
													Paying tuition fees for an international school in Singapore can be extremely costly; at best, it is a privilege, and at worst, it’s simply unattainable. Thankfully, a range of schools offer different scholarships to international students. While most international schools don’t run long-term scholarship programs, many announce scholarships individually. Little Steps has a round-up of all the schools that offer diverse scholarships yearly and has a track record of happy scholars. The application processes are detailed and often rigorous. Children who excel have the opportunity to receive financial aid, nurturing, recognition, and support to help them develop their excellence.
A scholarship is a financial aid awarded to gifted students for their education. Scholarships can range in generosity from partial to full tuition coverage. Generally, they are awarded based on criteria, including academic merit, diversity and inclusion, athletic skills, or financial needs. The recipient might have to meet specific criteria, such as maintaining grades or engaging in various activities.
International education in Singapore is highly regarded, offering internationally recognized qualifications, state-of-the-art facilities, and world-renowned curriculums delivered by multilingual educators. Students have access to music, art, and drama studios and a wide range of after-school programs, clubs, and sports. This holistic educational experience prepares them for exam success, fosters a lifelong love of learning, and sets them on a bright and prosperous future.
For families seeking elite primary and secondary education options in Singapore, Little Steps Asia has created a comprehensive guide to help navigate the diverse landscape of schools. This guide covers everything from award-winning preschools and local institutions to globally recognized schools.
Whether you’re new to the city, searching for the right school for the first time, or considering a switch, this guide is invaluable.
There is a growing selection of merit-based scholarships in Singapore, some of which can cover entire tuition fees. These scholarships are highly competitive and often involve rigorous application processes. While specific scholarships are exclusively available to Singaporean permanent residents, others are open to students of all nationalities and residency statuses.
Scholarships support underprivileged children in Singapore, allowing them to attend their chosen international school. Additionally, newer schools in Singapore, particularly those granted land or infrastructure by the Ministry of Education (MOE), are mandated to offer scholarships.
| Criteria | Details | 
|---|---|
| Qualification Criteria | Scholarships are available to students aged 8 (Year 4) to 17 (Year 13). Many are open to international students, but having a Singaporean Identity Card or Permanent Resident status may be required. Scholarships are offered to both new and returning students. | 
| Covered Expenses | Coverage varies from 10% to 100% of tuition fees. Additional costs such as uniforms, books, meals, building fund fees, and capital levies may still need to be paid by parents. | 
| Application Guidelines | Application deadlines are usually around March for the upcoming academic year, which starts in September. Each school has its own criteria and processes, so checking the specific school’s website is advisable. Meeting deadlines is crucial for consideration. | 
| Scholarship Duration | Duration varies; some scholarships cover two years (e.g., for the IB Diploma, A Levels, or IGCSE), while others may last throughout a student’s time at the school, subject to yearly reviews. | 
| Non-Academic Scholarships | Many schools award scholarships for exceptional talents in sports, music, and the arts. Schools value proficiency in sports, arts, leadership, and community involvement alongside academic excellence. | 
| Scholarships Versus Bursaries | Scholarships are merit-based, while bursaries are allocated based on financial need. Some institutions offer bursaries or financial aid for parents facing challenges in covering school fees. | 
									Brighton College (Singapore) offers a premier education for children aged 18 months to 14 years, emphasizing Curiosity, Confidence, and Kindness. This nurturing environment empowers pupils to excel academically, socially, and emotionally, preparing them for future success.
The school has introduced Senior School Academic Scholarships to recognize outstanding academic achievement and potential. Open to pupils applying for Years 7 to 10 for the 2025/26 academic year, these scholarships provide financial support for up to five years, depending on the year of entry, and include access to the exclusive Brighton Scholars' Society. Scholars participate in enrichment programs that enhance critical thinking, debate, and academic skills, with further scholarship opportunities available for Years 12 and 13.
Part of the prestigious Brighton College family, whose UK founding school was named ‘United Kingdom School of the Decade’ by The Sunday Times, Brighton College (Singapore) upholds a holistic approach to education and personal development. Applications for Senior School Academic Scholarships are now open, with a deadline of February 1, 2025. Apply today to join this legacy of excellence!
