Frequently Asked Questions

We recommend starting the application process at least 12-18 months before your intended start date. Most Singapore international schools open applications in January for the following academic year (starting in August). Popular schools fill up quickly, and some have lengthy waiting lists.

Essential documents include: student's passport, birth certificate, last 2 years of school reports, teacher recommendation letters, parents' passports and work permits, proof of residence, vaccination records, and any language proficiency certificates. Each school may have additional requirements.

Admission to top-tier international schools in Singapore is highly competitive, especially for certain grade levels. Schools like UWC, Tanglin Trust, and Dulwich often have more applicants than places available. Strong academic records, well-rounded profiles, and early application significantly improve your chances.

Yes, many international schools accept mid-year admissions subject to availability. January is a common mid-year entry point. However, availability is limited and depends on students leaving or the school having space in specific grade levels.

Annual tuition fees range from S$25,000 to S$55,000 for day students. Additional costs include application fees (S$300-800), enrollment deposits (S$3,000-10,000), capital fees (S$5,000-20,000), and miscellaneous expenses like uniforms, books, and activities (S$2,000-5,000 annually).

Beyond tuition, consider capital fees (one-time), development funds, technology fees, transport costs, extracurricular activities, school trips, examination fees, and uniform costs. Some schools also charge for facilities like swimming pools or specialized programs.

Some international schools offer limited scholarships based on academic merit, need, or special talents. UWC offers needs-based financial assistance, and some schools have sibling discounts. Corporate sponsorship through employers is also common for expatriate families.

IB: Internationally recognized, focuses on critical thinking and global perspectives. British: Traditional structure with IGCSE and A-Levels, excellent for UK university preparation. American: Flexible with AP courses, ideal for US college applications. Choice depends on your child's learning style and university goals.

All three curricula are widely accepted by universities worldwide. IB is particularly valued for its rigor and international perspective. British A-Levels are preferred for UK universities, while American curricula with AP courses align well with US college admissions. The "best" depends on your target universities and your child's strengths.

For families wanting to maintain Chinese proficiency, strong Mandarin programs are crucial. Schools like Dulwich, UWCSEA, and Hwa Chong International offer robust Chinese A programs for native speakers. This is especially important if you're considering future education in Chinese-speaking regions or want to preserve cultural identity.

We offer comprehensive school placement consultancy including: initial consultation and needs assessment, school shortlisting and recommendations, application strategy and timeline planning, application preparation and review, interview preparation, school visit coordination, and ongoing support throughout the application process.

Our fees vary depending on the scope of services required. We offer different packages from basic consultation to comprehensive full-service support. Contact us for a detailed quote based on your specific needs. We believe in transparent pricing with no hidden costs.

Our deep local knowledge of Singapore's education landscape, personalized approach to each family's needs, strong relationships with school admission teams, and track record of successful placements set us apart. We focus on finding the right fit for your child, not just the most prestigious school.

While we cannot guarantee admission to specific schools (as final decisions rest with schools), we significantly improve your chances through strategic planning, expert guidance, and comprehensive preparation. Our success rate is high because we carefully match families with suitable schools and prepare strong applications.

Popular expat areas include District 10 (Tanglin, Holland Village), District 11 (Newton, Novena), Orchard area, East Coast, and Sentosa. Consider proximity to your target schools, international community presence, housing options, and amenities. Many families choose based on school bus routes.

International students typically need a Student's Pass, while parents need Employment Passes or other valid long-term passes. Some schools may accept students on Tourist Passes temporarily, but long-term enrollment requires proper immigration status. Schools often assist with Student's Pass applications.

Most children adapt well to Singapore's multicultural environment. International schools have extensive support systems for new students. The key is choosing a school with strong pastoral care and integration programs. Singapore's safety, English-speaking environment, and international community make transitions smoother.