7 Prestigious International Schools in Singapore for Expats
Relocating to a new country presents unique challenges, especially when choosing between a local or international school for your child. In Singapore, expat families often face hurdles like limited school availability, strict application deadlines, and high tuition fees. These factors make finding the right educational options for expat families a daunting task.
Singapore’s education system stands out globally, with an Education Index Score of 0.95 and a secondary school completion rate of 97%. These figures highlight the country’s commitment to quality education options. International schools in Singapore offer globally recognized curricula and a multicultural environment, providing a global perspective on learning.
The following list of 7 international schools in Singapore will help you navigate these top international schools and make an informed decision for your child’s future.
1. Singapore American School
Curriculum and Grade Levels
Singapore American School (SAS) offers a robust academic program that caters to students from preschool to Grade 12. Its curriculum follows the American education system and is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). This accreditation ensures that SAS meets high educational standards. The school also provides one of the largest Advanced Placement (AP) programs outside the United States.
Students at SAS consistently achieve outstanding results in academic tests, demonstrating the effectiveness of its curriculum. Whether your child is in elementary school or preparing for college, SAS provides a seamless educational journey.
Location
SAS is located in Woodlands, a serene residential area in northern Singapore. The campus is easily accessible and offers a peaceful environment for learning. Its strategic location makes it convenient for families living in nearby neighborhoods. The school’s sprawling campus includes state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring students have access to the best resources for both academics and extracurricular activities.
Unique Features
SAS stands out among international schools in Singapore for its commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals. The school emphasizes creative thinking and personalized learning pathways, allowing students to explore their unique interests. A wide range of academic and co-curricular activities helps students discover their passions. Programs like the Interim Semester offer eco-adventures and service opportunities in countries such as Nepal and Japan, fostering global awareness.
SAS graduates often gain admission to prestigious universities, including Ivy League schools like Harvard and Yale, as well as top institutions like Stanford and Oxford. This track record highlights the school’s academic rigor and dedication to student success.
SAS provides a holistic education that prepares students for a global future. Its combination of academic excellence, innovative programs, and a supportive environment makes it one of the best international schools in Singapore.
2. United World College of South East Asia
Curriculum and Grade Levels
United World College of South East Asia (UWCSEA) offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to meet the needs of students from kindergarten through Grade 12. The school employs a unique blend of globally recognized programs, ensuring a well-rounded education.
Here’s a breakdown of the curriculum:
|
Curriculum Type |
Description |
|---|---|
|
IBDP |
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme |
|
IGCSE |
International General Certificate of Secondary Education |
|
Bespoke UWCSEA |
A unique K-12 curriculum developed by UWCSEA to meet external examining body requirements |
This diverse curriculum ensures that your child receives a globally competitive education. Whether preparing for university or developing essential life skills, UWCSEA provides a strong academic foundation.
Location
UWCSEA operates two campuses in Singapore, located in Dover and Tampines. These campuses are strategically positioned to cater to families across the island. The school’s mission-driven approach fosters a sense of community and responsibility among students. It integrates academics with personal development and service, making it an attractive choice for international families.
The campuses also feature state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring a conducive learning environment for students.
Unique Features
UWCSEA stands out as one of the best international schools in Singapore due to its holistic approach to education. Here are some of its distinctive features:
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A mission-driven institution that views education as a force for good.
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A curriculum that integrates academics, outdoor education, personal and social education, and service.
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Opportunities for students to engage in meaningful service activities, promoting compassion and responsibility.
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A diverse and inclusive community that fosters global citizenship.
These features make UWCSEA a top contender on the list of international schools in Singapore. Its commitment to academic excellence and character development ensures that your child thrives in a multicultural environment.
3. Tanglin Trust School
Curriculum and Grade Levels
Tanglin Trust School offers a comprehensive British-based curriculum tailored to students aged 3 to 18. The school divides its academic framework into five distinct milestones under the Tanglin 3-14 curriculum. Each stage has clear objectives, ensuring a structured and progressive learning experience. For older students, the school provides two globally recognized pathways: the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and A Levels.
These programs prepare students for higher education and future careers.
The school’s academic achievements reflect its commitment to excellence. Tanglin Trust School boasts a 100% A Level pass rate, with 70% of students achieving an A or higher. Among IB Diploma students, 86% score 38 points or more, with an average grade of 41. These results place the school among the best international schools in Singapore.
|
Evidence Type |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Academic Achievements |
100% A Level pass rate; 70% of students achieving A or above; 86% of IB Diploma students scoring 38 points or more. |
|
Curriculum Framework |
The Tanglin 3-14 curriculum is divided into five ‘Milestones’ with clear objectives for each stage. |
|
Inspection Results |
Consistently receives ‘outstanding’ grades from UK Ofsted British Schools Overseas inspections. |
Location
Tanglin Trust School is located in the heart of Singapore, making it a convenient choice for expat families. The school’s diverse student body represents over 50 nationalities, fostering a multicultural environment. Its strategic location ensures accessibility for families across the island.
