International Schools in Singapore: The Complete 2025 Guide

Singapore is home to one of the most competitive and diverse international school markets in Asia. With over 70 international schools serving more than 60,000 students, the city-state offers exceptional educational options for expat families—but navigating these choices can be overwhelming.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about international schools in Singapore, from curriculum options and fee ranges to admission timelines and neighborhood considerations.

Why Singapore for International Education?

Singapore consistently ranks among the top education systems globally. Here's what makes it special:

• Academic excellence: Singapore students regularly top global assessments (PISA, TIMSS)
• Safety and stability: One of the safest cities in the world for families
• Multicultural environment: A truly international student body
• English-speaking: English is the medium of instruction in most schools
• Strategic location: Hub for regional business and travel

Curriculum Options in Singapore

Singapore offers perhaps the widest range of international curricula in Asia:

International Baccalaureate (IB)

• Schools: United World College (UWCSEA), Canadian International School, Tanglin Trust, Dulwich College, ACS International
• Fee range: SGD 35,000 - 55,000 per year
• Best for: Globally mobile families, inquiry-based learners

British Curriculum

• Schools: Tanglin Trust, Dulwich College, Dover Court, GEMS World Academy
• Fee range: SGD 30,000 - 50,000 per year
• Best for: UK university pathway, structured learning

American Curriculum

• Schools: Singapore American School, Stamford American, ISS International
• Fee range: SGD 35,000 - 58,000 per year
• Best for: US university pathway, holistic development

Australian Curriculum

• Schools: Australian International School
• Fee range: SGD 30,000 - 45,000 per year
• Best for: APAC-focused families

Other Options

• French: Lycée Français de Singapour
• German: German European School Singapore
• Japanese: Japanese School Singapore
• Indian: Global Indian International School

Fee Overview

International school fees in Singapore are among the highest in the region. Here's what to expect:

Grade Level	Annual Fees (SGD)
Pre-school	$20,000 - $35,000
Primary	$30,000 - $45,000
Secondary	$35,000 - $50,000
High School	$40,000 - $58,000

Additional costs to budget for:

• Registration/application fees: $500 - $5,000
• Capital levy/building fund: $2,000 - $10,000 (often one-time)
• School bus: $2,500 - $5,000 per year
• Uniforms: $500 - $1,000
• Lunches: $2,000 - $3,500 per year
• After-school activities: $1,000 - $5,000 per year
• Technology fees: $500 - $2,000

Total cost of attendance can range from SGD 40,000 to over SGD 70,000 per year when all costs are included.

Top International Schools

Premium Tier

United World College of South East Asia (UWCSEA)

• Two campuses: Dover and East
• Full IB curriculum (PYP, MYP, DP)
• Known for: Diversity, service learning, outdoor education
• Wait times: Often 1-2+ years for popular grades
• Fees: ~SGD 45,000 - 55,000

Singapore American School (SAS)

• Largest single-campus American school in the world
• American curriculum with AP courses
• Known for: Facilities, athletics, community
• Wait times: Variable, can be 1+ years
• Fees: ~SGD 45,000 - 58,000

Tanglin Trust School

• British curriculum through A-Levels
• Strong academic results
• Known for: British tradition, pastoral care
• Wait times: Often waitlisted
• Fees: ~SGD 35,000 - 50,000

Upper-Mid Tier

Canadian International School (CIS)

• IB curriculum with bilingual options
• Mandarin-English bilingual stream available
• Known for: Language programs, innovation
• Fees: ~SGD 35,000 - 50,000

Dulwich College

• British curriculum (IGCSE, A-Levels) with IB option
• Part of global Dulwich network
• Known for: Performing arts, academics
• Fees: ~SGD 35,000 - 50,000

Australian International School

• Australian and IB curriculum
• Strong in sciences and sports
• Known for: Outdoor education, STEM
• Fees: ~SGD 30,000 - 45,000

Value Options

ISS International School

• IB curriculum
• More diverse fee structure
• Known for: Inclusivity, value
• Fees: ~SGD 25,000 - 40,000

GEMS World Academy

• IB World School
• Newer but growing reputation
• Known for: Modern facilities, STEAM
• Fees: ~SGD 25,000 - 40,000

Admission Timeline

Singapore schools typically follow this timeline:

12-18 Months Before Entry

• Research schools and attend open houses
• Most schools hold Open Days August-October and January-March
• Join waitlists for popular schools

9-12 Months Before Entry

• Submit applications (most deadlines October-January)
• Complete assessments and interviews
• Prepare documentation

6-9 Months Before Entry

• Receive admission decisions (February-April)
• Accept offers and pay deposits
• Apply for Dependent's Pass if needed

3-6 Months Before Entry

• Complete enrollment paperwork
• Arrange housing near school
• Order uniforms

Important Dates

• Academic year start: August (most schools) or January (some)
• Application deadlines: Typically October-January for August entry
• Admission decisions: February-April

Location Considerations

School location matters significantly in Singapore. Consider:

East Singapore

• Schools: UWCSEA East, Tanglin, EtonHouse
• Neighborhoods: Katong, Marine Parade, Tampines
• Character: Beach proximity, expat-friendly

Central Singapore

• Schools: SAS, CIS Lakeside, ACS International
• Neighborhoods: Bukit Timah, Holland Village
• Character: Greenery, established expat area

West Singapore

• Schools: UWCSEA Dover, Dulwich, Dover Court
• Neighborhoods: Jurong, Clementi, Dover
• Character: Nature reserves, newer developments

Tips for Location

1. Prioritize school over neighborhood—school buses cover most areas
2. Consider traffic patterns during school rush hours
3. Visit neighborhoods during weekdays to experience daily life

Practical Tips for Parents

Getting In

1. Apply early: Waitlists are common, especially for Years 1-3
2. Apply to multiple schools: Don't put all eggs in one basket
3. Prepare your child: Practice assessment activities
4. Highlight uniqueness: Schools value diverse perspectives

Documentation Needed

• Passport copies (all family members)
• Birth certificate
• School reports (2-3 years)
• Immunization records
• Teacher recommendations
• Passport photos

Visa Considerations

• Employment Pass holders: Children get Dependent's Pass
• Student's Pass: Required for those without EP parent
• Process through school or ICA directly

Making Your Decision

Red Flags to Watch For

• Extremely easy admission (may indicate quality issues)
• Vague fee structures with many hidden costs
• High teacher turnover
• Limited parent communication
• Outdated facilities

Green Flags to Look For

• Clear curriculum articulation
• Strong university placement records
• Active parent community
• Professional development for teachers
• Responsive admissions team

Ready to Start?

Now that you have a comprehensive overview of Singapore's international schools, it's time to start your search.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: January 2025

Have questions about Singapore schools? Contact us for personalized guidance.