Skip to content
All posts

Singapore International School Fees 2025: A Complete Budgeting Guide for Parents

Picture of Ellie Dickinson By  Ellie Dickinson  ·  2 minute read

Planning a move to Singapore? Or considering a switch to international schooling?

International school fees can vary widely across the city-state — and understanding the full cost upfront can make all the difference. From application fees to transport and “hidden” extras, it pays to know what to expect.

This guide walks you through:

  • Real tuition ranges across school tiers

  • What’s usually included (and what’s not)

  • Common budget surprises

  • Free tools to help you compare and shortlist

🎯 Start comparing schools by budget, location, or curriculum with doris

 

unnamed (28)

📍 Related: Top International Schools in Singapore 2025

Tuition Tiers: The Short Version

International school fees in Singapore vary from around SGD 18,000 to over SGD 50,000 per year — depending on the school’s curriculum, facilities, and location.

Here’s a general breakdown for 2025:

Tier Annual Tuition Range (SGD) What It Often Includes
Premium 45,000–50,000+ Full IB programmes, modern campuses, global staff
Mid-range 30,000–42,000 Strong academics, some CCAs included
Value-focused 18,000–28,000 Core academics, lower facility spend, optional extras

Browse all international schools in Singapore

What’s Included - and What Isn’t?

Even if you’re quoted a term or annual fee, be sure to ask what that figure actually includes. Some schools provide all-in tuition, while others add fees for almost everything.

Typically included:

  • Academic instruction

  • Basic classroom materials

  • Access to core school facilities

Common additional charges:

  • Application/registration fees

  • Capital levy or building fund

  • Transport and lunch

  • Uniforms and books

  • Language support or SEN

  • Exam fees (e.g. IB, IGCSE, A-Level)

Compare IB vs British curriculum fee structures

📍 Related: Understanding School Curricula in Singapore

Why Some Schools Cost More

📍 Location

Centrally located schools (e.g. Orchard, Tanglin, Bukit Timah) tend to charge more due to real estate costs.

🧪 Curriculum

IB tends to be more resource-intensive than British, American, or national systems — which may drive higher tuition.

🏫 Facilities

Schools with Olympic pools, black box theatres, or dedicated tech labs usually have higher operating costs.

👩‍🏫 Staff and Support

Schools that hire international teachers or offer specialist services often reflect those salaries in tuition.

Explore top-rated schools by curriculum

Don’t Forget the “Hidden” Costs

Budgeting tip: Always ask for the full fee schedule. Here are charges that catch many parents off guard:

  • Application or registration fees (SGD 500–3,000)

  • Exam or external assessment fees

  • Camps and trips (SGD 200–1,000/year)

  • Uniforms and PE kits

  • Transport fees (bus routes can cost SGD 1,000–3,000/year)

Some schools include after-school clubs in tuition, while others charge termly.

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.

 

Related posts