The school’s proximity to key residential areas and its excellent transport links make it a practical option for many.
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Over 50 nationalities represented in the student body.
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100% A Level pass rate, with 70% of students achieving an A or above.
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86% of IB Diploma students scoring 38 points or more.
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97% of students receiving offers from their first or second choice university.
Unique Features
Tanglin Trust School stands out for its bespoke curriculum, which emphasizes critical thinking and collaboration. The school offers over 300 co-curricular activities, helping students develop independence and well-being. These activities range from sports and arts to technology and community service, ensuring a holistic education.
The school’s commitment to high standards is evident in its consistent ‘outstanding’ grades from UK Ofsted inspections. Tanglin Trust School’s focus on academic excellence, combined with its emphasis on character development, makes it one of the best international schools in Singapore. Its unique approach ensures that students excel academically and grow into well-rounded individuals.
Tanglin Trust School provides a nurturing environment where students thrive academically and personally. Its blend of rigorous academics, diverse activities, and a supportive community makes it a top choice for expat families.
4. Canadian International School
Curriculum and Grade Levels
The Canadian International School (CIS) offers a diverse and globally recognized curriculum that caters to students from nursery to Grade 12. Its academic framework includes the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, which emphasizes critical thinking and international-mindedness. CIS also incorporates the Canadian curriculum, ensuring a comprehensive education aligned with Canadian standards. For families seeking bilingual education, the school provides award-winning Chinese-English and French-English programs, helping students develop strong language skills.
|
Curriculum Type |
Description |
|---|---|
|
International Baccalaureate (IB) |
Offers a globally recognized educational framework focusing on critical thinking and international-mindedness. |
|
Canadian Curriculum |
Provides a comprehensive education aligned with Canadian educational standards. |
|
Bilingual Programs |
Includes Chinese-English and French-English programs to enhance language proficiency. |
|
Multicultural Environment |
Students from over 70 nationalities promote a diverse and inclusive atmosphere. |
This variety ensures that CIS meets the needs of a multicultural student body while preparing them for future academic and professional success.
Location
CIS operates two campuses in Singapore, located in Lakeside and Tanjong Katong. These campuses are strategically positioned to serve families across the island. The Lakeside campus, situated in the west, features a sprawling facility with state-of-the-art amenities. The Tanjong Katong campus, located in the east, offers a more intimate learning environment. Both campuses foster a culture of innovation and academic excellence.
CIS has received the “Most Future-Ready Students” award for three consecutive years, reflecting its commitment to preparing students for the challenges of tomorrow.
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CIS offers two award-winning bilingual programs: Chinese-English and French-English.
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The school’s innovative academic approach ensures students are well-prepared for future challenges.
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Its campuses provide easy access for expatriate families residing in different parts of Singapore.
Unique Features
CIS stands out for its forward-thinking educational practices. The school actively explores alternative assessments to better reflect student competencies and skills. Through the New Metrics International Schools Program, CIS is redefining how international schools assess and credential complex student abilities. This approach ensures that students transitioning to universities can showcase their unique strengths effectively.
Other unique aspects include:
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A commitment to evolving assessment practices to meet modern educational needs.
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A multicultural environment with students from over 70 nationalities.
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A focus on fostering global citizenship and critical thinking.
CIS’s innovative programs and inclusive community make it one of the best international schools in Singapore. Its ability to adapt to the changing educational landscape ensures your child receives a future-ready education.
5. Dulwich College Singapore
Curriculum and Grade Levels
Dulwich College Singapore offers a rigorous academic program inspired by its 400-year legacy of excellence from Dulwich College in London. The school follows a British Independent School ethos, which emphasizes academic achievement, leadership development, and critical thinking. Students from ages 2 to 18 benefit from a curriculum that combines the English National Curriculum with the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme for senior students. This approach ensures a seamless progression through grade levels while preparing students for global opportunities.
The school’s commitment to academic excellence is evident in its alumni’s success. Graduates have gained admission to prestigious universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard, and Stanford. This track record highlights the school’s ability to nurture students who excel academically and personally.
Location
Dulwich College Singapore is located in Bukit Batok, a vibrant area in the western part of the city. The campus is easily accessible and designed to provide a conducive learning environment. Its state-of-the-art facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, and performing arts spaces. The campus also features extensive sports facilities, such as swimming pools and sports fields, ensuring students have access to a well-rounded education.
Unique Features
Dulwich College Singapore stands out among international schools in Singapore for its holistic approach to education. The school emphasizes global citizenship and encourages students to make a positive impact on society. Its curriculum integrates academic achievements with moral values, fostering well-rounded individuals.
