Singapore American School vs Stamford American International School (Singapore)

	Singapore American School Singapore	Stamford American International School (Singapore) Singapore
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year SGD 26,610 - 42,300	Fees / year SGD 20,420 - 56,110
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 1½ - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)
Curriculum	Curriculum Advanced Placement (AP), American Curriculum, Reggio Emilia Approach	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum, BTEC Qualification, Advanced Placement (AP), Reggio Emilia Approach
Pupils	Pupils 4,000	Pupils 3,000
Typical class size	Typical class size 22	Typical class size 22
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1956	Opened 2009
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Singapore American School is located in the Woodlands area, in the northern part of Singapore . The campus is near Woodlands MRT station and connected by major expressways, making commutes to other parts of the island relatively straightforward. The surrounding neighborhood features shopping malls, parks, and a range of housing options, and is close to the Causeway linking Singapore to Johor Bahru in Malaysia.	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 Singapore American School is structured into four divisions: the Early Learning Center for students aged 3 to 5, the Elementary School covering kindergarten to grade 5, the Middle School for grades 6 to 8, and the High School for 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 Singapore American School is a co-educational day school serving students ages 3 to 18, with no 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 —	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 Singapore American School provides support for students with Additional Learning Needs through its experienced Learning Support Team. They offer personalized strategies and resources, such as individualized learning plans, to ensure each student can access and engage with the curriculum effectively. The school also provides facilities like dedicated learning support classrooms to aid students’ development.	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 Singapore American School is affiliated with the United States, offering an American-based curriculum designed to ease the transition for students coming from or planning to study in the U.S.	Country affiliation Stamford American International School offers a personalised American curriculum from 18 months through to high school graduation.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Singapore American School does not have an affiliation with any particular religion, providing a secular and inclusive 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 Singapore American School's school day typically begins at 8:00 AM and ends at 3:00 PM. Students have scheduled breaks, including a lunch period, to recharge and socialize with peers. Exact break and lunch times can vary slightly depending on the grade level.	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 SAS contracts with Season Bus Services Co Pte Ltd to provide transportation for students. The fleet consists of modern, air-conditioned buses equipped with CCTV and GPS tracking systems. Each bus journey is supervised by an adult bus attendant licensed by the Land Transport Authority and trained by Season Bus.	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 Fees: A non-refundable application fee of SGD 2,500 is required for each application. This fee does not guarantee admission and remains valid for two years from the submission date. Tuition Fees: Early Childhood (Preschool & Pre-Kindergarten): SGD 46,200 per year (Lane 1: SGD 26,610) Kindergarten – Grade 5: SGD 55,960 per year (Lane 1: SGD 36,370) Middle School (Grades 6–8): SGD 59,740 per year (Lane 1: SGD 40,150) High School (Grades 9–12): SGD 61,890 per year (Lane 1: SGD 42,300) Facility Fee: An annual facility fee of SGD 7,510 – SGD 8,720 is included in the school fees invoice and is non-prorated. Lane 1: Student / parent holding a US passport or Green Card Additional Costs:* English as an Additional Language (EAL) Support: SGD 6,990 per year. Bus Transportation: SGD 1,320 – SGD 3,420 per semester. Extracurricular Activities (EAA): SGD 75 – SGD 1,250 per activity, per season. School Lunch: SGD 6.00 – SGD 9.00 per day. Uniforms: SGD 160 – SGD 215 for three regular sets and one PE set. Interim Semester and Overseas Trips: Costs range from SGD 200 – SGD 4,900. Billing Schedule and Payment Terms: Fees for new students are due within 30 days of invoicing. Refund Policy: Application, confirmation, and re-enrollment fees are non-refundable. Tuition fees are refundable based on the withdrawal date, with 100% refunds before June 1, 2025, and decreasing amounts thereafter. Payment Options: Payments can be made via bank transfer to DBS Bank. A payment plan may be available for certain circumstances, with an administration fee of SGD 250 per child.	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 The school requires students to live full-time with at least one parent or court-appointed legal guardian while enrolled.	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 The SAS uniform consists of navy blue bottoms with an SAS logo and a white SAS polo shirt. A separate PE uniform is used, and on certain days non-SAS attire may be worn while adhering to dress codes.	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 Food options include Preschool menus, Elementary School menus, Middle School menus, and High School menus. Hoe Brothers Catering serves Elementary and Middle School meals; Sodexo serves High School meals.	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 has a house system with Andor, Aquila, and Ethon. The high school House Program was sunset after the 2023-24 school year, while the middle school house programming continues.	