Canadian International School vs Stamford American International School (Singapore)

	Canadian International School Singapore	Stamford American International School (Singapore) Singapore
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year SGD 19,260 - 49,610	Fees / year SGD 20,420 - 56,110
Age range	Age range 1½ - 18 years	Age range 1½ - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum, BTEC Qualification, Advanced Placement (AP), Reggio Emilia Approach
Pupils	Pupils 3,000	Pupils 3,000
Typical class size	Typical class size 24	Typical class size 22
Instruction language	Instruction language English, French, Mandarin	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened 2009
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	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 Stamford American International School (Singapore) operates two campuses: the Woodleigh campus at 1 Woodleigh Lane (off Upper Serangoon Road), Singapore 357684, and the Early Years campus at 3 Chuan Lane near Lorong Chuan MRT station on the Circle Line.
Stages	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 The school serves children and students from 18 months through to high school graduation. The Early Years campus accommodates children aged 18 months to 6 years, organized into pre-nursery and kindergarten levels. The Woodleigh campus caters for Elementary, Middle School and High School students aged 6–18 years.
School type	School type Canadian International School in Singapore is a co-educational day school. The school does not offer boarding facilities.	School type Stamford American International School (Singapore) is a co-educational day school (private). Boarding facilities are available for students in Grade 6 and above who are outsiders to Singapore through a partnership with ACS Oldham Hall, a nearby boarding hostel. The Early Years campus does not offer boarding.
Pupil nationality mix	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 The school community is highly international: the Early Years to High School population is described as comprising students from over 79 nationalities
Additional learning support	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 The school offers support for students with Additional Learning Needs through its Student Support Department/Team. The department utilises a Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) approach to identify and address academic, developmental and emotional challenges, providing individualised interventions and individual education plans as necessary. For students requiring more intensive assistance, Special Education teachers design personalised programmes and the school provides access to specialised professionals such as speech and language therapists.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Canadian International School in Singapore is affiliated with Canada, offering a curriculum that incorporates elements of the Canadian educational system.	Country affiliation Stamford American International School offers a personalised American curriculum from 18 months through to high school graduation.
Religious affiliation	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 Stamford American International School in Singapore is not affiliated with any particular religion, offering an inclusive, secular environment for students from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds.
School day structure	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 At the Early Years campus the day typically starts at 9:00 AM and ends at 3:30 PM (the half-day programme finishes at 12:10 PM). Students have scheduled breaks including a snack break, lunch period and rest time. At the Woodleigh campus Elementary School (Grades 1–5) the day typically starts at 8:25 AM and ends at 3:05 PM with scheduled breaks including a morning recess and a lunch period. For Middle and High School students (Grades 6–12) the day typically starts at 8:25 AM and ends at 3:50 PM, with time between classes and a lunch period.
