Chatsworth International School vs ISS International School
Chatsworth International School and ISS International School are both in Singapore, about 7 km apart. Both schools offer IB programmes, and ISS International School also offers American. Published annual fees are SGD 30,250 - 41,100 at Chatsworth International School and SGD 25,000 - 54,430 at ISS International School, which puts ISS International School roughly 11% higher. Chatsworth International School takes pupils from 3 to 18, and ISS International School from 4 to 18. Chatsworth International School is the larger school, with around 800 pupils to ISS International School's 250. Typical class sizes are 18 at Chatsworth International School and 19 at ISS International School.
Chatsworth International School is located in the Bukit Timah area. The school is conveniently accessible via the Downtown MRT line, with the Sixth Avenue station nearby making commuting straightforward. It is located next to the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and is close to expatriate-friendly amenities, creating a vibrant community for families relocating from overseas.
Location
ISS International School is located at 21 Preston Road, Singapore. This central location offers easy access to public transport, including MRT and bus services, making it convenient for commuting throughout the city. Nearby landmarks include the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Singapore Botanic Gardens.
Stages
Stages
Chatsworth International School is structured into three main sections: the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for students aged 3 to 11, the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for ages 11 to 16, and the Diploma Programme (DP) for ages 16 to 18. The school allows for a cohesive transition as children progress through their education.
Stages
ISS International School in Singapore is structured into two sections: the Primary School for ages 4 to 10, and the High School for ages 11 to 18.
School type
School type
Chatsworth International School is a co-educational institution that offers a day school program, with no boarding facilities.
School type
ISS International School is a co-educational institution offering a day school program.
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
Chatsworth is truly a diverse international school with about 50+ student nationalities with no single nationality over 20% of the student population.
Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
Chatsworth International School provides tailored support for students with Additional Learning Needs through its Student Support Services. The team collaborates with teachers and parents to develop individualized strategies, ensuring an inclusive learning environment.
Additional learning support
ISS International School provides tailored support for students with Additional Learning Needs through their Learning Support Program. The school offers individualised plans and specialised staff to assist students in accessing the full curriculum. Facilities are equipped to ensure an inclusive and supportive environment for diverse learning needs.
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
Chatsworth International School does not have an affiliation to any particular country.
Country affiliation
ISS International School does not have an affiliation to any particular country.
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
Chatsworth International School in Singapore is not affiliated with any particular religion, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment for students of all backgrounds.
Religious affiliation
ISS International School does not have an affiliation to any particular religion, offering a diverse and inclusive environment for students from various cultural and religious backgrounds.
School day structure
School day structure
Chatsworth International School's school day typically begins at 8:50 AM and ends at 3:30 PM. Students enjoy a morning break and a lunchtime break.
School day structure
ISS International School starts its school day at 8:00 AM and ends at 3:00 PM. Students have a morning break and a lunch period.
Bus service details
Bus service details
Chatsworth International School offers a comfortable and convenient bus service for students, managed by an experienced local transport company. The service covers a wide range of areas across Singapore, ensuring accessibility for families living in different parts of the island. Parents can expect safe and reliable transportation with well-trained bus attendants to assist younger children during their journey.
Bus service details
ISS International School provides a convenient bus service for its students, facilitating easy commutes to and from the school. The service is managed internally by the school, focusing on safety and punctuality. The bus routes are designed to accommodate a broad range of residential areas, catering to families relocating from overseas and residing in different neighborhoods. For precise routes and scheduling, parents can contact the school transport department @ schoolbus@iss.edu.sg
Fees
Fees
Fee details
Fee details
Chatsworth International School Fees Overview
Application Fee: A non-refundable application fee is required at the time of application.
Confirmation Fee: On offer of a place, a one-time non-refundable confirmation fee is required.
