Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. If you’re considering the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum in Singapore, you’re looking at a globally recognized educational framework that develops critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and academic excellence. Singapore hosts some of the world’s finest IB schools, each offering unique approaches to this rigorous programme.

The IB curriculum has gained tremendous popularity among Singapore families, both local and expatriate, for good reason. It provides a holistic education that goes beyond exam preparation, fostering inquiry-based learning and developing well-rounded individuals prepared for university and life beyond. With over 20 IB World Schools across the island, selecting the right fit for your family can feel overwhelming.

This comprehensive guide examines the top 10 IB schools in Singapore, providing you with essential information about their programmes, facilities, fee structures, and distinctive features. Whether you’re prioritizing location convenience (perhaps near an MRT station), specific curriculum offerings, or community culture, we’ll help you navigate your options with the same clarity and depth that Skoolopedia brings to every aspect of educational planning.

Understanding the International Baccalaureate Programme

Before diving into specific schools, it’s helpful to understand what makes the IB curriculum distinctive. The International Baccalaureate offers four programmes across different age groups: the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for ages 3-12, the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for ages 11-16, the Diploma Programme (DP) for ages 16-19, and the Career-related Programme (CP). Most top IB schools in Singapore offer the full continuum from PYP through DP.

The IB approach emphasizes concept-based learning rather than rote memorization. Students develop as inquirers, thinkers, and communicators through the IB Learner Profile, which cultivates attributes like open-mindedness, risk-taking, and reflection. The curriculum is internationally minded, drawing connections across subjects and cultures, which particularly resonates in Singapore’s multicultural environment.

For the Diploma Programme specifically, students study six subject groups while completing three core components: Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). This combination ensures breadth and depth of learning while developing research skills and community engagement. Universities worldwide recognize and value the IB Diploma, often offering advanced standing or course credits for high achievers.

What to Look for When Choosing an IB School

Not all IB schools are created equal. While they follow the same curriculum framework, schools interpret and deliver the programme with their own distinctive approaches. As you evaluate options, consider these key factors that will shape your child’s educational experience and your family’s daily life.

Location and accessibility matter more than many parents initially realize. A school that’s conveniently located near your home or workplace reduces commute stress and makes participation in after-school activities more feasible. Consider proximity to MRT lines and whether the school offers bus services to your neighborhood.

School culture and values should align with your family’s priorities. Some schools emphasize academic rigor above all else, while others balance academics with arts, athletics, and social-emotional development. Visit campuses during open houses, speak with current parents, and observe how students and teachers interact to get a genuine feel for the community.

Facilities and resources can significantly impact learning experiences. Look for well-equipped science laboratories, maker spaces, libraries, sports facilities, and performing arts venues. The quality of these spaces often reflects the school’s investment in bringing the IB curriculum to life through hands-on, experiential learning.

University counseling and outcomes become particularly important as students approach the Diploma Programme years. Research where recent graduates have been accepted, the support provided during the university application process, and whether the school has counselors familiar with both local and international university systems.

Top 10 IB Schools in Singapore

1. United World College of South East Asia (UWCSEA)

UWCSEA operates two campuses in Singapore (Dover and East) and consistently ranks among the world’s top IB schools. Founded on the United World College mission of making education a force for peace, UWCSEA emphasizes international understanding and social responsibility alongside academic excellence. The school offers the full IB continuum from PYP through DP.

Both campuses feature exceptional facilities including Olympic-standard swimming pools, performing arts theaters, and innovation labs. UWCSEA’s Outdoor Education programme is particularly noteworthy, with students participating in expeditions and service trips that embody the school’s commitment to experiential learning. The school community is genuinely diverse, with students from over 75 nationalities creating a rich multicultural environment.

Key highlights:

• Consistently outstanding IB Diploma results, averaging well above the global mean
• Comprehensive athletics and arts programmes with professional-grade facilities
• Strong emphasis on service learning and global citizenship
• Two campus locations offering similar programmes with distinct communities

Location: Dover campus (near Dover MRT), East campus in Tampines
Approximate annual fees: SGD $38,000 – $46,000

2. Anglo-Chinese School (International)

Anglo-Chinese School (International), or ACS(I), uniquely bridges Singapore’s local education heritage with international IB standards. As the international arm of the prestigious Anglo-Chinese Schools family, ACS(I) offers Singaporean families an IB education rooted in Christian values and local context. The school is authorized for both MYP and DP, serving students from Secondary 1 onwards.

