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Stamford American International School Campus is located at 1 Woodleigh Lane (off Upper Serangoon Road), Singapore 357684
Stamford American International School Woodleigh campus caters for Elementary, Middle School and High School students aged 6 – 18 years.
Stamford American International School in Singapore is a co-educational day school (private school). It offers boarding facilities for students in Grade 6 and above who are outsiders to Singapore, through a partnership with ACS Oldham Hall, a nearby boarding hostel.
With a globally minded community of over 75 nationalities, Stamford American prepares students for success at the world’s best universities.
Stamford American International School offers support for students with Additional Learning Needs through its Student Support Team. The school provides tailored assistance such as individual education plans and access to specialized professionals like speech and language therapists.
Stamford American International School offers personalized American curriculum from 18 months through to high school graduation.
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.
The Elementary School (Grades 1-5) day typically starts at 8:25 AM and ends at 3:05 PM. Students have scheduled breaks, including a morning recess and a lunch period.
For Middle and High School students (Grade 6-12), the school day typically starts at 8:25 AM and ends at 3:50 PM. Students have time between classes and a lunch period.
Stamford American International School offer island-wide, door-to-door bus transport to both Woodleigh Campus and the Early Years Campus.
This system provides live updates on pick-up and drop-off times, enabling the school to efficiently manage the transportation process. Additionally, WTS offers a CCA afternoon bus service, providing point-to-point transportation for students participating in Co-Curricular Activities (CCA) as a paid service.
Please note students must be a minimum of 2 years old to ride the ELV School Transport.
We are pleased to offer a boarding program at ACS Oldham Hall Premier Boarding for our students who have immediate families that reside in another country. Stamford Boarding @ ACS Oldham Hall is centrally located in Singapore.
Our boarding program is open to all SAIS Secondary Students from Grades 6 to 12 (aged 12 and above). Boarding is mandatory for all SAIS students whose parents are not residing in Singapore.
Our program has focus on 3 key areas: Safety and Guardianship; Academics and Wellbeing; Community and Social Bonding.
When residing at Stamford Boarding House, students/families will have access to:
Lunch options are available at Stamford American School Cafeteria on campus.
During weekends, 3 meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) will be provided
Uniforms are required for all students from Grade 1 to Grade 12. The complete uniform set can be purchased through Lim Meng Keng Department Store, with online ordering and home delivery. Lim Meng Keng Department Store is located at
At Woodleigh Campus, there are two on-site cafes where Grades 1-12 can buy meals or bring meals from home; Sodexo provides on-site food services. Payments are cashless via the Stamford Student card, with MyStamford top-ups online or at campus cash kiosks; Semester Meal Plans are available for Grades 1-5 and pre-order meals are offered for Grades 1-5 (pre-ordering is not available for Grades 6-12).
The school has a house system; a House T-shirt is part of the Secondary uniform.
Stamford American is part of Cognita. Cognita governs the school 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 operates 85+ schools in 13 countries and is headquartered in London.
Stamford American International School provides an International Baccalaureate (IB) program across different education stages, including the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) for younger students, followed by a choice between the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) or the American Education Reaches Out (AERO) standards in middle school. For high school students, the school offers the option of pursuing an IB Diploma, or a mix of Advanced Placement (AP), BTEC or Stamford courses, all leading to an American High School Diploma. These pathways options offer students academic flexibility based on their future university plans.
Elementary School to High School:
1:24
IB Diploma Programme:
- 97% passing rate in Stamford American (81% global average passing rate)
- 34.4 Average DP Score (30.58 global average)
- 13% of students received 40+ points
- 80% earned two or more bonus points for their Extended Essay and TOK
AP Program:
- 3.5 Average Score (2.9 Global Average)
- 75% of exams taken received 3+ points
- 12 students earned a perfect 5 points in every AP subject taken
Stamford American International School graduates from 2022 to 2025 have been accepted into a diverse array of prestigious universities worldwide including:
In Stamford American, we believe each student have their unique and individual strengths
SAIS integrates Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) into daily school life through a comprehensive counseling program, structured SEL curriculum, and school-wide initiatives. The school’s Student Support Department provides individual and group counseling to help students navigate social and emotional challenges, while the award-winning Second Step program is embedded in the curriculum up to to Grade 5, fostering cooperation, communication, and decision-making skills. SAIS also promotes bullying prevention and restorative practices, ensuring that SEL principles are reinforced both in classrooms and through collaboration with parents. Teachers are trained to incorporate SEL into their teaching practices, creating a supportive and affirming learning environment.
