Asia
Singapore: schools and universities
Singapore has a large number of international schools serving its foreign residents. Singapore citizens generally need approval from the Ministry of Education to attend one, so most pupils at international schools are expatriates or permanent residents.
| Quick facts | |
|---|---|
| School year (state schools) | January to November |
| School year (most international schools) | August to June |
| Who can attend international schools | Foreign residents freely; citizens need government approval |
| Main universities | Six autonomous universities, including NUS, NTU and SMU |
| Language of teaching | English at state schools and universities |
Schools
International schools teach IB, British, American, Australian, Canadian and many national curricula, including French, German, Japanese and Indian schools. Demand for places in some year groups is high, and a few popular schools run waiting lists. Fees vary widely, and most schools add an application fee and a one-off enrolment or development charge. It helps to compare a few schools in the same area, for example from a list of international schools in Singapore, before deciding where to rent.
Foreign children can apply for state school places, but places are limited and allocated after citizens and permanent residents, usually through a central admissions exercise. Most expatriate families use international schools.
Universities
Singapore's universities teach in English and attract students from across Asia. International students can apply for a government tuition grant, which lowers the fee but usually requires the graduate to work for a Singapore-registered company for three years after the degree. The terms are set out by each university and the Ministry of Education.
Before you apply
- Ask international schools about waiting lists for your child's year group as soon as a move is likely.
- Students thinking about the tuition grant should read the bond terms before accepting it.
- Rents near the most sought-after schools are high. Many families live further out and use school buses.
Directory entry, checked October 2026. Entries describe the education system in general terms and link to country listings.