Boarding Schools In Singapore

Boarding schools in Singapore are a popular choice for parents who are unable to reside with their children in Singapore for their senior education. Providing students with a comprehensive experience, boarding schools offer a wide range of academic options and opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities, including sports, music, arts, clubs, outdoor pursuits, community services, and leadership programs.

In the search for solutions to the demands of modern, busy lifestyles, boarding at an international school in Singapore could be a viable option. Although full boarding, where students reside on or off campus 24/7 during term time, remains limited in Singapore, there are a select number of international schools here that do offer it. Boarding can alleviate the challenges faced by families with frequent overseas travel or relocations, providing students with a supportive and enriching environment.

Consider the advantages: more rest, enjoyable movie and pizza nights, socializing with peers, daily hot breakfasts, and soothing hot chocolate before bedtime. Boarding can also serve as invaluable preparation for university life, offering students a taste of independent living and time management skills. Additionally, for students involved in early morning or late evening extracurricular activities, boarding reduces time spent commuting during the week, allowing for more rest and relaxation.

Unsure about boarding schools in Singapore? We’ve done the legwork for you; here’s a comprehensive list of schools along with some helpful tips on selecting the right boarding school for your child.

Anglo-Chinese School (International)

Anglo-Chinese School (International) (ACS International Singapore) was established in 2005 under the ownership of the Methodist Church of Singapore. Offering the IB Diploma programme, ACS International Singapore operates two student hostels: the ACS Independent Boarding School and Oldham Hall.

As one of Singapore’s three local international schools, alongside Hwa Chong International School and SJI International School, ACS International Singapore operates independently while receiving support from the Ministry of Education (MOE). These schools have the autonomy to set their own curricula and fees, fostering a diverse and international student community while ensuring that at least half of the students are Singaporean.

Boarding facilities are available for students aged 12 to 19 at Oldham Hall or the ACS (Independent) Boarding School, with priority given to ACS students. All international students residing in Singapore without their parents are required to board with the school.

The ACS (Independent) Boarding School, established in 1994, accommodates around 500 students and staff. Offering both double and single rooms with personal study areas, the boarding school is located a 20-30 minute bus ride from the main campus. Boarders receive daily meals and participate in a two-hour homework session each day, along with organized events by the Junior Common Room Committee. Weekly fees range from $400 to $495.

ACS Oldham Hall, Singapore’s longest-established boarding institution, houses over 300 students from local and international schools. Conveniently situated near Newton MRT station, the hall offers a variety of room options and amenities, including common rooms, a music room, dining hall, sports hall, tennis courts, and a swimming pool.

Dulwich College (Singapore)

Dulwich College (Singapore) (DCS) began offering boarding services in 2022, collaborating with ACS Oldham Hall to accommodate students aged 16 and above whose families reside outside Singapore.

Founded on the esteemed traditions of a British independent school, Dulwich College (Singapore) provides an enriched UK curriculum with a focus on Mandarin proficiency, offering both the IBDP and IBCP programs, along with innovative STEAM and global arts initiatives. However, being one of Singapore’s priciest schools, these offerings come at a considerable cost.

In partnership with ACS Oldham Hall, Dulwich College (Singapore) extends full boarding options for students aged 16-18. The annual boarding fee of $35,300 includes transportation from ACS Oldham Hall to the College on school days.

Australian International School (AIS)

Australian International School (AIS), located in Serangoon, provides education from ages two to 18, priding itself on its global focus and Australian identity. Embracing Singapore’s diverse expat community, AIS cultivates a warm and friendly atmosphere rooted in Australian culture.

Renowned for its diverse international pathways and expansive early years campus, AIS appeals to students from around the world. With a strong sporting tradition, AIS boasts top-notch facilities and specialized programs, making it a premier destination for sports education in Singapore.

AIS also offers a boarding program at ACS Oldham Hall (mentioned earlier) for students aged 12 and above (Grades 6 to 12) whose families reside outside Singapore.

St. Joseph’s Institution International

St. Joseph’s Institution International (SJI) offers boarding facilities at St. Andrew’s Hall, accommodating up to 600 students. Students at SJI prepare for IGCSE examinations and the IB Diploma Programme.

Situated in Toa Payoh, SJI is a Catholic school known for its strong academic performance, supportive pastoral care, and rigorous math education. Combining elements of the Singaporean and UK curricula alongside the IB programme, SJI International attracts expat students seeking high academic standards in a diverse environment.

Boarding is available from Grade 9 onward for students without parental or direct relative guardianship. St. Andrew’s Hall, a co-ed residence spanning 12 floors, provides communal study areas, a gymnasium, dance studio, and music room. Residential Mentors, who are SJI teachers, oversee student well-being. 

The boarding fee of $930 per month covers accommodation and meals. Transportation costs are not included in the monthly fee, with students traveling via public transport. Meals include breakfast and dinner on weekdays, and three meals (presumably all meals) on weekends and holidays.

UWCSEA

UWC South East Asia is a renowned K-12 school with two sprawling campuses in Singapore. With approximately 2,400 students at its East campus and over 3,000 at its Dover campus, UWCSEA caters to a diverse range of interests and backgrounds.

The school boasts more than 310 boarders aged 13 and above, hailing from 76 countries, with a significant portion receiving scholarships. Both campuses offer on-campus boarding facilities, with Dover providing four-bed rooms with attached bathrooms for all students, while East offers various accommodation styles based on grade level.

Annual boarding fees amount to S$41,472 per student With its impressive facilities and inclusive environment, UWCSEA provides opportunities for academic, athletic, and artistic pursuits for nearly every child.

Hillside World Academy(HWA): Hillside World Academy (HWA), formerly known as the Chinese International School, maintains a strong focus on Chinese language education while offering all three IB Programmes. With a commitment to providing a comprehensive educational experience, HWA ensures students develop proficiency in Chinese language and cultural understanding alongside their academic pursuits.

St Francis Methodist School: St. Francis Methodist School offers a diverse range of academic pathways, catering to students’ individual interests and goals. From Cambridge IGCSE and Singapore Cambridge GCSE O Level to the Australian Matriculation Programme in Years 9 and 10, students have the opportunity to explore various educational frameworks. Additionally, the school offers A Levels and the Western Australian Certificate of Education, providing students with a well-rounded academic experience. Accommodation options for students include ACS Oldham Hall and Nanyang Girls’ Boarding School, offering a supportive and enriching environment for learning and growth.

Stamford American School: Stamford American School, part of the Cognita World Schools network, collaborates with ACS Oldham Hall to offer premier boarding accommodations for students from Grades 6 to 12. With easily accessible facilities and amenities, Stamford ensures students have a comfortable and conducive environment for their academic and personal development. Through this partnership, students benefit from a holistic educational experience that extends beyond the classroom.