SAIS provides a comprehensive support system for students with diverse learning needs through its Student Support Department. This department offers a range of services tailored to address academic, emotional, physical, and developmental challenges.
Speech and Language Therapy: A team of therapists assists students in developing effective communication skills, offering direct therapy, in-class support, and strategies for stakeholders.
Occupational Therapy: Therapists work on enhancing fine and gross motor skills, self-management, and emotional regulation through individual and group sessions, as well as in-class support, promoting independence in daily activities.
Intensive Support: Special education teachers design individualized programs for students requiring continuous support throughout the school day. Depending on their needs and goals, students may receive specialized staff assistance ranging from 25% to 100% of their day. This service is available for an additional fee, with placement decisions made quarterly.
English as an Additional Language (EAL) specialists collaborate with classroom teachers to provide tailored instruction based on students’ proficiency levels. Beginner students (Level A) receive 80 minutes of daily English instruction, while intermediate learners (Level B) receive in-class language support. Progress is regularly assessed using internal and external tools like the iTEP SLATE Plus. Additionally, a Mandarin to English Transition Program supports native Mandarin speakers in developing English fluency. These initiatives ensure that EAL students gain the skills needed to thrive academically and socially.
SAIS's 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. SAIS also actively promotes mental health awareness through campaigns such as "R U OK? Day," encouraging open conversations about well-being within the school community.
SAIS prioritizes safeguarding and child protection through comprehensive policies, regular staff training, open communication, and a secure campus environment. All staff undergo ongoing training in safeguarding responsibilities, including first aid qualifications. The school maintains an open-door policy, encouraging students and parents to voice concerns, while counselors and workshops provide guidance on issues like cyber safety. SAIS collaborates with external professionals when additional support is needed. Security measures include 24-hour surveillance, over 60 cameras, a strict visitor sign-in process, and color-coded lanyards for easy identification.
Stamford American International School was established in Singapore in 2009 and is part of the Cognita Group, a global network of over 85 schools in multiple countries.
Stamford American International School in Singapore offers a diverse and welcoming community, reflecting its wide-ranging international student body from over 70 nationalities. The school hosts various community events, such as International Fiesta and UN Day, celebrating cultural diversity and fostering a sense of global citizenship. Regular cultural events and festivals provide opportunities for students and families to connect and share their unique backgrounds.
Stamford American International School (SAIS) has an active Parent Teacher Association (PTA). The PTA aims to foster a supportive and inclusive community by organizing social events, Parent Connection Groups, volunteer opportunities, and charitable activities. All parents and guardians of current students are automatically members and are encouraged to participate in various roles, such as serving on committees, acting as Room Parents, engaging in social activities, or volunteering for numerous charitable events. The PTA also offers Parent Connection Groups and maintains three Parent Cafés on campus, providing spaces for parents to engage in meaningful discussions with teachers and fellow parents, strengthening the sense of community
The school has two bespoke campuses: Woodleigh Campus for grades 1–12 and the Early Years Campus for younger learners. The school has an Innovation Center and Makerspace with 3D printers, robotics, and advanced electronics to support project-based learning. The school has a Reagan Theater with 500 seats, an LED backdrop, and professional sound and lighting. The school has multiple specialized spaces on Woodleigh including three swimming pools, two indoor sports arenas, rooftop tennis courts, dance studios, rock-climbing walls, and a multipurpose sports field.
