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International School Fees in Singapore (2025): What Parents Need to Know

Picture of Tom Shacks By  Tom Shacks  ·  2 minute read

If you’re relocating to Singapore with kids, understanding school fees is a top priority.

International school tuition in Singapore can range widely — and the final number is often more than just tuition. This guide helps parents break down the full picture, from term fees to hidden costs, with budgeting tips and school examples.

🎯 Need tailored school recommendations based on budget? Chat with doris

Tuition Ranges: What to Expect

Most international schools fall into three broad pricing tiers for 2025:

School Tier Annual Tuition (SGD) Approx. USD Equivalent
Premium $30,000–$50,000+ $22,000–$37,000+
Mid-Range $20,000–$30,000 $15,000–$22,000
Budget $15,000–$20,000 $11,000–$15,000

💡 Tuition often increases by age group — secondary years tend to be more expensive.

🎯 Compare top international schools in Singapore

Beyond Tuition: Additional School-Based Fees

Here’s what to expect in addition to tuition:

Application & Registration Fees

  • One-time, non-refundable

  • Range: SGD 300–2,500+

Capital Levy or Building Fund

  • Annual or one-time

  • Range: SGD 2,000–8,000

Technology & Textbooks

  • Laptop/iPad programmes, software licenses, e-textbooks

  • Range: SGD 300–1,000+

Uniforms

  • Required for academics, sports, events

  • Range: SGD 200–500 per child

Exam Fees (IB, IGCSE, AP)

  • Billed separately in most cases

  • Range: SGD 300–1,500+

Additional Costs Beyond the Classroom

School Transportation

  • Island-wide bus services

  • Range: SGD 1,500–3,500/year

  • Proximity to campus affects this cost

Meals & Snacks

  • Optional lunch plans

  • Range: SGD 8–10/day or SGD 1,500–2,000/year

Extracurricular Activities (ECAs)

  • Some included, others billed separately

  • Range: SGD 200–2,000/year

Learning Support & Therapy

  • Language support, SEN programmes, OT

  • Varies by school; some services external

Hidden Costs to Watch Out For

Annual Fee Increases

  • Typically 3–10% per year

  • Ask the school for historical fee increases

School Trips

  • Local: SGD 50–150

  • International: SGD 2,000+

  • Usually optional, but valuable

End-of-Year Extras

  • Graduation, photos, yearbooks

  • Range: SGD 100–500+

Budgeting Tips for Families

  1. Start Early
    Give yourself 6–12 months to compare, apply, and budget.

  2. Create a Full Expense Checklist
    Include uniforms, ECAs, tech, and transport.

  3. Ask About Scholarships
    Some schools offer merit or need-based aid (e.g. GIIS, Nexus).

  4. Check Employer Benefits
    See if your relocation package includes education allowance.

  5. Explore Installment Options
    Many schools offer termly or monthly payment plans.

  6. Think in Terms of Value, Not Just Price
    The right school might reduce external costs like tutoring or transport.

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Awards Presentation at Heritage Academy Singapore (Singapore), a more affordable international school option on the island

Real-World Examples

Some Singapore schools mentioned by parents for their cost transparency or flexible fee models:

📸 Images: Heritage Academy awards day, Astor school buses, Dulwich canteen, Singapore American School graduation

FAQ: School Fees in Singapore

Are international school fees rising in 2025?
Yes, most have increased by 3–5% in line with inflation and programme expansion.

Is SGD 20,000 considered expensive?
It depends. Some families spend under SGD 25,000, while others consider SGD 40,000–50,000 for full-service campuses.

Do more expensive schools offer better teaching?
Not always. Higher fees may reflect location, facilities, or branding. doris helps compare based on fit — not just price.

Can I filter schools by fees with doris?
Yes. doris allows you to filter by tuition tier, curriculum, location, and values — all 100% free and impartial.

Final Thoughts

Singapore offers a wide range of international schools — and fee structures.
Choosing the right one starts with understanding the full cost, asking the right questions, and weighing value over price alone.

Whether you're working with a relocation allowance or budgeting privately, doris helps you compare schools that meet your academic, cultural, and financial needs.

🎯 Compare international schools in Singapore now

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