Bus service details	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 The school offers island-wide, door-to-door bus transport to both the Woodleigh Campus and the Early Years Campus. The service is managed by the Season Bus company (and the system provides live updates on pick-up and drop-off times). Buses are modern and air-conditioned and equipped with CCTV and GPS tracking systems. WTS offers a CCA afternoon bus service providing point-to-point transportation for students participating in Co-Curricular Activities as a paid service. Please note students must be a minimum of 2 years old to ride the ELV School Transport.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	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 Fee A one-time, non-refundable application fee of SGD 950 is applicable. Families enrolling their child for at least six months may transition into the Stamford Early Years mainstream curriculum without paying an additional enrollment fee. Tuition Fees (Indicative) Early Years * Pre-Nursery & Nursery * 3 days full: SGD 20,420 per year * 4 days full: SGD 29,820 per year * 5 days half: SGD 21,020 per year * 5 days full: SGD 30,820 per year * Pre-Kindergarten * 3 days full: SGD 26,040 per year * 4 days full: SGD 33,160 per year * 5 days half: SGD 25,040 per year * 5 days full: SGD 39,520 per year * Kindergarten 1 (KG1) * 5 days half: SGD 31,620 per year * 5 days full: SGD 45,340 per year * Kindergarten 2 (KG2) * 5 days full: SGD 46,330 per year Elementary, Middle and High School * Elementary School: SGD 49,040 per year * Middle School: SGD 53,210 per year * High School: SGD 56,110 per year Additional Fees Enrollment Fee An enrollment fee of SGD 4,140 is payable upon acceptance of an offered place. This is a one-off, non-refundable fee. Facility Fee The Facility Fee for Grade 1 to Grade 12 is SGD 8,320. This is a one-off, non-refundable fee. Annual Technology Fee * KG2: SGD 990 * Grade 1 to Grade 5: SGD 1,020 * Grade 6 to Grade 8: SGD 1,270 * Grade 9 to Grade 12: SGD 1,270 English as an Additional Language (EAL) Fees — Level A * Early Years listing: SGD 14,400 per year * School-wide listing: SGD 14,900 per year Billing and Payment Tuition fees are billed in advance by semester and are payable in two equal instalments or annually. Refund Policy A 100% tuition refund is available for withdrawal before the semester. No refunds are provided once a student has commenced the semester. Payment Options Fees can be paid via bank transfer or credit card. Please visit the school website for the complete and latest fee schedules by application year.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	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 Stamford American offers a boarding programme based at ACS Oldham Hall Premier Boarding (Stamford Boarding @ ACS Oldham Hall), centrally located in Singapore. The boarding programme is open to SAIS Secondary students (Grades 6–12, aged 12 and above) and is mandatory for any SAIS student whose parents do not reside in Singapore. The programme focuses on three key areas: Safety and Guardianship; Academics and Wellbeing; and Community and Social Bonding. Boarding residents/families have access to 111 clean, safe rooms (2-, 3- and 4-bedded) with air conditioning, Wi‑Fi, a personal study desk and wardrobe; two nutritious meals a day (breakfast and dinner) served in the Dining Hall (lunch options are available at the Stamford American School cafeteria on campus); weekend provision includes three meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner); and comprehensive services including laundry facilities, study rooms, music practice rooms, leisure areas, gardens and a gym. The Early Years campus does not offer boarding (its profile states “Not applicable” and includes the note “Boarding school is for Grades 1-12”).
Uniform requirement	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 All students across the school are required to wear uniforms. For Grades 1–12 the complete uniform set can be purchased through Lim Meng Keng Department Store (online ordering and home delivery available). Lim Meng Keng Department Store is located at #02-18 Holland Road Shopping Centre, 211 Holland Avenue Singapore 278967.
Food options	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 Sodexo provides on-site food services across the school. At the Woodleigh campus (Grades 1–12) there are two on-site cafés where students may buy meals or bring meals from home; payments are cashless via the Stamford Student card (MyStamford top-ups online or at campus cash kiosks). Semester Meal Plans and pre-order meals are available for Grades 1–5 (pre-ordering is not available for Grades 6–12). At the Early Years campus, lunch is provided in-house by Sodexo during school hours in accordance with the school policy for fresh and healthy food; parents of full-day Early Years students are required to send two nutritious snacks.