The Woodleigh Campus features 3 swimming pools, 2 indoor sports arenas, rooftop tennis courts, dance studios, rock-climbing walls, and a multipurpose sports field. The CCA Sports program provides age‑appropriate pathways across badminton, basketball, cross country, football, golf, gymnastics, rugby, softball, swimming, tennis, touch rugby, track, and volleyball. The school participates in SEASAC and ACSIS leagues to support regional competition.
The school has an Innovation Center and Makerspace with 3D printers, robots, and advanced electronics. The Makerspace supports 3D printing, modeling, robotics, sewing, clay, and mobile-making carts for classroom use. The Innovation Center includes professional-grade video production facilities, green screen studios, laser cutting technology, latest-generation 3D printers, cameras, and multimedia equipment. These spaces support project-based learning across middle and high school.
The Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs) program offers over 550 activities year-round for Pre-K to Grade 12. Activities include 3D Printing, CAD, Coding, Fencing, Golf, Gymnastics, MUN, Radio Station Podcast, Robotics, and Rock Climbing, among others. 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 offer opportunities to perform and compete. Over 75% of students participate in one or more CCAs.
The Co-Curricular Activities program offers 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 in selected activities, while After‑School Activities (ASAs) are exploratory, non‑progressive, creative, and inclusive. The program also includes Field Studies and student‑led High School Clubs that broaden experiential and leadership‑oriented learning beyond the classroom.
Music Ensembles and Performing Arts are offered year‑round, with the Lions Music Academy providing private lessons in multiple Western, Eastern, and modern instruments and group performances across choral, strings, wind, orchestral, and rock ensembles. Drama productions and other performing arts opportunities provide performance platforms on campus, including performances in the Reagan Theater and other venues.
Model United Nations (MUN) is part of the co‑curricular program. The 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 Pre‑Kindergarten to Grade 5, and English as an Additional Language (EAL) supports learners from Kindergarten to Grade 10, with a Preparatory Course for Secondary School (PCS) for advanced language development.
ASAs, Music Ensembles, Drama Productions, and Sports Teams are available year‑round as co‑curricular activities. A Radio Station Podcast forms part of the activities program, and High School Clubs are student‑led, providing leadership opportunities. The Social Program supports social‑emotional learning through Second Step modules for Pre‑K to Grade 5, focusing on cooperation, communication, and anti‑bullying.
Service Learning at Stamford American is aligned with IB frameworks (PYP Taking Action, MYP Service as Action, and DP Creativity, Action Service), exposing students to community service locally and abroad. The Cambodia Hope School project, created in partnership with World Assistance for Cambodia, provides education resources to disadvantaged children in Kampong Chhnang. Initiatives such as the Month of Giving (2021) support Community Chest, It's Raining Raincoats, and other partners, with SDGs integrated into learning.
Student‑led High School Clubs empower leadership and initiative. The Field Studies Program includes a two‑day leadership training and student leaders who run pre‑ and post‑trip advisory curricula to extend learning beyond trips. Lions Academies deliver progressive coaching with a focus on developing leadership and professional skills through co‑curricular activities.
The Athletics Program provides age‑appropriate pathways across 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 Stamford American's ROAR values—Resilience, Outstanding character, Ambition, and Respect—while promoting wellness and active lifestyles.
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 school offers a Bilingual Program blending Mandarin and English for Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 5.
The Bilingual Program includes 400 minutes of immersive Mandarin learning each week.
Singapore International School of the Year (Editor's Choice) – 2025:
SAIS was honored with the award for 'Singapore International School of the Year' at the for 5 consecutive years at HoneyKids Asia Singapore Education Awards, recognizing the school's innovative approach to learning and commitment to student excellence.
This is on top of another 4 awards, making Stamford American 1 of the top winners of this prestigious education award,
Gold Winner
Silver Winner
Best Model United Nations (MUN) Award – 2021:
SAIS's Model United Nations team received the 'Best MUN' award in the Refugees & Technology category as part of the MUN Refugees Challenge 2021, organized by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency.
