What Expats Need to Know About International Schools in Singapore (2025 Guide)

So—you’re moving to Singapore.

Maybe you’ve got the visa sorted. You’ve started researching neighborhoods. You’re trying to figure out what “hawker centre” means. And somewhere in between, a question keeps popping up:

“How do I find the right school?”

If you’re an expat parent, this decision can feel like the biggest one you’ll make. The right international school doesn’t just affect academics—it shapes friendships, daily routines, and how quickly your whole family feels at home.

That’s why thousands of expat families are turning to Doris — a free, friendly tool that helps make sense of Singapore’s international schools. No stress. No spreadsheets. Just support that actually works.

1. Singapore Has a Lot of Great International Schools—But That’s the Problem

There are more than 60 international schools in Singapore offering everything from British A Levels and IB to AP, bilingual, and country-specific options. And most of them are genuinely excellent.

The problem? Too much choice.

Doris cuts through the noise by asking about your child’s learning style, your budget, and your long-term plans—then shortlists schools that fit. No rankings. No paid bias. Just what works for your family.

2. Location Really Matters (More Than You Think)

Singapore may be compact, but traffic during school runs is real. If you’re planning daily commutes—or relying on school buses—location can make or break your routine.

Doris factors in commuting preferences, so your shortlist is academically strong and logistically sensible.

📚 Related: Best Neighborhoods in Singapore for Expats

3. The Curriculum Choice Isn’t Just Academic—It’s Emotional

From British to IB to American, each curriculum shapes how your child learns. Are they more structured or freeform? Visual or verbal? Goal-driven or exploratory?

Doris helps you filter options not just by curriculum name, but by fit—for your child, not just your passport.

📚 Related: IB vs. British Curriculum in Singapore

4. Admissions Timelines Vary (and Can Be Sneaky)

Some schools follow the January–December calendar. Others go August–June. A few have rolling admissions—but spots fill up fast.

Doris gives you visibility on timelines, documents, and key cutoffs—so you’re not caught out by an unexpected waitlist.

5. Tuition Fees Are a Whole Conversation

Tuition can range from SGD 18,000 to over SGD 50,000 per year. But fees alone don’t tell the whole story. What’s included? What’s not? Can you pay in installments?

Doris helps you make sense of value—not just cost.

📚 Related: Understanding the Costs of International Schools in Singapore

6. Transition Support Matters—A Lot

For many kids, moving to a new country is huge. Some schools offer buddy systems, orientation weeks, and emotional support. Others don’t.

Doris knows which schools go above and beyond in helping kids settle in—and matches you accordingly.

7. Your Choice Doesn’t Have to Be Forever

You’re allowed to change your mind. Families often switch schools after a year or two as they better understand their child’s needs—or relocate within Singapore.

Still, starting strong saves stress. Doris helps you find a school that’s a great starting point—not a forever contract.

Bonus: Things You Might Not Think to Ask (But Should)

• Is there a strong parent community?

• What languages are taught beyond the main curriculum?

• How is emotional learning handled?

• What do students say about their experience?

• How inclusive is the school around learning support?

Doris flags schools where these less-visible features stand out—so you can go beyond the brochure.

Real Talk: You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

You’re already juggling relocation logistics: housing, utilities, phones, new routines.

Let Doris carry the school-search stress.

It’s free, private, and surprisingly calming.

👉 Chat with Doris to find schools that fit your child, your lifestyle, and your future.

Final Word: There’s No Perfect School—Just the Right Fit

Your child doesn’t need perfection. They need somewhere to feel safe, curious, and supported.

Doris helps you find that place.

Welcome to Singapore. You’ve got this.

A Quick Note on How Doris Works

We partner with a select number of schools to give them insights into what parents are searching for—so they can better meet your needs. But we don’t sell rankings, promote schools in exchange for money, or allow partnerships to influence your search results. Every recommendation is driven by your child’s profile, not paid placement.

You can learn more in our Transparency Charter.