ISS International School vs St. Joseph's Institution International

	I ISS International School Singapore	St. Joseph's Institution International Singapore
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year SGD 25,000 - 54,430	Fees / year SGD 35,876 - 47,388
Age range	Age range 4 - 18 years	Age range 4 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), IPC (International Primary Curriculum), IMYC (International Middle Years Curriculum), Cambridge A Levels
Pupils	Pupils 250	Pupils 2,000
Typical class size	Typical class size 19	Typical class size 22
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1981	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	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.	Location SJI International is located at 490 Thomson Road in Singapore's Novena district. The campus is easily accessible via public transportation, with the Novena MRT station nearby, and is surrounded by residential neighborhoods and amenities.
Stages	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.	Stages The school comprises two divisions: the Elementary School for students aged 5 to 12, and the High School for students aged 12 to 18.
School type	School type ISS International School is a co-educational institution offering a day school program.	School type SJI International is a co-educational school and does not offer boarding.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	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.	Additional learning support The Learning Development Department at SJI International assists students facing mild to moderate learning challenges. This support includes in-class assistance, diagnostic assessments, and, when necessary, individualized interventions.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation ISS International School does not have an affiliation to any particular country.	Country affiliation SJI International is not affiliated with any specific country.
Religious affiliation	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.	Religious affiliation SJI International is affiliated with the De La Salle Brothers, a Catholic religious institute, and upholds Lasallian educational values.
School day structure	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.	School day structure The school day typically starts at 8:00 AM and ends at 3:30 PM, with breaks and lunch periods scheduled throughout the day.
Bus service details	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	Bus service details SJI International collaborates with Tong Tar Transport Service Pte Ltd to offer a school bus service for Elementary School students. For High School students, transportation arrangements are typically managed by families, with various public transportation options available.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	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.	Fee details Application Fees - Grade 7 Application Fee: SGD 2,725 (non-refundable) - Grade 8-12 Application Fee: SGD 1,635 (non-refundable) - Elementary School Application Fee: SGD 1,635 (non-refundable) Enrolment Fee - Enrolment Fee for Elementary & High School: SGD 3,815 (non-refundable) - High School Security Deposit: SGD 6,000 (refundable upon graduation) Elementary School School Fees (Annual) - Prep 1 to Grade 3 Mainstream: SGD 35,876 - Prep 1 to Grade 3 Bilingual Programme: SGD 43,050 - Grade 4 Mainstream: SGD 35,876 - Grade 5 to Grade 6 Mainstream: SGD 36,052 High School School Fees (Annual) - Grade 7 & 8: SGD 37,202 - Grade 9, 10 & 10FC: SGD 38,186 - Grade 11: SGD 47,388 - Grade 12: SGD 39,802 Additional Programme Fees English as an Additional Language (EAL) - Grade 7-8: Up to SGD 7,911 per year - Grade 9-10: SGD 7,911 per year - Grade 10 Foundation Course: SGD 6,592 Home Language Programme - Average Fee per Term: SGD 2,455 Billing and Payment Terms - Fees are invoiced termly (two terms per academic year) - Late Payment Fee: SGD 200 Payment Options - Electronic Transfer - PayNow - Credit Card (2.04% convenience fee applies) Sibling Discount - 25% discount on tuition for fourth child and above Note: All fees include 9% GST and are subject to annual review
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements Boarding is available from Grade 9 onwards. St Andrew's Hall is the official boarding house, a co-educational residence housing up to 600 students managed by St Andrew's Junior College. All new students who do not live with their parents or a direct blood relative are required to live at St Andrew's Hall. Meals during school days are breakfast and dinner; weekends and holidays provide three meals per day. The boarding facility includes a communal study centre, gym, dance studio and music room, and students may use St Andrew's wider recreational facilities. Transportation to the school is by public transport. The monthly cost is $930.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement The school has a uniform policy with separate Elementary School Uniform Policy and High School Uniform Policy.