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 a non-profit institution governed by a 12-member, all-volunteer board. The board hires the superintendent and provides strategic oversight; day-to-day operations are led by the superintendent and administrative team. The SAS Foundation supports advancement activities.	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 Singapore American School follows an American-based curriculum from preschool through Grade 12. In the Elementary School (Preschool–Grade 5), students build strong foundations in literacy, numeracy, science, and social studies. In the Middle School (Grades 6–8), they broaden their academic exploration through core subjects and elective offerings. By High School (Grades 9–12), students may choose from various Advanced Placement (AP) courses and work toward an American High School Diploma. World languages, technology, and arts feature prominently across all age groups. Graduates often undertake AP exams for potential college credit or advanced placement in universities.	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 —	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 —	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 —	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 —	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 Singapore American School integrates elements of the Reggio Emilia Approach in its early education years, which encourages strong social and emotional development through student-led inquiry and reflection . Trained counselors and faculty collaborate with families to address individual student needs and promote mental well-being. The school also incorporates advisory sessions and pastoral care structures aimed at building empathy, resilience, and healthy peer relationships. Classroom activities often feature collaborative group work that helps students practice communication and conflict-resolution skills. Additionally, teachers receive ongoing professional development in cultivating a supportive learning environment. This framework ensures that students’ social and emotional growth is prioritized alongside academic objectives.	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) Singapore American School follows an American curriculum with a Reggio Emilia approach in the early years and does not publicly describe itself as a specialist SEN institution. While the school’s inclusive ethos suggests it can support students with mild to moderate learning difficulties, the available information does not detail specific SEN programs or specialized staff. Families should contact the admissions team directly to explore any in-class support, accommodations, or individualized interventions that may be offered. The school’s general focus areas include sports, visual and creative arts, and languages, rather than intensive SEN services. Prospective parents whose children require higher levels of specialized care may wish to seek further clarification to ensure that their child’s needs can be met.	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 Singapore American School does not specifically list an English as an Additional Language program in its published information . It follows an American curriculum, offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and incorporates Reggio Emilia influences . Families requiring EAL support are encouraged to contact the school directly to discuss possible language resources or accommodations. The school highlights languages as one of its strengths, alongside sport and the creative arts, suggesting it values multilingual engagement . Prospective parents can also explore how individual teachers and staff might support English language development within regular 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 Singapore American School provides a specialized counseling team at each school division, ensuring students have easy access to emotional support from trained professionals. These counselors collaborate with teachers and families to address individual needs, including stress management and social-emotional development. Regular well-being events and workshops help students develop coping strategies and resilience in a supportive environment. Advisory sessions offer a smaller group setting, where students can discuss concerns and build relationships with peers and staff. Transition support is available for new students and families, easing the move into a new academic and cultural setting.	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 Singapore American School has established guidelines that outline staff responsibilities in keeping students safe and well. Teachers and other personnel typically undergo thorough background checks and receive ongoing training to recognize and address potential concerns. The school employs clear internal protocols for reporting issues, with designated teams that act quickly if any concerns arise. It also collaborates with local authorities and international safeguarding bodies to ensure compliance with relevant standards. For detailed information on policies, prospective parents can request the school’s official child protection documents or speak directly with an admissions representative to learn more.	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 —	Safeguarding policy View document
