Table of Contents
Singapore’s international schools cater to a broad spectrum of educational needs, offering various curricula and philosophies to meet the needs of expatriate families and locals seeking alternative education systems.
These schools are known for their world-class facilities and commitment to both academic and holistic student development.
Choosing the Right International School
When choosing an international school, consider the following factors:
Curriculum and Academic Excellence
Choosing the right curriculum – American, British, International Baccalaureate (IB), or other – depends on your child’s educational and career aspirations. Each system offers different advantages and prepares students for various pathways.
High-income families often look for schools with rigorous academic standards and a proven track record of university placements, ensuring their child receives a top-notch education that aligns with future goals.
Facilities and Extracurricular Activities
State-of-the-art facilities and a diverse range of extracurricular activities are essential for holistic development. American families typically prioritize schools with modern classrooms, advanced science labs, sports complexes, and arts facilities.
Additionally, a wide array of extracurricular programs, from sports to arts and leadership activities, supports overall growth and helps in developing well-rounded individuals.
Location and Accessibility
Proximity to home or workplace is a significant factor. Families may prefer schools located in prestigious areas or those conveniently accessible from their residence or business hubs. This consideration not only saves time but also enhances daily convenience for both parents and children.
Tuition Fees and Value
While parents are willing to invest in quality education, they seek value for money.
Reviewing tuition fees along with additional costs such as uniforms, extracurricular activities, and transportation helps ensure that the financial commitment aligns with the benefits provided. A transparent fee structure and clear understanding of all expenses are important.
Special Needs Support
Schools that provide tailored programs and resources can significantly impact a child’s success and wellbeing.
By carefully evaluating these factors, expatriate parents can make an informed decision that best supports their child’s educational journey and overall development.
List of the Best International Schools in Singapore
Singapore American School (SAS)
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Type | Primary, Secondary, and High School |
| Curriculum | American |
| Price (Annual) | SGD 25,000 – SGD 40,000 |
| Location | 40 Woodlands Street 41, Singapore 738547 |
Singapore American School (SAS) is one of the most prestigious and largest international schools in Singapore, widely regarded for its robust American-based curriculum.
The school offers a seamless education journey from preschool to high school, with a strong emphasis on preparing students for college in the US and globally. SAS stands out for its extensive Advanced Placement (AP) program, allowing students to take rigorous college-level courses while still in high school.
Beyond academics, SAS is known for its world-class facilities, including cutting-edge science labs, sports complexes, and performing arts spaces, all of which help foster a well-rounded education.
The school also offers a wide variety of extracurricular activities such as competitive sports, performing arts, and leadership opportunities. Its strong alumni network and global reputation make it a top choice for expatriate families.
Located in Woodlands, the campus is vast and offers a community feel, with excellent transportation links for families living across the island. Although SAS has higher tuition fees, families often consider the comprehensive education and state-of-the-art facilities worth the investment.
Stamford American International School (SAIS)
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Type | Preschool, Primary, Secondary, High School |
| Curriculum | American and IB |
| Price (Annual) | SGD 45,000 – SGD 52,000 |
| Location | Choa Chu Kang |
Stamford American International School (SAIS) is a forward-thinking institution offering a blend of the American and International Baccalaureate (IB) curricula, making it a unique choice for families who want a flexible approach to education.
The school offers a comprehensive education from nursery to high school, with a focus on developing students to be global citizens with a strong academic foundation.
SAIS places a significant emphasis on personalized learning, with programs that support individual student needs and learning styles. This includes specialized programs for students with special educational needs and support for English as an additional language (EAL). Extracurricular activities are extensive, covering everything from athletics to the arts, ensuring that each child has the opportunity to discover and nurture their passions.
Located in central Singapore, in the Novena area, SAIS is accessible to many expatriate families. The school’s modern facilities include a high-tech innovation center, swimming pools, and performing arts spaces, providing students with an enriched learning environment.
Tuition fees are on the higher side, but parents are drawn to the school’s commitment to holistic education.