Food options	Food options —	Food options Compass Group (Chartwells) operates the canteen and catering. Menus include Western, Asian, Vegetarian and allergen-controlled options; allergen-controlled kitchens exclude tree nuts, peanuts, crustaceans, molluscs and sesame; Chartwells staff are trained to handle dietary needs; a sample menu is available.
House system	House system —	House system The school has a four-house system: Saint Benilde, Saint Jaime, Saint Miguel, and Saint Mutien. Each house is overseen by a Head of House and a House Unity Group (HUG). House points are earned through events, sportsmanship and representation, culminating in the House Cup. The house system supports the Virtues Project.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership —	Governance and ownership The school is Lasallian Catholic and governed by a Board of Governors. It is organized as St. Joseph's Institution International Ltd and St. Joseph's Institution International Elementary School Ltd. It forms part of a family of schools (Our Family of Schools) including SJI International Preschool, Elementary School and High School. The Board is chaired by Chris Woo, with multiple appointed members contributing to governance.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	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.	Curriculum details The Elementary School follows the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), incorporating Singapore Maths and Chinese language studies. The High School offers the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) program in Grades 9 and 10, followed by the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) in Grades 11 and 12.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar View document	Academic calendar View document
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning —	Social & emotional learning SJI International places a strong emphasis on SEL, integrating it into both the curriculum and extracurricular activities. The school offers a well-being program grounded in positive psychology principles, facilitated by Heads of Grade and School Counsellors. Regular well-being surveys are conducted to monitor student welfare and inform the pastoral care approach.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) —	Special educational needs (SEN) While SJI International strives to accommodate students with SEN, the scope of support is limited to mild to moderate learning needs. The Learning Development Team works collaboratively with parents, teachers, and external experts to identify and implement appropriate support measures. It's important to note that the school is not a specialized SEN institution and may not be equipped to support a wide spectrum of special educational needs.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language —	English as an additional language SJI International offers an English as an Additional Language (EAL) Programme tailored for students whose first language is not English. The program provides specialized support to help these students access the curriculum and prepare for academic challenges. The duration of support varies based on individual language proficiency, with a minimum commitment of one year. Students entering Grades 9 and 11 are expected to participate in the program for the entire two-year IGCSE and IB Diploma courses, respectively. Assessments conducted at admission determine the appropriate level of support needed.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing —	Mental wellbeing SJI International is committed to fostering a supportive environment for students' mental health. The school offers a counseling program that includes individual and group counseling, psycho-educational sessions, and workshops on mental health and coping strategies. The counseling team collaborates with parents, teachers, and external professionals to address personal and interpersonal issues.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding —	Safeguarding SJI International adheres to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and is dedicated to providing a safe environment for all students. The school's Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is reviewed annually and is accessible to all stakeholders. The policy emphasizes safe recruitment practices, regular staff training, and clear procedures for reporting and addressing concerns.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy View document
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview —	Facilities overview The school operates on a large campus with specialist subject classrooms, auditoriums, a black box theatre, television studios and music rooms. The Lawrence Da Silva Sports Complex includes a 25m swimming pool, indoor sports hall, fitness room and rock climbing wall. Outdoors there are dedicated courts for basketball, netball and tennis and a FIFA- and IRB-approved turf field for track and field. The campus comprises multiple blocks for arts, humanities and sciences, including La Salle Block, Khoo Teck Puat Building, Cecilia Block, Solomon Block and Wisdom Block, along with High School Music, Drama Rooms and Canteen, and a High School Science Block; it also includes an Assembly Hall and a Chapel.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities —	Sports facilities The on-campus sports facilities are anchored by the Lawrence Da Silva Sports Complex, with a 25m pool, indoor sports hall, fitness room and a rock climbing wall. Outdoors there are courts for basketball, netball and tennis and a FIFA- and IRB-approved turf field for track and field. The school supports competitive sport and representation in regional events such as ACSIS, with students competing in track and field, badminton, basketball, football, golf, netball, rugby, cross country, swimming, tennis and volleyball. Additional sports options include fencing, taekwondo, track and field, cross country, swimming, shooting and canoeing, with sporting CCAs such as cricket, table tennis, ultimate frisbee, softball, rock climbing and fitness training.