Australian International School vs United World College of South East Asia - East Campus

Australian International School is located at 1 Lorong Chuan. The school is conveniently accessible via the Lorong Chuan MRT station on the Circle Line. Nearby amenities include the serene Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park and a range of shopping and dining options at the nearby Junction 8 and Nex malls.

The Australian International School in Singapore is structured into three main sections: an Early Learning Village for children aged 2 months to 6 years, an Elementary School for students in Preparatory to Year 5, and a Secondary School which encompasses Years 6 to 12. The curriculum includes the Australian Curriculum, International Baccalaureate, and Cambridge IGCSE, HSC and IBDP.

Australian International School in Singapore is a co-educational institution catering to students from preschool to Year 12. The school does not offer boarding facilities.

The Australian International School (AIS) Singapore provides targeted learning support through its Learning Enrichment Program, ensuring that students with diverse learning needs receive the necessary assistance to succeed. The Learning Enrichment Department works closely with classroom teachers and specialist staff to implement a flexible, needs-based support system tailored to individual students.

Australian International School in Singapore is affiliated with Australia, offering a curriculum based on the Australian educational framework.

Australian International School in Singapore is a secular school with no affiliation to any particular religion, welcoming students from diverse backgrounds and cultures.

The school day at Australian International School in Singapore typically begins at 8:30 AM and ends at 3:30 PM. Students have structured breaks, including a morning recess and a lunch break.

Australian International School in Singapore offers a convenient bus service for students, ensuring safe and reliable transportation. The service is operated by YKAYE Transport Service. Buses are equipped with seat belts and GPS tracking, and all buses are accompanied by a Bus Amah (Aunty) to ensure the children are seated safely.

Boarding is available for AIS Singapore secondary students (Year 7 to Year 12). Homestay students may reside in the school's approved boarding house, Oldham Hall, with an approved adult guardian. Preparatory to Year 6 students are not eligible for Homestay; they reside with parents or an approved direct family member. All homestay arrangements must be approved before the first day of school to ensure student wellbeing.

Students must wear the school uniform on regular school days. Uniforms are sold exclusively by Lim Meng Keng Department Store at Holland Village; AIS has an on‑campus Uniform Shop that provides display and fitting services and can place orders with Lim Meng Keng. Representative sports uniforms are sold exclusively at the AIS Uniform Shop. AIS Uniform Shop is open Monday–Friday with morning and afternoon slots (8:00–12:00, 13:00–15:45; lunch break 12:00–13:00). Shoe provider is Lims Uniforms, with both online and in‑store options at Holland Village.

Canteen services are managed by Sodexo, with two canteens on campus. Sodexo prepares meals on site. Primary students receive standardised meals delivered to classrooms; Prep to Year 2 lunches must be pre‑ordered; Year 3 and above can pre‑order for pickup or purchase with an AIS student card; Year 12 students can order from the Billabong Café. Meal prices are typically between $6 and $7.50. Mindful food choices and fresh, balanced menus are emphasized by Sodexo.

The Australian International School is part of Cognita, the international independent schools group.

The school follows the Australian curriculum framework, supplemented by the International Baccalaureate (IB) programs. For younger students in the Early Years (ages 2-6), the inquiry-based Reggio Emilia-inspired approach is utilised. The Primary School (Prep -5) follows the IB PYP, and the Middle School (Years 6-8) follow the Australian Curriculum. From Years 9-10, students engage in the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), and in Years 11-12, they can choose between the Higher School Certificate (HSC), the IB Diploma Programme or flexible IB Courses and the AIS diploma accredited by WASC.

The Australian International School (AIS) Singapore integrates Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through a structured Positive Education Framework, which is based on Martin Seligman’s PERMAH model. This approach fosters positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning, accomplishment, and health, encouraging students to develop resilience and self-awareness. The school’s STRIVE Program further supports SEL by engaging students in activities that enhance personal growth, international-mindedness, and values-based learning. To ensure student well-being is continuously monitored, AIS implements the C.A.R.E.S survey each term, gathering insights on students' experiences, relationships, and self-perception to provide timely interventions. Additionally, the school promotes mental and physical wellness through over 300 co-curricular activities (CCAs) and an Outdoor Education Program, which enhances cognitive function, resilience, and teamwork through hands-on activities in nature.