ACS(I) has established an impressive track record of IB Diploma results, with graduates gaining admission to top universities globally including Ivy League institutions and Oxbridge. The school maintains high academic expectations while fostering the ACS spirit of service, leadership, and holistic development. Class sizes are kept relatively small to ensure personalized attention.

Key highlights:

• Blends IB curriculum with Singapore’s educational strengths and values
• Strong Christian ethos and character development focus
• Excellent university placement record, particularly for competitive programmes
• Priority admission for ACS (Primary) and ACS (Junior) students

Location: Newton area (near Newton MRT)
Approximate annual fees: SGD $29,000 – $32,000 (for Singapore Citizens/PRs), SGD $40,000 – $44,000 (International students)

3. Singapore International School (SIS)

Singapore International School has been delivering the IB curriculum since 1996, making it one of the longest-established IB World Schools on the island. With two campuses (Gamuda Gardens and Queenstown), SIS offers the complete IB continuum from PYP through DP. The school prides itself on creating a nurturing, family-oriented environment where students from diverse backgrounds thrive.

SIS emphasizes personalized learning pathways and maintains relatively smaller class sizes compared to some larger international schools. This allows teachers to differentiate instruction and provide individual support, particularly beneficial for students who may need additional learning support or challenge. The school’s inquiry-based approach encourages students to become independent learners and creative problem-solvers.

Key highlights:

• Smaller, close-knit community with a family-feel atmosphere
• Two campuses with modern facilities and green spaces
• Strong student support services including learning support and English language development
• Active parent community involvement in school life

Location: Gamuda Gardens campus in Kemuning, Queenstown campus near Queenstown MRT
Approximate annual fees: SGD $27,000 – $36,000

4. Overseas Family School (OFS)

Overseas Family School was purpose-built for expatriate families and has evolved into one of Singapore’s most respected IB schools. Offering all four IB programmes (PYP, MYP, DP, and CP), OFS provides exceptional flexibility for students with varied interests and career aspirations. The inclusion of the Career-related Programme is particularly distinctive, offering a practical alternative pathway for students interested in vocational and technical education.

The school’s approach balances academic rigor with wellbeing and creativity. OFS has invested significantly in innovation and design thinking spaces, STEAM facilities, and comprehensive arts programmes. The campus in Pasir Ris features extensive grounds with sports facilities, maker spaces, and collaborative learning areas that support the inquiry-based IB pedagogy.

Key highlights:

• Only school in Singapore offering all four IB programmes including CP
• Strong focus on innovation, design thinking, and entrepreneurship
• Extensive support for English language learners at all levels
• Comprehensive wellbeing programme addressing social-emotional development

Location: Pasir Ris area
Approximate annual fees: SGD $29,000 – $40,000

5. Tanglin Trust School

Tanglin Trust School brings a distinctive British international education approach to the IB curriculum. While the school follows the English National Curriculum in its early years and primary sections, it transitions to IGCSE and then the IB Diploma Programme for senior students. This combination provides strong foundational skills in literacy and numeracy before students engage with the IB’s concept-based approach.

Established in 1925, Tanglin is one of Singapore’s oldest international schools and maintains a strong British character while embracing international mindedness. The school’s facilities are exceptional, with recent investments in a new Sixth Form Centre, performing arts complex, and sports facilities. Tanglin’s arts programmes are particularly strong, with many students pursuing creative pathways at university level.

Key highlights:

• Combines British educational traditions with IB Diploma Programme
• Outstanding arts facilities and programmes including dedicated arts pathway
• Heritage school with established alumni network globally
• Strong pastoral care system with house structure

Location: Portsdown Road area (between Buona Vista and Commonwealth MRTs)
Approximate annual fees: SGD $36,000 – $47,000

6. Dover Court International School

Dover Court International School follows a similar model to Tanglin Trust, combining the English National Curriculum with IGCSEs before offering the IB Diploma Programme. The school emphasizes a values-based education centered on respect, responsibility, collaboration, and creativity. Dover Court’s relatively smaller size compared to some mega-schools creates a tight-knit community where students are known as individuals.

