Thinking of living in Singapore? Finding the right school is one of the major decisions you’ll have to make, along with which house or neighbourhood to live in. This guide includes an overview and information on eight Singapore international schools, who will also help your family to settle in.
Singapore international schools – an overview
With it being such a popular destination for expats from around the world to live and work, it’s no surprise to learn that Singapore’s international schools offer a multicultural environment, with students from a diverse range of backgrounds and countries.
There’s also a range of curriculums. Some maintain a single-country programme, from the English National Curriculum to the Advanced Placement (US), to programmes from Japan, France, Germany, India and elsewhere. Others offer the International Baccalaureate programme, known globally for being well-rounded and rigorous. In fact, approximately half of Singapore’s international schools are IB schools, with as many as 30 offering the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP). At some schools, you’ll find a mix of these curriculums.
A snapshot of Singapore international schools
Here’s a look at eight different Singapore schools. They include a mix of new and old, small and large, and with educational backgrounds ranging from British to the International Baccalaureate. There’s also feedback from the schools themselves on curriculum, languages and more.
Brighton College (Singapore)
Founded: 2020 (Brighton’s UK founding school dates back to 1845)
Number of students: 550
Nationalities: Over 30 different nationalities
Grades: Pre-Nursery to Year 10 (18 months to 15 years old); opening to 18 years old
Dates: August to July
Location: In Lorong Chuan, mostly a residential area with good connectivity to Orchard Road and the CBD
A word from the team
What curriculum is taught at the school?
We believe that a strong foundation in early childhood education is essential for a child’s holistic development. At Brighton College (Singapore), we follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Curriculum of England from Pre-Nursery to Reception and our enhanced English National Curriculum programme from Year 1. We now also have a Senior School comprising highly experienced secondary school teachers who are dedicated to providing the best possible education for our pupils.
Our College now offers a full-through schooling experience that embraces Brighton College’s renowned heritage of academic excellence, innovation and holistic development. The first teaching of IGCSEs will begin in August 2025, and A-levels soon after.
Are there opportunities for learning Mandarin?
Yes, from Pre-Nursery to Senior School. We believe learning Mandarin opens doors to a world of opportunities, making it a valuable skill in today’s global landscape. To accommodate diverse learning needs, we provide distinct streams. They include Advanced Mandarin for those native and near native learners, and also Mandarin as a Foreign Language. Through interactive lessons, story-telling, songs and games, pupils gradually build their speaking, listening, reading and writing skills in Mandarin, developing a solid foundation in this increasingly important global language.
What support do you offer to families relocating to Singapore?
At Brighton, we understand that choosing a Singapore international school is possibly one of the most important choices you face. With that, a move from overseas can also add additional pressure. We therefore work closely with relocating families throughout the admissions process and provide advice on other aspects of their move as needed.
1 Chuan Lane
6505 9790 | brightoncollege.edu.sg
UWCSEA
Founded: 1971
Number of students: Over 5,900
Nationalities: Over 118
Grades: K-12
Dates: August to June
Location: Two campuses. One is in Dover, a central neighbourhood surrounded by leading education institutions. The other is in Tampines, a mostly residential area in the East that’s easily accessible by car and public transport, including MRT.
A word from the team
What curriculums are taught at this Singapore international school?
We offer a bespoke, concept-based K-12 curriculum leading to the IB Diploma (IBDP). In High School, students embark on our innovative UWCSEA Grade 9/10 Programme, which provides a solid foundation for the IB Diploma in Grades 11 and 12.
Students on this programme take a total of 10 courses each year:
- Two core subjects of UWC Perspectives – unique to the Grade 9/10 curriculum – and Wellbeing and Physical Education
- Six additional subjects are taken from the following subject domains: English (First Language or Language Acquisition); Additional Language (First Language or Language Acquisition); Science and Technology; Humanities; Mathematics; Arts and Design
- The final two subject choices are Free Choice that students can pick from the six domains
This flexibility to dig deeper into areas of interest is one of the many benefits of the innovative G9/10 academic programme. It’s an excellent pathway to prepare students with the skills and knowledge to flourish in the IBDP or alternatively to complete a selection of IB courses based on their interests. Additionally, Grade 12 students who meet our graduation requirements will also be awarded a UWCSEA High School Diploma certificate.
