• Local Schools: These are government-managed and prioritize admission for Singaporean citizens and permanent residents. Foreign students can apply via the Admissions Exercise for International Students (AEIS), though spaces are limited and competition is high.
• International Schools: Private institutions primarily serving foreign students, often prioritizing expatriate families in their admissions process.

Singapore’s international schools offer over 50 curricula, providing flexibility for families to choose programs that suit their children’s needs. Options include national curricula (such as British or American) and global programs like the International Baccalaureate (IB).

International schools in Singapore have varying academic year start dates, commonly in August, April, or January. This flexibility allows families to plan around specific times of the year, where they make make extended trips.

Schools vary in student and teacher diversity. Some have a predominant nationality, often offering a national curriculum to ease transitions, while others are highly diverse, with international programs that encourage a global experience.

English is the main language of instruction in most international schools, though many also offer additional language options to support bilingual or multilingual learning.

Admissions policies differ by school. Some are selective, requiring students to meet academic standards, while others have more inclusive admissions. Additionally, some schools accept applications year-round, while others have specific enrollment periods.

Schools in Singapore offer a wide array of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, arts, and more, with up to 300 programs across the island. These activities allow students to explore interests outside the classroom.

Many international schools provide learning support programs. Some have comprehensive, well-resourced departments for diverse learners, while others may primarily accommodate more typical student profiles.

International schools regularly offer robust second language programs, with daily lessons and options expanding in secondary school. Many schools introduce Mandarin in primary school and may offer bilingual or trilingual tracks.

Schools in Singapore vary in size, with enrollments from as few as 50 to over 6,000 students. Smaller schools often have close-knit communities, while larger schools provide extensive academic and sports programs.

Facilities vary from sprawling campuses with extensive amenities to compact campuses within commercial buildings. Each school provides unique resources and infrastructure.

Annual tuition for a 6-year-old student ranges from SGD 20,000 to SGD 50,000. Budgeting for tuition is essential when selecting a school.

International schools are spread throughout Singapore. While many deliver island-wide bus services, proximity to home can significantly impact daily commute times.