With nearly 100 international schools available, each offering unique programs, selecting the right school requires thoughtful consideration of several key aspects:

• Curriculum Options: Singapore’s international schools provide over 50 different curricula, giving families the flexibility to choose a program that aligns with their children’s needs. Some families may prefer schools that follow their home-country’s curriculum, while others may choose programs with a more global outlook.
• Academic Year Structure- International schools in Singapore have the flexibility to design customized academic year structures, resulting in a variety of school year start dates. Generally, the school year begins in August, April, or January, depending on the institution. This is an important factor for families to consider, as it may impact their planning for extended trips at specific times of the year.
• Student and Teacher Diversity: International schools vary in diversity. Some schools have a predominant nationality among students and teachers, often offering a national curriculum, such as British or American, to ease transitions for families moving from abroad. Other schools have a highly diverse community, often adopting global curricula like the International Baccalaureate (IB) to support an inclusive, international experience.
• Language of Instruction: English is the primary language of instruction at most international schools, though many offer additional language options to support bilingual or multilingual learning.
• Admissions Requirements, Eligibility, and Timelines: Admissions policies differ across schools. Some schools have selective criteria, admitting only students who meet specific academic standards, while others take a more inclusive approach. Additionally, while some schools accept applications year-round, others have specific application periods, so it’s crucial to keep timelines in mind.
• Extracurricular Programs: From sports and music to the arts, international schools in Singapore offer a wide array of extracurricular activities—up to 300 programs across the island—allowing students to explore diverse interests outside the classroom.
• Learning Support Programs- When choosing a school, it’s essential to consider any unique learning needs your child may have and how the International School in Singapore can support them. Some schools offer comprehensive, well-resourced learning support departments equipped to address a diverse range of learners. This is in contrast to schools that may only accommodate more typical student profiles.
• Language Programs: International schools offer robust second language programs, often including daily lessons. Many introduce Mandarin in primary school and expand language options in secondary school. Some even provide bilingual or trilingual tracks, enabling students to progress through the curriculum in multiple languages.
• School Size and Cohort: International schools vary widely in size, with enrollments ranging from 50 to over 6,000 students. Smaller schools foster close-knit communities, while larger schools often offer extensive academic and sports programs for students seeking competitive opportunities.
• School Facilities: Facilities at international schools range from sprawling campuses with extensive amenities to compact, conveniently located campuses within commercial buildings.
• Tuition Fees: Annual tuition for a 6-year-old student can range from SGD 20,000 to SGD 50,000, so budgeting is essential when making a choice.
• Location and Commute: International schools are spread throughout Singapore, and while many offer island-wide bus services, proximity to home can impact daily commute times.