Table Of Contents

• Introduction
• How We Ranked These Schools
• 1. Tanglin Trust School
• 2. United World College of South East Asia (UWCSEA)
• 3. Dulwich College Singapore
• 4. Canadian International School
• 5. St. Joseph’s Institution International
• 6. Australian International School
• 7. Singapore American School
• 8. German European School Singapore (GESS)
• 9. Nexus International School
• 10. Overseas Family School
• How to Choose the Right International School
• Conclusion

Top 10 International Schools in Singapore: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents

Choosing the right international school in Singapore is one of the most significant decisions expat and local parents face when planning their children’s educational journey. With over 80 international schools across the island offering diverse curricula, teaching philosophies, and fee structures, the options can seem overwhelming. Whether you’re relocating to Singapore or considering a switch from the local education system, understanding what each top-tier institution offers is crucial for making an informed decision.

Singapore has established itself as an educational hub in Asia, with international schools that consistently rank among the world’s best. These institutions offer world-class facilities, experienced international faculty, and comprehensive academic and extracurricular programs designed to nurture well-rounded students. From British and American curricula to International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, these schools provide educational pathways that prepare students for prestigious universities worldwide.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore Singapore’s top 10 international schools, examining their unique strengths, curricula, facilities, locations, and fee structures to help you identify which institution might be the perfect fit for your child’s learning journey. We’ll also share practical insights on application processes and provide tips for making this important educational decision.

How We Ranked These Schools

Our rankings consider multiple factors to provide a balanced assessment of Singapore’s international schools. We evaluated academic performance including examination results and university placements, but also looked beyond pure academics to assess each school holistically. Factors in our evaluation included:

• Academic track record and university acceptance rates
• Quality and diversity of curricula offered
• Faculty qualifications and teacher-student ratios
• Campus facilities and technological infrastructure
• Extracurricular opportunities and holistic education approach
• Accessibility and location across Singapore, including proximity to MRT stations
• Parent satisfaction and community feedback, including from Parents’ Choice Awards
• Value for fees charged

It’s important to note that the “best” school varies based on individual family needs, your child’s learning style, and specific educational goals. This ranking provides a starting point for your research, but we encourage visiting multiple schools to determine which environment feels right for your child.

1. Tanglin Trust School

Established in 1925, Tanglin Trust School stands as Singapore’s oldest British international school with nearly a century of educational excellence. This not-for-profit institution delivers the English National Curriculum from Nursery through Sixth Form, culminating in either the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) or A-Levels.

Key Features

Tanglin consistently achieves outstanding academic results, with IB scores regularly exceeding global averages and impressive university placements worldwide. The school’s holistic approach emphasizes character development alongside academic achievement. Its purpose-built campus in One-North features state-of-the-art facilities including modern science laboratories, expansive libraries, dedicated performing arts spaces, and extensive sports facilities.

Location and Accessibility

Located in the One-North knowledge hub near Buona Vista MRT, Tanglin provides convenient access for families living in central and western Singapore. The school operates bus services covering most residential areas across Singapore.

Fees and Admission

Annual fees range from approximately S$31,000 for Nursery to S$46,000 for Sixth Form, placing Tanglin in the premium segment of international education in Singapore. The admissions process is selective, with priority given to British passport holders and siblings of current students. Application should be made well in advance due to waiting lists, particularly for certain year groups.

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

UWCSEA operates two comprehensive campuses in Singapore (Dover and East) and is part of the global United World College movement. Founded on principles of international understanding and sustainability, UWCSEA delivers the IB programme from Kindergarten through Grade 12, complemented by its unique UWCSEA profile.

Key Features

UWCSEA’s distinctive five-element approach encompasses academics, activities, outdoor education, personal and social education, and service. The school consistently achieves exceptional IB results, with average scores well above the global mean. Both campuses feature comprehensive facilities including Olympic-sized swimming pools, performing arts centers, design technology workshops, and extensive sports facilities.

