The Best International Schools in Singapore — Fees, Admission Eligibility, and More

Choosing the right international school is one of the biggest decisions parents make for their child’s education. With so many international schools in Singapore offering different curricula, fees, facilities, and admissions requirements, it can be difficult to know where to start. In this article, we compare some of Singapore’s leading international schools, covering their fees, academic programmes, admissions criteria, and key highlights to help you find the best fit for your family.

This guide will simplify your search by taking you through the following information:

• What an international school education in Singapore looks like
• Who can study in Singapore’s international schools
• The benefits of studying in an international school
• How to choose the right international school for your child
• International schools comparison (fees, curriculum, and school highlights)

A Dive into International School Education in Singapore

Singapore is home to one of the world’s largest and most diverse international school sectors. Singapore’s international schools offer the following curricula:

• British (culminating in Cambridge IGCSE and A Level)
• American (with Advanced Placement)
• International Baccalaureate, or commonly known as IB (Primary Years Programme/PYP, Middle Years Programme/MYP, and Diploma Programme/DP)
• Other national systems such as French, German, Australian, Japanese, and Indian

These schools cater to both expatriate and eligible local families, providing globally recognised qualifications and a wide range of academic and co-curricular opportunities. With options for children from preschool through pre-university, parents can choose a school that best aligns with their child’s learning style, future aspirations, and family needs.

The Big Three Curricula Explained: British Curriculum, American Curriculum, and IB

International School Eligibility Criteria

In Singapore, you can enrol your child in an international school if you fulfil any one of these criteria:

• You are an expatriate family who wants to continue with your home curriculum and want to eventually move back to your country of origin
• You are a Returning Singaporean whose child was studying overseas for a few years
• You are a local Singaporean family who prefers a more globally oriented education (please note that Singaporean students who are not Returning Singaporeans typically require MOE approval to transfer from a local school to an international school)

The Benefits of Studying in an International School in Singapore

1. Diverse Learning Environment and Global Outlook
   
   One of the greatest advantages of an international school is the opportunity to learn alongside students from different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives.
   
   At The Perse School (Singapore), our student community includes more than 60 nationalities, with no single dominant nationality. This diverse environment encourages students to build meaningful friendships across cultures, develop empathy, broaden their perspectives, and build a truly global outlook.
   
   
2. Globally Recognised Qualifications
   
   As many international schools in Singapore offer internationally recognised qualifications such as IGCSE, A Level, or IB, students find it easier to relocate between countries and enjoy continuity in their education. These highly recognised qualifications also support them in their university applications around the world.
   
   The Perse School (Singapore) offers the British Cambridge curriculum from Early Years to Secondary School, culminating in the IGCSE. From August 2027, students will be able to continue with A Level. These qualifications allow them to relocate to any part of the world without disrupting their learning. In addition, The Perse also provides university guidance counselling from as early as Year 9.
   
   
3. Future-focused subjects
   
   As the world continues to evolve, international schools in Singapore are increasingly preparing students with the knowledge and skills needed for the future. Beyond traditional subjects, there is an increasing focus on areas such as computer science, entrepreneurship, robotics, and design, helping students develop creativity, problem-solving, and digital literacy.
   
   At The Perse School (Singapore), students benefit from a future-focused curriculum that includes:
   
   
   • Computer Science
   • Entrepreneurship
   • Coding & Robotics
   • Business Studies
   • Design & Technology
     
     
4. State-of-the-art facilities
   
   The best international schools in Singapore do not only offer a robust curriculum; they complement it with top-notch facilities that enhance the learning experience of students. From modern science laboratories and performing arts spaces to sports facilities and collaborative learning environments, these purpose-built spaces help students explore their interests both inside and outside the classroom.
   
   The Perse School (Singapore)’s 340,000 sq ft campus includes the following modern facilities:
   
   
   • Science laboratories, including a dedicated Primary School science laboratory
   • Visual arts and performing arts studios
   • Ample green spaces and specialist learning spaces
   • Culinary laboratories
   • A five-star AstroTurf field in collaboration with Barça Academy
   • Cricket practice lanes in collaboration with CricKingdom
     
     In addition, the school is also fitted with solar panels that provide up to 70% of the campus’s energy needs.
     
     
5. Extensive co-curricular and extra-curricular activities
   
   Learning extends beyond the classroom, and co-curricular activities play an important role in helping students discover new interests, build confidence, and develop valuable life skills.
   