Are there opportunities for learning Mandarin?
Mandarin is offered at varying proficiency levels, from Beginners to Advanced Language and Literature-based courses. It’s available from K1 to Grade 12, including the IB Diploma Programme at Standard and Higher Level. Learners in K1 and K2 are taught Mandarin in interactive and dynamic classes that emphasise learning speaking and listening skills. Grades 11 and 12 students who study Chinese as a first language in the IBDP receive an IB Bilingual Diploma upon successful completion of the programme.
What support do you offer to families relocating to Singapore?
Every year, we welcome between 800 and 1,000 students, many of whom are new to Singapore. To facilitate every family’s smooth transition, we embark on outreach tours every year. Our Admissions team goes directly to families around the world from Hong Kong to Seoul, Tokyo, London and New York and guides them through the admissions process. For those who prefer a more personalised approach, individual meetings can also be scheduled to address specific needs.
The UWCSEA Parents’ Association on both campuses has a range of initiatives to support new families as they settle into living in Singapore. One such initiative is the Parent Buddy Programme, where around 300 new parents are paired with parents in the existing community. These parent buddies guide newcomers on how they can better transition to life in Singapore and at UWCSEA. There are nationality groups, interest groups and lots of community events for new families to get involved in. Our vibrant Singapore school community connects parents from diverse backgrounds where they share experiences with other parents through community events and meet-ups.
Astor International School
Founded: 2014
Number of students: 2,900+
Nationalities: 24
Grades: Toddler to Year 13 (2 to 18 years)
Dates: August to June
Location: In Bukit Batok, a family-friendly residential town located in the Western region of Singapore. The area is served by an MRT station and also an extensive bus network.
A word from the team
What curriculums are taught at the school?
We offer an academically rigorous curriculum that blends the International Primary Curriculum, Singapore Math and British English standards. This well-balanced and enriching approach equips our students with strong foundations in inquiry-based learning, mathematical reasoning and literacy, while fostering creativity and critical thinking. Our goal is to nurture life-long learners who are curious, confident and internationally minded, ready to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Are there opportunities for learning Mandarin?
Mandarin is one of the languages offered in our school’s language programme.
What support do you offer to families relocating to Singapore?
We offer an easy and user-friendly admissions process, designed with relocating families in mind. Applications are accepted year-round, providing flexibility and convenience for those relocating to Singapore. The dedicated admissions team also shares a list of nearby condominiums and assists with school bus arrangements.
For children who are new to English, Astor also provides tailored English as a Second Language support to help them transition smoothly and confidently into the school environment.
1 Kay Siang Road, #05-01/02
6974 5700 | astor.edu.sg
International French School (Singapore)
Founded: 1967
Number of students: 2,900
Nationalities: Over 30 different nationalities
Grades: Kindergarten to Grade 12 (3 to 18 years)
Dates: September to early July
Location: Situated along Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3 in a peaceful residential neighbourhood. The campus is minutes from public transport and major expressways.
A word from the team
What curriculums are taught at the school?
We offer a bilingual education in French and English, following the French national curriculum from kindergarten through High School. At the Secondary level, students can choose between the French Baccalaureate and the French International Baccalaureate, both of which are internationally recognised and designed to prepare students for global higher education. Additionally, students in Seconde (Grade 10) have the option to take the Cambridge IGCSE exams.
Are there opportunities for learning Mandarin?
Students learn Mandarin at every stage of their education at the school – we accommodate both native and non-native speakers. From the 2025 academic year, Kindergarten students will receive up to three hours of Mandarin lessons per week. In Elementary School, Mandarin is taught for one hour each week, providing a strong foundation in the language. At the Secondary level, students have the option to join the ‘Mandarin section’. This offers three hours of Mandarin per week, allowing for deeper language development and also cultural exposure. It eventually leads to the Mandarin Culture & Civilisation programme in High School, which is five hours per week.
What support do you offer to families relocating to Singapore?
For students who are new to the French language, we have intensive integrated bridging programmes such as FLSco and French Passerelle. There’s also direct support for students’ wellbeing. It includes a peer ‘Buddy system’ for immediate friendship, a dedicated Counselling Centre for emotional support and over 70 extracurricular activities that encourage building social connections through shared interests.