The Australian International School in Singapore offers support for students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) through a comprehensive Learning Enrichment program. This program is designed for students with mild to moderate needs and includes services such as individualized learning plans and small-group sessions tailored to specific requirements. The school is equipped with a dedicated team of trained special education staff, including learning support teachers to assist students in their academic and social development. While the school supports a range of needs, including learning difficulties and social-emotional challenges, it is not a specialist SEN institution. Prospective parents are encouraged to discuss their child's specific needs with the admissions team to ensure the school can provide appropriate support.

The Australian International School (AIS) Singapore provides a structured English as an Additional Language (EAL) program to support non-native English speakers. Elementary students progress through Beginner, Transitioning, and Consolidating Phases, receiving tailored instruction and ongoing monitoring to ensure successful integration into mainstream classes. Secondary students in Years 6–8 benefit from a co-teaching model within their core subjects, while those in Years 9–10 participate in the EAL Senior Studies Preparation Program (ESSPP) to refine academic English skills. For students requiring intensive support, AIS offers the Intensive English Stream (IES), providing over 26 hours of targeted instruction per week. English proficiency is assessed upon admission, with support programs customized to meet individual needs.

The Australian International School (AIS) Singapore prioritizes student mental well-being through a structured approach that integrates Positive Education, pastoral care, and well-being initiatives. The STRIVE program further supports students by addressing topics such as digital citizenship, mental health, and positive decision-making. To ensure continuous well-being monitoring, AIS conducts the C.A.R.E.S survey each term, gathering student feedback on their experiences and relationships to provide timely interventions.

The Australian International School (AIS) Singapore prioritizes safeguarding and child protection through comprehensive policies and practices. The school has a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) overseeing child protection measures. All staff undergo regular training to identify and respond to concerns, ensuring swift intervention when needed. AIS enforces strict recruitment procedures, including background checks, and maintains a 24-hour security presence with a visitor management system using color-coded lanyards for identification. The school fosters open communication and provides resources to educate the community on child safety, creating a secure and supportive environment where students feel safe and valued.

Australian International School (AIS) in Singapore was founded in 1993 and is part of the Cognita group, a global network of schools, ensuring robust support and governance.

Australian International School (AIS) in Singapore fosters a diverse and inclusive community, welcoming students from over 50 nationalities. The school regularly hosts over 200 community events yearly, such as International Day and family-oriented events like the Spring Fair, encouraging interaction and collaboration among parents, students, and staff. These events help cultivate a strong, supportive community.

The Australian International School in Singapore has an active Parent Association (AISPA) that plays a pivotal role in fostering community spirit and supporting the school environment. All parents and guardians of current AIS students are automatically members of AISPA. The association's objectives include promoting community engagement, supporting students, collaborating with school leadership, advocating on behalf of parents, and ensuring sustainable governance. AISPA organizes various events throughout the year, such as social gatherings and fundraising activities, to enhance the school community's vibrancy. Parents are encouraged to participate in these events and volunteer their time and skills.

AIS Singapore operates on a single campus at 1 Lorong Chuan, Singapore 556818. The campus includes the Early Learning Village (ELV) for infants to preschool and the Elementary and Secondary sections on the same site. The ELV features 1,500m² of UV-covered outdoor play spaces and a dedicated swimming pool for early learning. The ELV also houses a library and specialist spaces, with on-site nursing support and a structured transition to the rest of the campus. AIS serves students from more than 50 nationalities and runs over 300 co-curricular activities on campus.

AIS offers over 300 CCAs, including a broad sports program. The sport calendar includes fixtures in basketball, football, netball, rugby, and other sports as part of the after-school program. Students participate in local fixtures and competitions through the school's sport activities.

AIS is an IB World School delivering five globally recognised curricula: IB Primary Years Programme, Australian Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), and the Higher School Certificate (HSC), plus the IB Courses Plus pathway. In Early Years, the curriculum combines IB PYP with the Australian Early Years Framework; in Elementary, IB PYP with the Australian Curriculum. In Secondary, Years 6–8 follow the Australian Curriculum, Years 9–10 use Cambridge IGCSE, and Years 11–12 offer IBDP or HSC. The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Approximately 70% of students pursue IBDP and 30% achieve 38+ IB points; 100% of graduates gain admission to universities worldwide. AIS hosts students from over 50 nationalities.