   At The Perse School (Singapore), students can choose from a wide range of ECAs, including:
   
   
   • Football
   • Cricket
   • Gymnastics
   • Coding and robotics
   • Music
   • Drama
   • Model United Nations
   • World Scholar’s Cup
   • Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award

Choosing the Right International School in Singapore for Your Child

As parents, it is normal to want to enrol your child in one of the top international schools in Singapore. Nevertheless, it is equally important to make the following considerations when deciding.

1. Curriculum and future pathways
   
   
   • Which curriculum suits your child best: British/Cambridge (IGCSE and A Level), American, or the IB pathway?
   • Does your curriculum of choice align with your child’s learning style?
   • Does your curriculum of choice support your child’s preferred university pathway in the future?
     
     
2. School location
   
   
   • How accessible is the campus from your home or office?
   • Does the school offer bus transport services?
   • How will the commute time affect your child’s after-school activities (e.g., extra-curricular activities, rehearsals, or study groups)?
     
     
3. School fees and value for money
   
   
   • Does the tuition fee fit your family’s long-term budget?
   • What is included in the school fees, and what costs are charged separately (e.g., transport, meals, ECAs, uniforms, application, and enrolment fees)?
   • Does the school offer good value through its curriculum, facilities, teaching quality, and student opportunities?
     
     
4. School size, level of support, and school culture
   
   
   • Does your child thrive in a smaller, close-knit community or a larger school?
   • What pastoral care, learning support, counselling, and wellbeing programmes are available?
   • Do the school’s values, culture, and teaching approach align with what you want for your child?
     
     
5. Future pathways and university guidance
   
   
   • Does the school provide dedicated university and career guidance?
   • When does university counselling begin, and what support is offered throughout the process?
   • Does the school have a strong track record of preparing students for their preferred university destinations?
     
     
6. School intakes and admission criteria
   
   
   • Does the school accept applications throughout the year, and are places available in your child’s year level? Popular year groups can fill up quickly.
   • What are the admissions requirements, such as assessments, interviews, or English language proficiency?
   • Is your child eligible to enrol, and what documents are required for the application?

Comparing the Best International Schools in Singapore (2026)

Why The Perse School (Singapore) May Be the Right Fit for Your Child

• 400+ years of academic heritage through our close partnership with The Perse School, Cambridge.
• Cambridge International Curriculum from Early Years to IGCSE, with A Level launching from August 2027.
• One of Singapore’s strongest bilingual programmes, offering Mandarin–English immersion from Reception.
• More than 60 nationalities, with no single dominant nationality, fostering a truly international community.
• Future-focused curriculum featuring Computer Science, Coding & Robotics, Entrepreneurship, Business Studies, and Design & Technology.
• 340,000 sq ft purpose-built campus with specialist science laboratories, culinary laboratories, visual and performing arts studios, sports facilities, and outdoor learning spaces.
• Strong pastoral care and university guidance, supporting every student’s academic and personal development.
• Extensive extra-curricular programme spanning sports, performing arts, technology, leadership, and academic enrichment.
• A sustainable fee structure that offers excellent value for a British international education.

Read more about why The Perse School (Singapore) is a great choice for expat families.

Why The Perse School (Singapore) May Be the Right Fit for Your Child

1. What does an international school education system in Singapore look like?
   
   International schools in Singapore typically offer:
   
   
   • Globally recognised curricula, such as British, American, or IB.
   • Internationally recognised qualifications for university entry worldwide.
   • A multicultural learning environment with students from diverse backgrounds.
   • A broad education that combines academics with sports, arts, and co-curricular activities.
     
2. What are the admissions criteria for international schools in Singapore?
   
   You may be eligible to enrol your child in an international school if you are:
   
   
   • An expatriate family seeking an internationally recognised curriculum.
   • A Returning Singaporean whose child has been studying overseas.
   • A local Singaporean family (subject to MOE regulations, where applicable).
     
3. Which are the best international schools in Singapore?
   
   There is no single best international school in Singapore. When deciding which international school to enrol your child in, we strongly advise you to consider the following factors:
   
   
   • Curriculum fit and globally recognised qualifications
   • Fees
   • Range of co-curricular and extra-curricular activities
   • School size and facilities
   • School culture and diversity

At The Perse School (Singapore), our Admissions Team understands that choosing the right international school is a significant decision. Our Admissions Counsellors are here to guide you through every step of the way, from understanding our curriculum and admissions process to answering your questions about school life and helping you find the best fit for your child.

Contact us today to arrange a consultation or campus tour. Chinese, Swedish, French, Japanese, Hindi, and Korean admissions counsellors available.