Simultaneously, we actively foster a strong sense of community among parents through a structured engagement model. This includes a Parent Committee and a Class Representative system, both of which explicitly encourage new and non-Francophone parents to participate.
Together, this holistic ecosystem addresses the key challenges of relocating and living in Singapore, helping new families and students to feel at home and thrive within IFS’s diverse community.
3000 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3
6805 0000 | ifs.edu.sg
One World International School
Founded: 2008
Number of students: 1,700 across two campuses (a third campus will open in August 2025*)
Nationalities: Over 70
Grades: Early Childhood to Grade 12 (3 to 18 years)
Dates: August to June
Location: Three campuses – Nanyang Campus in Jurong West, Digital Campus in Punggol, in Singapore’s northeast, and Newton Campus* in Central Singapore.
A word from the team
What curriculums are taught at the school?
- IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) for Early Childhood and Primary School
- Chinese-English Bilingual Programme in Grades 3 to 5
- Modified Cambridge Curriculum for Grades 6 to 8
- Cambridge IGCSE for Grades 9 to 10
- IB Diploma Programme (DP) for Grades 11 to 12
The IB PYP, Cambridge IGCSE and IBDP provide a comprehensive, well-rounded education that supports students’ academic and personal growth. The IB PYP fosters inquiry, critical thinking and a love for learning from an early age. It also nurtures students’ curiosity and global awareness.
The Cambridge IGCSE is internationally recognised and is a balanced curriculum that builds strong analytical, problem-solving and independent learning skills. It prepares students for future academic challenges.
The IBDP is valued for its rigorous academic framework and emphasis on holistic development including research, reflection and global citizenship. This combination ensures that students are equipped with the knowledge, skills and values needed to succeed in an interconnected world. Our students consistently achieve IBDP scores above the global average and secure placements at leading universities worldwide.
Are there opportunities for learning Mandarin?
Students have the opportunity to learn Mandarin from Early Childhood to Grade 12, with French and Spanish offered as additional language acquisition options. We will also be introducing Japanese at OWIS Newton*.
What support do you offer to families relocating to Singapore?
For students who are new to English or still gaining proficiency, OWIS offers levelled English support programmes. They include the Academic English Prep Programme for Secondary School students.
Beyond the classroom, our students engage in a well-rounded learning experience. There are opportunities to excel in sports through ACSIS competitions, express creativity in performing arts, develop critical thinking skills through STEAM education, and develop a sense of belonging through vibrant school events.
Additionally, the OWIS Parent Committee plays an active role by organising coffee mornings and providing opportunities for parents to volunteer and connect with the school community. This helps foster a sense of belonging and support as new families settle into living in Singapore.
- Nanyang campus: 21 Jurong West Street 81
- Digital campus: #01-02, Global Campus Village, 27 Punggol Field Walk
- Newton campus*: 99 Bukit Timah Road, Alfa Centre (campus opening and programme offering are subject to regulatory approvals)
6914 6700 | owis.org/sg | admissions.sg@owis.org
Tanglin Trust School
Founded: 1925
Number of students: 2,850
Nationalities: Over 50
Grades: Nursery to Year 13 (3 to 18 years)
Dates: August to July
Location: On Portsdown Road, about 15 minutes from Singapore’s city centre; close to Holland Village, Dempsey and nearby Sentosa
A word from the team
What curriculums are taught at the school?
Our academic traditions and approach to teaching are firmly grounded in an enhanced and rigorous English National Curriculum. However, there are many aspects of school life that have a global focus and are contextualised to the school’s location in Southeast Asia. Tanglin offers IGCSE’s; we are the only school in Singapore offering both A Levels and the IB Diploma in the Sixth Form. This gives students the opportunity to choose the best pathway for them.
In the Senior School, students can learn French, Spanish and Mandarin. All are popular and many students choose to pursue them right up to IB and A Level.
95 Portsdown Road
6778 0771 | tts.edu.sg
XCL World Academy
Founded: 2014
Number of students: 1,000
Nationalities: Over 40
Grades: Nursery to Grade 12 (18 months to 18 years)
Dates: August to June
Location: In a residential neighbourhood surrounded by greenery and nature, about 20 minutes from the city centre, and easily accessible by car, public transport and MRT.
