Canadian International School and Overseas Family School are both in Singapore, about 24 km apart. Both schools offer IB programmes, and Overseas Family School also offers IEYC, IPC and Cambridge IGCSE. Published annual fees are close, at SGD 19,260 - 49,610 for Canadian International School and SGD 28,400 - 44,800 for Overseas Family School. Canadian International School takes pupils from 1.5 to 18, and Overseas Family School from 2 to 18. The two are similar in size, at around 3,000 and 3,000 pupils. Typical class sizes are 24 at Canadian International School and 20 at Overseas Family School.
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Canadian International School
Singapore
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Overseas Family School
Singapore
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| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
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Fees / year
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Fees / year SGD 19,260 - 49,610 | Fees / year SGD 28,400 - 44,800 |
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Age range
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Age range 1½ - 18 years | Age range 2 - 18 years |
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Type
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Type Co-educational | Type Co-educational |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP) | Curriculum IB (MYP), IB (DP), IEYC (International Early Years Curriculum), IPC (International Primary Curriculum), Cambridge IGCSE |
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Pupils
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Pupils 3,000 | Pupils 3,000 |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size 24 | Typical class size 20 |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language English, French, Mandarin | Instruction language English |
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Opened
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Opened — | Opened 1991 |
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Bus service
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Bus service Yes | Bus service Yes |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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Location
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Location The Canadian International School (CIS) is located in Jurong West. The school is well-connected by public transport, located near Lakeside MRT station. The area offers a welcoming environment for families, with a range of amenities and residential options nearby. | Location The Overseas Family School (OFS) is located in Pasir Ris Heights, a well-connected area in the eastern part of Singapore. The school is easily accessible by car and public transportation, with bus stops and MRT stations nearby. It is in close proximity to residential areas, making it a convenient choice for families living in the eastern region of Singapore. |
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Stages
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Stages The Canadian International School in Singapore is structured into three main sections: the Primary School (Kindergarten to Grade 6), the Middle School (Grades 7 to 8), and the High School (Grades 9 to 12). | Stages OFS offers education from Kindergarten (Pre-K1) through to Grade 12. The school has four levels; Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle, and High School |
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School type
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School type Canadian International School in Singapore is a co-educational day school. The school does not offer boarding facilities. | School type OFS is a co-educational international school. It offers day school services and does not provide boarding facilities. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix The Canadian International School (CIS) is Canadian at heart but global in outlook with nearly 3000 students from 70 nations. Working together with people from other backgrounds and cultures is an integral part of life at CIS. | Pupil nationality mix OFS is home to around 3,000 students from more than 65 nationalities, creating a genuinely international school community with families from Asia, Europe, North America and beyond. |
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Additional learning support
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Additional learning support The Canadian International School in Singapore offers support for students with Additional Learning Needs through its Learning Support Team. This includes tailored interventions and individualized support plans to help students succeed. The school also provides access to facilities equipped for specialized learning and resources for students requiring extra assistance. | Additional learning support OFS is committed to providing inclusive education tailored to each student's needs. The Educational Intervention Services (EIS) team offers support for students requiring additional assistance, including Learning Support, Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and social-emotional counseling. These services are integrated into the school day, with Learning Support Assistants collaborating closely with classroom teachers to deliver personalized interventions. |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation Canadian International School in Singapore is affiliated with Canada, offering a curriculum that incorporates elements of the Canadian educational system. | Country affiliation OFS follows an international curriculum and is not affiliated with any specific country. |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation Canadian International School in Singapore is not affiliated with any particular religion, offering a secular education environment for students from diverse backgrounds. | Religious affiliation OFS is a non-denominational school and does not have any religious affiliation. |