House system	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 The school operates a house system for older students: a House T‑shirt forms part of the Secondary uniform. The Early Years campus does not use the house system.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is incorporated as Canadian International School Pte. Ltd., a private limited company in Singapore.	Governance and ownership Stamford American International School (Singapore) is part of the Cognita family of schools. Cognita (headquartered in London) operates 85+ schools across regions including Europe, Latin America, the Middle East and Asia, and is governed through group-wide policies on safeguarding, health and safety, financial management and data protection; governance is overseen by independent reviewers and the head of school reports to the regional chief executive officer. Cognita employs some 10,000 teaching and support staff and educates more than 60,000 students, and its stated purpose is to create an inspiring world of education that builds self-belief and empowers individuals to succeed.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	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 Stamford American International School (Singapore) offers a continuum of programs across its campuses. On the Early Years campus, children aged 18 months to 2 years (Pre‑Nursery and Nursery) follow The Creative Curriculum, focused on active learning across social, emotional, physical, cognitive and language domains; from Pre‑Kindergarten (age 3) to Kindergarten 2 (age 6) the curriculum is grounded in the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) and integrates units of inquiry that encompass STEAMInn (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics and Innovation). Beyond Early Years, the school continues the IB pathway: students progress through either the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) or, in middle school, may follow American Education Reaches Out (AERO) standards. In high school, students may pursue the IB Diploma or a combination of Advanced Placement (AP), BTEC or Stamford courses, all of which lead to an American High School Diploma, providing academic flexibility based on university plans.
Student teacher ratio	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 Early Years campus ratios: Pre‑Nursery 5:1; Nursery 5:1; Pre‑Kindergarten 6:1; Kindergarten 1 7:1; Kindergarten 2 12:1. Elementary School through High School ratio: 1:24.
Exam results	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 Exam results are applicable to graduating Grade 12 students. IB Diploma Programme (Stamford American): 97% pass rate (global average 81%), 34.4 average DP score (global average 30.58), 13% of students scored 40+ points, and 80% earned two or more bonus points for their Extended Essay and TOK. AP Program (Stamford American): 3.5 average score (global average 2.9), 75% of exams taken received 3+ points, and 12 students earned a perfect 5 points in every AP subject taken.
Higher education progression	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 Applicable to Grade 12 students — Stamford American International School graduates (2022–2025) have been accepted into a broad range of universities worldwide, including University of Cambridge; Imperial College London; University of California, Berkeley; New York University; UCLA; University College London; National University of Singapore; University of Edinburgh; University of Toronto; University of British Columbia; University of Melbourne; University of Sydney; University of Michigan; King’s College London; and University of Washington. Stamford American students progress to universities across regions such as Canada, USA, UK, Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore and beyond.
Gifted and talented	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 At Stamford American International School, we believe every student — including every Early Years student — has unique strengths, interests and talents.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar View document	Academic calendar View document
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	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 Stamford American International School (Singapore) integrates Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) into daily school life through a comprehensive Student Support Department, structured SEL curriculum, and school-wide initiatives. The award-winning Second Step program is embedded in the curriculum (including the Early Years), fostering cooperation, communication and decision-making skills and emphasizing bullying prevention. The Student Support Department provides individual and group counseling, restorative practices are promoted, and teachers are trained to incorporate SEL into their teaching while working in partnership with parents to create a supportive and affirming learning environment.
Special educational needs (SEN)	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) The Student Support Department provides a comprehensive range of services for students with academic, emotional, physical and developmental needs. The team includes counselors, therapists and specialised educators and (at the Early Years campus) utilises a Multi-tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) approach. Services include early intervention, academic support, counselling, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and intensive support programmes. Speech and language therapists offer direct therapy, in-class support and strategies for stakeholders; occupational therapists work on fine and gross motor skills, self-management and emotional regulation through individual and group sessions as well as in-class support. At the Stamford American International School campus, special education teachers design individualized programmes for students requiring continuous support, with specialised staff assistance ranging from 25% to 100% of the school day; this intensive support is available for an additional fee and placement decisions are made quarterly.
English as an additional language	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 English as an Additional Language (EAL) specialists collaborate with classroom teachers to provide instruction tailored to students' proficiency. Beginner students (Level A) receive 80 minutes of daily English instruction, intermediate learners (Level B) receive in-class language support, and progress is regularly assessed using internal and external tools such as the iTEP SLATE Plus. A Mandarin-to-English Transition Program supports native Mandarin speakers in developing English fluency. At the Early Years campus there is no formal EAL programme for that age group; young learners acquire English through interaction with teachers and peers in a supportive setting, and daily Mandarin or Spanish options are offered.