The school places significant emphasis on learning beyond the classroom, with outdoor education, service projects, and cultural experiences integrated throughout the curriculum. Dover Court’s campus features modern learning spaces designed to facilitate collaborative and inquiry-based approaches. The school has invested in digital learning technologies while maintaining a balanced approach to screen time and traditional learning methods.

Key highlights:

• British curriculum foundation with seamless transition to IB Diploma
• Strong sense of community with active parent involvement
• Comprehensive outdoor education and Duke of Edinburgh Award programmes
• Values-based education approach with character development focus

Location: Dover area (near Dover MRT)
Approximate annual fees: SGD $30,000 – $42,000

7. St. Joseph’s Institution International

St. Joseph’s Institution International (SJII) extends the 160-year Lasallian educational tradition of St. Joseph’s Institution into the international arena. The school offers both the IGCSE and IB Diploma pathways, allowing students to choose the route that best suits their strengths and university aspirations. SJII’s faith-based values of respect, integrity, service, and excellence permeate all aspects of school life.

The school attracts families who value character formation alongside academic achievement. SJII emphasizes service learning, with students engaging in community projects locally and abroad. The school’s relatively diverse student body (with both local and international families) creates a unique cultural blend. Sports programmes are strong, with particular strengths in basketball, swimming, and athletics.

Key highlights:

• Lasallian values-based education with Catholic ethos (open to all faiths)
• Dual pathway offering both IGCSE and IB Diploma options
• Strong emphasis on service, leadership development, and social responsibility
• Located on two campuses with modern facilities and sports amenities

Location: Two campuses in Sennett Estate and Thompson areas
Approximate annual fees: SGD $31,000 – $35,000

8. XCL World Academy

XCL World Academy (formerly known as XCL American Academy) has repositioned itself as a globally-minded IB World School offering the full continuum from PYP through DP. The school’s state-of-the-art campus opened in 2020, featuring purpose-built facilities designed specifically for inquiry-based learning. From innovation labs and design studios to performance spaces and athletic facilities, every aspect of the campus supports the IB philosophy.

The school places strong emphasis on personalized learning and student agency, encouraging learners to take ownership of their educational journey. XCL World Academy’s approach to assessment focuses on growth and mastery rather than purely grades, aligning with the IB’s learner-centered philosophy. The school also offers robust support for students with diverse learning needs, including gifted and talented programmes and learning support services.

Key highlights:

• Brand new, purpose-designed campus with cutting-edge facilities
• Strong focus on personalized learning pathways and student choice
• Comprehensive learning support and gifted education programmes
• Growing school with developing traditions and culture

Location: Newton area
Approximate annual fees: SGD $32,000 – $44,000

9. Canadian International School (CIS)

Canadian International School offers a unique dual-curriculum approach, providing both the IB Diploma Programme and the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). This flexibility allows students to pursue the pathway that best matches their university goals and learning style. CIS operates two campuses (Lakeside and Tanjong Katong) and offers the full IB continuum from PYP onwards.

The school’s Canadian educational heritage brings a particular emphasis on multiculturalism, bilingualism (with strong French and Mandarin programmes), and inclusive education. CIS has invested significantly in technology integration and innovation programmes, including robotics, coding, and digital design. The school’s athletics programmes are comprehensive, with students regularly competing in regional and international tournaments.

Key highlights:

• Dual-diploma option with both IB and Ontario Secondary School Diploma
• Strong bilingual programmes in French and Mandarin
• Two modern campuses with extensive facilities
• Emphasis on inclusive education and diversity

Location: Lakeside campus in Jurong, Tanjong Katong campus in the East
Approximate annual fees: SGD $28,000 – $40,000

10. Hwa Chong International School

Hwa Chong International School operates under the esteemed Hwa Chong Institution umbrella, blending the rigorous academic tradition of one of Singapore’s top schools with the IB curriculum. The school offers the full IB continuum and attracts families seeking high academic expectations within an Asian values framework. Students benefit from shared facilities and programmes with Hwa Chong Institution, including specialized science and mathematics opportunities.

The school culture emphasizes self-directed learning, critical thinking, and bilingualism, with strong Chinese language programmes offered alongside the IB curriculum. Hwa Chong International School maintains high admission standards and expects strong academic commitment from students. For families who value academic rigor and character development rooted in Asian cultural values, this school offers a compelling option.