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The SAS campus spans 36 acres in Woodlands and is one of the largest single-campus K-12 schools in the world. The campus generates about 1 million kilowatt hours of electricity annually from solar panels. It features an indoor air-conditioned rock climbing gym and a 2-acre rainforest used as a living laboratory for science classes. The auditorium uses a Meyer Sound Constellation acoustic system with a canopy of microphones and more than 200 speakers to support high-quality performances.	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 The athletics program includes intramural and varsity teams coordinated across all divisions, with competition through IASAS. The Eagles Activities and Athletics (EAA) office oversees athletics and activities across the three divisions. There is an indoor, air-conditioned full-size climbing wall for student climbers. Eagle Club offerings include Swim School, Baseball, Softball, Touch Rugby, Dance, Badminton, Basketball, Climbing, Cricket, Rugby, Soccer, Tennis, Volleyball, and more. IASAS membership and events feature prominently in SAS athletic and arts competitions.	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 The school operates specialized academic facilities across divisions, including libraries and learning spaces. The Khoo Teck Puat Library serves SAS High School with print and digital resources, archives, and study areas across two floors. The high school library also hosts the Math Center for tutoring, located on the library's second floor. The Elementary School Library is on the second floor of the elementary building and houses thousands of print materials with digital resources as well. The Middle School Library provides a dynamic learning environment to support cross-disciplinary inquiry and is complemented by a MakerSpace with hands-on project resources. English is the primary instruction language, with an English as an Additional Language (EAL) program and a Chinese Immersion option exists for certain grade levels.	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 SAS offers a broad co-curricular program across all divisions. High School students have access to over 100 after-school clubs and activities, including service and cultural opportunities. Middle School lists 50+ clubs, with more than 100 items built in the middle school Makerspace each year and an indoor climbing wall for clubs and activities. Eagle Club provides parent-supported after-school athletics and activities, including various sport and performance offerings. IASAS and other inter-school events provide opportunities for competition in sports, arts, and cultural 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 Singapore American School was founded in 1956 by a small group of American families seeking a U.S.-style education in Singapore. As a nonprofit entity, it is overseen by a board of governors who guide its strategic direction.	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 The school community brings together families from around the world, creating a welcoming environment for newcomers. Throughout the year, the school hosts cultural observances and festive gatherings that highlight its international diversity and encourage meaningful connections among parents, students, and staff. Regular family-oriented events, such as volunteer days and on-campus activities, help newcomers feel supported and engaged.	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 SAS plays a pivotal role in fostering community spirit and enhancing the educational experience for students and their families. The PTA operates as a separate legal entity with an elected board, and membership is automatic for all school families and faculty members. The PTA organizes various events to strengthen community bonds, such as the Open House Ice Cream Social, the International Fair, and informative parent coffees. The PTA Store and Café is on campus and operated by volunteers, providing school uniforms, spirit items, and supplies. The PTA office also serves as a welcoming space for parents to socialize, enjoy a coffee, and access resources like used books and merchandise. Through various fundraising efforts, the PTA supports initiatives such as hosting visiting authors and artists, enhancing library collections, and providing scholarships. Notably, the PTA awards four need-based scholarships of SGD $5,000 each to exceptional seniors who have demonstrated remarkable accomplishments.	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 SAS offers over 85 after-school activities. Middle School has 50+ clubs sponsored by faculty, including intramurals and competitions. High School provides 25+ AP courses, AP Capstone, and the Catalyst/Quest programs. Quest enables flexible scheduling for student-driven interdisciplinary projects, with off-campus experiences and community engagement.	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 The arts are an essential part of SAS, with visual and performing arts programs among the strongest in the region. High School productions include major shows such as Narnia and Fiddler on the Roof. Facilities support the arts with an auditorium, drama theater, and related performance spaces.	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 Model United Nations is a popular SAS club; SAS attends MUN conferences in Singapore and IASAS. SAS offers Chinese immersion classes from preschool through fifth grade, with two classes per grade, and pathways in middle and high school. The program focuses on developing bilingual and biliteracy skills to engage with diverse cultures and foster cultural competence.	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 There are over 50 middle school clubs, including intramurals and competitions, and facilities such as a climbing wall and makerspace. Clubs are sponsored by faculty to support students academically, socially, and emotionally. Eagle Club offerings include baseball, swimming, and touch programs, run by SAS coaches or partner vendors, with registration through SchoolsBuddy.	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 Service Learning is a component of SAS's co-curricular program. Quest provides off-campus experiences, industry partnerships, and community engagement as part of learning. National History Day finals have been reached by SAS students in the US finals.	