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School day structure
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School day structure At the Canadian International School in Singapore, the school day typically begins at 8:30 AM and concludes at 3:30 PM. Students have a morning break, lunch around midday, and a short afternoon break. | School day structure The school day at OFS begins at 9:00 AM and concludes at 3:30 PM. The schedule includes designated breaks and a lunch period. |
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Bus service details
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Bus service details The Canadian International School (CIS) in Singapore offers a comprehensive school bus service for its students, accommodating families across the island. This service is managed by Yeap Transport Pte Ltd, a reputable provider known for safety and reliability. The buses are equipped with seat belts and a GPS tracking system, ensuring convenience and peace of mind for parents. Various pick-up and drop-off points are strategically located, making it easier for families residing in different parts of Singapore. | Bus service details OFS offers a shuttle bus service connecting the school to Pasir Ris MRT Station. Buses depart from Pasir Ris MRT Station at intervals starting from 7:50 AM, with the last departure at 9:00 AM. In the afternoon, buses leave the school at 3:15 PM, with the final departure at 6:10 PM. Island-wide door-to-door bus service is also available. |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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Fee details Application Fee: A non-refundable application fee of S$1,000.00 must accompany all applications. Tuition Fees: English programme -Nursery (half-day programme) SGD 20,010 per year -Nursery (full-day programme) SGD 29,180 per year -Pre-Kindergarten to Senior Kindergarten SGD 39,270 per year -Grades 1 to 3 SGD 40,310 per year -Grades 4 to 6 SGD 43,860 per year -Grades 7 to 10 SGD 49,360 per year -Grades 11 to 12 SGD 51,550 per year Chinese-English bilingual programme -Pre-Kindergarten to Senior Kindergarten SGD 40,960 per year -Grades 1 to 3 SGD 45,330 per year -Grades 4 to 6 SGD 48,180 per year French-English bilingual programme -Junior Kindergarten and Senior Kindergarten SGD 39,270 per year -Grades 1 to 3 SGD 40,310 per year -Grades 4 to 6 SGD 43,850 per year CIS Foundation programme -Grades 3 and 4 SGD 54,170 per year -Grades 5 and 6 SGD 54,170 per year -Grades 7 and 8 SGD 59,510 per year Billing Schedule and Payment Terms: Fees are billed annually or per term, with payment deadlines stipulated before the commencement of each term. Full payment or term-by-term payments are available options. Additional Costs: - Uniforms: Uniforms are purchased separately and cost depends on the student's requirements. - Technology Fees: Some grades require the use of technology, incurring additional fees. - Transport: Optional bus services are available for a fee. Refund Policy: CIS has specific refund policies, which include conditions for the tuition fee refund, applicable if a student withdraws. Payment Options: Payments can be made via bank transfer or credit card. Please ensure that any bank fees incurred are covered as part of the total payment. For precise figures and the most current information, it is advisable to directly contact the school's admissions office. | Fee details Application Fees Registration Fee: A one-time non-refundable fee of S$2,000 per student, payable upon acceptance of the admission offer. Tuition Fees *Tuition fees are structured by educational level and are charged per semester. Each academic year comprises two semesters:* Kindergarten: - Pre-K1 (Half Day): S$8,600 per semester - Pre-K1 (Full Day) & Pre-K2: S$14,200 per semester - K1-K2: S$16,200 per semester Elementary School (Grades 1-5): S$17,550 per semester Middle School (Grades 6-8): S$18,750 per semester High School: - Grades 9-10 (Junior High School): S$21,250 per semester - Grades 11-12 (Senior High School): S$22,400 per semester Billing Schedule and Payment Terms - Tuition Fees: Payable one month before the commencement of each semester. - Late Payment: While there is no penalty fee for late payment, students may not commence classes without payment of the stipulated tuition fees before the course commencement date. Boarding Fees OFS does not offer boarding facilities; it is a day school only. Additional Costs Miscellaneous Fees: These may include costs related to course materials, examinations, excursions, field trips, co-curricular activities, school uniforms, sports attire, and exercise books. Refund Information Tuition and Miscellaneous Fees: Generally non-refundable upon early withdrawal, subject to the terms outlined in the Student Contract. Fee Payment Options Payments can be made via cross cheque, direct interbank transfer, NETS, or credit cards (American Express, VISA, MasterCard, UnionPay). *Note: All fees include a 9% GST, effective from January 1, 2024.* |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements CIS has an arrangement with ACS Oldham Hall in Singapore for boarding. Oldham Hall provides accommodation for students aged 12 years and up with a staff-to-boarder ratio of 1:12 and offers a door-to-door CIS bus service. Pastoral care is provided by residential house masters and mistresses, and on-site facilities include a gym, swimming pool, study rooms and wireless internet. | Boarding arrangements The school does not offer boarding facilities. |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement All students wear a uniform. Uniforms can be purchased at Lim Meng Keng Department Store in Holland Village. The uniform includes polo shirts, Bermuda shorts or skirts and PE shirts, with additional house league shirts as required. | Uniform requirement A school uniform is worn every day by all students. |