XCL American Academy
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Type | Primary and Secondary |
| Curriculum | American |
| Price (Annual) | SGD 25,000 – SGD 32,000 |
| Location | 2 Yishun Street 42Singapore 768039 |
XCL American Academy is a relatively new entrant to the international school scene in Singapore, offering a strong American curriculum designed to prepare students for success in an increasingly globalized world.
The school focuses on providing a high-quality education at a more affordable price point compared to other American-curriculum schools in Singapore, making it an attractive option for expatriate families seeking value for money.
The school offers education from Kindergarten through to Grade 8, with plans to expand to high school in the coming years. XCL emphasizes critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving, preparing students for the challenges of the future. The school also integrates technology into its curriculum to equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in the 21st century.
Located in the heart of Yishun, XCL’s campus is modern, with facilities such as tech labs, sports fields, and creative arts spaces. With its affordable fees and strong educational approach, it’s a great choice for expatriates seeking an American curriculum without the high costs often associated with international schools in Singapore.
International Community School
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Type | Early Childhood to High School |
| Curriculum | American |
| Price (Annual) | SGD 28,000 – SGD 40,000 |
| Location | 27A Jubilee Rd |
The International Community School (ICS) is a Christian-based institution offering the American curriculum, known for its strong values-centered education and nurturing environment.
ICS caters to students from kindergarten through high school, focusing on academic excellence while encouraging students to develop character, faith, and leadership qualities.
ICS is highly regarded for its close-knit community feel, where students benefit from small class sizes and individualized attention. In addition to its academic offerings, ICS emphasizes extracurricular activities such as music, art, and sports, ensuring students have a well-rounded educational experience. The school also provides strong support for students with special learning needs, creating an inclusive environment for all learners.
Located in Jurong, ICS offers an affordable fee structure compared to other international schools in Singapore, making it an attractive option for expatriate families seeking a high-quality American education with a focus on values and community.
Canadian International School (CIS)
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Type | Primary to High School |
| Curriculum | Canadian |
| Price (Annual) | SGD 19,000 – SGD 54,000 |
| Location | Lakeside Campus7 Jurong West Street 4 1 |
The Canadian International School (CIS) is well-known for its diverse, inclusive environment and excellent academic standards.
Offering education from early childhood through to high school, CIS follows a blend of the International Baccalaureate (IB) and the Ontario (Canada) curriculum. The school prides itself on delivering a well-rounded, globally-minded education that prepares students for the challenges of an interconnected world.
CIS focuses heavily on nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving, all while fostering a deep respect for global cultures and perspectives. With two campuses located in Lakeside and Tanjong Katong, the school provides modern facilities, including specialized science and arts labs, outdoor learning environments, and sports complexes. CIS also offers an extensive extracurricular program, ensuring that students can pursue passions beyond academics.
While tuition fees are relatively high, the school’s excellent facilities, dedicated staff, and strong academic results make it a top choice for expatriate families seeking an international curriculum with a Canadian edge.
Overseas Family School (OFS)
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Type | Preschool, Primary, Secondary |
| Curriculum | International Baccalaureate (IB) |
| Price (Annual) | SGD 17,000 – SGD 44,000 |
| Location | 81 Pasir Ris Heights, Singapore 519292 |
Overseas Family School (OFS) offers a truly international education experience, catering to a student body from over 70 countries.
The school provides a flexible curriculum, with students following either the International Baccalaureate (IB) program or a broad-based international curriculum, depending on their academic stage. The school is known for its inclusive approach, with extensive support for students who require help with English as an additional language (EAL).
OFS focuses on holistic development, offering a wide variety of extracurricular activities such as music, drama, and sports. The school’s campus in Pasir Ris is equipped with modern facilities, including performing arts theaters, sports complexes, and science labs, all designed to provide students with a rich learning experience. OFS also offers specialized support for children with learning differences, ensuring every child has the opportunity to succeed.
