ObjectiveTo explore the policy framework, theoretical system and principles of educational placement for children with special needs based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) for the multi-faceted educational placement services and methods for these children. MethodsBased on ICF theory and methods, public policy research techniques, and educational policy analysis, this study systematically investigated the policy architecture and theoretical underpinnings for the educational placement of children with special needs, focusing on an inclusive education-oriented system of multiple placements. ResultsThe study analyzed educational policies, emphasizing the rights to education under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and UNESCO's guidelines on ensuring inclusivity and equity in education which encourage the provision of individualized educational support services and reasonable accommodations to enable the effective participation of students with disablities in education. China, the European Union (EU) and the United States (US) have enacted laws and policies promoting inclusive education, integrating children with disablities into the general education system, and providing them with the same educational opportunities as other children. The development of special education focuses on tailored educational services for those children who need additional support and resources. Policies underscore the need to evaluate the specific needs of children with disablities and provide individualized educational plan based on these needs. ConclusionBased on core content from the CRPD, UNESCO's guidelines, and relevant policies from China, the EU, and the US regarding the education and educational placement services for children with special needs, the theoretical framework and principles of educational placement for children with special needs based on ICF are discussed, proposing contents and methods for constructing a multi-faceted educational placement service system for children with special needs.