Doris Blog | Expert Tips & Guides for International Schools

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

Written by Ellie Dickinson | Jun 24, 2025 8:51:49 AM

Planning school fees shouldn't feel like a guessing game.

The Big Question: How Much Does It Cost?

If you're exploring international schools in Singapore for 2025, one question pops up early:
"How much is this going to cost us?"

Between tuition, registration, uniforms, and the “optional” extras that never stay optional, the numbers can add up quickly. The truth? International education in Singapore is a major investment—but it doesn’t have to feel unpredictable.

This guide helps you understand school fees in 2025. And if you're ready to compare real options within your budget, Doris makes that process fast, clear, and stress-free.

📍 Related: Top International Schools in Singapore 2025

Tuition Tiers: The Short Version

In 2025, international school tuition in Singapore tends to fall into three main tiers:

  • Premium: SGD 45,000–50,000/year

  • Mid-range: SGD 30,000–42,000/year

  • Value-focused: SGD 18,000–28,000/year

But these figures only tell part of the story. Most schools add on registration fees, building levies, technology charges, or extracurricular costs—some of which can significantly affect your total outlay.

That’s why Doris compares total cost of attendance, not just tuition headlines.

What’s Included—and What Isn’t?

Every school packages its fees differently. Here’s what may or may not be bundled into your tuition:

  • Application & registration fees: SGD 500 to 5,000, usually non-refundable

  • Building or development fees: Often annual, to fund infrastructure

  • Uniforms & materials: May include books, stationery, and PE gear

  • Technology fees: Especially for BYOD schools (Bring Your Own Device)

  • CCAs (Co-Curricular Activities): Sometimes included, sometimes extra

  • Transport: Optional, but can add up quickly

💡 Doris helps you understand which schools offer bundled pricing—and which leave you with extra costs to factor in.

📍 Related: Understanding School Curricula in Singapore

What’s Changing in 2025?

Most schools have implemented modest fee increases—typically between 2–5%. These often reflect:

  • Rising operational costs

  • Facility upgrades

  • New staff or programmes

  • Cost-of-living adjustments

That said, some schools are keeping fees flat for returning families or introducing value-adds like upgraded tech, SEL (social-emotional learning) programmes, or bilingual streams.

You’re Not Alone If You’re Watching the Budget

Gone are the days when most expat packages covered everything. In 2025, more families are:

  • Self-funding

  • Working within fixed relocation allowances

  • Prioritizing long-term affordability over prestige

Doris supports this shift by helping you:

  • Filter schools by budget range

  • Compare cost vs. value

  • Understand flexibility in payment plans

  • Identify schools that align with your educational and financial goals

Budget-Friendly School Profiles (Without Naming Names)

While we don’t list individual fee tables (they change often), schools in these categories often offer more accessible price points:

  • Bilingual or national-curriculum schools (e.g. German, Indian, French streams)

  • IB-only campuses with focused offerings

  • Inclusive, community-led schools without extensive branding costs

📍 Related: Local vs. International Schools in Singapore

Key Questions to Ask Schools in 2025

As you explore options, ask:

  • Are fees all-in or à la carte?

  • How stable are your fees year-to-year?

  • Are sibling discounts or early payment incentives available?

  • What happens if we relocate mid-year?

Doris makes this process smoother by surfacing these considerations upfront—no awkward emails, no surprises later.

Final Thought: The Right Fit Should Make Financial Sense Too

Choosing a school isn’t just about curriculum or name recognition. It’s about finding a place where your child can thrive—and where your family doesn’t feel constantly stretched.

Doris helps you find schools that respect your budget, meet your values, and truly suit your child.

👉 Chat to Doris now to get matched with international schools in Singapore that fit your goals—and your wallet.

A Quick Note on How Doris Works

We do partner with some schools to share insights on what families are looking for. That helps them improve and lets us keep Doris free for parents. But we never accept paid placements, and those partnerships never influence our recommendations. Every school match we suggest is based solely on what fits your child. You can read more in our Transparency Charter.