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Food options
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Food options Sodexo operates the CIS canteen; the Red Dot Café serves meals, hot and cold drinks, and breakfast on school days. Two large canteens operate on school days from 11:30am to 1:40pm, and a level-5 café runs for extended hours; the menu includes Asian dishes, curries, pasta, pizza, plant-based meals, and halal-certified meat with no pork or lard. Lunch for Nursery to Senior Kindergarten is included in school fees; Grades 4–12 pay for meals using stored-value cards. | Food options Lunch is available from the school cafeteria; students may bring a packed lunch or purchase a hot lunch. Dietary options are accommodated within the lunch program. |
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House system
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House system The school uses a house system to build a sense of belonging and pride among students from Grades 1 to 12. House events are regularly held, and house captains lead activities to foster teamwork and leadership. | House system — |
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Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership The school is incorporated as Canadian International School Pte. Ltd., a private limited company in Singapore. | Governance and ownership The school operates under a Master Policy to maintain a happy, safe and effective school for overseas families living in Singapore. |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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Curriculum details The Canadian International School (CIS) in Singapore offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum across all educational stages. For students aged 3 to 12 years, the Primary Years Programme (PYP) encourages inquiry-based learning. The Middle Years Programme (MYP) follows for ages 11 to 16, focusing on developing interdisciplinary skills and critical thinking. For ages 16 to 18, the Diploma Programme (DP) offers a wide range of subjects, preparing students for university education globally. Additionally, CIS offers language acquisition programs, including French, Mandarin, and English, enhancing language skills from an early age. | Curriculum details OFS offers education from Kindergarten (Pre-K1) through to Grade 12. The school follows an International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC) for early years and the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) for grades 1-5. OFS follows International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IB MYP) for Grades 6-8 and offers the Cambridge IGCSEs for Grades 9-10. This is followed by the IB Diploma Programme (IB DP) for Grades 11-12. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio All classes are staffed to ensure an optimal learning environment. As in all international school settings, the number of students in a class will fluctuate throughout the academic year - in line with demand and peak periods for admission and withdrawal. In the kindergarten years, teachers are supported by two full-time instructional assistants in nursery and one full-time instructional assistant in pre-kindergarten, junior and senior kindergarten, allowing teachers to focus on each child’s emotional and social well-being. Our bilingual classes (pre-kindergarten to grade 6) have two teachers per class. Students will learn in Chinese one day, and in English the next. In addition to the teacher, each class is supported by an instructional assistant. | Student teacher ratio — |
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Exam results
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Exam results The Canadian International School (CIS) is a leading world IB school. with IB results consistently above the global average. in 2025 the CIS IB average score was 35 compared to a global average of 30.6. This score is 38.7 for their 60th percentile. 22 students achieved 40+ points in 2025. | Exam results — |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression At Canadian International School (CIS), recent IB Diploma results are consistently strong and above global averages: the Class of 2025 achieved an average score of 35 (global average 30.58), with 22 students scoring 40+ points, 35 Bilingual Diplomas, and a selective-intake equivalent average of 38.7 for the top 60% of students; the Class of 2024 also averaged 35 (global 30.32) with a 99% pass rate, 2 students scoring a perfect 45, 25 scoring 40+, 38 scoring 38+, and about 35% earning the Bilingual Diploma; earlier results such as the Class of 2020 showed an average of 37.9 (global 33) with a 100% pass rate, 5 perfect 45s, 9 scores of 44, 37% scoring 40+, and a notably high 74.4% Bilingual Diploma rate compared with about 24% globally, highlighting CIS’s strong academic performance and emphasis on multilingual achievement. | Higher education progression — |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented Students from grades 7 to 10 who participated in the 2024 Singapore and Asian Schools Math Olympiad (SASMO) brought home 48 medals: 12 gold, 16 silver and 20 bronze. They also won nine medals in the Singapore Math Olympiad (SMO), a commendable performance in a challenging environment. In addition, the Class of 2024 achieved two perfect scores of 45 and a school average of 35 for their IB exam. They surpassed the global average by an astounding 4.8 points. 