Tuition Fees for 2026/27 (inclusive of GST and FPS): - Early Years and Kindergarten: - Annual: SGD 30,554 - Per Semester (half-yearly): SGD 15,277 - Primary School (Years 1-5): - Annual: SGD 35,300 - Per Semester (half-yearly): SGD 17,650 - Primary School (Year 6): - Annual: SGD 35,452 - Per Semester (half-yearly): SGD 17,726 - Secondary School (Year 7): - Annual: SGD 36,108 - Per Semester (half-yearly): SGD 18,054 - Secondary School (Year 8-9): - Annual: SGD 36,260 - Per Semester (half-yearly): SGD 18,130 - High School (Years 10-11): - Annual: SGD 37,674 - Per Semester (half-yearly): SGD 18,837 - High School (Years 12-13): - Annual: SGD 41,512 - Per Semester (half-yearly): SGD 20,756 Billing Schedule and Payment Terms: Tuition fees are billed per semester, and payments must be made by the due dates specified in the invoice to secure the child’s place.
Boarding Fees: Chatsworth International School does not currently offer boarding facilities.
Additional Costs: - Uniforms: Approximately SGD 150 to SGD 300, depending on the grade level and number of sets. - Miscellaneous: Includes field trips, extracurricular activities, and technology fees, varying by program.
Refund Information: Tuition fees are refundable in accordance with the school's withdrawal policy, which generally requires written notice one semester in advance.
Fee Payment Options: Tuition and other fees can be paid via bank transfer or credit card. Parents are advised to account for any transaction fees that may apply.
This summary ensures prospective parents are well-informed of the financial commitments for enrolling their children at Chatsworth International School in Singapore.
Fee details
Enrolment Fee: SGD 3,667 One-time fee payable upon acceptance of offer and non-refundable.
Placement Test Fee: SGD 510 One-time fee payable where applicable; non-deductible and non-refundable.
Student Support Review Fee: SGD 510 One-time fee payable where applicable; non-deductible and non-refundable.
Tuition Fee:
Kindergarten to Grade 5: SGD 25,000 annually
Grade 6: SGD 43,472 annually
Grade 7 - 8: SGD 47,700 annually
Grade 9: SGD 49,107 annually
Grade 10: SGD 50,516 annually
Grade 11: SGD 51,925 annually
Grade 12: SGD 54,430 annually
Billing Schedule and Payment Terms: Tuition fees are billed in March and August. Payments can be made via bank transfer or credit card, with some bank fees applicable.
Other Costs: Additional costs include a technology fee of SGD 108 annually. Uniforms, available through the school's designated vendor, and transportation options incur additional charges.
Refund Information: In the case of withdrawal, a written notice is required, and fee refunds are subject to the school's refund policy, which may include a partial refund if notice is given before the start of the term.
Fee Payment Options: Fees can be paid through bank transfer directly to the school’s account or via credit card. Ensure arrangements are made well before the due dates to avoid delays.
Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
Chatsworth does not provide boarding facility.
Boarding arrangements
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Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
Uniforms and PE attire are required. The uniform provider is Lim's Uniforms, which sells uniforms online or at its Holland Road Shopping Centre store: 02-18, 211 Holland Avenue, Singapore 278967.
Uniform requirement
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Food options
Food options
Chatsworth has a full-service canteen operated by Cezars Kitchen, offering breakfast and lunch with options for different dietary needs. The canteen follows halal principles and uses a cashless payment system via wristbands for Years 3–6 and student IDs for secondary; a pre-order meal system is available.
Food options
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House system
House system
Chatsworth has a three-house system: Changi, Sentosa, and Raffles. Houses are populated vertically across the school, and merit points are awarded for work and exemplary citizenship; the Student Council represents student voice.
House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
The governance structure includes the Board of Directors, Board of Management, Academic Board, Examinations Board, School Leadership Team and Examinations Board. The Board of Directors sets direction and accountability, the Board of Management has ultimate responsibility for the school's operation and welfare, the School Leadership Team manages daily operations, the Academic Board oversees curriculum development, and the Examinations Board oversees assessments.
