Best International Schools in Singapore for Expat Children: A Comprehensive Guide

Planning a move to Singapore can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with the challenge of finding the perfect school for your children. If you're wondering about the differences between international schools in Singapore and those in your home country, the school fees, and the various curriculum options available, don't worry; we have all the answers you need right here.

Understanding the School Landscape in Singapore

Singapore boasts over 50 international schools, each offering a diverse range of curricula and educational approaches. From International Baccalaureate (IB) schools to those following the UK, US, German, French, Australian, Dutch, Japanese, Indian, and Singaporean curricula, there is a wide array of choices to suit your preferences.

Exploring Different Curricula and Campuses

The majority of expat parents in Singapore choose to enroll their children in international schools. These schools provide the flexibility of either following the curriculum of your home country or offering globally recognized curricula accepted by universities worldwide.

Campuses in Singapore cater to varying student populations, from the vast all-through schools like Singapore American School, accommodating 3,900 students from over 50 different nationalities, to smaller primary schools such as  Sir Manasseh Meyer International School (SMMIS) with just around over 300 students from preschool to grade 12.

Navigating the Admissions Process

International schools in Singapore welcome students of all nationalities, but some may give priority admission to specific nationalities. It's essential to know that Singaporean students require special approval from the Ministry of Education to study at international schools.

While certain prestigious schools, like Dulwich College (Singapore), Tanglin Trust, and Nord Anglia’s British-branded school Dover Court, have long waiting lists, there are still available places in various schools across the city-state. In fact, four new international schools opened in 2020, including The Perse School (Singapore), Brighton College (Singapore), NLCS (Singapore), and Invictus International School (Centrium).

Considering Pre-School Education

Several international schools in Singapore offer pre-school education for children from as young as two months up to five years old. These all-through schools provide a larger environment with access to sports, arts facilities, and bilingual programs, along with lessons from specialized subject teams like Mandarin, swimming, music, dance, and PE. Additionally, there are standalone pre-schools offering smaller class sizes and a more intimate atmosphere.

Understanding the Academic Calendar

The majority of international schools in Singapore follow an academic calendar from June/July to August/September, aligning with Northern Hemisphere schools. However, a few schools, including Australian International School (AIS), Middleton International School (Tampines), Middleton International School (Upper Bukit Timah), Dimensions High School, Integrated International School (IIS), and The Grange Institution, begin their academic year in January.

Indian schools such as GIIS SMART Campus, NPS International School, Yuvabharathi International School, and DPS International School run their academic year from April to March.

Exploring Local School Options

Consider sending your child to a local, Ministry of Education-run school in Singapore if you seek a more affordable option. Local schools offer a world-class curriculum with a strong focus on learning Mandarin, but they may have limited availability for non-Permanent Resident (PR) foreigners. The Primary 1 application deadline for the 2023 academic year has already passed, and late applications are not accepted. Competition for places is intense, with priority given to Singaporean citizens and PR status holders.

Ensuring Compliance and Quality

International schools in Singapore must be registered with the Committee for Private Education (CPE), which regulates the private education sector. Look for schools with CPE registration and consider those with voluntary EduTrust certification for higher quality education. Only EduTrust-certified schools can enroll international students requiring a Student Pass.

Evaluating Costs and Fees

International school fees in Singapore vary significantly, ranging from $40,000 at the highest end to $10,000-15,000 at more affordable options. In addition to tuition fees, some schools charge annual or one-off facility fees, technology fees, field trip fees, uniform fees, and transport fees. It's crucial to review the school's overall fee structure to make an informed decision.

Document Requirements for School Applications

When applying to an international school in Singapore, you will typically need to provide various documents, including completed application forms, passport size photographs of your child, photocopies of birth certificates and passports, parents' passports and immigration status/visa, transfer certificates or report cards, evaluation records (if applicable), an employment letter of guarantee (if employer pays fees), and legal custody papers (if parents are divorced).

Emphasizing Bilingual Education

All international schools in Singapore offer Mandarin Chinese classes from an early age. Additionally, some schools provide immersive bilingual education in Mandarin (Putonghua), catering to the needs of native English speakers. Such bilingual programs offer a choice of UK, IB, and IPC curricula and can range from $15,000 to $37,000 in tuition fees.

Virtual Tours and Open Days

School campus visits are vital to making informed decisions. Schools may also organize webinars, Zoom information sessions, and online assessments to support applications and admissions. Keep an eye out for scheduled open days and webinars on school websites, or contact the school directly to arrange a personal meeting.

Understanding Academic Performance

While international schools in Singapore are not required to publish detailed results, parents can refer to independent reviews and gather information from schools that do provide results. However, it's essential to remember that examinations may not always reflect a school's "value add," especially if the school doesn't select students based on academic performance.

Highly Recommended Schools in Singapore

International School of Singapore (ISS) - As a leading IB school, ISS is renowned for its commitment to providing a holistic education that nurtures students' intellectual, social, emotional, and physical development. With a team of dedicated and experienced faculty members, the school creates a supportive learning environment for its diverse community of students. ISS boasts state-of-the-art facilities that enhance the learning experience and offer a wide range of extracurricular activities to foster well-rounded growth.

Admissions Hotline: 6475 4188 (K to G12)

Email: admissions@iss.edu.sg

Address: 21 Preston Road Singapore 109355

Chatsworth International School - A top choice for students following the UK National Curriculum, Chatsworth International School focuses on personalized learning to cater to the unique needs and strengths of each student. With a nurturing environment, the school encourages students to excel academically while developing critical thinking skills and creativity. Chatsworth International School's dedicated educators and enriching curriculum contribute to the overall growth and success of its students.

Phone: (65) 6463 3201

Admission Email: admissions.bt@chatsworth.com.sg

Address: 72 Bukit Tinggi Road, Singapore 289760

Singapore American School (SAS) - SAS stands out for its commitment to fostering global citizenship and cross-cultural understanding. The school offers a dual curriculum that blends local and international standards, allowing students to gain a comprehensive education and a deeper understanding of the world. SAS provides a supportive and inclusive learning environment that prepares students to thrive in an interconnected global society.

Phone: +65 6363 3403

Admission Email: admissions@sas.edu.sg

Address: 40 Woodlands Street 41, Singapore 738547

Disclaimer: Please note that these recommendations are based on the information available and should be further researched to determine the best fit for individual preferences and needs.

Conclusion

As you plan your move to Singapore and search for the perfect school for your child, TallRock Capital is here to assist you every step of the way. Our expertise in financial planning for expats complements your journey in providing a secure future for your family.

Navigating the educational landscape in a new country can be overwhelming, but with our comprehensive guide to international schools in Singapore, you'll have all the information you need to make informed decisions. From understanding curricula and admissions processes to evaluating costs and fees, we aim to empower you with valuable insights.

At TallRock Capital, we believe in securing your family's financial well-being, and that includes planning for your children's education. Our financial advisory services are tailored to meet the unique needs of expat families like yours, ensuring a stable and prosperous future.

When it comes to financial planning for expats in Singapore, we are your trusted partners. Don't hesitate to reach out to us for personalized guidance, and let's embark on this exciting journey together.

Get in touch with TallRock Capital today to secure your family's financial future.