Parents are drawn to OFS for its strong academic performance, multicultural environment, and competitive tuition fees, which are more affordable than some of its competitors.
United World College of South East Asia (UWCSEA)
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Type | Primary and Secondary |
| Curriculum | IB |
| Price (Annual) | SGD 51,000 – SGD 56,000 |
| Location | Dover Campus: 1207 Dover Road, Singapore 139654East Campus: 1 Tampines Street 73, Singapore 528704 |
United World College of South East Asia (UWCSEA) is one of Singapore’s most prestigious international schools, renowned for its rigorous academic curriculum and strong emphasis on global citizenship.
Offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) program from kindergarten through to high school, UWCSEA is focused on fostering academic excellence alongside a commitment to environmental sustainability, community service, and social responsibility.
UWCSEA boasts a sprawling campus across two locations – Dover and East Coast – both equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including sports arenas, swimming pools, performing arts centers, and science labs. The school’s rich extracurricular offerings range from competitive sports to performing arts and social action programs, ensuring students have a well-rounded educational experience.
While UWCSEA’s tuition fees are on the higher end, parents consider it a worthwhile investment due to the school’s strong academic reputation, global focus, and commitment to shaping socially conscious future leaders.
Nexus International School
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Type | Preschool, Primary, Secondary, and High School |
| Curriculum | IB and British |
| Price (Annual) | SGD 34,000 – SGD 45,000 |
| Location | 1 Aljunied Walk, Singapore 387293 |
Nexus International School is a forward-thinking institution offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) program and the British curriculum, catering to students from nursery to high school. The school prides itself on a student-centered approach to learning, focusing on the holistic development of each child through personalized learning plans.
Located in Aljunied, Nexus offers modern facilities, including an eco-friendly campus with innovative spaces designed to support collaboration and creativity. Its curriculum encourages students to explore their passions, with a wide variety of extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and drama to complement the academic program.
Nexus is also known for its robust support for students with learning differences, offering personalized attention to ensure each student reaches their full potential. With competitive tuition fees and a commitment to nurturing global citizens, Nexus is a popular choice for expatriate families seeking a dynamic, inclusive learning environment.
Chatsworth International School
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Type | Kindergarten, Primary, Secondary, and High School |
| Curriculum | IB and British |
| Price (Annual) | SGD 29,000 – SGD 39,000 |
| Location | 72 Bukit Tinggi Road, Singapore 289760 |
Chatsworth International School is a boutique school offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum from primary to high school. With a smaller student population, the school provides a close-knit community environment where students receive individualized attention and support.
Chatsworth is known for its inclusive, multicultural environment, where students from diverse backgrounds thrive both academically and personally. The school’s curriculum encourages inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and creativity, all while emphasizing a global perspective. Chatsworth also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including arts, sports, and community service opportunities, allowing students to develop outside the classroom.
Located in Bukit Timah, Chatsworth’s compact campus offers modern facilities designed to support student learning and development. The school’s competitive tuition fees make it an attractive option for expatriate families seeking a high-quality IB education without the high costs associated with larger international schools.
ISS International School
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Type | Primary and Secondary |
| Curriculum | IB and American |
| Price (Annual) | SGD 32,000 – SGD 55,000 |
| Location | 21 Preston Rd, Singapore 109355 |
ISS International School is one of the oldest international schools in Singapore, offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum across all levels, from kindergarten through high school.
The school is renowned for its personalized learning approach, ensuring that each student receives individual attention and tailored support throughout their educational journey. With a diverse student body, ISS fosters an inclusive and multicultural environment, encouraging students to appreciate different cultures and perspectives.
The school’s compact campus in the heart of Singapore provides easy access to a wide range of facilities, including science labs, art studios, and sports complexes. ISS also offers a robust extracurricular program that includes sports, arts, and service-learning projects, promoting well-rounded student development.
ISS is a popular choice for expatriate families looking for a nurturing, community-oriented environment with a focus on individualized learning. While tuition fees are in the mid-range, ISS offers excellent value with its small class sizes and holistic approach to education.