Mental wellbeing	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 Student Support Department offers both preventative and responsive counselling through individual and group sessions, collaborating with teachers and staff to address social and emotional challenges. The school actively promotes mental health awareness through campaigns such as "R U OK? Day" to encourage open conversations about wellbeing. The Early Years campus places particular emphasis on fostering a nurturing, supportive environment where teachers and staff attend closely to young children's social and emotional needs, promoting positive interactions and a sense of belonging as part of the school's holistic development focus.
Safeguarding	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 Stamford American International School (Singapore) prioritises safeguarding and child protection through comprehensive policies, regular staff training (including first aid qualifications), clear procedures, and open communication that encourages students and parents to raise concerns. Counsellors and workshops provide guidance on issues such as cyber safety, and the school collaborates with external professionals when additional support is required. Security measures include 24-hour surveillance, over 60 cameras, a strict visitor sign-in process and colour-coded lanyards for identification. The Early Years campus specifically adheres to international safeguarding policies to ensure a safe learning and working environment for students, staff, parents and visitors.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy View document	Safeguarding policy View document
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	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 Stamford American International School (Singapore) comprises two bespoke campuses: Woodleigh Campus for grades 1–12 and the Early Years Campus (the Early Learning Village) serving ages 18 months to 6 years. The school has an Innovation Center and Makerspace to support project‑based learning, and a Reagan Theater with 500 seats, an LED backdrop, and professional sound and lighting. Woodleigh hosts multiple specialized sports and performing‑arts spaces including three swimming pools, two indoor sports arenas, rooftop tennis courts, dance studios, rock‑climbing walls, and a multipurpose sports field. The Early Years Campus offers purpose‑built learning environments designed to optimise early childhood learning; the American curriculum there integrates with the IB Primary Years Programme from Pre‑Nursery to Kindergarten 2 in a safe, stimulating setting.
Sports facilities	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 Woodleigh Campus features extensive facilities: three swimming pools, two indoor sports arenas, rooftop tennis courts, dance studios, rock‑climbing walls, and a multipurpose sports field. The school's CCA Sports program provides age‑appropriate pathways across badminton, basketball, cross country, football, golf, gymnastics, rugby, softball, swimming, tennis, touch rugby, track, and volleyball, and the school participates in SEASAC and ACSIS regional competitions. The Early Years Campus delivers specialist physical education from 18 months via the SMART Steps programme (enhancing key movement patterns) and a perceptual motor programme for Kindergarten 1 students; its Early Learning Village includes The Hive, an air‑conditioned multipurpose gymnasium for sports and performances, plus a 20‑metre space designed for pre‑school aged children. Sports are also offered as part of the Early Years extracurricular options.
Academic facilities	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 The school’s Innovation Center and Makerspace provide professional‑grade facilities and equipment — including latest‑generation 3D printers, robotics, laser cutting technology, green‑screen and video production studios, cameras, multimedia equipment, and mobile‑making carts — supporting 3D printing, modeling, robotics, sewing, clay work and project‑based learning (particularly across middle and high school). At the Early Years Campus, teaching follows American educational standards using The Creative Curriculum and Teaching Strategies GOLD, and employs the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme framework from Pre‑Nursery to Kindergarten 2.
Extra curricular facilities	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 Co‑Curricular Activities (CCA) programme offers over 550 activities year‑round for Pre‑K to Grade 12, including 3D printing, CAD, coding, fencing, golf, gymnastics, MUN, radio station podcasting, robotics, and rock climbing. Lions Academies provide high‑level coaching, while After‑School Activities (ASAs) are explorative, non‑progressive, creative and inclusive. Drama productions, music ensembles, sports teams and high school clubs give students opportunities to perform and compete; over 75% of students participate in one or more CCAs. In the Early Years programme, music is included (notably the Suzuki Violin programme) with group and private lessons available through the Stamford Music Academy.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	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 Stamford American International School (Singapore) was established in 2009 and is part of the Cognita Group. The Early Years campus was set up as a dedicated campus within the school in 2017.
