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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.
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.
ISS International School is a co-educational institution offering a day school program.
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.
ISS International School does not have an affiliation to any particular country.
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.
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.
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
Each homeroom is a Kampong, fostering a sense of belonging and respect among students. The Kampong Spirit is central to school life.
ISS International School is registered as a Private Education Institution under the Private Education Act. Registration No. 201316975E. Registration period: 1 August 2023 to 31 July 2027.
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.
At ISS International School, our well-being programme is designed to nurture the holistic well-being of every student, from Primary to High School. We focus on physical, social, and emotional well-being, providing students the support they need to realise their potential. Through tailored learning experiences, we promote self-awareness, connectedness, and healthy balanced lifestyles that adapt with the students as they grow.
ISS International School provides tailored support for students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) through an inclusive learning environment. The school collects and processes student learning data to ensure appropriate accommodations and personalised strategies. Dedicated learning support staff collaborate with teachers and parents to integrate individualised interventions into daily learning, fostering academic and social growth. While not a specialist SEN institution, ISS prioritises pastoral care and progress monitoring, ensuring students receive the necessary resources and support to thrive.
ISS takes pride in its robust English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme, consistently guiding students from low WIDA scores to success in IBDP and HSD exams. The success is attributed to individualised support, a dedicated team of educators, and a caring culture that cultivates English proficiency, laying the foundation for student success and future pathways.
At ISS, our Counselling Services are dedicated to fostering our school community’s personal growth, resilience, and overall well-being.
We provide a confidential and compassionate space where students are empowered to navigate challenges and thrive. Through both proactive and responsive approaches, we nurture social-emotional development and collaborate closely with families to address individual and community needs.
ISS International School fully recognises its responsibilities regarding child protection, and the welfare of all students is of paramount importance to our community. We aim to create a safe, secure, and supportive learning environment for all members of the community. We believe that all students have a right to be protected from neglect and physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.
Visit our Safeguarding page: https://www.iss.edu.sg/safeguarding-and-child-protection/ for more information on guidelines and procedures.
ISS International School was founded in 1981 by the late visionary politician, Mr Chan Chee Seng.
Central to ISS is "Our Kampong Spirit," embodying a commitment to community togetherness. With intentionally maintained small class sizes, academic excellence is not merely a goal but a journey facilitated by a personalised approach to learning and a nurturing environment.
ISS International School has a Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) that facilitates communication and collaboration between parents, teachers, and students. The PTA organises various events and activities throughout the academic year to enhance the educational experience and foster community spirit. These initiatives include cultural festivals celebrating the school's diversity, family fun days that encourage parental involvement, workshops and informational sessions on topics relevant to children's education and well-being, regular coffee mornings providing a relaxed setting for parents to connect and discuss school-related matters, and fundraising activities supporting school initiatives and student-led projects.
The school sits on a heritage hilltop campus surrounded by nature at 21 Preston Road, Singapore 109355. The campus includes a school canteen for lunch with Asian, Western or sandwich options, and Primary School classrooms include fridges for refrigerated food. The school day runs from 8:00 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. for all grade levels. Students in Grades 6–12 are required to have their own MacBook for learning. Two-way bus transport is available for students.
All Primary School ECAs are held during school hours on Mondays and Fridays; High School ECAs are held either after school or during lunch.
ISS offers a diverse range of activities, including clubs and societies that cater to a variety of interests. Students can start their own ECAs, and new ECAs are introduced each semester to align with evolving passions. The ECA program provides opportunities for social interaction, teamwork, and pursuing personal hobbies within a holistic, student-centered framework. The program emphasizes leadership development and the social-emotional skills needed to contribute to the school community.
Service as Action and Service Learning are integral parts of ISS's curriculum across the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the Diploma Programme (DP). The annual Week Without Walls trips focus on service as action, enabling students to engage with regional social or environmental issues and with local projects in Singapore. In MYP, students maintain long-term relationships with international organizations to develop service learning and intercultural competence and global citizenship, including support for the Sok Sobay Orphanage in Cambodia. In DP, Creativity, Action and Service is a compulsory component guiding self-initiated projects that connect learning with real-world impact.
The school provides a platform for leadership development and the development of social-emotional skills. Students are encouraged to participate in student-led ECAs and school life activities, with new ECAs introduced each semester to empower student ownership of learning outside the classroom.