Governance and ownership
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Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
Chatsworth International School in Singapore offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum across its levels. For students aged 3 to 11, the school follows the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP). In the middle years, for ages 11 to 16, students engage with the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP). For ages 16 to 19, the school offers the IB Diploma Programme (DP).
Curriculum details
As an authorised K-12 International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, ISS offers the complete IB curriculum, including the IB Certificate and an American-styled High School Diploma for G11 and G12 students. Our school's personalised learning programme, supported by a robust student achievement database, tailors education to diverse student needs and backgrounds.
Student teacher ratio
Student teacher ratio
Teacher-Student Ratio 2:22 (K1 & K2) 2:24 (Y1 & Y2) 1:24 (Y3 - Y13) While our maximum class size is capped at 22 students for K1 to Year 2 and 24 for Years 3-13 to keep learning personalised, our actual average across the school sits at about 16 students per class.
Student teacher ratio
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Exam results
Exam results
Chatsworth graduates have achieved excellent results in their IB Diploma and consistently score well above the world average year after year. The Class of 2026 achieved a 100% pass rate and a school average of 35 points that surpassed the global average of 30.88 points. 30% of the graduating class earned the prestigious IB Bilingual Diploma.
Exam results
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Higher education progression
Higher education progression
93% of our graduates have progressed to universities with the remaining graduates either doing National Service or a gap year. Our students received offers from leading universities across the UK, Europe, North America, Asia and Australasia. These include UCL, Waseda University, University of Manchester, University of Melbourne, McGill University, University of Hong Kong, and Singapore Management University.
The school integrates Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) into its curriculum through dedicated lessons and activities that focus on crucial life skills like empathy, communication, and resilience. A team of qualified counselors and teachers specializes in SEL, providing students with support and guidance tailored to their individual needs. Additionally, the school's buddy program pairs new students with peers to ease the transition process and build social connections.
Social & emotional learning
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Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
Chatsworth International School offers support for students with mild to moderate Special Educational Needs through its integrated Learning Support program. The school employs qualified Learning Support teachers who work closely with classroom teachers to tailor educational strategies for individual students’ needs. Support focuses on areas such as language, literacy, numeracy, and social skills development. While the school is not a specialist SEN institution, it aims to provide a nurturing environment within the mainstream curriculum for students who require additional assistance.
Special educational needs (SEN)
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English as an additional language
English as an additional language
Chatsworth International School offers comprehensive support for students with English as an Additional Language (EAL) needs. The school provides a dedicated EAL programme designed to help students improve their English proficiency in both social and academic settings. EAL support is integrated into the regular classroom environment, allowing students to learn alongside their peers while receiving additional help from specialized teachers. These teachers focus on improving language skills such as reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
English as an additional language
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Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
Chatsworth International School places a strong emphasis on supporting the mental wellbeing of its students through a variety of specific programs and initiatives. The school employs a team of dedicated counselors who are available to provide individual support and guidance to students. Regular workshop sessions and classroom activities are integrated into the curriculum to teach students about emotional resilience and stress management. In addition, the school actively promotes a nurturing school environment through its pastoral care programs. Peer support systems are also in place, encouraging students to offer help and empathy to one another.
Mental wellbeing
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Safeguarding
Safeguarding
Chatsworth International School is committed to safeguarding and child protection, ensuring a secure environment for all students. Thorough background checks are conducted for all staff members as part of the hiring process, ensuring a trusted community. Staff undergo regular training on safeguarding procedures to maintain a vigilant and responsive environment. The school also encourages open communication, providing students with channels to report any concerns comfortably.
