Singapore is one of the most competitive and rewarding destinations for international schooling in Asia. The city-state hosts more than 40 international schools covering British, American, International Baccalaureate (IB), Australian, Canadian and Indian curricula, and its compact geography means a relocating family usually has several strong options within a 30-minute commute of any neighbourhood. This 2026 guide covers the best international schools in Singapore, curricula on offer, indicative fees in Singapore dollars, admissions timelines and the practical questions expat parents ask before committing.
Which curricula are available in Singapore?
Singapore offers one of the broadest curriculum menus of any Asian hub. The most common options are:
- International Baccalaureate (IB): PYP, MYP and Diploma Programme are widely offered, with IBDP results historically above the global average at several Singapore schools.
- British curriculum (IGCSE and A-Levels): Many schools also offer the IB Diploma in Years 12 and 13 so families can choose pathway at Year 11.
- American curriculum (AP and US High School Diploma): Suited to families planning university in North America.
- Canadian, Australian, Indian (CBSE) and French options for families continuing a home-country pathway.
Top international schools in Singapore for 2026
Dover Court International School
Part of the Nord Anglia Education family, Dover Court International School follows an enhanced British curriculum from Nursery through Year 13, culminating in IGCSE and A-Level exams. The school is known for its strong inclusion programme and performing arts provision. Indicative annual tuition: SGD 34,000–48,000.
Canadian International School
Canadian International School runs the full IB continuum (PYP, MYP and DP) on two campuses, with a Chinese-English bilingual pathway available from Pre-K to Grade 6. Expect tuition of roughly SGD 29,000–48,000 per year depending on grade.
One World International School
One World International School offers IB PYP, Cambridge IGCSE and the IB Diploma across three campuses. Often shortlisted by families looking for a high-quality IB pathway at mid-market fees, around SGD 19,000–32,000 per year.
Global Indian International School Singapore
Global Indian International School Singapore offers CBSE, IB and a Global Montessori Plus pathway. It is a strong fit for Indian expat families or any family looking for a continuous Indian curriculum option. Fees typically SGD 15,000–30,000.
St. Joseph's Institution International
St. Joseph's Institution International is a Catholic IB school following the Lasallian tradition. It offers IGCSE in Years 10–11 and the IB Diploma in Years 12–13 and is known for its academic results. Fees for international students: around SGD 34,000–47,000.
International school fees in Singapore
Fees in Singapore are quoted in Singapore dollars. For 2026 budgeting, families should plan for the following ranges per child and per academic year:
- Early Years and Kindergarten: SGD 20,000–35,000
- Primary: SGD 25,000–42,000
- Middle school: SGD 30,000–48,000
- IGCSE and IB Diploma years: SGD 35,000–55,000
Beyond tuition, budget for a one-off application fee (SGD 1,000–3,000), an enrolment or capital levy (SGD 1,000–5,000 per year), transport (SGD 2,500–4,500), uniforms, lunch and laptop programmes. Some schools also charge a refundable facility deposit.
Where expat families live and where schools cluster
Singapore is small enough that every neighbourhood has reasonable access to at least two or three international schools. Families at the East Coast, Tanjong Katong and Changi tend to favour schools with East campuses or Tampines locations. Holland Village, Bukit Timah and Orchard remain the traditional expat core with the widest school choice. Sentosa Cove, Woodlands and the West work well for families employed in biotech, logistics or energy. The MRT network and school bus programmes make a 30-minute commute realistic from almost anywhere on the island.
Admissions timelines and practical tips
The Singapore academic year follows a January or August start depending on whether the school follows a Southern or Northern hemisphere calendar. Most popular schools open applications 6 to 12 months in advance for August starts, and waitlists are common in Years 3–6 and in the IB Diploma years. A few practical tips:
- Shortlist 4–5 schools and visit virtually or in person before committing to any single deposit.
- Plan for at least one assessment session — most IB and British schools ask for an English and maths baseline from Year 3 upwards.
- If you are moving mid-year, ask about the School Leaver's Report from your current school — Singapore schools expect it.
- Check Dependent's Pass requirements: your child's pass must be approved before the school can issue a Student Pass waiver.
Compare the full 2026 ranking
For the complete ranking with curricula, fees and parent reviews, see the Best International Schools in Singapore 2026 page on International School Advisor.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreign children attend Singapore government schools?
In practice, expat families on Dependent's Passes almost always enrol in international or private schools. Government schools are prioritised for Singapore citizens and Permanent Residents, and foreign student quotas are extremely limited.
What is the best curriculum in Singapore for a family that moves often?
The IB Diploma is the most portable for globally mobile families because it is accepted at universities in over 90 countries. The British IGCSE and A-Level pathway is also highly portable, especially for families likely to return to Europe.
How early should we apply?
Plan 9 to 12 months ahead for the most oversubscribed schools and year groups. For less competitive slots, 3 to 6 months is usually enough, but it is rarely safe to leave applications until the final 30 days before arrival.