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 Booster Club supports school spirit and high school leadership through events. PTA offers parent-volunteer leadership opportunities and hosts events throughout the year. SAS maintains a Leadership Team that coordinates school leadership initiatives.	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 The Athletics program includes rep and varsity teams, intramurals, Eagle Pathway, Eagle Club, and IASAS competition. Counseling and a Health Clinic support student wellbeing across divisions. Eagle Club offerings provide after-school physical activities with SAS coaches and external partners.	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 The World Language program offers Mandarin Chinese and Spanish for daily instruction in elementary school, with French available starting in middle school. Elementary students may choose between daily classes in Chinese and Spanish and may join the Chinese immersion program; in middle school, French becomes an option and language classes may occur in other subjects taught in the target language (e.g., Spanish language Dual Language Immersion in social studies). The Seal of Biliteracy is offered in Mandarin Chinese, French, and Spanish. English as an Additional Language (EAL) provides structured English-language support for multilingual learners from Kindergarten through Fifth Grade.	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 The school has a Chinese Immersion program offering bilingual instruction in Chinese and English from preschool through fifth grade, with two immersion classes per grade. The program integrates Chinese language and culture into the curriculum and mirrors English‑medium classes aligned to the Common Core State Standards for Math and English Language Arts. It emphasizes bilingual and biliteracy development.	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 Chinese Immersion program integrates Chinese language and culture into the curriculum and runs from preschool to fifth grade with two classes per grade. It mirrors English‑medium classes and follows the Common Core standards for Math and English Language Arts. The program focuses on developing language skills in Chinese and English and supports ongoing language development.	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 Green Mark Gold Award (2013): The Building and Construction Authority of Singapore honored SAS with this award, acknowledging the school's sustainable building practices and environmental stewardship.	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 Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)This it confirms that the school provides a curriculum and learning environment that align with well-recognized standards in the U.S. education system.	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 Attend an Open House or Schedule a School Tour: Once you’ve made initial contact, consider visiting the campus. SAS offers school tours and open houses, which are excellent opportunities to explore the facilities, observe classes, and meet faculty members. You’ll get a feel for the school’s atmosphere, community, and teaching philosophy—key factors in determining if SAS is the right fit for your child. Submit an Application: After your visit (or if you’re ready to move forward), the next step is completing the formal application. Singapore American School has an online application form that will ask for your child’s personal details, academic history, and relevant background information. Provide Supporting Documents: Along with the online application, SAS typically requires you to submit supporting documents. These may include: Standardized test scores (if applicable); Copies of your child’s passport or birth certificate Immunization records; Any psychological or educational assessments, if relevant. Application Review and Interview: Once your application and documents are in order, the admissions team will review them. In some cases, an interview with the prospective student (and possibly parents) may be scheduled. This interview helps both the school and your family assess whether SAS’s academic and community environment aligns with your child’s educational needs and aspirations. Assessment Process: Depending on the grade level, your child may be asked to complete an assessment. Younger children might have a more informal evaluation (such as classroom observations), while older students could be required to take tests in subjects like English and Mathematics. These assessments help SAS determine appropriate class placement and ensure the school can meet your child’s learning needs. Receive an Offer: If the admissions committee finds that your child is a strong match for Singapore American School, you will receive a formal offer of admission. The offer letter will outline the acceptance deadline and any terms or conditions tied to enrollment. Take the time to review the offer thoroughly to confirm it meets your family’s expectations and requirements. Acceptance and Enrollment: To finalize your child’s enrollment, you’ll need to formally accept the offer by submitting the required acceptance forms and paying any relevant enrollment fees. Once completed, your child’s place at SAS is secured, and the school will guide you through any additional steps—such as orientation activities—leading up to the first day of class.	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 Singapore American School does not appear to offer any formal scholarship or financial aid programs in the information available.	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 Singapore American School does not publicly describe any specific waitlist or pool system.	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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