Community	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 Stamford American International School offers a diverse, welcoming community and celebrates cultural diversity through regular events and festivals that foster global citizenship and family connection. The school hosts activities such as International Fiesta (a week-long event organised by the Parent Teacher Association), UN Day, Lunar New Year, Deepavali and Christmas festivities. The student body is internationally broad—the school counts students from over 70 nationalities, with the Early Years campus reporting over 75 nationalities.
Parent teacher association	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 Stamford American International School has an active Parent Teacher Association (PTA); all parents and guardians of current students are automatically members and are encouraged to participate. The volunteer-run PTA fosters a supportive community through social events, welcome gatherings, cultural festivals, staff appreciation efforts, Parent Connection Groups, volunteer opportunities and charitable activities. Parents can serve on committees, act as Room Parents, engage in social activities or volunteer for events. The PTA also maintains three Parent Cafés on campus and offers Parent Connection Groups as spaces for parents to meet with teachers and one another, strengthening the school community.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	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 Stamford American International School (Singapore) offers a broad Co‑Curricular Activities program with over 500 activities year‑round for Pre‑K to Grade 12, including 3D printing, CAD, coding, robotics, fencing, golf, gymnastics, MUN, a radio station podcast, and rock climbing. Sports Academies provide progressive, high‑intensity coaching while After‑School Activities (ASAs) remain exploratory, non‑progressive, creative and inclusive. The program also includes Field Studies and student‑led High School Clubs to broaden experiential and leadership‑oriented learning beyond the classroom. At the Early Years campus (the Early Learning Village) learning is Reggio‑inspired: children learn through play, inquiry and hands‑on exploration in classrooms designed to invite collaboration and discovery. Early Years students may choose Mandarin or Spanish (taught daily by native‑speaking teachers), with an optional bilingual English‑Mandarin pathway from Pre‑K; the IB Primary Years Programme begins at Pre‑Kindergarten (age 3), alongside American educational standards and The Creative Curriculum to develop inquiry skills and international perspectives from the start.
Arts & creative	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 Creativity and performing arts are available across the school. Music Ensembles and Performing Arts run year‑round, supported by the Lions Music Academy which provides private lessons and group performance opportunities across choral, strings, wind, orchestral and modern/rock ensembles. Drama productions provide regular performance platforms on campus, including the Reagan Theater and other venues. At the Early Years campus creativity is fostered through a Reggio‑inspired, play‑based approach and music education is built into the ELV experience, including a Suzuki violin program with group and private lessons.
Cultural & language	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 The school’s World Language program provides daily Mandarin or Spanish lessons in Early Years and Elementary, with more intensive language study in Middle and High School. A Bilingual Mandarin‑English program is offered from Pre‑Kindergarten to Grade 5. English as an Additional Language (EAL) supports learners from Kindergarten to Grade 10, and a Preparatory Course for Secondary School (PCS) supports advanced language development. Model United Nations (MUN) is part of the co‑curricular program, and parents and students highlight Mandarin immersion as a feature of the Early Years bilingual pathway.
Social & hobbies	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 Year‑round co‑curricular options include ASAs, Music Ensembles, Drama Productions, Sports Teams, a Radio Station Podcast and student‑led High School Clubs that provide leadership opportunities. Many of these co‑curricular activities are available for Grades 1–12. The school’s Social Program supports social‑emotional learning for younger learners through Second Step modules for Pre‑K to Grade 5, focusing on cooperation, communication and anti‑bullying.
Community & service	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 Service Learning at Stamford American is aligned with IB frameworks (PYP Taking Action, MYP Service as Action, and DP Creativity, Activity, Service) and exposes students to community service locally and abroad. Signature initiatives include the Cambodia Hope School project in partnership with World Assistance for Cambodia and schoolwide drives such as the Month of Giving, which have supported Community Chest, It’s Raining Raincoats and other partners. SDGs are integrated into learning. Service learning opportunities are offered across Grades 1–12.