The ECA program fosters sports, the arts, and service learning to support a balanced lifestyle. Students participate in physical activities and artistic pursuits, while developing well-being through collaboration, teamwork, and reflection as part of a holistic education. The program emphasizes opportunities for personal growth, teamwork, and community contribution.
English is the language of literacy and instruction in most curriculum areas. Mandarin is taught as a language option in the Primary Years Programme and Middle Years Programme. In the Diploma Programme, languages include English A and Chinese A for Language and Literature, and English B and Chinese B for Language Acquisition. The High School Diploma includes Mother Tongue or a foreign language, with courses such as Chinese A/B, Japanese A, and other language options (including language A School Supported Self-Taught and ab initio options like Chinese/French/Spanish). EAL support is provided to assist learners developing English proficiency.
ISS offers a Bilingual Diploma pathway within the IB Diploma Programme. Language options include English and Mandarin across the MYP and DP, with English A and Chinese A available in the Diploma Programme and English B and Chinese B as language acquisition options. Mother Tongue language courses are available (Chinese A/B, Japanese A, and other languages) and EAL support helps learners access the curriculum.
Asia's Best Education Institute Award ISS was honoured with this award by the World Consulting and Research Corporation, ranking among the top 100 educational institutes in Asia.
International Baccalaureate (IB) World School
ISS International School is an authorised International Baccalaureate (IB) World School that offers a multicultural environment for students from Kindergarten to Grade 12. ISS provides a broad based education for students through the full IB Primary Years, Middle Years and Diploma Programmes. The three programmes were authorised (and re-authorised) in stages: Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), Diploma Programme (DP).
Council of International Schools (CIS) Accreditation
ISS was fully accredited by the Committee of International Schools (CIS) in 2011.
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
ISS International School has been fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) since 1986. This allows our students increased access to American schools and universities.
EduTrust Certification
ISS International School is pleased to receive the 4-year EduTrust Certificate, valid from 29 October 2023 to 28 October 2027. EduTrust is a quality certification scheme introduced by SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) as part of the Private Education Act to strengthen the existing registration framework and enforcement provision to regulate the private education sector in Singapore. ISS International School is registered with SkillsFuture Singapore.
East Asian Region Council Overseas Schools (EARCOS)
ISS International School is an East Asian Region Council Overseas Schools (EARCOS) member since the 1980s. Our administrators attend annual conferences around Asia Pacific where the latest in leadership and educational research is explored. Teachers are also given the opportunity to attend as well as present at the annual Teachers’ Conference.
doris recommends that you start by speaking to admissions. This connects you directly to the school's admissions team who can respond with answers, more information, and next steps. 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/
ISS International School does offer scholarships occassionally.
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.
International French School (Singapore) is located at 3000 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3, situated in the northern part of Singapore. The school is well-connected by public transport, with the Ang Mo Kio MRT station and a network of bus services nearby, offering easy access to various parts of Singapore. The surrounding area features a mix of residential neighborhoods and amenities, making it a convenient and family-friendly setting for expatriates.
The International French School (Singapore) is structured into four main sections: Maternelle (Preschool) for ages 3-6, Élémentaire (Elementary) for ages 6-11, Collège (Middle School) for ages 11-15, and Lycée (High School) for ages 15-18.
International French School (Singapore) is a co-educational institution that caters to students from preschool through high school. The school does not offer boarding facilities. It provides a French-based curriculum, welcoming both local and international students seeking a French education.
The International French School (Singapore) (IFS) provides dedicated support for students with Additional Learning Needs through a structured and inclusive approach. The Groupe d’Accompagnement et d’Inclusion (GAIN) team, comprising specialized educators and school psychologists, works closely with teachers and families to develop personalized support plans tailored to each student's needs. IFS offers a range of structured programs, including the Personalized Project of Schooling (PPS), Personalized Support Plan (PAP), and Personalized Educational Success Program (PPRE), ensuring that students receive targeted assistance within the classroom setting. Additionally, the school provides access to external specialists, such as speech and occupational therapists, to offer comprehensive support for diverse learning profiles. Through this framework, IFS fosters an environment where every student can thrive academically and personally.
The International French School (Singapore) is affiliated with France and follows the French national curriculum, offering education from kindergarten through to high school with a focus on French language and culture.
International French School (Singapore) is a secular institution with no affiliation to any particular religion.