33% of their graduating cohort received the prestigious Bilingual Diploma. Many of them are heading to top universities around the world including Cambridge University, Stanford and Imperial College London. A testament to continued academic excellence, 50 of their students also participated in the prestigious 3rd Global Chinese Writing Competition and won awards across the global and regional categories. Some of whom won championship titles as well. | Gifted and talented — |
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Academic calendar
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Academic calendar | Academic calendar |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
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Social & emotional learning
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Social & emotional learning CIS places a strong emphasis on students' social and emotional well-being. In primary school, homeroom teachers provide pastoral and emotional support, while in secondary school, advisory teachers deliver a dedicated pastoral care programme. The student support and well-being team, comprising a school psychologist, counsellors, learning support teachers, university advisors, and nurses, offers programmes throughout the year to help students develop skills to manage their well-being. Initiatives include "Sunshine visits" for new students, weekly meetings to monitor individual progress, and educational seminars for students and parents. | Social & emotional learning OFS places a strong emphasis on Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), recognizing its importance in student development. The curriculum is designed to support personal, social, and emotional growth through inquiry and play-based approaches. For students facing social-emotional challenges, the school offers support from Nurture Specialists, aiming to enhance overall well-being and learning engagement. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN) CIS supports students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) through its tiered learning support model. The school is not a specialist SEN institution but provides support for various learning needs, including those requiring occupational and speech therapy. The dedicated student support and well-being team collaborates with teachers to ensure that students with SEN receive appropriate interventions and assistance to achieve their academic goals. | Special educational needs (SEN) While OFS is not a specialized SEN institution, it actively supports students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) within its inclusive mainstream environment. The EIS team is equipped to assist students with diverse learning needs, including learning difficulties, language delays, and social-emotional challenges. Support is individualized, with services such as Learning Support, Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and social-emotional counseling available to ensure all students can access and benefit from the curriculum. |
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English as an additional language
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English as an additional language At the CIS, students who are non-native English speakers receive tailored support through various programs. The English Language Learner (ELL) program assists students from Senior Kindergarten to Grade 10 in developing their English proficiency. Additionally, the CIS Foundation Programme is designed for students in Grades 3 to 8 who are beginners in English, aiming to equip them with the necessary language skills to integrate into mainstream classes. | English as an additional language OFS offers a comprehensive Study Preparation Program (SPP) tailored for students whose first language is not English. This program aims to facilitate rapid English language acquisition, enabling students to integrate into mainstream classes without losing academic progress. The SPP is structured across Elementary, Middle, and High School levels, providing specialized support to meet students' evolving language needs. Dedicated ESL teachers deliver targeted instruction, fostering a nurturing environment for language development. |
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Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing The student support and well-being team, which includes counsellors and a school psychologist, offers programs throughout the year to help students develop skills to manage their well-being. Initiatives such as "Sunshine visits" for new students and weekly meetings to monitor individual progress are part of this support system. | Mental wellbeing The school offers Learning Support, Speech & Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and social-emotional counseling. These services are integrated into the school day, delivered by qualified specialists on a push-in or withdrawal basis, aiming to enhance students' overall well-being and academic success. |