Location and Accessibility

The Dover campus is located near Holland Village, while the East campus is in Tampines, providing options for families in different parts of Singapore. Both campuses are accessible by public transportation and offer extensive bus service networks.

Fees and Admission

Annual fees range from approximately S$36,500 for Kindergarten to S$46,800 for Grade 12. The school maintains a balanced, diverse international community through its admissions process. Applications open a year before intended enrollment, and admissions are competitive, especially for certain grade levels.

3. Dulwich College Singapore

Dulwich College Singapore opened in 2014 as part of the prestigious Dulwich College International family of schools, with roots stretching back to the 400-year-old Dulwich College in London. The school offers a British-based international curriculum, transitioning from the English National Curriculum to IGCSE and ultimately the IB Diploma Programme.

Key Features

Despite its relatively recent establishment in Singapore, Dulwich has quickly built a reputation for academic excellence. The school places strong emphasis on its Dulwich tradition of scholarship alongside sports, performing arts, and outdoor activities. Its state-of-the-art campus includes world-class facilities such as a 700-seat theater, aquatics center, multiple libraries, and specialized learning spaces for science, technology, and the arts.

Location and Accessibility

Located in Bukit Batok in western Singapore, Dulwich provides a spacious, green campus environment. The school operates an extensive bus network serving residential areas across Singapore.

Fees and Admission

Annual tuition fees range from approximately S$39,200 for Nursery to S$46,800 for Year 13. Dulwich maintains a selective admissions process that includes assessments and interviews to ensure students will thrive in their challenging academic environment.

4. Canadian International School

The Canadian International School (CIS) operates two campuses in Singapore, offering a global curriculum with Canadian influences. CIS provides the IB programme from Primary Years through the Diploma Programme, making it one of the few schools in Singapore offering the complete IB continuum.

Key Features

CIS is known for its strong bilingual Chinese-English immersion programme, STEAM initiatives, and digital literacy focus. The school consistently achieves strong IB results while emphasizing a well-rounded approach to education. Both the Lakeside and Tanjong Katong campuses feature advanced facilities including innovation labs, swimming pools, and dedicated arts spaces.

Location and Accessibility

The Lakeside campus in the west serves Jurong and surrounding areas, while the Tanjong Katong campus provides access for families in eastern and central Singapore. Both campuses are accessible by public transport, with the school also operating comprehensive bus services.

Fees and Admission

Annual fees range from approximately S$33,800 for Pre-Kindergarten to S$43,300 for Grade 12. CIS maintains an inclusive admissions approach focused on finding the right fit between student and school, with rolling admissions throughout the year subject to available places.

5. St. Joseph’s Institution International

SJI International combines a rich Lasallian Catholic heritage with modern international education. The school is divided into an Elementary School offering the IB Primary Years Programme and a High School leading to IGCSE followed by the IB Diploma Programme.

Key Features

SJI International stands out for its values-driven approach to education, emphasizing character formation alongside academic excellence. The school achieves exceptional examination results while maintaining a strong focus on service learning and faith formation (though students of all religious backgrounds are welcome). Facilities include modern classrooms, dedicated STEM spaces, sports facilities, a performing arts center, and design studios.

Location and Accessibility

Located in Thomson, SJI International is centrally positioned and accessible from multiple residential areas. The school provides bus services covering most parts of Singapore.

Fees and Admission

Annual fees range from approximately S$32,000 for Prep 1 to S$42,300 for Grade 12. The admissions process involves assessments and interviews, with priority given to Catholic families and siblings of current students, though the school welcomes students of all backgrounds.

6. Australian International School

The Australian International School (AIS) offers an Australian curriculum-based education alongside IB programmes. Operating on a southern hemisphere calendar (January-December), AIS provides a seamless transition for families from Australia and New Zealand while also accommodating students from diverse international backgrounds.