A word from the team
What curriculums are taught at the school?
At XCL World Academy, we do more than prepare students for exams. We’re also shaping bold, compassionate individuals ready to lead, create and thrive in a changing world.
From age two to 18, your child will experience the full IB continuum. This encompasses the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme delivered through a future focused lens. We combine the rigour of the IB with AERO aligned standards from the United States, creating a seamless and globally recognised education.
What sets us apart is our commitment to innovation. We offer one of the most comprehensive technology and artificial intelligence integrated curriculums among international schools in Singapore. Students engage deeply with AI, robotics, entrepreneurship, the arts, sports and leadership as essential parts of their learning. Our bilingual and technology forward approach builds critical thinking, adaptability and creative problem solving.
Every student’s journey is personalised. Parents receive real time insights, customised learning plans and dedicated support from teachers and counsellors. Together, these ensure that each child grows with confidence, joy and clear direction.
Are there opportunities for learning Mandarin?
Mandarin language learning is a core part of the XWA experience. Students can join an immersive English-Mandarin bilingual programme taught by native-speaking educators, promoting fluency in both languages from an early age. Additionally, Mandarin is offered as a home language option alongside Japanese, with after-school choices in other languages. For non-native English speakers, the school provides structured English language support programmes from Grades 1 to 9.
What support do you offer families relocating to Singapore?
XWA understands that relocating to Singapore can be exciting but also overwhelming for families with children. We aim to make the move as smooth as possible by offering a strong support system.
Our experienced Admissions Team and Parent Ambassadors guide families through every step of the relocation and enrolment process. Families can expect personalised support and answers to all questions about living in Singapore.
Student wellbeing is a key focus. Our counselling team provides emotional and social support. Meanwhile, our Student Ambassadors and Mentors Programme helps new students settle in through meaningful peer connections from day one.
Parents are warmly welcomed into our community through the Parent Engagement and Connection Committee, which hosts cultural events, coffee mornings and family activities that help families feel at home.
2 Yishun Street 42
6808 7300 | xwa.edu.sg
SJI International Preschool
Founded: 2024
Number of students: Over 100
Nationalities: 15
Grades: Early Years and Kindergarten (2-6 years)
Dates: January to December
Location: Set in lush greenery along Holland Road, offering access to vibrant indoor and outdoor learning environments. Easily accessible by both public and private transport.
A word from the team
What curriculums are taught at the school?
A bilingual, inquiry-based curriculum that is holistic, co-constructed and tailored to support every individual child.
Are there opportunities for learning Mandarin?
We offer a comprehensive bilingual English and Mandarin Immersion programme. Our programme ensures that children learn meaningfully and engagingly. It fosters their interest and builds their confidence in using English and Mandarin through their daily interactions and learning inquiries. Each classroom is staffed with at least one English and Mandarin-speaking educator throughout the day.
What support do you offer to families relocating to Singapore?
Families joining our Preschool are welcomed into a nurturing environment that reflects one of our core values: Community. As a growing Singapore school, our team places great emphasis on building strong relationships with each family. We offer personalised support as children, and parents, settle into a new home and routine.
49A Holland Road (previously Maris Stella Kindergarten)
6908 4520 | sji-internationalpreschool.com.sg
SJI International Elementary School
Founded: 2008
Number of students: Over 800
Nationalities: Over 40
Grades: Prep 1 to Grade 6 (4 to 12 years)
Dates: January to December
Location: The landscaped campus is centrally located in the Thomson suburbs, easily accessible by both public and private transport.
A word from the team
What curriculums are taught at the school?
Mainstream or Bilingual Programme, International Primary Curriculum, International Middle Years Curriculum, MOE Singapore Mathematics Syllabus, and The Virtues Project.
Are there opportunities for learning Mandarin?
Our Bilingual Programme accommodates both native and non-native speakers by fostering proficiency in both English and Chinese languages. It employs an alternating language teaching model that strategically divides instruction by subject area and time. This approach reflects our commitment to balanced language development in both English and Chinese.