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding CIS is committed to safeguarding and child protection, adhering to strict policies and procedures to ensure a safe environment for all students. The school collects and manages personal data, including health and well-being information, in compliance with applicable laws and regulations | Safeguarding OFS upholds a robust Safeguarding Policy to protect students from physical, sexual, emotional, or psychological abuse and neglect. The policy outlines clear definitions and examples of each category of abuse, ensuring a comprehensive understanding within the school community. The school collaborates with parents and guardians to maintain a safe learning environment, adhering to Singapore's legal standards and international best practices in child protection. |
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Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
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Facilities overview
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Facilities overview The Lakeside Campus serves students aged 2 to 18 years and uses a schools-within-a-school design with distinct age-appropriate learning communities. The campus is described as having state-of-the-art facilities to support teaching and learning. CIS is an IB World School offering the IB Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme. In 2025, the Class of 2025 IB Diploma results were published, showing strong university destinations and bilingual diploma achievements. The school teaches in English and offers two bilingual language pathways (Chinese-English and French-English), along with an English language learner programme. | Facilities overview The OFS campus area is 110,000 square meters. The campus features three adventure playgrounds and air-conditioning with fresh air injection in classrooms. The auditorium seats up to 3,000 with multimedia facilities, and there is a Drama Center with a Black Box and three studios. There are four modern libraries and eleven music studios with soundproof practice rooms. The campus includes two swimming pools (a 50-meter indoor pool and a junior pool), five basketball and sports courts, sixteen science laboratories, and five computer labs with Apple Mac computers. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities Outdoor learning is integrated into the CIS programme, with Open Minds in Primary, field trips, Secondary DP field investigations and Excursion Week for Grades 4–11. These activities promote independence, collaboration, resilience and real-world connections as part of the school's approach to experiential learning. | Sports facilities Five basketball and sports courts are weather-protected. Sport fields include a senior field and a junior field with artificial turf and organic infill. Two swimming pools include a 50-meter indoor pool with 10 lanes and a junior pool. School bus services are available with seat belts and two afternoon departure options at 3:45 pm or 5:15 pm. |
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Academic facilities
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Academic facilities CIS follows a three-programme IB structure: IB Primary Years Programme (Pre-K to Grade 6), IB Middle Years Programme (Grades 7–10) and IB Diploma Programme (Grades 11–12). Language of instruction is English. Bilingual programmes are available: Chinese-English (Pre-K to Grade 6) and French-English (Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6), with two teachers per bilingual class. English Language Learner support is provided for non-native speakers, and after-school language activities are offered. | Academic facilities Four modern libraries serve Kindergarten through High School. Eleven music studios include soundproof practice rooms. Sixteen science laboratories support science instruction across Elementary, Middle and High Schools. Five computer labs are equipped with Apple Mac computers. The Auditorium seats up to 3,000 and the Drama Center includes a Black Box and three studios. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities The Arts programme includes music, dance, drama and visual arts, with curricular and co-curricular offerings and performance opportunities. The Academy of Music provides instrumental and vocal lessons, ensembles and performance spaces such as the David Foster Theatre and Black Box Theatre. CIS also runs STEAM education with interdisciplinary maker spaces and project work, and promotes outdoor learning, field trips and service/leadership activities. | Extra curricular facilities The Chess Program is available to OFS students. The Sports Program offers competitive team sports and broader athletic involvement. The Model United Nations program engages students with international affairs. An Enrichment Program is available to broaden learning beyond core academics. Mother Tongue Program is offered for students from Pre K2 to Grade 8 for four hours per week. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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History Canadian International School (CIS) in Singapore was established in 1990, initially to serve the expatriate Canadian community. Originally starting as a small school, it has grown significantly and now operates under the ownership of the prestigious Nord Anglia Education group. | History The Overseas Family School was established in 1991 and moved into its current Pasir Ris campus in 2015. This move marked a significant milestone, enhancing the school's capacity and facilities to better serve its community. |
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Community