Students can participate in transformative experiences, such as trips to Switzerland, which promote personal growth and cultural awareness. The school also offers specialized programs for high-performing students, ensuring they reach their full potential. With over 300 co-curricular activities, students can explore interests in creativity, physical activity, and entrepreneurship.
These opportunities make Dulwich College Singapore a top choice for families seeking a comprehensive education.
6. Australian International School
Curriculum and Grade Levels
The Australian International School (AIS) offers a dynamic curriculum that blends the Australian Curriculum with the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (IB PYP). This combination creates a rigorous and inquiry-driven learning environment. Students from preschool to Grade 12 benefit from a curriculum that promotes creativity, critical thinking, and a global perspective.
The IB PYP focuses on fostering curiosity and problem-solving skills, while the Australian Curriculum ensures a strong foundation in core subjects like mathematics, science, and English. This dual approach prepares students to excel academically and adapt to a rapidly changing world.
AIS also provides specialized programs for older students, including the IGCSE and the Higher School Certificate (HSC). These programs offer pathways to universities worldwide, making AIS an excellent choice for families seeking a globally recognized education. AIS guarantees a smooth educational transition for children, whether they are beginning their learning journey or preparing for higher education.
Location
AIS is conveniently located in Lorong Chuan, a central area in Singapore. Its strategic location makes it accessible to families living across the island. The campus features modern facilities designed to support both academic and extracurricular activities. Here are some advantages of its location:
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Proximity to major residential areas, reducing commute times for students.
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Easy access to public transportation, including the Lorong Chuan MRT station.
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A safe and welcoming neighborhood, ideal for families with young children.
The central location of AIS ensures that your child can enjoy a balanced school-life experience without the stress of long travel times.
Unique Features
AIS stands out among international schools in Singapore for its holistic approach to education. The school emphasizes not only academic excellence but also personal growth and well-being. Students can participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, from sports and performing arts to community service projects.
These opportunities help students develop leadership skills, resilience, and a sense of responsibility.
AIS also offers a strong focus on language development. The school provides bilingual programs in English and Mandarin, helping students become proficient in multiple languages. This focus on language skills aligns with the needs of expat families, as it prepares children to thrive in a multicultural environment.
Additionally, AIS fosters a supportive community where students from diverse backgrounds feel valued and included.
7. Stamford American International School
Curriculum and Grade Levels
Stamford American International School (SAIS) offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to meet the needs of students from 2 months to 18 years old. The school provides a unique blend of the International Baccalaureate (IB) program and the American Education Reaches Out (AERO) standards. This combination ensures a well-rounded education that prepares students for global opportunities.
SAIS is one of the few international schools in Singapore offering all three IB programs: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), and the Diploma Programme (DP). For students seeking alternative pathways, the school also provides Advanced Placement (AP) courses, which are widely recognized by universities worldwide.
The school’s academic achievements reflect its commitment to excellence. The sixth graduating cohort achieved a 100% passing rate on the IB exams, with an average score of 35. Nearly 90% of diploma students scored at least a 6 or above, showcasing the strength of the IB program.
AP students also excelled, with over 70% scoring 3 or above, a benchmark for high academic standing.
Location
SAIS is conveniently located in the heart of Singapore, near the Woodleigh MRT station. This central location makes it easily accessible for families across the island. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, science labs, and performing arts spaces. Its proximity to major residential areas reduces commute times, allowing students to focus on their studies and extracurricular activities.
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Located near Woodleigh MRT station for easy access.
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Central location benefits families living across Singapore.
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Modern facilities support both academic and creative pursuits.
Unique Features
SAIS stands out for its commitment to personalized learning. The school offers tailored academic pathways, ensuring every student can achieve their full potential. Its bilingual program in English and Mandarin helps students develop strong language skills, essential for thriving in a multicultural environment.
The school also emphasizes holistic development through a wide range of extracurricular activities, from sports to performing arts.
SAIS’s innovative approach to education includes the use of cutting-edge technology in classrooms. Students benefit from interactive learning experiences that foster creativity and critical thinking. The school’s strong academic results and focus on global citizenship make it a top choice for expat families exploring the list of international schools in Singapore.
Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you will make as an expat parent. The international schools in Singapore offer a unique blend of academic excellence, personalized learning, and cultural diversity. With low student-to-teacher ratios, these schools ensure that every student receives the attention they deserve, fostering both academic success and personal growth.
Their globally recognized curricula, such as the IB and Cambridge programs, prepare students for prestigious universities like Oxford and Harvard, setting them up for a bright future.
The list of international schools in Singapore also highlights the state-of-the-art facilities and extensive extracurricular opportunities available. These features nurture well-rounded individuals who are ready to thrive in a globalized world. Take the time to explore these schools and consider your child’s unique needs to make an informed decision that will shape their future.