Key Features

AIS delivers the Australian Curriculum for early years through Year 10, followed by the option of either the New South Wales Higher School Certificate or the IB Diploma Programme. The school is known for its strong sports programme, performing arts opportunities, and comprehensive outdoor education. Its modern campus features excellent sporting facilities, a 500-seat performing arts theatre, dedicated early learning spaces, and specialized STEM facilities.

Location and Accessibility

Located in Serangoon, AIS is centrally positioned and accessible from multiple residential areas across Singapore. The school offers an extensive bus network covering the island.

Fees and Admission

Annual fees range from approximately S$39,500 for early years to S$46,500 for Years 11-12. Admissions are based on assessments and interviews, with the school seeking to ensure students will thrive in their environment. AIS accommodates admissions throughout the year, aligning with international relocations.

7. Singapore American School

Singapore American School (SAS) delivers an American curriculum enhanced with international perspectives. Founded in 1956, SAS has evolved into one of the world’s leading American international schools, offering Advanced Placement (AP) courses and an Advanced Topic Studies program alongside its core curriculum.

Key Features

SAS is renowned for its innovative approaches to education, including personalized learning, flexible pathways, and cutting-edge STEM programs. The school achieves outstanding academic results, with students regularly accepted to top-tier universities globally. Its 36-acre campus in Woodlands features comprehensive facilities including multiple gymnasiums, swimming pools, tennis courts, a 350-seat theater, innovation labs, and specialized learning spaces.

Location and Accessibility

Located in Woodlands in northern Singapore, SAS is particularly convenient for families living in that area. The school operates one of the largest private bus fleets in Singapore, serving residential areas island-wide.

Fees and Admission

Annual fees range from approximately S$40,800 for preschool to S$52,200 for high school, making it one of the premium-priced options in Singapore. Admissions are competitive, with priority given to American citizens, though the school maintains a diverse international student body.

8. German European School Singapore (GESS)

GESS offers both German curriculum and IB programmes, making it a unique option in Singapore’s international education landscape. The school serves not only German-speaking families but also a broader international community through its English-language IB stream.

Key Features

GESS stands out for its bilingual approach and strong European influence. The German section follows the curriculum of German schools abroad, while the European section offers the IB continuum from Primary Years to Diploma Programme. The school’s purpose-built campus features specialized facilities including an Olympic-sized swimming pool, black box theatre, design technology workshops, and a Junior Library with over 16,000 books.

Location and Accessibility

Located in Dairy Farm in the northwest of Singapore, GESS offers a spacious campus environment. The school provides comprehensive bus services covering residential areas across Singapore.

Fees and Admission

Annual fees range from approximately S$25,700 for pre-school to S$41,000 for upper secondary grades. GESS maintains an inclusive admissions approach, though assessments are conducted to ensure appropriate placement and support for each student.

9. Nexus International School

Nexus International School Singapore emphasizes innovation and learner-centered education. The school offers the IB continuum from Early Years through the Diploma Programme, with a strong focus on technology integration and personalized learning.

Key Features

Nexus is recognized as an Apple Distinguished School, reflecting its commitment to technological integration in education. The school’s pedagogical approach focuses on inquiry-based learning and innovative teaching methods. Its state-of-the-art campus in Aljunied includes a 50-meter Olympic-sized swimming pool, 750-seat auditorium, recording studio, innovation labs, and flexible learning spaces designed to support collaborative and personalized learning.

Location and Accessibility

Located in Aljunied in eastern Singapore, Nexus is accessible via MRT and offers an extensive bus service network covering residential areas island-wide.

Fees and Admission

Annual fees range from approximately S$26,000 for Nursery to S$41,500 for Years 12-13, positioning Nexus as a mid-to-premium option among Singapore’s international schools. The school maintains an inclusive admissions process, with assessments conducted to ensure appropriate placement and support.

10. Overseas Family School

Overseas Family School (OFS) delivers a comprehensive international education through the IB framework complemented by an American-style curriculum. The school serves a highly diverse student population, with students representing over 70 nationalities.