The International French School (IFS) in Singapore has varying school hours by level. Kindergarten runs from 8:35 AM to 3:25 PM (Monday-Thursday) and until 12:00 PM on Friday. Elementary follows the same schedule but ends at 12:15 PM on Friday. Secondary school starts at 7:50 AM daily, with end times depending on the grade and timetable. Fridays generally have shorter hours across levels.
International French School (Singapore) facilitates student transportation through an agreement with Woodlands Transport Solutions Pte Ltd (WT). This door-to-door service is available for all students except those in Toute Petite Section (TPS) and the 5:15 PM shuttle bus. Bus routes and schedules are designed to align with the school's timings, with morning pick-ups starting from 7:00 AM for secondary students and 7:30 AM for kindergarten and elementary students. For secondary students, a 5:15 PM shuttle service covers predetermined stops across Singapore. The school publishes a School Bus Handbook annually, detailing rules and guidelines for student transport.
The uniform is mandatory for Maternelle (Kindergarten) and Elémentaire (Elementary School). For Collège and Lycée (Middle and High School) there is no uniform; students wear the IFS polo or T-shirt for school trips. The uniform and the sports T-shirt are made with anti-UV fabric.
The Canteen is operated by Chartwells, a member of the Compass Group. They provide over 2,500 meals daily, with menus developed by chefs and dietitians in coordination with the school, health services, and the Parents Commission. Peanuts and tree nuts are not used in Chartwells products on campus, though some items may contain traces. For Kindergarten and Elementary, meals include a morning snack, a hot meal with protein, a side dish, a dessert, and a fruit; for Middle School, a protein dish, side, dessert, and fruit, with additional Grab & Go options. Secondary school students have additional services such as the Pop-up Station, Grab & Go, La Fenêtre, and Le Petit Bistro. A Lunchbox option is available as an alternative; a canteen card is used for payments.
The International French School (Singapore) is a private, non-profit organization affiliated with the Agency for French Education Abroad (AEFE) through an institutional agreement (établissement conventionné). Governance is provided by two bodies: the Executive Committee, which oversees operations and long-term strategy, and the Educational Committee, which represents the parent community in educational matters. Elections for the Executive Committee and participation in General Meetings are open to parent and corporate members, who may serve as representatives on the committees.
The school offers a bilingual French-English education for students aged 2 to 18, following the French national curriculum across four stages: Maternelle, Élémentaire, Collège, and Lycée.
Maternelle (Ages 3–5): A plurilingual program with French, English, and Mandarin, with increasing language exposure as students progress. The curriculum focuses on language development, mathematics, physical activity, arts, and world discovery.
Élémentaire (Ages 6–11): Students develop core skills in French, English, Mandarin, mathematics, sciences, humanities, and the arts. Two streams are available: Classic (English as a second language) and Anglais+ (balanced French-English instruction).
Collège (Ages 12–15): The curriculum expands to include at least 12 subjects, with multiple language pathways, including a British International section and a Mandarin section. Studies culminate in the Diplôme National du Brevet (DNB).
Lycée (Ages 15–18): Students specialize in subjects while preparing for the French Baccalauréat (Bac) or French International Baccalaureate (BFI). Advanced language options include enhanced English or Mandarin instruction. IFS has a 100% Bac pass rate, with most students earning distinctions.
IFS emphasizes multilingualism, academic excellence, and cultural diversity, preparing students for top universities worldwide.
The school has established a Counselling Centre dedicated to supporting students' social, emotional, and mental health needs. This centre provides a safe and supportive environment where students can explore their emotions, develop coping mechanisms, and cultivate self-awareness. Services include individual and group sessions tailored to each student's unique needs, and the centre promotes mental health through preventive and awareness-building initiatives. Collaboration with parents and educators ensures a comprehensive support system, helping students navigate the challenges of adolescence.
The International French School (Singapore) provides tailored support for students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) through its dedicated team of specialized educators and support staff. The school offers specific provisions such as individualized education plans and small group interventions to cater to various needs, including learning disabilities and mild to moderate autism spectrum disorders. While not a specialist SEN institution, the school is committed to inclusivity and works closely with parents and external therapists to create a supportive learning environment. Additional initiatives include workshops and training sessions for both teachers and parents to ensure understanding and consistency in support strategies. This collaborative approach helps in addressing the diverse needs of SEN students, fostering their academic and social development in an inclusive setting.
