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Relocating to Singapore? You’re in good company. Each year, thousands of expat families move to the...
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Planning a move to Singapore or exploring international schools for your child? Understanding how international school fees in Singapore work is an essential first step. Tuition can vary widely between schools, from local mid-range options to premium IB and British campuses, and knowing the true cost of schooling helps families budget confidently. From application and enrolment fees to transport, meals, and other hidden costs, this guide breaks down what to expect and how to plan ahead.
This guide walks you through:
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Real tuition ranges across school tiers
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What’s usually included (and what’s not)
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Common budget surprises
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Free tools to help you compare and shortlist
Start comparing schools by budget, location, or curriculum with doris
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📍 Related: Top International Schools in Singapore 2025
Tuition Tiers: The Short Version
International school fees in Singapore typically range from SGD 18,000 to over SGD 50,000 per year, depending on curriculum, facilities, and location.
Here’s a general overview for 2025:
| Tier | Annual Tuition Range (SGD) | What It Often Includes | Example Schools |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premium | 45,000–50,000+ | Full IB programmes, modern campuses, extensive facilities | Tanglin Trust School, Dulwich College (Singapore), Stamford American International School |
| Mid-range | 30,000–42,000 | Strong academics, inclusive CCAs, balanced facilities | Australian International School, Nexus International School (Singapore), Overseas Family School |
| Value-focused | 18,000–28,000 | Core academics, smaller campuses, optional extras | Middleton International School, The Grange Institution, The GUILD International College |
What’s Included - and What Isn’t?
Even if you’re quoted a term or annual fee, always confirm what’s covered. Some schools provide all-inclusive tuition, while others charge separately for almost every extra.
Typically included:
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Academic instruction
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Basic classroom materials
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Access to libraries, sports halls, and labs
Common additional charges:
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Application and registration fees
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Capital levy or building fund
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School transport and lunch
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Uniforms, books, and device programmes
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Language support (EAL) or SEN provision
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Exam fees (IB, IGCSE, A-Level)
Example: Canadian International School includes bilingual immersion within tuition, while Dover Court International School charges separately for bus services and exam registration.
📍 Related: Understanding School Curricula in Singapore
Why Some Schools Cost More
Location
Schools in Orchard, Tanglin, or Bukit Timah (such as Tanglin Trust School) tend to have higher fees due to central real estate costs.
Curriculum
IB programmes (like those at UWCSEA or Stamford American International School) are typically more resource-intensive than British or American systems, contributing to higher tuition.
Facilities
Schools with Olympic pools, black box theatres, or tech innovation labs, such as Dulwich College (Singapore), invest heavily in infrastructure, reflected in fees.
Staff and Support
Internationally recruited teachers and SEN specialists also increase operational costs. Partner schools like The GUILD International College are known for personalised learning and inclusion, making them ideal for students who need more tailored support.
Don’t Forget the “Hidden” Costs
Budgeting tip: Always request the full fee schedule, not just tuition.
Here are common add-ons:
| Fee Type | Estimated Cost (SGD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application / Registration | 500–3,000 | Paid once per student; often non-refundable |
| Exam or External Assessment | 200–1,000 | For IB, IGCSE, or A-Level candidates |
| Camps & Trips | 200–1,000 per year | May vary by grade level |
| Uniforms & PE Kits | 200–400 | Usually purchased separately |
| Transport (Bus) | 1,000–3,000 per year | Varies by distance and provider |
Some schools include after-school clubs in tuition (like Australian International School), while others charge a termly activity fee.
FAQ: Singapore International School Fees
Are school fees increasing in 2025?
Yes. Most international schools have raised tuition by 2–5% to reflect inflation, staffing, and expanded programming.
Can I compare schools by tuition range?
Yes. doris lets you filter schools by fee tier, curriculum, learning style, and more, all free and 100% impartial.
Do more expensive schools offer better education?
Not necessarily. Higher tuition may reflect location, brand, or facilities, not necessarily student outcomes.
Can I get payment plans or sibling discounts?
Many schools offer termly or monthly payment options. Some also offer discounts for second or third siblings.
Final Thoughts
Singapore’s international school scene is diverse, and so are the fee structures.
Whether you’re seeking premium IB schools or value-driven options with great academics, the key is knowing what’s included, what’s not, and what fits your family’s budget.
🎯 Use doris to explore tuition, curriculum, and school values in one place
doris is 100% impartial and free to use. No ads. No rankings. Just smart help for parents.
doris is a free, independent platform that helps families explore and compare international schools across Asia. Powered by AI, it provides impartial, data-driven recommendations based on each child’s needs, offering transparency and clarity in a process that’s often overwhelming. Unlike agents or sponsored listings, doris is completely unbiased — helping parents find the right school with confidence and peace of mind.
doris (the platform) is not a person, it’s an AI-powered education platform built to make school discovery easier, clearer, and more transparent for families.
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