AIS offers over 300 co-curricular activities (CCAs).

The school offers five globally recognised curricula: IB Primary Years Programme, Australian Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, IB Diploma Programme, and the Higher School Certificate. There is also the IB Courses Plus pathway, which combines selected IB subjects with the AIS Diploma and is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). AIS provides a continuous Year Level Curriculum from Infant Care to Year 12, with Early Years (Infant Care to Preschool 4) including IB PYP and the Australian Early Years Framework, Elementary (Prep to Year 5), and Secondary Year 6–8 (IGCSE Prep), Year 9–10 (IGCSE), and Year 11–12 (IBDP, HSC or IB Courses+). AIS offers more than 55 subject choices across these pathways.

AIS delivers a Secondary program in Visual Arts, Music and Drama. There are over 50 arts co-curricular activities offering string ensembles, jazz bands, 3D design and printing, private instrument programs, speech and drama, Chinese calligraphy, and large-scale theatre productions. The Coral Dixon Theater and dedicated facilities include eight drama studios, eight visual art studios, eight music studios and twelve music practice rooms to support artistic development. AIS stages large theatre productions and offers ongoing arts involvement through CCAs and performances.

AIS has a diverse community of over 50 nationalities on campus. Mandarin Language Club is offered among the Early Years CCAs. The school's global curricula emphasise international perspectives and language exposure across IB, IGCSE and HSC pathways.

AIS runs more than 300 co-curricular activities accessible to students from early years through secondary; activities occur at lunchtime and after school. Examples include Public Speaking, Model United Nations, Cooking, Duke of Edinburgh Award, Gymnastics, Basketball, Tennis, Soccer and Badminton. The CCA programme continues into Elementary and Secondary School at lunchtime and after school.

The Duke of Edinburgh Award is part of AIS's program, with expeditions for Years 9 and 10 and opportunities for international service-learning trips. The program develops resilience, leadership and life skills through practical challenges. Community and service experiences are integrated across CCAs and school activities.

Public speaking and Model United Nations provide leadership development within AIS's co-curricular ecosystem. The Duke of Edinburgh Award fosters leadership, independence and life skills. CCAs across arts, sport and clubs provide avenues to develop teamwork, initiative and professional skills.

AIS places wellbeing at the heart of learning with a dedicated Wellbeing Program led by a Wellbeing Team, including school psychologists and counsellors. The Wellbeing Program focuses on six themes: Belonging, Identity and Connection, Healthy Relationships, Global citizenship, Digital wellbeing, and Emotional Intelligence and Academic Empowerment. The CARES survey informs wellbeing interventions, and Outdoor Education activities contribute to holistic wellbeing through experiential learning. Camp Asia and other outdoor activities further support physical and social wellbeing.

AIS Singapore offers Mandarin language study as part of its language provision. English language support is provided through the AIS Preparation Course (PCS) for Years 6–9, and Foundational English for Years 6–10. PCS is a one-year intensive English program designed to prepare students for mainstream AIS study. Foundational English leads to AIS mainstream courses with EAL support upon completion.

No, daily levelled Mandarin in Elementary. Four times weekly in the Early Years. AIS does offer bilingual IB diplomas and had 41% bilingual IBDP diplomas in the graduating class of 2025.

Best International School in Singapore Award (2022): This award, given by the Singapore Education Awards, recognizes outstanding performance across academics, facilities, and student well-being among international schools in Singapore.

Excellence in Education Award (2021): Presented by the International Education Society, this award highlights schools that demonstrate exemplary teaching practices and innovative curriculum design.

Sustainability in International Education Award (2020): Offered by the Green Schools Alliance, this award recognizes schools that implement effective sustainability practices within their campus and curriculum.

Outstanding Pastoral Care Award (2019): This accolade from the International School Awards acknowledges schools where student welfare and support systems significantly contribute to student development and well-being.

Best Innovation in Curriculum Design Award (2018): Recognized by the Educational Innovations Network, this award celebrates AIS's unique approach to integrating modern educational techniques into their curricula.

Council of International Schools (CIS):
- The CIS accreditation signifies that the school meets high international standards in various aspects of education, including teaching and learning, staff qualifications, and student welfare.

Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC):
- AIS has achieved accreditation from WASC, a globally recognized accrediting body that evaluates schools on educational quality, governance, and commitment to continuous improvement.