Safeguarding
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Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy
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Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
Facilities overview
The school operates at Bukit Timah, with the campus located at 72 Bukit Tinggi Road, Singapore 289760, near Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. The campus sits in a nature-inspired setting surrounded by greenery. A campus tour offers a 360-degree view of the campus and facilities, including indoor sports hall, swimming pool, music rooms, art rooms and classrooms. Transit options nearby include the Sixth Avenue MRT station, and a shuttle service is available before and after school hours.
Facilities overview
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Sports facilities
Sports facilities
The campus includes an indoor sports hall, a football pitch, a multi-purpose court and a swimming pool. These facilities support a range of physical education and athletic activities.
Sports facilities
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Academic facilities
Academic facilities
Classrooms, music rooms, drama (blackbox) and art rooms are available on campus. These spaces support general academic learning and creative expression.
Academic facilities
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Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
The school offers before- and after-school co-curricular activities and team-based activities. It emphasises arts, sports and service learning as part of a holistic education. The school also operates a house system (Changi, Sentosa and Raffles) to foster participation in activities and community life.
Extra curricular facilities
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Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
Chatsworth International School, established in 1995, started as a modest institution in Upper Serangoon. Over the years, Chatsworth has grown in both size and reputation, culminating in its integration into the Cognita group, a global network of schools, in 2019. The school relocated its main campus to Bukit Timah in 2018, which provides a more spacious and modern environment for its students.
History
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Community
Community
Chatsworth International School is a vibrant and inclusive community that values diversity, bringing together students from a wide range of cultural backgrounds. The school hosts various community and cultural events throughout the year, such as Spring Fair and international day, which provide opportunities for families to engage and celebrate different cultures.
Community
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Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
At Chatsworth International School, the Chatsworth Parent Group (CPG) (or Parent Teacher Association (PTA)as some schools term it) plays a vital role in fostering a sense of community among families, teachers, and staff. The CPG organizes a variety of events throughout the school year, including the annual Cultural Celebration Day, which celebrates the diverse cultural backgrounds of the school community. Regular coffee mornings provide parents with an informal setting to engage with school leadership and discuss educational topics. The CPG also coordinates volunteer activities, enabling parents to participate actively in school life and support classroom needs.
Parent teacher association
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Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
Chatsworth International School offers three IB programmes: Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP). The school serves students aged 3 to 18, from Kindergarten through Year 13. Learning is inquiry-driven and holistic, with small class sizes that support individual student growth. The school's campus is located at 72 Bukit Tinggi Road, Singapore 289760.
Academic & intellectual
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Arts & creative
Arts & creative
The Arts are core offerings, including Visual Art, Drama, and Music. Students participate in Arts Nights, IN Art exhibitions, and the IB Diploma Visual Arts Exhibition. Facilities such as drama rooms, music rooms, and a main hall support performances and exhibitions. Arts learning is integrated across IB programmes, with opportunities to perform and display work.
Arts & creative
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Cultural & language
Cultural & language
English is the language of instruction, and students study two languages. In Primary, Mandarin is introduced early (Kindergarten 1), with Mandarin and French in Kindergarten 2; Years 1–6 have three language lessons per week in Mandarin, French, or English as an Additional Language (EAL). In Secondary, the Mother Tongue Programme runs with external tutors and supports IB language pathways; there are language pathways in the DP such as English A, French B, Mandarin B, and Spanish Ab Initio. The school also offers bilingual pathways and related diploma opportunities through SSST (School Supported Self-Taught) in language A and related options.
Cultural & language
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Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
Chatsworth has a House System with three Houses: Changi, Sentosa, and Raffles, which promotes school spirit and belonging. The Student Council provides a voice for students with elected representatives. Before- and after-school CCAs and team-based activities are offered, and athletics and the arts are active components of student life through ACSIS competitions and school-based programmes.
Social & hobbies
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Community & service
Community & service
Service Learning is a fundamental element of the school's holistic education, aimed at developing caring global citizens who address real community needs. Service extends beyond the classroom and involves community partners and projects, with groups in the MYP and CAS requirements in the DP. Examples include partnerships with organisations such as Food Bank Singapore, reflecting the school's commitment to community impact.