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities —	Academic facilities The campus provides extensive academic facilities including specialist subject classrooms, science laboratories, and information technology centers. The Cecilia Block houses a Creative Arts Building, a Digital Technologies Lab, plus Music and Art Rooms and a Nurse Room. The Solomon Block contains Design & Technology spaces, Art Rooms, a HS Media Suite and Solomon Hall. The Wisdom Block houses the Humanities Centre and related teaching spaces. A High School Science Block supports science teaching, and the school maintains other spaces such as auditoriums, a black box theatre and television studios to support arts and media education.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities —	Extra curricular facilities The school runs a broad range of co-curricular activities through its Beyond The Classroom program, including Co-Curricular Activities, Outdoor Education, Pastoral Care & Wellbeing, Service Learning and Student Leadership. The High School curriculum emphasizes Outdoor Education, Co-curricular Activities and Service Learning as part of holistic development. Students participate in service projects, leadership opportunities and a variety of clubs and activities that foster character, teamwork and community engagement.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History —	History SJI International was established as part of Singapore's Lasallian educational network, which dates back to 1852. The High School opened in 2007, followed by the Elementary School in 2008. These developments marked the creation of the first international school within this group, aiming to provide a global standard of education while upholding Lasallian values.
Community	Community —	Community SJI International fosters a vibrant community spirit, engaging students, parents, and staff in various activities that promote collaboration and cultural exchange. The school organizes community events such as festivals, fairs, and service-learning projects, which not only enrich students' educational experiences but also strengthen community bonds.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association —	Parent teacher association The Parent Support Group (PSG) at SJI International plays a pivotal role in enhancing the school community. As a volunteer organization, the PSG strives to enrich the educational experience by organizing events that foster collaboration between parents and teachers. Membership is automatic upon a student's enrollment, and each grade is represented by two Grade Representatives who serve as liaisons for non-academic matters. The PSG's activities include cultural celebrations, workshops, and social gatherings, all aimed at building a cohesive and engaged community.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual —	Academic & intellectual St. Joseph's Institution International offers IGCSE and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in High School, and the IPC and IMYC curricula in Elementary School. In High School, Grades 9–10 study the Cambridge IGCSE English Language and English Literature, while Grades 11–12 complete the IB Diploma Programme with English Language and Literature as Language A options at Higher and Standard levels. The Elementary School uses the IPC and IMYC to structure learning in the early years. A dedicated University Counselling team supports subject choices and university applications.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative —	Arts & creative Co-Curricular Activities span creative and performing arts, music, and theatre, alongside other disciplines. The CCAs are organized to balance academics with personal growth and include a focus on the arts as part of learning beyond the classroom. Students engage in leadership and performance through arts-related councils and activities. Co-curriculars emphasize creativity and collaboration across the arts, sports, and service.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language —	Cultural & language The school emphasises language development with two languages: a home language and an additional language, and adheres to the Singapore Ministry of Education Mother Tongue Language requirements for eligible students. Elementary School offers a Mainstream Programme with English as the primary language of instruction and Chinese (or Spanish in Grades 5–6), and a Bilingual Programme delivered in English and Chinese. Chinese is offered across three pathways (first language, second language, or foreign language) in all grades, with an English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme to support learners. The Languages curriculum promotes bilingualism and intercultural understanding within the school community.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies —	Social & hobbies Co-Curricular Activities foster engagement beyond academics, spanning arts, music, drama, sports, and student leadership. The CCAs are designed to develop motivation, teamwork, and leadership while providing enjoyment. Student leadership opportunities are offered through multiple student councils and committees that give students voice and responsibility within the school. The programs encourage active participation and personal development outside the classroom.