Key highlights:

• Heritage of academic excellence from the Hwa Chong Institution family
• Strong emphasis on bilingualism with robust Chinese language programmes
• Access to Hwa Chong’s specialized facilities and programmes
• Values-based education emphasizing resilience, responsibility, and respect

Location: Bukit Timah area (near Tan Kah Kee MRT)
Approximate annual fees: SGD $28,000 – $34,000

Quick Comparison: Fees and Locations

Understanding the financial commitment and location convenience is essential when shortlisting schools. Here’s a quick overview to help you compare the top IB schools in Singapore at a glance:

School	Area	Annual Fees Range	IB Programmes Offered
UWCSEA	Dover / Tampines	SGD $38,000 – $46,000	PYP, MYP, DP
ACS (International)	Newton	SGD $29,000 – $44,000	MYP, DP
Singapore International School	Kemuning / Queenstown	SGD $27,000 – $36,000	PYP, MYP, DP
Overseas Family School	Pasir Ris	SGD $29,000 – $40,000	PYP, MYP, DP, CP
Tanglin Trust School	Portsdown	SGD $36,000 – $47,000	DP (with British curriculum foundation)
Dover Court International	Dover	SGD $30,000 – $42,000	DP (with British curriculum foundation)
SJII	Sennett / Thompson	SGD $31,000 – $35,000	DP (with IGCSE pathway)
XCL World Academy	Newton	SGD $32,000 – $44,000	PYP, MYP, DP
Canadian International School	Lakeside / Tanjong Katong	SGD $28,000 – $40,000	PYP, MYP, DP
Hwa Chong International	Bukit Timah	SGD $28,000 – $34,000	PYP, MYP, DP

Keep in mind that fees typically increase as children progress through grade levels, and most schools charge additional fees for application, enrollment, capital levy, and extracurricular activities. It’s always advisable to contact schools directly for current fee schedules and payment structures. Many schools also offer sibling discounts or payment plans to help manage costs.

Making Your Final Decision

Selecting an IB school is ultimately a deeply personal decision that depends on your child’s learning style, your family’s values, practical considerations like location and budget, and your long-term educational goals. The schools featured in this guide all deliver excellent IB programmes, but each offers a distinctive community and approach.

Start by visiting your shortlisted schools during open houses or arranging campus tours. Pay attention to how students interact with each other and with teachers. Do they seem engaged and happy? Are they respectful and curious? The atmosphere you observe during your visit often reveals more than any brochure or website can communicate.

Speak with current parents if possible. Many schools can connect prospective families with parent ambassadors who can share honest insights about day-to-day school life, communication practices, and how the school handles challenges. For families new to Singapore or the IB curriculum, connecting with others who’ve recently navigated the same decision can be invaluable.

Consider your child’s voice in the process, particularly for older students. Their comfort level with the school community, excitement about the programmes offered, and sense of belonging can significantly impact their success and wellbeing. While parents ultimately make the final decision, involving children appropriately helps ensure buy-in and enthusiasm.

Finally, remember that location practicality genuinely matters for family life quality. A slightly longer commute to a “perfect” school may sound manageable in theory but can create daily stress that affects everyone. Consider exploring schools near convenient MRT stations or areas close to your home, just as you might search for enrichment centres or student care centers based on location convenience.

The International Baccalaureate programme offers a world-class education that develops not just academic knowledge but critical thinking skills, intercultural understanding, and a genuine love of learning. Singapore’s top IB schools each bring their own strengths to delivering this curriculum, from UWCSEA’s emphasis on service and outdoor education to ACS(I)’s blend of IB rigour with local values, from Tanglin Trust’s British heritage to Hwa Chong International’s Asian educational traditions.

Whatever your priorities—whether you value a particular educational philosophy, need specific learning support services, prefer a certain campus location, or are working within a particular budget—there’s an IB school in Singapore that can meet your family’s needs. The key is investing time in research, campus visits, and conversations with school communities to find the right match.

Your child’s education is one of the most important investments you’ll make. By carefully considering the options presented in this guide and evaluating what matters most to your family, you’ll be well-positioned to make a decision that sets your child on a path toward academic success and personal growth. The IB journey is challenging but deeply rewarding, preparing students not just for university but for thoughtful, engaged citizenship in our interconnected world.