Leadership & professional	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 Leadership and professional development are delivered through student‑led High School Clubs, the Field Studies Program (which includes a two‑day leadership training and student leaders who run pre‑ and post‑trip advisory curricula to extend learning beyond trips) and the Lions Academies, which deliver progressive coaching with a focus on developing leadership and professional skills. Many of these leadership opportunities are offered for Grades 1–12.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	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 The school promotes wellness and active lifestyles across age groups. The Athletics Program provides age‑appropriate pathways in badminton, basketball, cross country, football, golf, gymnastics, rugby, softball, swimming, tennis, touch rugby, track and volleyball, with SEASAC and ACSIS membership enabling regional competition. The program supports the school’s ROAR values—Resilience, Outstanding character, Ambition and Respect. At the Early Learning Village the focus is on social‑emotional, physical, cognitive and language development in a purpose‑built environment designed to optimise early childhood learning.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	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 The World Language Program provides daily instruction in Mandarin, Spanish, Korean, Japanese and English. Early Years and Elementary students receive daily Mandarin or Spanish lessons as part of the language curriculum. In Middle School and High School, Mandarin and Spanish are taught in 80‑minute sessions every other day, with 9 levels for Spanish and 7 levels for Mandarin. A Language Program for Grades 6–12 offers Korean, Japanese, Mandarin and Spanish. English as an Additional Language supports Kindergarten to Grade 10, and the Preparatory Course for Secondary School provides a 20‑week English‑proficiency program. The Early Learning Village specifically provides bilingual education in English and Mandarin for Pre‑Kindergarten to Grade 5; entry requirements specify readiness in both languages, with an English assessment beginning in KG2 and additional language assessments in Grades 1–5. Mandarin progress is tracked through placement tests, internal assessments and STAMP starting in Grade 3; English progress is tracked through Heggerty (PreK–KG1), UFLI (KG2) phonics programs and standard classroom measures. The Early Learning Village uses IB‑PYP principles to support language development and inquiry‑based learning.
Bilingual teaching	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 offers a Bilingual Program blending Mandarin and English for Pre‑Kindergarten through Grade 5. The Early Learning Village implements this bilingual program using an immersive, translanguaging approach with a one‑teacher model led by bilingual educators, integrating English and Mandarin across the curriculum and aligning with the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme framework; it emphasizes Mandarin literacy and English language development through inquiry‑based learning.
Immersion programs	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 The Bilingual Program includes 400 minutes of immersive Mandarin learning each week. At the Early Learning Village this immersion emphasizes authentic communication, translanguaging and cross‑subject Mandarin usage within an IB‑PYP‑aligned framework.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	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 Singapore International School of the Year (Editor's Choice) – 2025: Stamford American was honoured with this title at the HoneyKids Asia Singapore Education Awards; the school has been recognised by these awards for five consecutive years, and the 2025 Editor’s Choice win was accompanied by four other awards that year, making Stamford American one of the top winners. 2025 Singapore Education Awards: Stamford American received five awards in 2025, including Gold in The Curriculum Awards (American) and Silver in Singapore Preschool of the Year, recognising excellence in blending the American curriculum with the IB framework. Gold winners (selected): The Curriculum Awards (American); Best Outdoor Learning Programme. Silver winners (selected): Singapore Preschool of the Year; The Curriculum Awards (International Baccalaureate). 2023 Singapore International School Awards: Stamford American received the Silver Award for Singapore International School of the Year in 2023. Best Model United Nations (MUN) Award – 2021: The school’s MUN team received the Best MUN award in the Refugees & Technology category as part of the MUN Refugees Challenge 2021, organised by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency. Distinction Award for Excellence in Community Service – 2023: The American Chamber of Commerce in Singapore presented Stamford American with a Distinction Award for outstanding corporate social responsibility initiatives. National Business Award for Education – 2020: Stamford American secured the Singapore Business Review’s National Business Award for Education in 2020, recognising the school’s efforts in developing ecological sustainability initiatives.