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Community Canadian International School in Singapore offers a vibrant and diverse community, welcoming families from over 70 countries. The school hosts various community events like the International Fair, which celebrates cultural diversity with food, performances, and activities from around the globe. Students and families can also engage in cultural events such as Lunar New Year and Deepavali celebrations. These events provide excellent opportunities for families new to Singapore to connect and engage with others. | Community OFS prides itself on a vibrant, multicultural community, with students from over 70 nationalities. The school actively fosters a sense of global citizenship and cultural appreciation. Engaging events like the annual Global Picnic and various cultural celebrations provide platforms for students and families to share traditions, cuisines, and customs, enriching the OFS experience. |
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Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) at the Canadian International School in Singapore plays an active role in fostering a supportive community. It organizes events such as International Day, where families celebrate their diverse cultures through food stalls and performances, and seasonal celebrations like the Winter Fair. In addition to these events, the PTA manages various interest groups and workshops, such as coffee mornings and parenting seminars, which provide valuable networking opportunities for parents. They also facilitate teacher appreciation initiatives, acknowledging the hard work of the school's educators. Volunteering with the PTA can be a great way for new families to connect and engage with the school community. | Parent teacher association The OFS Parent Association (PA) is a dynamic, volunteer-driven organization that plays a pivotal role in enhancing the school community. Comprising parents from diverse backgrounds, the PA organizes a variety of events, including Coffee Mornings, cultural celebrations, and the much-anticipated Global Picnic. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual CIS offers extra curricular activities (ECAs), co-curricular activities (CCAs) and competitive sports across three terms for students from Pre-K to Grade 12. After-school language classes, including mother tongue and other language acquisition, are offered as paid services and run by independent providers. Media and design activities use film and recording studios and STEAM facilities, and dramatic or musical productions are staged in the David Foster Theatre. Students participate in arts ensembles and choirs, including Symphonic, Concert and rock bands, as well as junior and senior choirs. | Academic & intellectual The OFS curriculum combines IEYC (Pre-K1 to K2), IPC (Grades 1–5) and IB (Grades 6–12), with IGCSE as an option and a WASC-accredited High School Diploma. The Model United Nations is embedded in the core curriculum, supporting research, debate and global perspectives across Elementary to High School. A Study Preparation Program provides English-language development to enable entry into mainstream classes, and coding is taught for all students. |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative Arts opportunities include a range of musical ensembles and bands, choirs, drama productions and visual art exhibits. Performances and showcases occur across divisions and may be conducted in languages other than English. Dramatic or musical productions are staged in the David Foster Theatre. | Arts & creative The school provides weekly specialist lessons in Art, Music, PE, Coding, Chess and ICT/Library. This structure supports creative expression and cross-disciplinary learning across Primary and Secondary levels. |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language Mother tongue language classes and other language acquisition courses run after school as paid services. The school runs two bilingual programmes: Chinese-English for Pre-K to Grade 6, and French-English for Grade 1 to 5. Some performances are conducted in languages other than English, such as Chinese or French. | Cultural & language Mother Tongue support is available in 14 languages at no extra fee, with four hours per week in the timetable. Retention and development of Mother Tongue is essential for students learning in English. |
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Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies CIS offers a broad range of after-school clubs and activities. There are 38 secondary student clubs, including sustainability groups and Model United Nations. Clubs operate across three terms each school year, with registrations via My.CIS. Recreational and hobby groups provide opportunities for social interaction and personal interest development. | Social & hobbies After School Program supports participation in sports, ECAs and enrichment activities. Chess Program is offered to develop strategic thinking. Model United Nations is embedded in the curriculum, providing opportunities for debate and collaboration. |
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Community & service