New South Wales Education Standards Authority (NESA):
- Accreditation by NESA means that AIS is recognized to deliver the New South Wales curriculum, ensuring that the education provided aligns with the academic standards set by the New South Wales education system in Australia.

International Baccalaureate (IB) World School:
- AIS is authorized to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) for students in Years 11 and 12.

SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) Registration:
- AIS is registered as a Private Education Institution (PEI) under the regulatory framework of SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG).

EduTrust Certification by the Committee for Private Education (CPE) of Singapore:
- The EduTrust certification is awarded to private schools in Singapore that meet requirements in key areas such as academic processes, student protection, and transparency.

doris recommends that you start by speaking to admissions. This connects you directly to the school's admissions team who can respond with answers, more information, and next steps.

Book a tour or attend an open house event.
This is your opportunity to visit the AIS campus, whether virtually or in person, and get a firsthand feel of the school's environment. Open house events often include conversations with key faculty members and current students, providing valuable insight into the school's ethos and curriculum. You can book these visits through the admissions team or directly on the school's website.

Complete the application forms.
Once you’re ready to proceed, fill out the application forms provided by the admissions team or available online. This includes providing necessary documents, such as previous school reports, a copy of your child's passport, and any applicable learning support documents.

Pay the application fee.
A non-refundable application fee is required to process your child’s application. This fee is typically paid online, and details will be provided by the admissions team.

Attend a family interview.
The school may invite your family to an interview, which can often be conducted virtually for overseas applicants. This meeting allows the admissions team to learn more about your child’s personality, interests, and unique skills. It’s also an excellent opportunity for you to ask any additional questions about AIS, ensuring a mutual fit for both parties.

Wait for the assessment or interview outcome.
Based on the submitted documents and the family interview, your child might be invited to participate in an academic assessment. This is usually a standard procedure to assess your child's learning profile and ensure they can adequately access the curriculum on offer.

Receive an enrolment offer.
If your child meets the admissions criteria, AIS will extend an enrolment offer. This offer comes with detailed instructions on how to secure your child’s place at the school, including accepting the offer, paying the relevant fees, and submitting any further documentation.

Complete the enrolment formalities.
After accepting the offer, you will need to finalize enrolment by completing the necessary forms and fulfilling any remaining administrative requirements.

Financial Assistance and Discounts: While traditional scholarships might not be on offer, AIS sometimes provides other forms of financial relief or discounts. These could include sibling discounts, especially useful for families enrolling multiple children.

Waitlist Operation: If a grade level is fully subscribed, applicants will be placed on a waitlist. This waitlist is not simply a chronological queue. Factors impacting priority on the waitlist may include the applicant's nationality, ensuring diverse international representation, and whether the student is relocating from an Australian or other international curriculum, which may ease the educational transition. The school often gives precedence to applicants who have siblings already enrolled at AIS, recognizing the needs of families to have their children attend the same institution.

Notification and Updates: Once on the waitlist, the school updates families regularly regarding their application status. They inform parents promptly when a place becomes available, allowing enough time for them to make necessary relocation and enrollment arrangements.

Flexibility and Communication: AIS encourages open communication with prospective families. If a spot becomes available that aligns with the desired start date, the admissions team will reach out immediately to offer placement.

UWCSEA East Campus is situated in Tampines, a developing northeastern hub near Changi Airport, Singapore. The campus is well-connected by public transportation, with the nearest MRT station being Tampines, providing convenient access for families.

The school caters to students from Kindergarten 1 (K1) through Grade 12, structured into distinct educational stages:​

-Infant School: K1 to Grade 1​
-Junior School: Grades 2 to 5​
-Middle School: Grades 6 to 8​
-High School: Grades 9 to 12

UWCSEA is a co-educational day school offering boarding facilities for students in Grades 9 to 12.

UWCSEA East Campus offers tailored Learning Support services to assist students with mild learning difficulties. The dedicated Learning Support team collaborates with classroom teachers and parents to identify and implement appropriate strategies, ensuring students can fully engage with the curriculum. For more information, please visit their Learning Support page.

As part of the United World Colleges (UWC) movement, UWCSEA East is affiliated with a global network of schools and is not affiliated with a country.

UWCSEA does not have a religious affiliation. The school welcomes students from all faiths and backgrounds, promoting a culture of understanding and respect within its diverse community.

