Guide to International Schools In Singapore

In this guide, we will share different schooling options to help parents as you decide accordingly.

Different Types of International Schools Available

The good news for parents migrating with their kids in Singapore is that there are many International Schools in Singapore you can choose from. Though these schools vary in curriculum, mode of teaching, and other elements, they share the following commonalities.

These schools don’t adhere to the curriculum of their host country.
They receive international accreditations.
They welcome local nationals and expatriates.
They also hire local nationals and expatriates.
Their population (faculty and students) is transient.
The school is both multinational and multilingual.

In Singapore, you’ll find over 60 international schools that will fall under the following curriculum:

British
International Baccalaureate (IB)
International
American
Indian
IBDP
Swiss
Jews
Canadian
German
Australian
French
Special Education Needs

Among these curriculums, the most common are British curriculum with 30 schools, International Baccalaureate (IB) with 24 schools, and International curriculum with 18 schools. The British Curriculum is the most widely renowned worldwide for its seamless integration into the national curricula. This will also help the graduate earn a degree in over 160 universities around the world.

On the other hand, the IB curriculum comprises a two-year intensive educational training that will yield academic and personal development and a recognized worldwide diploma. Schools with an international curriculum produce graduates learned in history, geography, religion, political relations, environmental studies, languages, and cultures.

What are the school fees and charges like?

Every international school in Singapore charges differently, but you can expect to pay for registration and application fees that can be made annually or in installments in general. In addition, when you apply to a specific international school, you will be asked to pay an upfront fee that will cover the administration expense while reviewing your application. This fee can also come in the form of an examination or placement fee paid before the student takes the qualifying test. When your child is admitted to the school, you will be asked to pay the school fees that can be settled in installments according to the school policy. You can also pay the same in a lump sum at the start of the academic year if you wish. Some international schools offer specific discounts if the said fees are settled in advance. Here is a list of the updated fees of some of the most popular international schools in Singapore.

Tanglin Trust School

Enrolment fee: $2,675
Non-refunadable capital levy: $3,750

One World International School

One-time non-refundable application fee: S$1,046 (exclusive of 7% tax)
Early Childhood Education for Kids 1 to 3 years old: S$ 17,793
Grades 1-6: S$ 17,793
Grades 7-12: S$ 20,457
Bilingual Education for Grades 1-5: S$ 19,293
Learn more about the curricula at OWIS

ISS International School

Placement test: $500
Enrolment fee: $3,600
Fee per year: Varies depending on the level but ranges from $25,188 to $41,354
Miscellaneous fees: $1,764 to $8,560

Global Indian International School

One-time registration fee: $ 445.12
Enrolment fee: $ 5,042.91

German European School Singapore

Pre-school: $33,280 to $36,910
Primary school: $38,430
Middle school: $41,960
High school: $46,540
Miscellaneous fees: Varies depending on grade level but ranges between $4,100 to $8,400

How to select the right international school for your child?

To select the best international school for your child, you need to know your options first. Study the background, application process, curriculum, feedback, academic standing, and performance of these schools and make a shortlist. Once your shortlist is ready, schedule a consultation with the school representative and ask questions. Ensure that all of your reservations are clarified so that you can come up with a more level-headed decision.

Factors to take into consideration when choosing a school

There are several factors to consider when choosing the best international school for your kids. Here are some of the critical elements you need to think seriously:

Curriculum: The right curriculum should be able to match the best coaching certification needs and the personality of your child. For kids over 12 years old, the determining factor should be the possible career opportunities opened to them because of the curriculum they follow in school.
Fees: It doesn’t need an expert to explain why international schools have heftier price tags than other schools. Because of the amenities, curriculum, support, and education quality, these schools are more expensive. You need to know that international schools in Singapore raise their fees by 3 to 7% per year. Think of the takeaways your kids can get along with the fee structure when evaluating the appropriateness of the school charges.
Values and culture: Foreigners often experience culture shock when they move and settle in a different country. Keep your kids from suffering the repercussions of this kind of shock by carefully selecting the school that would resonate well with your values as a family. Review the values and goals of your school of choice and see if you’re comfortable allowing your kids to learn the same.
Application process: Some schools have very tedious waiting and enrollment application processes, while others are more straightforward. Consider these factors when choosing a school for your child.
Standard of education: One of the reasons parents invest in their children’s education is the fact that they want to see their kids get a good headstart in life. They don’t mind paying a hefty price tag if they are assured that their kids will be academically advanced. This is why you should also look into the success rate of the school. Check how their graduates are faring and what is the school’s rank worldwide.

Finding the right international school in Singapore might take time and effort. However, if you research well and take reviews and feedback like this into serious consideration, it won’t be long until you find the perfect institution that will guide your child towards success.