One World International School
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Type | Preschool, Primary, Secondary, and High School |
| Curriculum | IB |
| Price (Annual) | SGD 21,000 – SGD 22,000 |
| Location | Nanyang Campus: 21 Jurong West Street 81, Singapore 649075 Digital Campus: #01-02, Global Campus Village, 27 Punggol Field Walk, Singapore 828649 |
One World International School (OWIS) is well-regarded for its affordable fees and commitment to providing a high-quality education based on the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and the British curriculum for older students.
The school focuses on nurturing globally-minded citizens, with an emphasis on values such as kindness, respect, and collaboration. OWIS also places a strong focus on sustainability and environmental stewardship, integrating these principles into their curriculum.
Located in Nanyang, OWIS offers a modern, eco-friendly campus with excellent facilities, including open learning spaces, science labs, and performing arts studios. The school provides a broad range of extracurricular activities, from sports to arts, allowing students to pursue their interests outside of the classroom.
OWIS is particularly attractive to expatriate families seeking a more affordable international education without compromising on quality. Its moderate class sizes and individualized approach ensure that each child receives the support they need to thrive.
Sir Manasseh Meyer International School (SMMIS)
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Type | Preschool to grade 10 |
| Curriculum | British and IB |
| Price (Annual) | SGD18,000 – SGD 29,000 |
| Location | 3 Jln Ulu Sembawang, Singapore 758932 |
Sir Manasseh Meyer International School (SMMIS) is a boutique international school that blends the British and International Primary Curriculum (IPC) for students from early years to secondary school.
With a strong Jewish ethos, the school fosters respect for diversity and a deep appreciation for different cultures and traditions. SMMIS is known for its small class sizes, providing personalized attention and a nurturing environment for all students.
The school’s Redhill campus is equipped with modern facilities, including a swimming pool, science labs, and a dedicated arts center. SMMIS offers a well-rounded education that combines rigorous academics with a variety of extracurricular activities, including music, drama, and sports.
SMMIS is a great choice for families seeking a small, community-oriented school that values cultural diversity and provides a personalized approach to education. The school’s competitive fees and strong pastoral care make it a highly attractive option for expatriate families.
EtonHouse International School
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Type | Primary, Secondary |
| Curriculum | British and IB |
| Price (Annual) | SGD 16,000 – SGD 20,000 |
| Location | 10 Tanglin Road, S247908 |
EtonHouse International School is part of a global network of schools renowned for their innovative approach to education. Following the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and offering the British curriculum for older students, EtonHouse places a strong emphasis on inquiry-based learning, encouraging students to explore, ask questions, and develop a lifelong love for learning.
The school has several campuses across Singapore, each equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, libraries, and sports complexes. EtonHouse also provides an extensive range of extracurricular activities, allowing students to pursue their passions in arts, sports, and community service.
Parents are drawn to EtonHouse for its holistic approach to education, which focuses on both academic excellence and the social-emotional development of each child. While tuition fees are on the higher end, the school’s innovative curriculum and personalized learning environment make it a top choice for expatriate families seeking a forward-thinking education.
Dulwich College (Singapore)
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Type | Primary and Secondary |
| Curriculum | British |
| Price (Annual) | SGD 19,000 – SGD 54,000 |
| Location | 71 Bukit Batok West Ave. 8, Singapore 658966 |
Dulwich College (Singapore) is a highly prestigious international school that follows the British curriculum, catering to students from early years through to secondary school. Known for its academic rigor and strong emphasis on character development, Dulwich College offers a well-rounded education that encourages students to excel both academically and personally.
The school’s campus in Bukit Batok boasts world-class facilities, including sports complexes, performing arts theaters, and science labs. Dulwich College also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, from competitive sports to arts and community service, allowing students to develop their talents beyond the classroom.
While tuition fees are among the highest in Singapore, parents view Dulwich College as an investment in their child’s future, offering an education that is both academically challenging and deeply enriching.