IFS supports students with special educational needs (SEN) through its Groupe d’Accompagnement et d’Inclusion (GAIN) structure. A team of five specialized teachers and three school psychologists provides individualized and small-group support for students facing learning difficulties and disabilities. IFS offers tailored programs, including the Personalized Support Plan (PAP) for learning difficulties and the Personalized Project of Schooling (PPS) for special needs, ensuring structured assistance. While not a specialist SEN institution, the school fosters inclusivity by working closely with parents and external therapists to create a supportive learning environment.
The schools Counselling Centre provides confidential guidance, emotional support, and coping strategies for students. A team of three school psychologists offers individual and group sessions, focusing on stress management, emotional regulation, and academic pressures.
The school does not provide any public information about its approach to safeguarding, but does maintain various safety protocols (such as controlled access to the campus).
The school), also known as Lycée Français de Singapour, was established in 1967, initially set up by a group of expatriate parents to provide a French education for their children in Singapore. Over the years, it has grown significantly both in size and reputation, becoming a part of the Agency for French Education Abroad (AEFE) network, which links various French schools globally. The school has maintained a close relationship with the French Embassy in Singapore, reflecting its strong ties to the French community. With its expansion, the school moved to its current campus in Ang Mo Kio in 1999, accommodating a diverse and growing student population. Through its long history, the school has continued to embrace multiculturalism, welcoming families from numerous backgrounds while maintaining its French educational ethos.
The International French School (Singapore) is a vibrant community comprising students from over 50 nationalities, creating a diverse and multicultural environment. The school celebrates this diversity through various events, including the annual International Day and French cultural activities such as Bastille Day celebrations. Additionally, regular community events like school fairs and parent-teacher gatherings foster a strong sense of belonging and engagement among families. This dynamic setting supports a rich exchange of cultures and traditions, benefiting students and their families alike.
The Parent Committee at the International French School (Singapore) (IFS) plays a pivotal role in fostering a strong community spirit among families, staff, and students. Elected annually, the committee comprises 12 members representing all school levels, from Maternelle (Kindergarten) to Lycée (High School). Their core responsibilities include representing the parent community, facilitating communication between school leadership and parents, coordinating class representatives, and managing projects such as book fairs and school celebration days (fête de l'école). Additionally, they participate in discussions on pedagogical decisions and collaborate with the school's educational leadership through monthly meetings. The committee also provides financial support to families in need, utilizing proceeds from events like the fête de l'école.
The International French School (Singapore) offers a modern campus with learning spaces designed to foster academic success, creativity, and curiosity. The school evolves with the latest technologies to support innovative teaching and growing student needs. Every building optimizes acoustics, lighting, air quality, and temperature control to create a conducive learning environment. The campus houses 160 classrooms including exam rooms, four libraries, four large performance halls, drama/music and dance studios, state-of-the-art media technology suites, science laboratories, clean canteens, and nap rooms for younger students. It also features extensive sports and outdoor facilities to support a well-rounded education.
The campus supports a broad physical education program with two 25-metre swimming pools, two rugby and football pitches, and three gyms including two climbing walls. There are multiple large outdoor playgrounds, a running track, and an outdoor basketball court.
The academic facilities support bilingual French-English education and include 160 classrooms including exam rooms, four libraries, four large performance halls, and dedicated drama, music, and dance studios. The campus features state-of-the-art media technology suites and science laboratories for hands-on learning. Clean, modern canteens serve students, and nap rooms support younger learners.
IFS offers over 60 activities supervised by experienced coaches, available in French or English. Activities span sports, arts, language workshops, and cultural programs. Examples include basketball, football, swimming, rugby, climbing, archery, chess, choir, drama, coding and robotics, and Model United Nations (MUN).
The International French School (Singapore) offers a bilingual French-English education for students aged 3 to 18. The school has more than 50 years of experience and combines academic rigor with a multicultural environment to develop curious, confident global citizens.
The school provides a multilingual education with a French-English bilingual programme and additional language options in Mandarin, Spanish, and German. The student body represents more than 80 nationalities, supporting a diverse and inclusive community.
Instruction is delivered in English and French as core languages within the bilingual stream. The school also offers Mandarin, Spanish, and German as additional language options. The English International Stream (EIS) is an English-taught programme that follows the structure of the French National Education curriculum and incorporates multilingual exposure, including Mandarin or French. The school serves students aged 3 to 18.
