International Schools Near Expat Housing Singapore

Convenient access to schools ensures that children receive quality education while families enjoy the best of Singapore’s residential offerings.

This guide explores the top international schools across different regions and highlights nearby expat housing areas, giving families a clear picture of where to live and study in Singapore.

Why International Schools Matter for Expats

For many expatriates, international schools provide the best balance between quality education and cultural familiarity.

Curriculum Options: From IB (International Baccalaureate) to British, American, Australian, and French curricula, international schools in Singapore cater to diverse educational needs.
Smooth Transition: Children can continue with a familiar syllabus if they relocate again in the future.
Global Exposure: International schools emphasize multicultural learning, equipping students with adaptability and global perspectives.
Convenience for Families: Being close to both home and work reduces commuting stress, a vital consideration in urban Singapore.

Popular Expat Housing Areas in Singapore

Before diving into specific schools, it’s important to know where expatriates typically live. The most popular neighborhoods include:

Orchard Road & Tanglin: Central, upscale, and close to embassies.
Bukit Timah: Known for greenery and proximity to top schools.
East Coast & Katong: Family-friendly with spacious homes and easy access to beaches.
Holland Village: Vibrant community lifestyle popular among expats.
Sentosa: Waterfront luxury living.
Tampines & Pasir Ris: Growing eastern hubs with affordable family housing.

International Schools Near Orchard Road & Tanglin

Expat families who choose Orchard or Tanglin enjoy city-center living close to embassies, luxury condos, and shopping. Several international schools are within easy reach:

ISS International School – Offering the IB curriculum, ideal for families seeking an inquiry-based learning environment.
Chatsworth International School – A boutique-style school with a strong community feel, located just minutes from Orchard.
Chinese International School – Catering to bilingual education, attractive for families who value Asian language integration alongside global learning.

Housing here includes luxury condos, serviced apartments, and high-rise penthouses, perfect for families who want convenience and city living.

International Schools Near Bukit Timah

Bukit Timah is the heart of Singapore’s education belt. It is one of the most popular choices for expat families thanks to its leafy surroundings and cluster of prestigious schools.

Singapore American School (SAS) – Known for its comprehensive American curriculum and extensive facilities.
Dulwich College Singapore – Offering a British curriculum with a focus on both academics and performing arts.
Canadian International School (Lakeside Campus) – Located near Jurong Lake, but easily accessible from Bukit Timah. It provides a global curriculum with a strong reputation.

Bukit Timah is home to large landed houses, semi-detached homes, and luxury condominiums. Families who prioritize school proximity often settle here.

International Schools Near East Coast & Katong

The East Coast area is beloved by families who enjoy outdoor lifestyles, larger homes, and proximity to the beach. International schools nearby include:

United World College of South East Asia (East Campus) – Renowned for its IB curriculum, diverse student body, and impressive facilities.
NPS International School – Offers Indian curriculum options as well as global education frameworks.
Overseas Family School (OFS) – A school with a multicultural environment that provides IB and international programs.

Expat housing in East Coast and Katong ranges from spacious condominiums to landed properties, making it perfect for families with children who need space.

International Schools Near Holland Village

Holland Village is a trendy, community-driven enclave popular with expats for its lifestyle amenities, cafés, and connectivity. Several international schools are accessible from this area:

Tanglin Trust School – A leading British international school offering education from nursery to sixth form.
Hwa Chong International School – Known for blending local strengths with international education.
ACS International – Offers a globally recognized curriculum and strong emphasis on character building.

Housing near Holland Village includes high-end condominiums and cluster houses, appealing to professionals who want a lively yet family-friendly environment.

International Schools Near Sentosa

Sentosa is Singapore’s premier resort-style island, popular among families who want waterfront living. While schools are not located directly on Sentosa, nearby options include:

International French School (IFS) – Offering a French curriculum, located within driving distance from Sentosa.
Stamford American International School – Provides both IB and American curricula, a short commute away.
ISS International School (Paterson Campus) – Accessible from Sentosa via major expressways.

Sentosa’s housing includes luxury villas, waterfront bungalows, and sea-view condos, offering a lifestyle unmatched anywhere else in Singapore.

International Schools Near Tampines & Pasir Ris

The eastern part of Singapore, including Tampines and Pasir Ris, has become increasingly attractive for families due to its affordability and well-planned housing. Several schools cater to the growing expat population here:

Middleton International School (Tampines Campus) – Known for its affordable fees and UK-based curriculum.
Overseas Family School (nearby access) – A convenient option for families in this region.
Nexus International School – Located slightly further west but easily accessible from Tampines via expressways.

Housing here is more affordable compared to central regions, offering executive condominiums, HDB flats, and family-sized apartments, making it suitable for young expat families.

Choosing the Right School and Housing Combo

When deciding on international schools near expat housing in Singapore, families should consider:

Commute Time: Proximity between school and home is crucial for children’s well-being.
Curriculum Fit: Choose a curriculum aligned with long-term relocation plans.
Lifestyle Preferences: Waterfront, city-center, or suburban greenery each offer different living experiences.
Budget: Central areas and Sentosa command higher housing costs, while East Coast and Tampines offer more affordable options.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right balance between international schools and expat housing in Singapore is key to ensuring a smooth transition for families. From the education-rich neighborhood of Bukit Timah to the beachside appeal of East Coast and the resort-style charm of Sentosa, Singapore provides a wide spectrum of choices for families seeking both luxury and convenience.

For expatriates, the good news is that no matter which part of Singapore you choose, there will always be top-quality international schools nearby. This combination of excellent education and premium housing makes Singapore one of the most family-friendly destinations in Asia for global citizens.