Children's education in Singapore: general knowledge
This page brings together general knowledge about children studying in Singapore: how international students enter government schools, choosing between government and international schools, and whether a parent can stay with the child. You can then use the planner to estimate how much to set aside for education.
FAQ
Can foreign children attend Singapore government schools?
Yes, but they need a Student's Pass, school fees are higher than for Citizen and PR students, and Citizens have priority for places. International students joining Primary 2 to Secondary 3 generally need to sit the Admissions Exercise for International Students (AEIS).
Source: Ministry of Education, MOE (moe.gov.sg); ICA (website: ica.gov.sg, moe.gov.sg)
How do I choose between a government school and an international school?
You can consider the curriculum (Singapore's local curriculum, IB, British, American, etc.), school fees, language of instruction, your child's adaptability, and future education pathways and destinations.
Source: MOE; school websites (website: moe.gov.sg)
Can a parent stay in Singapore with a child who studies here?
For some Student's Pass holders studying in Singapore, the mother or grandmother may apply to ICA for a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) to accompany the child, subject to ICA's conditions.
Source: ICA (website: ica.gov.sg)
Data as read on 1 October 2026. Policies may change; please refer to the latest official announcements, and consult a professional for your own situation.
Official references
- MOE: International students in government schools, AEIS www.moe.gov.sg (Search the site for: international students / AEIS)
- ICA: Student's Pass / Long-Term Visit Pass www.ica.gov.sg (Search the site for: Student's Pass / Long-Term Visit Pass)
Policies may change; please refer to the latest official announcements.
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