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Community & service CIS offers community service programs and volunteering opportunities through service-oriented clubs. The Memory Project is an example of a service-focused club. Some clubs provide opportunities for MYP and Diploma Programme students to meet CAS or Service as Action requirements. | Community & service — |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional CIS provides leadership opportunities through student government and leadership programs. The school includes clubs and activities such as Model United Nations to develop leadership and global awareness. Other clubs focus on entrepreneurship, career development and professional skills. | Leadership & professional Model United Nations develops leadership, public speaking, negotiation and teamwork. |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing Sports and fitness are offered in recreational and competitive formats across three terms. Each campus has representative ACSIS teams that compete with other international schools. Swimming is year-round at Lakeside with two annual trials. Outdoor learning and experiential programs such as Excursion Week and Open Minds support wellbeing. | Lifestyle & wellbeing Sports Program provides physical activity and fitness opportunities for students across age groups. The After School Program supports well-being through sports, ECAs and enrichment activities. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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Language provision Languages taught include English, Chinese, and French, with additional languages highlighted as part of CIS's programme. Chinese-English bilingual programme provides Chinese language instruction and literacy development through five weekly classes and a 36-level reading programme. French-English bilingual programme runs from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6 and is IB PYP-aligned. The IB programmes include PYP (Pre-K–6), MYP (7–10), and DP (Diploma Programme). | Language provision English is the language of instruction. A Mother Tongue Program supports retention and development of students' home languages. The curriculum comprises IEYC for Pre-K1 to K2, IPC for Grades 1–5, and IB for Grades 6–12. The Study Preparation Program enables students to join mainstream classes. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching Chinese-English bilingual programme is available to pre-kindergarten to grade 6 with two teachers per class: one native English speaker and one native Chinese speaker; classes alternate between English and Chinese for equal exposure. Chinese literacy development is supported by a 36-level guided reading programme, and Chinese language classes are taught five times per week by native-speaking teachers. A bilingual pathway continues into Secondary School and the Middle Years Programme, with Senior Kindergarten entry requiring language-specific criteria. French-English bilingual programme runs Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6 and is IB PYP-aligned, with entry requiring language requirements from Junior Kindergarten onward. | Bilingual teaching The school teaches in English. A Mother Tongue Program retains and develops students' home languages; the program is provided at no additional fee. |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs The immersion programmes at CIS are a distinctive part of its Primary School, offering students the option to learn through full bilingual pathways rather than traditional language classes. In addition to an English-immersion track, CIS provides Chinese–English and French–English bilingual programmes in which students receive roughly 50% of instruction in each language from native-speaking teachers, learning core subjects such as maths, science, and social studies in both languages. Based on the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), the approach is inquiry-driven and designed to develop fluency, literacy, and cultural understanding simultaneously, aiming to produce confident bilingual learners rather than students with basic conversational skills. | Immersion programs — |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards HoneyKids Education Awards CIS has been awarded Gold for Best in Bilingual Education at the HoneyKids Singapore Education Awards 2025! This achievement is a testament to our School’s dedication, our families continued trust, and the remarkable growth and success of every child in our bilingual programme. | Awards Highly Commended: Best Schools Award (Singapore) 2024: Recognizes OFS's exceptional performance and reputation among schools in Singapore. FIDE Gold School Award: Recognizes OFS's excellence in promoting chess education and fostering a strong chess culture within the school community. BCA Construction Excellence Award (2017): Acknowledges outstanding construction quality and project management in the development of the OFS campus. RoSPA Occupational Safety Awards Gold (2014-2016): Honors OFS's commitment to maintaining high standards of health and safety within the school environment. |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations International Baccalaureate (IB) World School Accreditation: CIS is authorized to offer the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and the Diploma Programme (DP). . Council of International Schools (CIS) Accreditation: This accreditation recognizes schools that maintain high international education standards and demonstrate a commitment to continually improving the educational experience. Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Accreditation: CIS holds accreditation from WASC, a regional accrediting agency in the United States. This accreditation confirms that the school meets rigorous standards of educational quality, ongoing improvement, and organizational health. Edutrust Certification: Awarded by the Singapore Committee for Private Education (CPE), this certification ensures that CIS adheres to statutory requirements aimed at improving the quality and accountability of education providers. | Accreditations Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC): Accredits the OFS High School Diploma, ensuring it meets rigorous academic standards recognized globally. International Baccalaureate (IB): Recognizes OFS as an authorized IB World School, validating its commitment to high-quality international education. Cambridge International Examinations (CIE): Certifies OFS's adherence to global standards in delivering IGCSE programs. SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG): Registers OFS as a Private Education Institution, indicating compliance with Singapore's educational regulations. |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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Admissions Book an Open House After you've received a response from the admissions team, consider booking an open house visit. This is a valuable opportunity to explore the school's campus, facilities, and learning environment firsthand. During the visit, you will also get a chance to meet some of the faculty and ask any additional questions you may have about curriculum, extra-curricular offerings, or the school's philosophy and values. Submit Your Application With a sense of familiarity with the school, proceed to submit a formal application. Ensure you have all necessary documentation ready, which typically includes previous school records, a copy of your child’s passport, and any relevant assessment reports. Attend an Interview or Assessment If your application moves forward, your child may be invited for an interview or assessment. This step aims to understand your child’s academic capabilities, interests, and social readiness. The school will inform you about the format and what to expect during the session, ensuring both you and your child are well-prepared. Receive an Admissions Decision Following the evaluation, you will receive an admissions decision. The school commits to communicating the outcome promptly. If your application is successful, you'll be given details about the enrollment process. If not, the admissions team is usually available to discuss any next steps or alternative options. Complete Enrollment Requirements Once your child is offered a place, you’ll need to complete the enrollment process by signing the acceptance documents and paying the necessary fees by the given deadline. The admissions team will provide assistance with logistical details like visa applications, uniform purchasing, and start dates, ensuring a seamless transition for your family. | Admissions Complete the online registration form. Fill out the necessary details about your child and your family. Ensure all information is accurate and complete. Submit required documents. Prepare and upload necessary documents such as your child's birth certificate, passport, recent academic records, and any other documents specified by the admissions team. Pay the registration fee. Upon acceptance, a one-time non-refundable registration fee of S$2,000 is required to secure your child's place. Review and sign the Student Contract. Carefully read the terms and conditions outlined in the Student Contract. Sign and submit the contract as part of the enrollment process. Attend orientation (if applicable). Participate in any orientation sessions or meetings scheduled by the school to help you and your child become familiar with the school environment and community. Prepare for the school year. Purchase uniforms, school supplies, and any other materials required. Ensure your child is ready for the start of the academic year. |
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Scholarships
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Scholarships Read more about our secondary school scholarship programme here: www.cis.edu.sg/admissions/scholarships | Scholarships Overseas Family School does not offer direct scholarships or financial aid programs. |
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Waitlist
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Waitlist Waitpool System: Unlike a traditional waitlist where students are lined up on a first-come, first-served basis, a waitpool approach allows the school to consider each applicant's unique profile and the balance and diversity of the existing student body. When a place becomes available, the admissions team evaluates all candidates in the pool to select the student who best fits the school’s current needs and objectives. Evaluation Criteria: Several factors are taken into account when assessing students in the waitpool. These can include the student's academic background, English language proficiency, citizenship to maintain a diverse international environment, and any particular skills or talents that might contribute to school life. Notification Process: Families in the waitpool are kept informed about their application status and are notified once a decision has been made. As soon as a suitable place becomes available that matches a student’s profile, the admissions team promptly contacts the family to discuss placement. Flexibility and Timing: While it’s challenging to predict the availability of places due to various factors such as student turnover and the dynamic nature of school populations, the admission team at CIS makes every effort to accommodate families and maintain transparent communication. | Waitlist Overseas Family School operates on an open-entry admission policy and does not maintain a waitlist or pool system. Admissions are open year-round, and there are no entrance examinations. Proficiency in English is not a requirement for admission. Tuition fees are pro-rated based on the student's start date. |
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