Community & service
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Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
The House System and Student Leadership provide leadership opportunities across primary and secondary levels. The Student Council offers student representation and leadership roles, with elections held toward the end of the school year. The school emphasizes developing principled, balanced, globally minded communicators and thinkers as part of its Schoolwide Learner Outcomes.
Leadership & professional
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
The campus is set amidst greenery near the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, with easy access via Sixth Avenue MRT and a shuttle bus service before and after school. The school's facilities include classrooms, science labs, art rooms, design rooms, music spaces, a main hall, a library, a canteen, an amphitheatre, a makerspace, a basketball court, a football pitch, and a swimming pool. Counselling and Student Services support student wellbeing, and the campus emphasizes physical and mental health through its environments and programmes.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
English is the language of instruction and all students study two languages. Primary offers Mandarin and French (with EAL support); Kindergarten 1 and 2 starts Mandarin; Years 1–6 have three language lessons per week in Mandarin, French or EAL. The school provides a Mother Tongue Programme in secondary with external tutors and an MT coordinator. IB language pathways in MYP and DP cover English, Mandarin, French, Spanish Ab Initio, and Pamoja Ab Initio options, with opportunities for a Bilingual Diploma via MT pathways or SSST.
Language provision
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Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
The school uses English as the language of instruction and requires students to study two languages. In Primary, Kindergarten 1 and 2 is introduced to Mandarin; from Years 1 to 6, three language lessons per week in Mandarin, French, or English as an Additional Language (EAL). In Secondary, students continue Mandarin, French, or EAL and may study their Mother Tongue as Language & Literature through the Mother Tongue Programme, with external tutors and MT coordinator support. The IB language pathways in the Diploma Programme include English A and English B; Mandarin B; French B; Spanish Ab Initio and Pamoja Ab Initio options, with a Bilingual Diploma pathway available via SSST or MT routes.
Bilingual teaching
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Immersion programs
Immersion programs
NA
Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
Best IB School (2022, 2024): Awarded by WhichSchoolAdvisor (Singapore), this honor acknowledges the school's excellence in delivering the International Baccalaureate curriculum.
The Curriculum Award (IB) (Gold, 2023 & 2024; Editor's Choice in 2025): Presented by HoneyKids Asia at the Singapore Education Awards, this award recognizes outstanding implementation of the IB curriculum.
School Where Everybody Knows Your Name (Gold, 2022 - 2024; Silver 2025): Presented by HoneyKids Asia at the Singapore Education Awards, this award recognizes schools where everyone feels welcome and supported and its warm, nurturing community brings out the best in its students.
Highly Commended for Excellence in Education - Schools (2025): This award from Relocate Global recognizes school's efforts in building connections and relationships within their community.
Best Art Program (2021): This award from the Singapore Education Awards acknowledges the school's commitment to fostering artistic talent among students.
Best Innovative Learning Environment (2022): Recognized by the Singapore Education Awards, this award commends the school's efforts in creating dynamic and effective learning spaces.
Best School for the Arts (2022): A Highly Commended award from WhichSchoolAdvisor (Singapore), acknowledging the school's excellence in arts education.
Awards
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Accreditations
Accreditations
International Baccalaureate (IB) World School: Chatsworth is authorized to offer the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and the Diploma Programme (DP).
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC): WASC accreditation ensures that the school provides quality assurance and a structured framework for ongoing improvement.
Accreditations
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Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
1. Book a School Tour: Arrange a visit to Chatsworth International School to get a feel for the campus environment. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to see the facilities, meet some of the teaching staff, and understand more about the school's ethos and curriculum offerings. This visit will help you evaluate if the school’s environment and community are a good fit for your child.
2. Submit the Application: Complete the online application form available on the school's website. Ensure you upload the required supporting documents, such as previous school reports, a copy of your child’s passport, and any relevant educational assessments.
