Singapore is one of Asia’s leading education hubs, home to a wide range of international schools catering to expatriate families. With its stable economy, strong employment opportunities, and diverse culture, the city-state attracts families from across the world relocating and seeking world-class education for their children. For those exploring the best schools in Singapore for expats, there is a wealth of options offering globally recognised curricula and diverse learning environments.
This guide explores what makes a school ideal for expats in Singapore, including curriculum options such as the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), IGCSE, and British GCE A-Levels. We also discuss factors to consider when choosing a school—and why Westbourne College (Singapore) is increasingly being recognised as a standout choice for globally minded families, offering an academically rigorous yet deeply nurturing alternative to the mainstream schools.
Education in Singapore
Singapore’s education system is well regarded, both in the public and international sectors. While local schools offer the national curriculum and GCE O-Levels, international schools in Singapore serve the diverse needs of the expatriate community, offering globally recognised programmes such as:
- International Baccalaureate (IB Programme)
- IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education)
- GCE A-Levels
- American Advanced Placement (AP)
- French Baccalauréat, German Abitur, and others
For many expat families in Singapore, the IB Diploma Programme is a preferred pathway due to its international recognition and strong university preparation. The IB programme is widely regarded as a gold standard for international education. As a result, it features prominently among the best schools in Singapore for expats.
Considerations When Choosing from the Best Schools in Singapore for Expats
When evaluating the best schools in Singapore for expat children, parents often consider:
- Curriculum: Is the school offering a globally recognised programme such as the IB Programme, IGCSE or A-Level? Does the curriculum suit my child?
- Transferability: How transferrable is this programme to my home country?
- Academic performance: How do students perform academically? What are the university destinations?
- Teaching approach: Are students supported individually? Is there emphasis on critical thinking and leadership?
- Class size: Do students receive personalised attention? Will my child be well supported in class?
- Facilities and location: Is the campus centrally located and accessible?
- Community: Is the school culturally inclusive with a warm, welcoming environment?
- Fees: Are tuition and additional costs transparent and reasonable?
For international families comparing the best schools in Singapore for expats, these factors help shape an informed decision that matches their child’s needs and future aspirations.