Tanglin Trust School
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Type | Preschool, Primary, Secondary, and High School |
| Curriculum | British |
| Price (Annual) | SGD 33,000 – SGD 53,000 |
| Location | 95 Portsdown Road, Singapore 139299 |
Tanglin Trust School is one of Singapore’s oldest and most prestigious international schools, offering a British-based curriculum with an emphasis on academic excellence and personal development.
From early years through to secondary school, Tanglin Trust offers students a rich educational experience, focusing on the development of critical thinking, creativity, and leadership skills.
The school’s campus in the One-North area provides state-of-the-art facilities, including performing arts centers, sports arenas, and science labs. Tanglin Trust also offers a comprehensive extracurricular program, including competitive sports, music, drama, and service learning opportunities, ensuring students have a well-rounded education.
Although tuition fees are on the higher end, Tanglin Trust’s outstanding academic reputation, high university acceptance rates, and commitment to nurturing global citizens make it a popular choice among expatriate families.
Dover Court International School
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Type | Infant Year to High School |
| Curriculum | British |
| Price (Annual) | SGD 27,000 – SGD 43,000 |
| Location | 301 Dover Road |
Dover Court International School offers a personalized education experience that caters to students from early years through secondary school. The school follows the British curriculum, complemented by the IB Diploma Programme in the final years. Dover Court is particularly known for its inclusive approach, offering specialized support for students with learning differences.
The school’s campus in Dover is equipped with modern facilities, including a swimming pool, sports fields, and science labs. Dover Court also provides a range of extracurricular activities, allowing students to develop their talents in sports, music, and arts.
Dover Court’s competitive tuition fees and strong focus on inclusive education make it an attractive option for expatriate families looking for a nurturing, community-oriented school that caters to diverse learning needs.
Brighton College (Singapore)
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Type | Primary and Secondary |
| Curriculum | British |
| Price (Annual) | SGD 17,000 – SGD 57,000 |
| Location | 1 Chuan Lane, Singapore 554299 |
Brighton College (Singapore) is the sister school of the prestigious Brighton College in the UK, offering a British-based education from kindergarten through to primary school. The school prides itself on its academic rigor, with a strong focus on developing creativity, critical thinking, and leadership skills. Brighton College is known for its nurturing and supportive environment, where each child is encouraged to reach their full potential.
Located in the East Coast area, the school’s campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, sports complexes, and arts studios. Brighton College also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, allowing students to explore their passions outside of the classroom.
Although Brighton College only goes up to primary school, it is a popular choice for expatriate families seeking a high-quality British education that focuses on academic excellence and personal development.
Australian International School
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Type | Preschool, Primary, Secondary |
| Curriculum | Australian |
| Price (Annual) | SGD 36,000 – SGD 50,000 |
| Location | 1 Lorong Chuan |
The Australian International School (AIS) offers an Australian curriculum for students from early years through secondary school, with the International Baccalaureate (IB) offered for the final two years. AIS is known for its strong academic foundation and focus on sports and performing arts, providing a well-rounded education that encourages both academic and personal growth.
Located in Lorong Chuan, AIS has a large campus featuring state-of-the-art facilities, including Olympic-sized swimming pools, science labs, sports fields, and performing arts centers. AIS also offers a broad range of extracurricular activities, from sports to music and drama, helping students develop their interests and talents outside of academics.
AIS is a popular choice for expatriate families from Australia and other countries who appreciate its structured, balanced approach to education. While tuition fees are in the higher range, the school’s extensive facilities and excellent academic reputation make it a solid option for parents seeking a high-quality international education.
Conclusion
Choosing the right international school in Singapore can greatly impact your child’s educational journey and overall experience in the city. Each of the schools listed offers unique strengths and specialized programs to cater to different needs and preferences.
For further assistance in finding the perfect fit for your family, consider exploring membership options with The American Club, where you can network and share insights with other American expats in Singapore.