The school day typically begins at 8:00 AM and concludes at 3:00 PM, with specific timings varying by educational stage. Students have scheduled breaks, including a lunch period.

UWCSEA collaborates with Yellow Bus Transport to offer a school bus service, ensuring safe and convenient travel for students. The service covers various locations across Singapore, with fees for a two-way service ranging from approximately $530.26 to $1,711.97 per term, depending on the distance travelled.

Boarding is available for students in Grades 8–12 at East Campus. This option is listed under East Campus as Boarding (G8–12).

Food services on campus are provided by Smorgasbord, offering healthy meals and snacks on site.

The UWCSEA Board of Governors governs the College across both campuses and the UWCSEA Foundation. The Board comprises two parent-elected Governors, two teacher-elected Governors, the Head of College, and between 11 and 16 Board-elected Governors; the UWCSEA Foundation can have up to four Independent Directors. As a nonprofit charity, Board Governors, Foundation Independent Directors, and Board Advisors serve as volunteers.

UWCSEA East Campus offers a bespoke curriculum from Kindergarten 1 through Grade 8 that integrates academics with activities, outdoor education, personal and social education, and service. In Grades 9 and 10, students engage in the UWCSEA Programme, a two-year academic course designed to prepare them for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Grades 11 and 12. At the end of Grade 12, students who meet the graduation criteria are granted a UWCSEA High School Diploma. The majority of students also undertake the IB Diploma and receive their IB Diploma results.

The school places significant emphasis on Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through its Personal and Social Education (PSE) programme. This programme helps students understand themselves and their relationships with others, fostering skills like empathy, resilience, and effective communication. In the Middle School, dedicated mentor groups meet multiple times weekly to discuss topics such as emotional regulation and conflict resolution. The Wellness and Counselling Centres also provide confidential support to enhance student well-being.

UWCSEA East Campus supports students with mild to moderate Special Educational Needs (SEN). The Learning Support team works closely with classroom teachers and parents to develop individualized strategies that cater to each student's needs. While the school is not a specialist SEN institution, it strives to provide appropriate support within its resources. For more details on their approach to Learning Support, please refer to their Learning Support page.

UWCSEA East Campus offers an English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme for students from Kindergarten 1 to Grade 12. This programme supports learners who speak English as a second, third, or even fourth language, aiming to develop their academic English skills for effective communication and learning. Formal EAL instruction is available for students in Grades 1 to 12, delivered by specialist teachers. The goal is for students to transition out of the EAL programme as they progress through the school, with the duration of support varying based on individual needs.

UWCSEA East Campus prioritizes the mental wellbeing of its students through its Wellness and Counselling Centre. The centre provides professional services aimed at supporting personal growth, resilience, and overall wellbeing. Services include confidential individual or group counselling, preventative workshops, information sessions for parents, and collaboration with staff to enhance wellbeing and safeguarding initiatives. This approach ensures that students have access to a network of trusted adults and resources to support their mental health.

UWCSEA East Campus is committed to safeguarding and protecting all members of its community. The school's safeguarding policies and procedures encompass various aspects, including student wellbeing, bullying prevention, harassment and discrimination policies, use of physical intervention, and meeting individual physical, psychological, or medical needs. The primary goal is to prevent and respond to children experiencing or at risk of abuse, neglect, violence, and exploitation. The school expects all individuals affiliated with the community to act with integrity and take responsibility for keeping students safe. For more detailed information, the school's safeguarding policies are available on their website.

Established in 1971 as the Singapore International School, UWCSEA became a member of the United World Colleges (UWC) movement in 1975. The East Campus officially opened in September 2008, initially accommodating 500 students in a temporary location in Ang Mo Kio. In 2010, the campus relocated to its current site in Tampines, providing a purpose-built facility for its growing community.

UWCSEA fosters a vibrant community that embraces diversity, with students and families from over 100 nationalities. The school organizes various events to promote cultural exchange and community bonding, including the annual Family Festival, which features performances, international cuisines, and a vendor bazaar. Additionally, the Parents' Association (PA East) plays a pivotal role in organizing activities such as yoga sessions, cooking classes, and arts and crafts workshops to enrich the parent community.

