Students at HFI follow a rigorous American-based college-preparatory curriculum supplemented by approved Chinese high school courses. All classes are taught by professionally credentialed teachers, the majority of whom are native English speakers.

In Grades 9 and 10, students take both AP-preparatory courses and approved Chinese high school subjects. Most courses are taught bilingually in English and Chinese, while English courses are taught entirely in English. The curriculum is academically rigorous; mathematics courses, for example, include content that extends beyond the AP Calculus curriculum.

In Grades 11 and 12, students follow an intensive AP curriculum, with English as the primary language of instruction. English courses are offered at either the Advanced or AP level. To broaden academic opportunities beyond the AP program, HFI also offers courses such as Philosophy, Logic, Sociology, Film Studies, Drama, Advanced Calculus, Linear Algebra, and Discrete Mathematics. Advanced Calculus, Linear Algebra, and Discrete Mathematics are taught at the college level.