning journey and experience. Every gift, no matter the size, makes a difference and sends a strong message to our community and others that you believe in the Academy and its commitment to providing the best bilingual education informed by a global perspective.
Yes, donations of HK$100 and above are tax-deductible in Hong Kong. The Independent Schools Foundation Limited is a not-for-profit educational establishment which has been granted tax-exempt status by the Inland Revenue Department under Section 88 of the Inland Revenue Ordinance.
For further information, please contact the ISF Development Office at development@isf.edu.hk or +852 2235 4465.
