Enrolling In An International School In Singapore – The Guide & What To Prepare

Enrolling your child in an international school in Singapore doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right guidance and preparation, the process can be smooth and straightforward.

If you aren’t sure where to begin, this comprehensive guide will walk you through what to expect and how to prepare, ensuring that you’re well-equipped to make informed decisions and secure the best educational environment for your child.

Whether you’re a first-time parent or familiar with international school systems, this guide will provide the insights you need to successfully enrol your child in a Singapore international school.

The guide to enrolling in a Singapore international school – Your 5-step guide

1. Researching and choosing the right school

As there are many international schools across the island, it might feel like you’re spoilt for choice when you start the research process.

However, taking into consideration factors such as curriculum, location and fees can help you to filter out the schools that might not necessarily meet your individual preferences or requirements.

With different types of curricula out there – such as Australian, British and American – it helps to understand the key differences and learn about what they each have to offer, so that you make the best decision for your child.

Attending school visits and open houses would be a great way to get a better idea about what the institution is like. Also, speaking to current students and parents could give you more insights.

2. Understanding admission requirements

Navigating the admissions process at Singapore’s international schools can initially seem overwhelming, but gaining a clear understanding of the steps and requirements can significantly ease the journey.

The process generally involves several key stages, from initial inquiries and submitting applications to attending interviews or assessment tests.

Typically, the required documentation includes past academic records, recommendation letters, and proof of identity.

It’s important to note that eligibility criteria can vary greatly between schools – some institutions place a strong emphasis on academic performance, while others may adopt a more holistic approach, valuing co-curricular achievements and personal qualities.

Timelines are another crucial factor to consider. While many international schools in Singapore offer rolling admissions, certain peak periods can lead to a surge in applications. It is recommended to apply 6-12 months before your intended start date. 

Hence, planning ahead and adhering to deadlines can improve your child’s chances of securing a spot.

3. Financial planning

As parents, we would strive to provide our children with the best education possible. Having said that, financial planning is essential due to the varying tuition fees at international schools. These fees are often influenced by factors such as the institution’s reputation, the curriculum offered, and the quality of facilities.

On average, parents should be prepared to invest a significant amount annually in school fees – for primary students, around S$12,000 to S$41,000 and for secondary students, around S$12,000 to S$50,000 depending on the institution.

Apart from tuition fees, there would also be additional costs incurred due to other things such as uniforms, school bus, textbooks and co-curricular activities. Hence, it is important to have extra money set aside with this in mind.

However, some international schools try to make having a world-class education more accessible to a wider range of families by offering financial aid and scholarship options to help ease the financial burden.

4. Preparing your child academically and socially

For your child, adjusting to a new school in a foreign country is much more than simply getting used to a different education system.

After all, it involves a new school environment, making new friends, understanding different cultures and finding his or her place in a new community.

It helps to encourage your child to participate in orientation programs and co-curricular activities, so that he or she has opportunities to make friends and get comfortable with being in school.

Besides that, parental involvement can contribute to achieving a successful adaptation process.

Whether it’s through community events, volunteering or parent-teacher associations, you can actively participate and connect with the school community while providing support for your child.

5. The enrolment process

From application submission to the date of final acceptance, there will be key deadlines and timelines that need close attention. Staying organised is crucial to ensure that no important steps are overlooked.

It can be useful to communicate with the school’s admissions office as engaging with them early and often can provide valuable insights and allow you to clarify important details as well as get all your questions answered.

By staying informed and ensuring you meet all the required deadlines, you can confidently navigate the enrolment process and meet all the necessary requirements for your child’s application.

In the event you’re keen to explore this option, it could help to get in touch with the institution directly to learn more.

Let us be a part of your child’s study journey

With a clearer idea about the international school enrolment process and what you have to prepare for, it’s time to take that next step and get your child enrolled!

At AIS, we are committed to providing the best international education curriculum for your child, from pre-school to pre-university, so that he or she can have a strong start in an international school and maximise their experience for a better tomorrow. 

Book your tour today to get started!