Key Features

OFS is known for its inclusive approach to education and strong support for non-native English speakers through its Model United Nations study program. The school offers a Mother Tongue program supporting over 14 languages. Its modern campus features comprehensive facilities including multiple libraries, science laboratories, swimming pools, tennis courts, gymnasiums, and dedicated arts spaces.

Location and Accessibility

Located in Pasir Ris in eastern Singapore, OFS is particularly convenient for families living in the east. The school operates a comprehensive bus network serving residential areas across Singapore.

Fees and Admission

Annual fees range from approximately S$26,000 for Pre-K to S$39,000 for high school, positioning OFS as a relatively accessible option among Singapore’s premium international schools. The school maintains an open admissions policy, assessing students primarily for appropriate grade placement rather than selective criteria.

How to Choose the Right International School

Selecting the ideal international school requires careful consideration of multiple factors beyond just rankings. Here are key considerations to guide your decision:

Curriculum and Educational Philosophy

Consider which curriculum best aligns with your child’s learning style and future educational plans. If you anticipate returning to your home country or moving elsewhere, curriculum continuity may be important. Also examine each school’s teaching philosophy – whether traditional, progressive, or somewhere in between – to find the best match for your child’s needs.

Location and Commute

Singapore may be small, but traffic can make commutes challenging. Consider schools near your residence or workplace, or those with efficient bus routes. Many parents find proximity to MRT stations valuable when evaluating locations.

Value for Money

International school fees in Singapore are substantial investments. Beyond the headline tuition figures, investigate additional costs like registration fees, building levies, technology fees, examination fees, uniform costs, and mandatory extra-curricular activities.

Support Services

Evaluate each school’s provision for learning support, English as an Additional Language services, counseling resources, and university guidance. These support systems can be crucial for your child’s success, especially when transitioning to a new educational environment.

Community and Cultural Fit

Each international school has developed its own unique community culture. Some have stronger connections to particular national or cultural groups, while others emphasize global diversity. Visit schools during regular sessions to get a feel for the community atmosphere and determine if it feels like a place where your family will belong.

Extracurricular Opportunities

Beyond academics, consider each school’s offerings in sports, arts, technology, leadership, and service learning. These programs contribute significantly to a well-rounded education and should align with your child’s interests and talents.

After-School Options

For working parents, investigate each school’s options for after-school care and enrichment activities. Some schools offer comprehensive extended programs, while others may partner with external providers or refer to nearby student care centers.

Remember that the “best” school is ultimately the one that best fits your child’s individual needs, learning style, personality, and your family’s practical considerations. We recommend shortlisting several options from our top 10 list and arranging campus tours to experience each school’s environment firsthand before making your final decision.

Conclusion

Singapore’s top international schools provide world-class education combining academic excellence with holistic development. Each institution on our list offers unique strengths and approaches, catering to different educational philosophies, cultural backgrounds, and student needs.

When choosing an international school, look beyond rankings to consider factors like curriculum alignment, location convenience, community fit, and available support services. Most importantly, involve your child in the decision-making process where appropriate – their comfort and engagement in their learning environment will be crucial to their academic success and personal growth.

While tuition fees represent a significant investment, Singapore’s premium international schools deliver exceptional value through outstanding facilities, highly qualified teachers, comprehensive programs, and proven pathways to prestigious universities worldwide. Many schools also offer scholarships and financial aid programs worth investigating.

Finally, start your research and application process early. Many top schools maintain waiting lists, particularly for certain year groups, and application deadlines can be up to a year before intended enrollment. Early planning ensures you’ll have the widest range of options available for your child’s educational journey.

For more comprehensive information on educational options in Singapore, including preschools, enrichment centers, and student care facilities filtered by MRT station or neighborhood, visit Skoolopedia.com. Our searchable directory helps parents plan their children’s complete learning journey with crowdsourced reviews, expert Q&As, and up-to-date information on programs, fees, and vacancies. Join our membership today to access exclusive resources and make informed educational choices for your child.