Brighton College (Singapore), 1 Chuan Lane, Singapore 554299, +65 6505 9790, brightoncollege.edu.sg
									XCL World Academy is committed to delivering a personalized, innovative, and high-quality curriculum that prepares tomorrow's leaders. The brand embodies excellence, boldness, and passion.
Unlock your child’s potential with an Academic Scholarship at XCL World Academy, where we are dedicated to nurturing the next generation of global leaders, visionaries, and changemakers. Our prestigious Academic Scholarship Programme offers a unique opportunity for exceptional new students who showcase outstanding academic performance, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to learning. Whether your child is entering Grade 6 or preparing for the IB Diploma Programme, this scholarship provides substantial tuition support, along with access to state-of-the-art facilities, world-class educators, and a rigorous, internationally recognized curriculum that paves the way to top universities worldwide. Exclusively available to new students, these scholarships are in high demand and come with a competitive selection process, so we encourage early inquiries to secure a place.
XCL World Academy, 2 Yishun Street 42, Singapore, +65 6230 4230, admissions@xwa.edu.sg, https://www.xwa.edu.sg/
									At One World International School (OWIS), it is believed that every student deserves access to a world-class education essential for success in today's global economy. Eligible children may benefit from an OWIS scholarship if they meet the necessary criteria. OWIS strives to foster a multicultural community enriched by students from diverse backgrounds and interests, ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to join the OWIS family. To support this vision, the school offers several scholarship programmes designed for students who have demonstrated academic excellence, as well as financial assistance for eligible families.
The commitment to the scholarship programme is long-term, as OWIS seeks to instill a passion for learning in its students and reinforce the idea that hard work leads to rewards. The school understands that access to quality education is vital for fostering lifelong learners and is confident that its scholars will emerge as global citizens contributing meaningfully to society.
With a limited number of scholarships available, interested families are encouraged to apply early for merit-based and means-based scholarships.
One World International School, Nanyang Campus, 21 Jurong West Street 81, Singapore, Suntec Campus, 1 Raffles Boulevard, Singapore, +65 6914 6700, admissions@owis.org, https://owis.org/sg/
									At Canadian International School (CIS) Singapore, the school celebrates talent and excellence through its comprehensive scholarship programme. Designed for outstanding students in academics, performing arts, and athletics, our scholarships empower individuals to reach their full potential. Whether you're an aspiring scholar, a passionate artist, or a dedicated athlete, they provide resources and opportunities tailored to your strengths. Applications are accepted year-round, with specific deadlines for each academic year. Join CIS and experience a transformative education that nurtures creativity, intellectual growth, and athletic prowess. The best part? They are quick to let you know the results. CIS aims to complete the review process within 14 days of the respective closing date.
Types Of Scholarships Offered for Secondary Students At CIS:
Canadian School Singapore Lakeside Campus, Lakeside Campus, 7 Jurong West Street 41, Singapore 649414, +65 6467 1732 https://www.cis.edu.sg/admissions/scholarships
									Established in 2002, the Global Indian International School is a leading international institution in Singapore, dedicated to delivering a skills-based education to students from Kindergarten to Grade 12. With campuses in Punggol and the East Coast, GIIS nurtures well-rounded individuals, equipping them with the confidence and preparedness to navigate future challenges. Explore the various scholarship opportunities at GIIS Singapore, a gateway to academic excellence and a promising future for your child.
For a limited time, the SG60 Scholarship is available to students in Singapore outside the GIIS community. This merit-based scholarship aims to promote academic excellence and nurture future-ready global citizens. Scholarship awards will be determined based on performance in the scholarship examination for Grades 3-9 and Pre-Board/Board exam results for Grade 11. For Grade 11 applicants, submissions should include Pre-Board/Board/Public Examination results (CBSE, ICSE, IGCSE, IBMYP, GCSE). Click here!
Global Indian International School, SMART Campus, 27 Punggol Field Walk, East Coast Campus, 82 Cheviot Hill, Singapore, +65 6914 7100, admissions.sg@globalindianschool.org, https://singapore.globalindianschool.org/
									Dulwich College (Singapore) offers a variety of scholarships to recognize and reward exceptional achievements, providing deserving students with the opportunity to pursue their passions and excel in their chosen fields. Committed to equal opportunities, these scholarships are both merit-based and means-tested, ensuring access to a world-class education for students from all backgrounds. The college fosters a supportive environment that empowers students to reach their full potential and become leaders in their respective fields.