Accreditations	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 Council of International Schools (CIS) Accreditation: CIS accreditation is a mark of quality in international education, signifying adherence to international best practices and a commitment to continuous improvement. Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Accreditation: WASC accreditation provides assurance that the school meets rigorous educational standards recognized globally, supporting student transfers and university admissions through continual improvement processes. International Baccalaureate (IB) World School: As an IB World School, Stamford American is authorized to offer the IB programmes, reflecting a commitment to high-quality, challenging international education that emphasizes critical thinking, intercultural understanding and holistic learning. EduTrust Certification: This Singaporean quality-assurance scheme (EduTrust) assures that the school maintains high standards in student protection, management, academic processes and administration.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	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 Attend an Open House or Schedule a Campus Tour: Prospective families are encouraged to visit either campus to experience the school's environment firsthand. You can book a tour or attend an open house event to meet faculty, observe classrooms, and understand the school's culture. The Stamford American International School campus also offers online virtual tours for families currently living overseas. Submit an Online Application: Complete the online application form, which typically takes around 15 minutes. You will need to create an account to access the form, allowing you to save and return to your application as needed. Provide Required Documentation: Along with the application, submit necessary documents, including a copy of your child's passport, a passport-sized photograph, a copy of the birth certificate, and current and previous year school reports (officially translated into English if necessary). For high school applicants, additional documents such as transcripts and teacher recommendations may be required. Pay the Application Fee: A non-refundable application fee is required to process your application. Stamford offers various payment options, including bank transfers and credit card payments. If your employer is assisting with fee payments, have a company representative complete the necessary forms and submit them with your application. Application Review and Assessment: Once all documents and the application fee are received, the admissions team will review your application. Depending on your child's age and educational background, assessments or interviews may be scheduled to ensure appropriate placement. Receive Admission Decision: After the review and any necessary assessments, the admissions team will inform you of the outcome. If offered a place, you will receive an acceptance package outlining the next steps. Complete Enrollment Formalities: To secure your child's spot, sign the student contract within seven days of receiving the offer. This step finalizes enrollment and ensures your child is ready to join the Stamford community.
Scholarships	Scholarships Read more about our secondary school scholarship programme here: www.cis.edu.sg/admissions/scholarships	Scholarships General: Stamford American International School offers scholarships at its discretion, aiming to recognize and support students who embody the school's core values and demonstrate exceptional talents. Types and Selection: Academic scholarships are awarded to students who exhibit high academic potential and performance; selection typically involves evaluation of past academic records, teacher recommendations, and sometimes an interview or test. Arts scholarships are for students with outstanding talent in visual arts, music, drama, or other creative areas and usually require a portfolio or an audition. Sports scholarships are offered to athletically gifted students and involve assessing sports achievements, potential contributions to the school’s sports program, and personal interviews. Scholarship Application Process: Prospective students generally need to complete a scholarship-specific application form and submit supporting documentation, which may include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and where applicable, a portfolio or demonstration of talent.
Waitlist	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 Application Submission and Evaluation: Families interested in enrolling must submit an application form along with the necessary documentation (such as previous school records and teacher recommendations). The Admissions Team evaluates applications based on the submitted documents and may schedule age-appropriate assessments. Assignment to Waitlist and Notification: If the desired grade level is full, the applicant will be placed on a waitlist. Families will be notified about their position and any available updates; the school will inform you as soon as a vacancy is anticipated. Priority and Offer of Placement: Priority on the waitlist is generally given based on factors such as date of application, sibling priority, and corporate debentures. As spaces become available (due to withdrawals or other changes), the school extends enrollment offers to students on the waitlist. Acceptance of Offer: Families who receive an offer from the waitlist have a specified period to accept and secure their child's placement by completing the enrollment paperwork and paying the relevant fees.
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