Distinction Award for Excellence in Community Service – 2023:
The American Chamber of Commerce in Singapore presented SAIS with a Distinction Award for its outstanding corporate social responsibility initiatives, highlighting the school's commitment to community service and engagement.
National Business Award for Education – 2020:
SAIS secured the Singapore Business Review's National Business Award for Education in 2020, recognizing the school's efforts in developing ecological sustainability initiatives.
Council of International Schools (CIS) Accreditation:
The CIS accreditation is a mark of quality in international education. It ensures that the school meets rigorous standards in student learning, faculty quality, and governance.
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Accreditation:
WASC accreditation provides assurance that the school maintains high educational standards based on continual improvement processes.
International Baccalaureate (IB) World School:
As an IB World School, Stamford American is authorized to offer the IB programs, emphasizing critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and holistic education.
Edutrust Certification:
This is a quality assurance scheme established by the Singaporean government to ensure private schools meet high standards in student protection, academic processes, and administration.
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. Attend a Stamford American International School Open House or Schedule a Campus Tour:
Prospective families are encouraged to visit the campus to experience the school's environment firsthand. You can book a tour or attend an open house event to meet school faculty, observe student classes, and understand the school's culture. For those currently living overseas, the school also offers online virtual tours.
Submit an Online Application: Complete the online application form, which typically takes around 15 minutes. You'll 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:
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'll 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 American International School community.
Academic Scholarships:
These are awarded to students who exhibit high academic potential and performance. The selection process for academic scholarships typically involves an evaluation of past academic records, teacher recommendations, and sometimes an interview or test.
Arts Scholarship:
Students with outstanding talent in visual arts, music, drama, or other areas of creative expression may apply for an arts scholarship. Applicants typically provide a portfolio or perform an audition to demonstrate their skills.
Sports Scholarship:
Athletically gifted students who demonstrate excellence in one or more sports can apply for a sports scholarship. The selection involves assessing their sports achievements, potential contributions to the school's sports program, and personal interviews.
Scholarship Application Process
To apply for a scholarship at Stamford American International School, prospective students generally need to complete an application form specific to the scholarship type. This may include submitting necessary documentation, such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and for some, a portfolio or demonstration of talent.
Application Submission:
Families interested in enrolling their children at SAIS first need to submit an application form along with the necessary documentation (such as previous school records and teacher recommendations).
Assessment and Evaluation:
Once an application is submitted, the Admissions Team evaluates it based on the submitted documents. Applicants might also undergo age-appropriate assessments to align with the school's curriculum standards.
Assignment to Waitlist: If the desired grade level is full, the applicant is placed on a waitlist. Families will be notified about their position and any available updates periodically.
Offer of Placement:
As spaces become available (due to withdrawals or other changes), the school extends enrollment offers to students on the waitlist. Priority is generally given based on several factors, such as date of application, sibling priority, and corporate debentures.
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 relevant fees.
The Canadian International School (CIS) is located in Jurong West. The school is well-connected by public transport, located near Lakeside MRT station. The area offers a welcoming environment for families, with a range of amenities and residential options nearby.
The Canadian International School in Singapore is structured into three main sections: the Primary School (Kindergarten to Grade 6), the Middle School (Grades 7 to 8), and the High School (Grades 9 to 12).
Canadian International School in Singapore is a co-educational day school. The school does not offer boarding facilities.
The Canadian International School (CIS) is Canadian at heart but global in outlook with nearly 3000 students from 70 nations. Working together with people from other backgrounds and cultures is an integral part of life at CIS.
The Canadian International School in Singapore offers support for students with Additional Learning Needs through its Learning Support Team. This includes tailored interventions and individualized support plans to help students succeed. The school also provides access to facilities equipped for specialized learning and resources for students requiring extra assistance.
Canadian International School in Singapore is affiliated with Canada, offering a curriculum that incorporates elements of the Canadian educational system.
Canadian International School in Singapore is not affiliated with any particular religion, offering a secular education environment for students from diverse backgrounds.
At the Canadian International School in Singapore, the school day typically begins at 8:30 AM and concludes at 3:30 PM. Students have a morning break, lunch around midday, and a short afternoon break.
