Living and Schooling Context in Singapore
Families describe Singapore as practical to live in and easy to get children settled. The public transport network is reliable, the city is compact, and most international schools offer their own bus routes. School campuses are typically well-resourced, with access to sports facilities, libraries, and co-curricular programmes that would be unusual elsewhere in the region.
👵🏻 One parent on Reddit, who spent four years in Singapore, noted: "My opinion is it's one of the best places for expats. I like the active and healthy lifestyle there. It is also very safe. I have nothing bad to say about my time there and there are a lot of conveniences I miss."
Some parents describe Singapore as safe, convenient and easy to navigate, although experiences vary depending on location, lifestyle and individual family circumstances.
Admissions timelines matter here.
Admissions timelines vary by school and year group. Some popular schools operate waitlists, so families should contact their preferred schools early and confirm current availability before making relocation plans. Most schools charge a registration fee and a non-refundable deposit on acceptance, which can range from SGD 1,000 to SGD 5,000 or more. For a fuller breakdown of what international schooling actually costs in Singapore, including levies and ancillary fees, the doris Singapore fees guide covers this in detail.
Local families choosing international schools should note that some schools are open only to students holding foreign nationality or Employment Pass status. Requirements vary by school, so confirm eligibility before applying. The Singapore Ministry of Education publishes guidance on the distinction between international schools and private schools approved for Singapore citizens.
School Profiles
Schools shown for informational purposes only. doris does not rank or promote any school.
Dulwich College Singapore

Curriculum: British, Cambridge IGCSE, IB DP, IBCP | Fees: SGD 20,270–56,220/yr (approx. USD 15,000–41,600)
View Dulwich College (Singapore) on doris. One of Singapore's larger international campuses, Dulwich offers a wide curriculum range from EYFS through to IB Diploma and the less commonly offered IBCP, which combines IB courses with vocational qualifications. The breadth of post-16 options is a genuine differentiator. Families note the campus facilities are strong and the pastoral care is attentive, though some find the size of the school means students need to be proactive to access the full range of opportunities.
Tanglin Trust School

Curriculum: British, Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels, IB DP | Fees: SGD 33,330–53,505/yr (approx. USD 24,700–39,600)
View Tanglin Trust School on doris. Tanglin is one of Singapore's longest-established British curriculum schools and carries a strong reputation for academic outcomes at IGCSE and A Level. It is a trust school rather than a for-profit operation, which families say contributes to a particular ethos. Entry is competitive, particularly at secondary level, and the school operates a waitlist for most year groups. Fees are at the upper end of the British curriculum segment.
Canadian International School

Curriculum: IB PYP / MYP / DP | Fees: SGD 19,260–49,610/yr (approx. USD 14,300–36,800)
View Canadian International School on doris. CIS runs two campuses, one in Tanjong Katong and one near Lakeside, making it one of the few Singapore schools with a genuine east-west split. It is a full IB continuum school from early years through to Diploma. Parents describe a warm community and a broadly welcoming culture for newly arrived families, which matters when children are transitioning mid-year.
Dimensions International College

Curriculum: IPC, Cambridge Primary, Secondary, IGCSE, AS & A Levels | Fees: SGD 13,000–25,500/yr (approx. USD 9,600–18,900)
View Dimensions International College on doris. Dimensions sits at the more affordable end of Singapore's international school market, making it relevant for families not on a full relocation package. The Cambridge pathway from primary through to A Levels is coherent, and the school is accredited. It is a smaller institution than some of the larger brand-name schools, which suits families who prefer a less anonymous environment for their children.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does international school cost in Singapore per year?
A: Fees range from around SGD 12,000 at the lower end to over SGD 57,000 per year at the top. Most mid-range schools fall between SGD 25,000 and SGD 45,000. This is tuition only; families should budget separately for registration fees, the enrolment deposit, uniforms, transport, and any co-curricular levies.
Q: Can Singapore citizens attend international schools?
A: Singapore citizens may attend certain international schools, but eligibility depends on the type of school. Admission to foreign-system schools may require approval from Singapore’s Ministry of Education, while privately funded schools approved to enrol Singapore citizens have their own admissions requirements. Families should confirm eligibility directly with the school and consult current MOE guidance before applying.
Q: How far in advance should I apply to international schools in Singapore?
A: For the most sought-after schools, families should apply 12 to 18 months before the intended start date. Some schools manage demand through a waitlist system, and offers are not guaranteed even with early application. Applying to two or three schools simultaneously is common practice among relocating families.
Q: Are there affordable international schools in Singapore?
A: Yes, though affordability is relative in this market. Schools such as Dimensions International College, International French School (Singapore), and NPS International School sit at the lower end of the fee range without compromising on recognised qualifications. The doris guide to affordable international schools in Southeast Asia covers this in more detail.
doris is a free, impartial international school discovery platform designed to help parents find the right international school for their children worldwide. Every school profile includes fees, curriculum, admissions, pupil numbers and more. Parents can compare schools, contact schools directly, access expert parent guides, and connect with a community of parents around the world. Start your search at doris.school.
This guide was written by Aziza F, part of the doris editorial team. doris sources school data from institutions worldwide and speaks directly with parents navigating the school search process. Fee data reflects published and publicly available information for the 2026 to 2027 academic year and is reviewed annually. External sources: Cambridge International, International Baccalaureate Organisation.
Schools are listed for informational purposes only. doris does not rank or promote any school.
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