Singapore is renowned for its high-quality education system, and its private schools are no exception. Whether you are an expatriate family looking for an international curriculum or a local parent seeking a more personalized educational approach, private schools in Singapore offer world-class facilities, diverse learning options, and exceptional teaching standards.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 private schools in Singapore, focusing on their unique strengths, academic programs, and why they are preferred by both locals and expats.
1. United World College of South East Asia (UWCSEA)
UWCSEA is one of the most prestigious private schools in Singapore, offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) from primary through high school. It is known for its global community, strong academic focus, and commitment to service learning.
- Curriculum: IB (Primary Years, Middle Years, and Diploma Programme)
- Campuses: Dover and East
- Ideal for: Expats and globally-minded families
2. Tanglin Trust School
Founded in 1925, Tanglin Trust is one of the oldest British international schools in Singapore. It provides a well-rounded education grounded in British traditions, with options for both the IB Diploma and A-Levels in the senior years.
- Curriculum: British (EYFS to A-Levels and IB)
- Location: Portsdown Road
- Ideal for: UK expats and families seeking academic rigor
3. Canadian International School (CIS)
CIS is a popular choice among North American expats and multicultural families. It offers a bilingual English-Chinese program and focuses on innovation, inquiry-based learning, and global citizenship.
- Curriculum: IB and Canadian
- Campuses: Lakeside and Tanjong Katong
- Ideal for: Expats seeking a North American learning experience
4. Singapore American School (SAS)
SAS is one of the largest and most well-established private schools in Singapore. Known for its state-of-the-art campus and extensive extracurricular programs, SAS follows the American curriculum and prepares students for leading U.S. universities.
- Curriculum: American with Advanced Placement (AP)
- Location: Woodlands
- Ideal for: American expats and families looking for holistic development
5. Dover Court International School
Part of the Nord Anglia Education group, Dover Court offers the English National Curriculum alongside IB and IGCSE programs. The school is inclusive and supports students with additional learning needs.
- Curriculum: British (IGCSE and IB)
- Location: Dover
- Ideal for: Families looking for a supportive and diverse community
6. Nexus International School
Nexus offers a contemporary learning experience with a strong emphasis on technology, creativity, and collaboration. It’s one of the more innovative private schools in Singapore, popular for its learner-centric environment.
- Curriculum: IB and British
- Location: Aljunied Walk
- Ideal for: Tech-savvy and progressive families
7. Stamford American International School
Stamford American blends the American curriculum with the IB framework and Advanced Placement options. It also offers a bilingual Mandarin-English program and an early years curriculum grounded in inquiry-based learning.
- Curriculum: American, IB, and AP
- Campuses: Woodleigh and Early Learning Village
- Ideal for: Families wanting multiple academic pathways
8. Hwa Chong International School
Hwa Chong is one of the few private schools in Singapore that offers a blend of Eastern and Western educational philosophies. With a strong emphasis on bilingual education and character development, it attracts both locals and international students.
- Curriculum: Integrated Programme and IB Diploma
- Location: Bukit Timah
- Ideal for: Families seeking academic excellence with Asian values
9. Global Indian International School (GIIS)
GIIS is a well-known international school catering especially to the Indian diaspora. It offers a range of curricula including CBSE, IB, and IGCSE, making it a flexible choice for families transitioning between countries.
- Curriculum: CBSE, IB, and IGCSE
- Campuses: Punggol and East Coast
- Ideal for: Indian expat families and those seeking value-for-money education
10. Australian International School (AIS)
AIS offers a seamless Australian curriculum from early years through to Year 12, with the IB Diploma Programme as a senior option. It’s a popular choice for Australian and New Zealand expat families.
- Curriculum: Australian and IB
- Location: Lorong Chuan
- Ideal for: Australian families and those seeking sports and arts enrichment
Top 10 Private Schools in Singapore for Expats and Locals
Singapore is widely known for its world-class education system, making it a top destination for both expats and locals seeking high-quality private schooling. With a wide range of curriculums, multicultural environments, and state-of-the-art facilities, private schools in Singapore provide students with the ideal platform for academic excellence and holistic development.
Here’s an in-depth look at the top 10 private schools in Singapore and what makes them stand out.
1. Singapore American School (SAS)
Curriculum: American
SAS is one of the most prestigious private schools in Singapore, offering a robust American curriculum with Advanced Placement (AP) options. It is especially popular among American expats but welcomes students of all nationalities. With excellent sports, arts, and academic programs, it’s known for producing well-rounded individuals.
2. Tanglin Trust School
Curriculum: British (IGCSE and A-Levels)
Founded in 1925, Tanglin is the oldest British international school in Southeast Asia. It provides a blend of traditional UK values with modern teaching methods, ensuring academic excellence and character development.
3. United World College of South East Asia (UWCSEA)
Curriculum: IB (International Baccalaureate)
UWCSEA is renowned for its global outlook and service-based learning. It’s one of the largest private schools in Singapore and is part of the global UWC network, promoting diversity, inclusion, and social responsibility.
4. Dover Court International School
Curriculum: British (IGCSE, IB, ASDAN)
Catering to students of all abilities, Dover Court focuses on inclusive education, offering support for students with special needs. It’s a popular choice among families seeking a more personal and supportive approach to learning.
5. Canadian International School (CIS)
Curriculum: IB and Canadian
CIS is known for its bilingual English-Chinese and English-French programs. It combines rigorous academics with a strong focus on innovation, making it a favorite among both Canadian and international families.
6. Chatsworth International School
Curriculum: IB (Primary Years to Diploma)
Chatsworth offers an affordable IB curriculum without compromising quality. With a focus on creativity, inquiry-based learning, and multicultural exposure, it’s a great choice for expats on a budget.
7. Stamford American International School (SAIS)
Curriculum: American + IB
SAIS uniquely offers both the IB Diploma and Advanced Placement programs. It emphasizes personalized learning pathways and has one of the most diverse student populations among private schools in Singapore.
Why Choose Private Schools in Singapore?
The reasons to opt for private schools in Singapore are numerous:
- Global Curriculum: Many private schools offer IB, IGCSE, AP, and other international curricula suited for expat transitions.
- Multicultural Environment: With students from around the world, these schools provide a truly international experience.
- Facilities and Resources: Private institutions often have cutting-edge facilities, including science labs, art studios, sports arenas, and tech integration.
- Teacher Quality: Teachers in private schools in Singapore are often trained internationally and bring diverse educational expertise.
- Language Programs: Many schools offer bilingual education in English and Mandarin, as well as other languages.
- Pathway to Global Universities: The high academic standards in private schools help students gain admission into top global universities.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re an expat moving to Singapore or a local parent seeking the best education for your child, private schools in Singapore offer exceptional opportunities. From rigorous academics and diverse curricula to nurturing environments and global exposure, these institutions provide everything your child needs to succeed in today’s competitive world.