The Canadian International School (CIS) in Singapore offers a comprehensive school bus service for its students, accommodating families across the island. This service is managed by Yeap Transport Pte Ltd, a reputable provider known for safety and reliability. The buses are equipped with seat belts and a GPS tracking system, ensuring convenience and peace of mind for parents. Various pick-up and drop-off points are strategically located, making it easier for families residing in different parts of Singapore.
CIS has an arrangement with ACS Oldham Hall in Singapore for boarding. Oldham Hall provides accommodation for students aged 12 years and up with a staff-to-boarder ratio of 1:12 and offers a door-to-door CIS bus service. Pastoral care is provided by residential house masters and mistresses, and on-site facilities include a gym, swimming pool, study rooms and wireless internet.
All students wear a uniform. Uniforms can be purchased at Lim Meng Keng Department Store in Holland Village. The uniform includes polo shirts, Bermuda shorts or skirts and PE shirts, with additional house league shirts as required.
Sodexo operates the CIS canteen; the Red Dot Café serves meals, hot and cold drinks, and breakfast on school days. Two large canteens operate on school days from 11:30am to 1:40pm, and a level-5 café runs for extended hours; the menu includes Asian dishes, curries, pasta, pizza, plant-based meals, and halal-certified meat with no pork or lard. Lunch for Nursery to Senior Kindergarten is included in school fees; Grades 4–12 pay for meals using stored-value cards.
The school uses a house system to build a sense of belonging and pride among students from Grades 1 to 12. House events are regularly held, and house captains lead activities to foster teamwork and leadership.
The school is incorporated as Canadian International School Pte. Ltd., a private limited company in Singapore.
The Canadian International School (CIS) in Singapore offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum across all educational stages. For students aged 3 to 12 years, the Primary Years Programme (PYP) encourages inquiry-based learning. The Middle Years Programme (MYP) follows for ages 11 to 16, focusing on developing interdisciplinary skills and critical thinking. For ages 16 to 18, the Diploma Programme (DP) offers a wide range of subjects, preparing students for university education globally. Additionally, CIS offers language acquisition programs, including French, Mandarin, and English, enhancing language skills from an early age.
All classes are staffed to ensure an optimal learning environment. As in all international school settings, the number of students in a class will fluctuate throughout the academic year - in line with demand and peak periods for admission and withdrawal.
In the kindergarten years, teachers are supported by two full-time instructional assistants in nursery and one full-time instructional assistant in pre-kindergarten, junior and senior kindergarten, allowing teachers to focus on each child’s emotional and social well-being.
Our bilingual classes (pre-kindergarten to grade 6) have two teachers per class. Students will learn in Chinese one day, and in English the next. In addition to the teacher, each class is supported by an instructional assistant.
The Canadian International School (CIS) is a leading world IB school. with IB results consistently above the global average. in 2025 the CIS IB average score was 35 compared to a global average of 30.6. This score is 38.7 for their 60th percentile. 22 students achieved 40+ points in 2025.
At Canadian International School (CIS), recent IB Diploma results are consistently strong and above global averages: the Class of 2025 achieved an average score of 35 (global average 30.58), with 22 students scoring 40+ points, 35 Bilingual Diplomas, and a selective-intake equivalent average of 38.7 for the top 60% of students; the Class of 2024 also averaged 35 (global 30.32) with a 99% pass rate, 2 students scoring a perfect 45, 25 scoring 40+, 38 scoring 38+, and about 35% earning the Bilingual Diploma; earlier results such as the Class of 2020 showed an average of 37.9 (global 33) with a 100% pass rate, 5 perfect 45s, 9 scores of 44, 37% scoring 40+, and a notably high 74.4% Bilingual Diploma rate compared with about 24% globally, highlighting CIS’s strong academic performance and emphasis on multilingual achievement.
Students from grades 7 to 10 who participated in the 2024 Singapore and Asian Schools Math Olympiad (SASMO) brought home 48 medals: 12 gold, 16 silver and 20 bronze. They also won nine medals in the Singapore Math Olympiad (SMO), a commendable performance in a challenging environment.