For students in the Mainstream Programme, Chinese is offered as an additional language. Our Mandarin language and Chinese culture lessons take place daily for all classes. There are also further immersion opportunities for our early language learners.
What support do you offer to families relocating to Singapore?
Relocating to a new country is a significant journey, and the community at SJI International Elementary School understands this well. Many of our staff and existing families have navigated similar transitions, making them invaluable resources for newcomers. We foster a vibrant and welcoming environment where new families can easily connect with others through our Parent Support Groups and regular parent coffee mornings. These provide a space to share experiences, gain insights into local life, and build lasting friendships, ensuring a smooth and supportive transition into school life and beyond.
490 Thomson Road
6353 9383 | sji-international.com.sg
SJI International High School
Founded: 2007
Number of students: Over 1,300
Nationalities: Over 40
Grades: Grades 7 to 12 (13 to 18 years)
Dates: January to December
Location: The High School shares the same campus as the Elementary School (above).
A word from the team
What curriculums are taught at the school?
IGCSE and the IB Diploma Programme.
Are there opportunities for learning Mandarin?
In all Grades, we offer Chinese on three different pathways – as a first, second or foreign language – according to our students’ varying needs. Within each pathway, students are placed in ability sets best suited for their level of language competency.
What support do you offer to families relocating to Singapore?
Families quickly discover the warmth and strength of our school community. This is an embodiment of one of our core values, Community. Many of our families and staff have themselves relocated to Singapore – they’re always ready to share experiences and offer support. Our active Parent Support Groups and regular parent coffee mornings provide natural opportunities to connect, gather advice, and feel part of school life. This shared understanding creates a welcoming, empathetic environment where new families are supported and quickly feel at home living in Singapore.
490 Thomson Road
6353 9383 | sji-international.com.sg
Finding a spot in a Singapore international school
Given the strength and reputation of the school system in Singapore, some parents in Hong Kong worry that there might not be any places for their kids.
A few schools are always in high demand and are extremely competitive. However, local citizens generally don’t attend international schools so the schools have seats for expats to fill.
Another factor is the growth in the number of international schools in Singapore; new ones seem to open every year. While local education is also an option, with fees considerably lower than their international counterparts, there are some fairly strict admission obstacles for expats to get around.
It’s really about finding the best fit. That means doing your research and asking lots of questions before moving. If you’re not sure what to ask, read on!
Key factors to consider when shortlisting Singapore international schools
There are some obvious topics that parents will have questions about when starting their research. Fees is one. Common queries include, “How much are they?” “Do they increase every year?” and “Are they all-inclusive?” A school’s age and reputation is another. Many families want to know how long a school has been around, and also where the teachers are from and how experienced they are.
For a deeper dive into whether or not a school might be right for you and your family, you could also consider the following checklist of questions.
10 things to ask
- What is the curriculum, and will it suit my child’s educational needs and the future plans of our family? Finding the right fit with the curriculum can help minimise the impact of moving country and school.
- Where is the school located? Is it a manageable commute to the campus from home? What are public transport links like?
- What are class sizes like, and is there a high teacher-to-child ratio?
- What is the language programme at the school? Is there a compulsory second language, and is this an experience that will benefit my child?
- What kind of extracurricular opportunities are offered as a balance to my child’s academic studies and to help widen his or her educational experience?
- Can parents get involved at the school? This can be a great way to meet new people and also become a part of the community.
- What are the school facilities like for educational, sporting and cultural pursuits?
- What kinds of school excursions are offered? Might there be opportunities for visits to foreign countries for volunteering and community engagement? What about excursions on a local level?
- Does the term calendar vary from our previous school in Hong Kong? When does school start, and when are the holidays?
- What are the school’s methods of communication with parents? Can we follow newsletters and social media outlets to see our children’s learning experiences and hear school news?
Want to know more about schools in Singapore?
The Expat Living Singapore website has comprehensive guides to preschools and schools in Singapore. You’ll also find reviews from families, and features on campus facilities, extracurricular activities, specific subjects and sports programmes at Singapore international schools. In addition, if you’re planning on relocating here, there are loads of articles all about the process!
Not thinking about relocating to Singapore? You can also find features about Hong Kong schools in our Kids section.