The Parents' Association (PA East) at UWCSEA East Campus comprises a dedicated committee of 16 volunteers representing diverse backgrounds. Their mission, "Building Community Together," drives them to host various events throughout the year, including the 'Welcome Back' gatherings at the start of each school year and the Family Festival in March, which attracts over 2,000 visitors. The PA East also organizes the High School Careers Fair and the Primary School Uniting Day – Food Festival, providing platforms for students to explore career options and celebrate cultural diversity. Parents are encouraged to participate in these initiatives, fostering a strong sense of community and support within the school.

UWCSEA East Campus provides K1–G12 education on a single campus. The Infant School has dedicated spaces for Music, Languages, Learning Support and PE, including a learn-to-swim pool. The Junior School offers specialist lessons in Art, Physical Education, Music and Languages. The Middle School (Grades 6–8) and High School (Grades 9–12) operate on the same campus with a K-12 learning programme that leads to the IB Diploma Programme in the final years. Boarding is available for students in Grades 8–12. The campus supports a vibrant community and includes sustainability features and a Home Languages Programme to maintain literacy in home languages.

Facilities support Physical Education across the Primary and Middle Schools. The Infant School has a learn-to-swim pool as part of PE facilities.

The main language of instruction is English. The Home Languages Programme provides literacy development in a home language, taught by native-speaking teachers in small groups and is not assessed as an academic subject. The learning programme is K-12, mission-aligned and organized around five interlinked elements: academics, activities, outdoor education, personal and social education, and service. In High School, students study the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.

An after-school activities programme runs on East Campus, with activities continuing after the core day. Outdoor Education is embedded in the curriculum, and Personal and Social Education and Service are components of the program. The campus also incorporates sustainability initiatives as part of the broader learning programme.

Model United Nations (MUN) is an academic simulation in which students act as delegates to discuss geopolitical issues. East Campus has hosted in-person MUN conferences, including a 2022 event with nearly 300 participants (delegates, chairs and deputy chairs). The conference demonstrates engagement with international affairs at UWCSEA East.

The Music Programme provides opportunities to participate in music across East and Dover Campuses, including traditional classical string ensembles and gamelan ensembles, as well as choirs and brass ensembles. East Campus features performances and cross-campus collaborations. AIDA: Drama, Dance and Music on East Campus is a flagship arts production that showcases collaboration across disciplines.

UWC Day is celebrated at UWCSEA East Campus, with students dressing in cultural attire and taking part in a range of cultural performances that reflect the school's diverse community. East Campus participates in these events to celebrate cultural heritage and global connections. The campus also hosts intercultural events and activities as part of its commitment to international-mindedness.

East Campus offers extensive after-school activities through East Community Programmes, with partner clubs and activities in sport and recreation. Current offerings include Badminton, Basketball, Cricket, Football, Netball, Rugby, Swimming and Volleyball, organized with community partners and clubs. These activities take place on weekdays and weekends and are open to the school community.

Service is a core part of UWCSEA East's learning programme. The Service curriculum focuses on Awareness, Systems Thinking for Sustainable Development and Taking Action – Being a Changemaker, with age-appropriate activities from K1 to Grade 12. The programme includes local Singapore service, environmental initiatives and global service, with long-standing NGO partnerships such as MINDS, ACRES and others. Service learning activities link directly to classroom units and involve reflection and action.

The UWCSEA Careers Programme guides students through Company Visits, Internships, Major Events and Mentorships to build professional skills and networks. Internships are coordinated with opportunities for university advising and industry exposure; contacts are available for internships at internships@uwcsea.edu.sg. The programme emphasizes leadership and professional development through real-world experiences.

Outdoor Education provides an age-appropriate, holistic learning journey across K–12 with on-campus and off-campus experiences that build resilience and wellbeing. Four standards guide the programme: Connecting to Nature, Discovery of Self and Others, Building Community and Supporting Wellbeing, and Developing Skills for Life. Grade-level expeditions, overseas trips and high-rope activities develop leadership, teamwork and physical fitness, supporting students' wellbeing.

English is the main language of instruction. A Home Languages Programme (HLP) is available on both campuses to help students maintain literacy in a home language not studied in the academic curriculum. On East Campus, the home languages offered in the past school year were Bengali, Cantonese, Chinese (Mandarin), Dutch, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Malay, Russian, Spanish, Swedish and Thai. HLP classes are taught by qualified native‑speaking teachers in small groups; some home languages are offered until they become part of the academic programme, and the Home Languages Programme can support access to bilingual IB Diploma options by enabling progression to relevant courses.

