SIS Geckcellence Scholarship Competition

100% Tuition | Academic Year 2026–27
For Outstanding External Applicants Only

Purpose

To recognise and support exceptional talent from across the city by offering a 100% scholarship to a high achieving external candidates eligible for enrolment at an international school in Shenzhen into Grades 9, 10 or 11. The ideal candidate is academically outstanding and demonstrates excellence in one or more disciplines — academics, the arts, athletics, innovation, leadership, or service.

Eligibility Criteria

• Open only to external students not currently enrolled at SIS.
• Applicants must hold a foreign passport and be eligible for international school enrolment in Shenzhen.
• Demonstrated excellence in academics and/or other disciplines.
• Strong character, community-mindedness, and potential to contribute meaningfully to SIS life.

What We’re Looking For

We are seeking a high-calibre student who demonstrates:

• Academic distinction or the potential to perform at the highest levels
• Excellence in one or more areas: STEM, humanities, performing or visual arts, sports, service, leadership
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Commitment to personal growth and contribution to the school community

Award Details

• Full scholarship covering 100% tuition fees.
• Awarded for up to three consecutive years, or until graduation, whichever comes first.
• Renewed annually based on:

1. Continued academic engagement and achievement
2. Positive contribution to school life
3. Upholding the SIS Learner Profile and school values

• Annual review conducted each January; recipients and families will be notified of renewal status by the 1^st March each year.
• Final decisions for the initial and subsequent renewal are at the discretion of the selection committee and the Head of School.

Key Dates & Timeline

Application Process

Step 1: Announcement (April 27^th)

• Scholarship promoted via SIS website, social media, and targeted outreach.
• Full details including eligibility, benefits, and application instructions.

Step 2: Applications Open (April 27^th– May 8^th)

Applicants must submit:

• Online scholarship application form (OpenApply)
• Academic transcripts from the past two years
• Student personal statement (500 words max)
• Portfolio or evidence of excellence (optional but encouraged)

Step 3: Review & Shortlisting (May 11^th –13^th)

• Applications reviewed by a panel comprising the Principals, Programme Coordinators, and other members of the leadership team.
• Shortlisting based on:

1. Academic achievement
2. Breadth of talent (arts, athletics, innovation, etc.)
3. Leadership potential and personal values
4. Fit with SIS’s mission and learning culture

Step 4: On-Site Testing & Interviews (May 17^th -20^th)

• Shortlisted students invited to SIS for:

1. Academic assessments
2. Interviews with school leadership
3. Campus tour and engagement activities

Step 5: Final Selection (May 25^th)

• The panel meets to make final decisions.
• Candidates are assessed holistically, balancing academic merit, potential, and school fit.

Step 6: Announcement & Acceptance ( May 27^th)

• Offers sent to successful families on May 27^th.
• Families to confirm acceptance in writing by June 5^th.
• Signed agreement stored in OpenApply; onboarding begins.