Community & service	Community & service —	Community & service Service Learning is embedded in the curriculum, connecting classroom work with local and global service initiatives. Students collaborate on service projects that build empathy, collaboration, and social responsibility, and reflect on their experiences to grow as global citizens. The program includes community outreach activities and partnerships that extend beyond the campus.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional —	Leadership & professional Student leadership is developed through dedicated councils and committees covering areas such as community service, sustainability, virtues, performing arts, sports, and culture. The school provides four full-time University Counsellors to support Grade 8–12 students with subject choices and university applications. The school offers a Scholarship Programme with multiple pathways and deadlines for entry to the IB Diploma Programme, and admissions involve assessments and interviews. The school fosters leadership, communication, and professional preparation through its programs and opportunities.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing —	Lifestyle & wellbeing Pastoral Care & Wellbeing centers on the student's holistic development, with a Wellbeing Curriculum and Virtues Project to promote social and emotional health. School nurses and counsellors support physical and mental well-being, while homeroom teachers, Heads of Grade and a Student Success team provide ongoing pastoral support. Tutor groups and wellbeing initiatives foster a safe and inclusive environment that supports personal growth and resilience. The Lasallian mission underpins the wellbeing and character-building approach.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision —	Language provision In Elementary Mainstream, English is the primary language of instruction, with Chinese (or Spanish in Grades 5 and 6) taught as a subject. The Bilingual Programme provides instruction in English and Chinese across the curriculum. In High School, the IB Diploma Programme requires study in two languages.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching The school has a Bilingual Programme in Elementary (Prep 1-2 & Grade 1-3) with instruction in English and Chinese, using an alternating language teaching model. The Bilingual Programme provides an immersive dual-language experience, with instruction delivered in both English and Chinese.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs The Bilingual Programme provides an immersive dual-language experience; instruction is delivered in English and Chinese.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards National Youth Achievement Award (NYAA): This award encourages youth participation in community service, skills development, and physical recreation. At SJI International, it's a compulsory part of the Grade 9 curriculum, with about 90% of students achieving the Bronze Award. IGCSE 'Top in the World' Awards: These awards recognize outstanding academic achievements globally. In August 2021, four SJI International students received this honor, highlighting exceptional performance in their IGCSE examinations.
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations EduTrust Certification: Awarded by Singapore's Committee for Private Education, this certification acknowledges private educational institutions that meet high standards in student protection, support services, academic processes, and more.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	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/	Admissions Attend an Open House (Optional): While not mandatory, attending an Open House provides valuable insights into the school's environment, curriculum, and community. It's an opportunity to interact with faculty, staff, and current students, helping you determine if SJI International aligns with your family's values and expectations. Submit an Application Form: Fill out the online application form. This form requires personal details, academic records, and any specific questions you may have. Complete the Admissions Test and Interview: After submitting your application, the admissions office will contact you to schedule an assessment. For Elementary School applicants (Prep 1 to Grade 1), this involves an observational assessment. For Grades 2 to 6, applicants undergo computerized and written assessments, followed by an interview. High School applicants (Grades 7 to 12) will participate in an online interview with a member of the Senior Leadership Team. Decision Notification and Acceptance: Parents will be informed of the admission decision. If offered a place, families are required to confirm acceptance promptly, usually within two weeks. This process includes the payment of a non-refundable enrolment fee and the completion of necessary documentation to finalize enrollment.
Scholarships	Scholarships ISS International School does offer scholarships occassionally.	Scholarships The school offers the Lasallian Scholarship, a six-year program for Singaporean students entering Grade 7. This merit-based, means-tested scholarship covers tuition fees and is awarded to up to four students annually. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership qualities, and a commitment to community service.
Waitlist	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.	Waitlist SJI International maintains a waitlist for certain grade levels when demand exceeds available spaces. If a desired grade is full, applicants are placed on this list and considered for openings as they arise. It's important to note that the school does not operate a 'pool' system; applicants are either offered a place or placed on the waitlist.
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