Green Mark Platinum Super Low Energy Campus Certification (2023): Both UWCSEA campuses were re-awarded this certification, placing them among the few international schools in Singapore with such recognition. The certification acknowledges the campuses' efforts in maximizing sustainable design features and reducing energy consumption.

Healthier Dining Programme Accreditation (2023): UWCSEA received this accreditation from Singapore's Health Promotion Board, recognizing its commitment to providing nutritious and balanced meal options. The school is the first international school in Singapore to achieve this certification.

Community in Bloom Platinum (Diamond) Award (2021): Awarded by the National Parks Board (NParks), this highest-level award acknowledges UWCSEA East Campus's excellence in gardening and landscape standards, reflecting the school's dedication to creating a green and nurturing environment.

BCA Green Mark Platinum Award: Both campuses have achieved this prestigious award, Singapore's highest recognition for environmentally-conscious design, underscoring the school's commitment to sustainability and green building practices.

Top 10 Lifetime Partner Award (2012): Presented by the Movement for the Intellectually Disabled of Singapore (MINDS), this award recognized UWCSEA's outstanding contributions to supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities, highlighting the school's community engagement and social responsibility initiatives.

BCA Green Mark Platinum Super Low Energy Campus Certification: This award recognizes buildings that achieve high standards in environmental design and performance, including energy efficiency and sustainability. Both UWCSEA campuses have received this certification, highlighting their commitment to reducing energy consumption and promoting environmental stewardship.

Healthier Dining Programme Accreditation: Awarded by Singapore's Health Promotion Board, this accreditation acknowledges food service providers that meet nutritional standards and promote healthy eating habits. UWCSEA is the first international school in Singapore to receive this certification, reflecting its dedication to providing nutritious meal options for its community.

National Youth Achievement Award (NYAA) Operating Authority: As an operating authority for the NYAA, UWCSEA offers programs that encourage youth development through community service, personal development, and outdoor activities. This affiliation underscores the school's commitment to fostering leadership and social responsibility among its students.

Council of International Schools (CIS) Accreditation: CIS accreditation signifies that a school meets rigorous international standards in areas such as governance, teaching, and learning, ensuring a high-quality education.

Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Accreditation: WASC accreditation is a mark of excellence, indicating that a school undergoes continuous improvement and meets established criteria for educational quality and effectiveness.

Singapore Ministry of Education Registration: Registered by the Private Education Institution (PEI), part of SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG), UWCSEA complies with local educational regulations and standards, ensuring that its programs are recognized and adhere to national educational guidelines.

doris recommends that you start by speaking to admissions. This connects you directly to the school's admissions team who can respond with answers, more information, and next steps.

Attend an Open Day or Webinar: Participate in an Open Day or webinar to gain a deeper understanding of UWCSEA's ethos, learning environment, and community. These events offer insights into the school's culture and provide opportunities to ask questions.

Application Review: The admissions team will evaluate your application, considering factors such as academic records, residency status, and alignment with the school's values. They may contact you for additional information or clarification during this stage.

Assessments and Interviews: Depending on the grade level, applicants may be invited to participate in assessments or interviews. For instance, Middle School applicants might undergo English language proficiency assessments, while High School applicants may attend a Virtual Immersion Programme, which includes interviews and assessments.

Offer Notification: Successful applicants will receive an offer of admission. It's important to note that offers are extended based on available spaces and the holistic review of each applicant's profile.

Acceptance and Enrollment: Upon receiving an offer, families must confirm acceptance by the specified deadline, complete any remaining enrollment procedures, and prepare for the student's transition into the UWCSEA community.

UWCSEA offers both full and partial scholarships to students entering the IB Diploma Programme in Grades 11 and 12. These scholarships are awarded through national committees in over 130 countries, including Singapore. Interested applicants should contact the UWC national committee in their home country for information on available scholarships and the application process.

UWCSEA East Campus does not operate a traditional waitlist or pool system. Instead, the school follows an annual application cycle, with applications typically opening on 1 September of the preceding year. Offers are extended in rounds, with the first round occurring in December or January, and subsequent rounds in March. Applicants not offered a place in earlier rounds are welcome to reapply in the following academic year.