The school offers a French-English bilingual programme. The bilingual programme integrates both languages across the core curriculum, supporting multilingual proficiency for students aged 3 to 18.
The French Passerelle programme provides additional French language support during school hours for non-French-speaking students. It is designed to be immersive, starting in primary and continuing into secondary to ease transition to the French curriculum.
HoneyKids Singapore Education Awards 2024: Gold Award for Best Bilingual Programme – Recognized for its excellence in French-English bilingual education, reinforcing its commitment to multilingual learning.
HoneyKids Singapore Education Awards 2024: Gold Award for Best School for Learning Support – Acknowledged for providing exceptional student support services, ensuring inclusive education for all learners.
HoneyKids Singapore Education Awards 2024: Gold Award for Sustainability – Awarded for outstanding environmental initiatives, showcasing the school’s dedication to sustainability and eco-conscious education.
HoneyKids Singapore Education Awards 2024: Editor's Choice for Most Affordable International School – Recognized for offering high-quality education at competitive tuition fees, making international schooling more accessible.
EFE3D Certification 2024: Level 3 – Highest Distinction in Sustainability – Achieved the top level in the Établissement Français à l'Étranger en Démarche de Développement Durable (EFE3D) certification for excellence in environmental responsibility and sustainable development.
French Ministry of National Education Accreditation:
- This accreditation ensures that the school adheres to the academic standards set by the French national education system. It signifies the school's authority to deliver the French national curriculum and bear public examinations for its students.
Council of International Schools (CIS) Membership:
- Being a member of the CIS indicates the school's commitment to a comprehensive global education framework. It signifies adherence to international best practices in teaching, learning, and student well-being.
Mission Laïque Française (MLF) Network:
- This network affiliation indicates that the school is part of a global association promoting French language and culture worldwide. It reflects the school’s mission to nurture bilingual and multicultural competencies in students.
Agency for French Education Abroad (AEFE) Network:
- Accreditation by AEFE guarantees that the school maintains consistent educational standards with other French international schools globally. It allows students smooth transitions to other AEFE schools and confers access to a global alumni network.
doris recommends that you start by speaking to admissions. This connects you directly to the school's admissions team who can respond with answers, more information, and next steps. 1. Attend an Open House or School Tour: While not mandatory, visiting IFS in person can be valuable. Booking an open house or school tour provides firsthand insight into the facilities, learning environment, and community, helping you determine if the school is the right fit for your child.
2. Submit an Application: Complete and submit your child's application via the EDUKA platform. Ensure that all required information, including personal details, academic history, and relevant documents, is accurately provided.
3. Pay the Registration Fees and School Fees Advance (SFA): After submitting your application, you will receive invoices for the registration fee and School Fees Advance (SFA). Payment must be completed before the admissions committee can review your child's application.
4. Application Review and Admissions Committee Decision: The admissions committee meets monthly to review applications. To be considered, all documents and payments must be submitted at least seven days before the scheduled meeting.
5. Assessment and Interview (if applicable): Depending on your child's background, an assessment may be required to determine appropriate placement. Non-French speaking students aged six and above must undergo a language assessment as part of the admissions process.
6. Receive an Offer: If your child is accepted, you will receive an official offer confirming their place at IFS. Additional documents may be requested at this stage to finalize enrollment.
8. Acceptance and Enrollment: To secure your child’s spot, complete any remaining paperwork and pay the required fees. If applicable, ensure that your child has the necessary Singapore residency approvals before the school year begins. IFS will assist in obtaining the correct Ministry of Education approvals if needed.
French families paying the school fees of their children on their own can apply for a scholarship with the French Consulate. The scholarships are granted based on household income and under condition of registration with the Consulate.
The school uses a waitlist system when demand for certain grade levels exceeds available places.
The waitlist works in the following way:
Positioning on the List: After submitting a complete application, including necessary documentation and fees, prospective students may be placed on a waitlist if the desired grade is full. Applicants are registered in the order their applications are received.
Notification: Families will be promptly informed about their waitlist status. The Admissions Office communicates regularly regarding any changes or availability of spaces.
Advancement and Offers: As spots become available, offers are made to waitlisted students based on the order of registration. The school endeavors to inform families as soon as a place can be offered.
Priority Considerations:
While the school strives to ensure fairness, certain applicants may receive priority. This often includes siblings of current students, children of staff, and students relocating from other French international schools.