3. Assessment and Interview: After submitting the application, your child may be invited for an assessment and interview. These evaluations help the admissions team understand your child's academic level and needs. Younger children may be observed in a playgroup setting, while older students might participate in more formal assessments.
4. Offer of Placement: If your child is successful in the assessment process, you will receive an offer of placement. This offer will be communicated via email, and you will need to respond within the specified timeframe to secure the place for your child.
5. Acceptance and Enrollment: To finalize the enrollment process, submit the signed acceptance letter and pay the required fees, such as the tuition deposit. The school will then send you the details for orientation sessions to help your child integrate smoothly into the school community. Your child’s start date and class allocation will also be confirmed during this step.
Admissions
We understand that starting or switching school can be a challenging and stressful time. We aim to make the application process a pleasant and straightforward experience.
When considering applicants, we take into account factors which include personal and social development, educational history and milestones, academic profile and English language proficiency to determine if applicants will benefit from their learning experience at ISS.
All applications are diligently processed, evaluated for acceptance and grade-level placement, and submitted to the respective Academic Director for approval.
For detailed admission and application process please refer to the admissions overview page on our website:
https://www.iss.edu.sg/admissions/overview/
Scholarships
Scholarships
Scholarships at Chatsworth International School
Eligibility and Application Process: - The scholarship is applicable to both new and existing students embarking on the IBDP (Years 12 and 13). - Applicants must demonstrate strong academic performance in their previous school reports and meet the entrance requirements specified by the school. - A comprehensive application process includes submission of school reports, personal essays or statements, and may include interviews or additional assessments.
Scholarship Benefits: - Scholarships may cover full or partial tuition fees (partial fee is only applicable to existing Chatsworth students), with the specific amount depending on the candidate’s academic achievements and the program’s criteria. - The Scholarship awarded does not typically cover other school-related expenses, such as transportation, uniforms, or extracurricular activities.
Renewal and Conditions: - Scholarship recipients are expected to maintain high academic standards, as determined by the school, to continue receiving the scholarship in Year 13. - The school reviews the performance of scholarship holders regularly to ensure that they continue to meet the scholarship criteria.
Commitment to Excellence: - Through this program, Chatsworth International School aims to foster a diverse international community by attracting students who show exceptional promise and a dedication to contributing to the school community.
How to Apply:
Prospective families interested in the scholarship opportunities are encouraged to contact the school directly for detailed information on application deadlines, necessary documentation, and specific eligibility criteria. The school’s admissions office provides guidance throughout the application process, ensuring that interested families have all the necessary support.
Scholarships
ISS International School does offer scholarships occassionally.
Waitlist
Waitlist
Waitlist System:
Criteria for Waitlisting: In cases where a particular grade level has reached its full capacity, the school operates a waitlist system. Students who meet the admissions criteria but apply for grades that are full will be placed on this waitlist.
Waitlist Management: The school reviews this list regularly. As spots become available, they are offered to waitlisted students based on the date of application and other considerations, ensuring a first-come-first-served approach.
Notification Process: Families are notified as soon as a place becomes available. The admissions office endeavors to keep communication open, allowing families to remain informed of their current standing.
Pool System:
Application Pool Review: In addition to a straightforward waitlist, Chatsworth International School sometimes utilizes an application pool system, especially for unique or highly sought-after programs. This means that all applicants could be considered simultaneously when a spot opens, regardless of when they applied.
Decision-Making Criteria: Applicants from the pool are selected based on a holistic review that might include academic records, strengths, and other program-specific criteria.
Waitlist
If a particular grade level reaches capacity, applicants may be placed on a waitlist. The admissions team closely monitors enrolment numbers and will notify families if a spot becomes availableAs places open up, the admissions team contacts families in the order applications were received. Once notified of an available spot, families need to confirm their acceptance promptly to secure enrolment.
