Top Questions Expats Ask About International Schools in Singapore (Answered)

If you're relocating to Singapore with children, one of the first big decisions you’ll face is choosing the right school. With more than 138 international schools in Singapore, the process can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re comparing different curricula, fee structures, and support programmes.

This guide brings together the most frequently asked questions from expat parents, based on search trends and parent conversations happening on doris.

doris is a free, impartial school discovery tool that helps families compare schools based on their needs, not sponsored listings or paid rankings.

1. What are the most common international curricula in Singapore?

The most popular international curricula include:

• British curriculum (IGCSE / A Level)

• International Baccalaureate (IB PYP, MYP, DP)

• American curriculum (AP / High School Diploma)

• Australian, French, and bilingual Mandarin-English programmes

Some schools offer multiple pathways or hybrid approaches.

In short: You can filter schools by curriculum type on doris to find what best fits your child’s learning style and future plans.

2. How much do international schools cost in Singapore?

Annual tuition fees typically range from SGD 20,000 to over SGD 50,000.
Some schools include transport or meals, while others charge separately for uniforms, camps, or extracurricular activities.

In short: doris lets you filter schools by tuition range and see a transparent breakdown of what’s included.

Read: What Do International Schools Really Cost in Singapore?

3. How far in advance should I apply?

Popular schools in Singapore may have waitlists, particularly for certain year groups. While some offer rolling admissions, it's best to start your search 6–12 months ahead of your planned move.

4. Do all schools offer language support?

Most international schools in Singapore provide English as an Additional Language (EAL) and Mandarin programmes.
Some also offer bilingual tracks or second-language options in French, Japanese, or Korean.

In short: If your child needs language support, doris allows you to filter for schools that offer EAL or bilingual learning options.

5. What if my child has additional learning needs?

Support for students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) varies by school.
Some schools offer strong learning-support departments and small class sizes, while others are more academically selective. 

In short: doris helps families identify schools with SEN programmes, learning specialists, and individualised support options.

6. Are schools in central Singapore better than those further out?

Not necessarily. Many families choose based on commute time rather than postcode.
High-quality international schools can be found across the island, from Bukit Timah to Pasir Ris.

In short: You can search on doris by location or commute preference, not just by district.

7. Can I compare shortlisted schools side by side?

Yes. doris gives you side-by-side comparisons for all shortlisted schools. You can compare curriculum, class size, fees, language support, facilities, and more — all in one view.

Start comparing schools in Singapore now 

Final Thoughts

Singapore offers a wide range of international schools, giving families choice but also complexity.
doris simplifies that search by helping you filter by curriculum, budget, location, or support needs, all through an independent, ad-free platform.

It’s always free to use, and schools cannot pay to influence how they appear in your search results.