Dulwich College Singapore, 71 Bukit Batok West Avenue 8, Singapore, +65 6890 1003, admissions.singapore@dulwich.org, https://singapore.dulwich.org/
									Inaugurated in the academic year 2007-08, the IB Diploma Programme scholarship at Chatsworth has awarded over 75 scholarships to date. The program recognizes students not only for their exceptional academic performance but also for their contributions to the broader Chatsworth community.
Each academic year, a limited number of scholarships are available for both internal and external applicants based on merit. The full scholarship, valued at approximately S$90,000 (covering the two-year IB Diploma Programme), pays for 100% of school fees and includes a new MacBook laptop. Full scholarships are open to both internal and external candidates, while partial scholarships are available only to current Chatsworth students, contingent on meeting specific criteria.
Academic performance is the primary factor in awarding IB scholarships, with community involvement and co-curricular activities also considered. Candidates must meet the following requirements:
Chatsworth International School, 72 Bukit Tinggi Road, Singapore, +65 6463 3201, admissions.bt@chatsworth.com.sg, https://www.chatsworth.com.sg/
									UWCSEA, established in 1971 as Singapore International School, has evolved into a K–12 international school with a diverse student body of over 5,600 students across two campuses. The institution is renowned for its holistic education, combining academics, activities, outdoor education, personal and social development, and service. This comprehensive approach encourages students to think critically, understand sustainable development, embrace cultural diversity, and address complex global issues. The curriculum is concept-based, focusing on developing transferable ideas rather than mere knowledge acquisition. UWCSEA's commitment to diversity enriches the learning experience, fostering deep understanding and respect for others.
Scholarship Applications through UWC National Committees: Full and partial scholarships are available across all UWC schools and colleges. These scholarships are awarded through the network of over 150 UWC national committees around the globe, rather than directly by individual schools. If you are interested in applying for a scholarship at UWCSEA or another UWC, please contact the UWC national committee in your home country. They will inform you about the scholarships they have available and the details of their annual selection process, which can differ by country.
Scholarship recipients are selected based on their potential and promise. As part of the evaluation process, national committees perform a financial means assessment. If selected, the scholarship amount will be based on the applicant's demonstrated financial need.
Scholarships for Students from Singapore: The UWC Singapore national committee has a longstanding tradition of selecting Singaporean students for the two-year IB Diploma Programme at UWCs worldwide. These comprehensive scholarships are awarded through an annual selection process that is fully managed by the UWC Singapore national committee.
United World College, Dover Campus, 1207 Dover Road, Singapore, +65 6305 5353 and East Campus, 1 Tampines Street 73, Singapore, +65 6774 2653, admissionsdover@uwcsea.edu.sg, admissionseast@uwcsea.edu.sg, https://www.uwcsea.edu.sg
									SJI International Schools, comprising the High School established in 2007 and the Elementary School in 2008, are integral parts of a rich Lasallian tradition in Singapore that traces back to 1852. These schools, driven by a team of devoted SJI Alumni, aim to provide students with life-changing educational experiences. Dedicated to cultivating a profound love for learning, nurturing curiosity, and fostering the pursuit of excellence, SJI International emphasizes holistic development. While welcoming students from diverse backgrounds and faiths, the school remains firmly rooted in Catholic values to "Learn, Inspire, and Serve," enabling students to learn and live as Lasallian individuals dedicated to serving others.
SJI International's mission centers on enabling students to learn and live as Lasallian people for others, with a deep commitment to their well-being. Through its Scholarship Programme, the school seeks outstanding young leaders who demonstrate excellence, active participation in non-academic activities, positive personal qualities, and strong communication skills. These scholarships encompass merit-based opportunities for Singaporean citizens and permanent residents, means-tested scholarships for local students, and merit-based scholarships for current Grade 10 students enrolled at SJI International. Additionally, merit-based and means-tested scholarships are available for students across Asia pursuing the IB Diploma.
St. Joseph's Institution International, 490 Thomson Road, Singapore, +65 6871 5202, https://www.sji-international.com.sg/
Below are International Schools offering scholarships in Singapore:
Financial Support Programs Are Available Below:
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