In addition, the Class of 2024 achieved two perfect scores of 45 and a school average of 35 for their IB exam. They surpassed the global average by an astounding 4.8 points. 33% of their graduating cohort received the prestigious Bilingual Diploma. Many of them are heading to top universities around the world including Cambridge University, Stanford and Imperial College London.
A testament to continued academic excellence, 50 of their students also participated in the prestigious 3rd Global Chinese Writing Competition and won awards across the global and regional categories. Some of whom won championship titles as well.
CIS places a strong emphasis on students' social and emotional well-being. In primary school, homeroom teachers provide pastoral and emotional support, while in secondary school, advisory teachers deliver a dedicated pastoral care programme. The student support and well-being team, comprising a school psychologist, counsellors, learning support teachers, university advisors, and nurses, offers programmes throughout the year to help students develop skills to manage their well-being. Initiatives include "Sunshine visits" for new students, weekly meetings to monitor individual progress, and educational seminars for students and parents.
CIS supports students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) through its tiered learning support model. The school is not a specialist SEN institution but provides support for various learning needs, including those requiring occupational and speech therapy. The dedicated student support and well-being team collaborates with teachers to ensure that students with SEN receive appropriate interventions and assistance to achieve their academic goals.
At the CIS, students who are non-native English speakers receive tailored support through various programs. The English Language Learner (ELL) program assists students from Senior Kindergarten to Grade 10 in developing their English proficiency. Additionally, the CIS Foundation Programme is designed for students in Grades 3 to 8 who are beginners in English, aiming to equip them with the necessary language skills to integrate into mainstream classes.
The student support and well-being team, which includes counsellors and a school psychologist, offers programs throughout the year to help students develop skills to manage their well-being. Initiatives such as "Sunshine visits" for new students and weekly meetings to monitor individual progress are part of this support system.
CIS is committed to safeguarding and child protection, adhering to strict policies and procedures to ensure a safe environment for all students. The school collects and manages personal data, including health and well-being information, in compliance with applicable laws and regulations
Canadian International School (CIS) in Singapore was established in 1990, initially to serve the expatriate Canadian community. Originally starting as a small school, it has grown significantly and now operates under the ownership of the prestigious Nord Anglia Education group.
Canadian International School in Singapore offers a vibrant and diverse community, welcoming families from over 70 countries. The school hosts various community events like the International Fair, which celebrates cultural diversity with food, performances, and activities from around the globe. Students and families can also engage in cultural events such as Lunar New Year and Deepavali celebrations. These events provide excellent opportunities for families new to Singapore to connect and engage with others.
The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) at the Canadian International School in Singapore plays an active role in fostering a supportive community. It organizes events such as International Day, where families celebrate their diverse cultures through food stalls and performances, and seasonal celebrations like the Winter Fair. In addition to these events, the PTA manages various interest groups and workshops, such as coffee mornings and parenting seminars, which provide valuable networking opportunities for parents. They also facilitate teacher appreciation initiatives, acknowledging the hard work of the school's educators. Volunteering with the PTA can be a great way for new families to connect and engage with the school community.
The Lakeside Campus serves students aged 2 to 18 years and uses a schools-within-a-school design with distinct age-appropriate learning communities. The campus is described as having state-of-the-art facilities to support teaching and learning. CIS is an IB World School offering the IB Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme. In 2025, the Class of 2025 IB Diploma results were published, showing strong university destinations and bilingual diploma achievements. The school teaches in English and offers two bilingual language pathways (Chinese-English and French-English), along with an English language learner programme.
Outdoor learning is integrated into the CIS programme, with Open Minds in Primary, field trips, Secondary DP field investigations and Excursion Week for Grades 4–11. These activities promote independence, collaboration, resilience and real-world connections as part of the school's approach to experiential learning.
CIS follows a three-programme IB structure: IB Primary Years Programme (Pre-K to Grade 6), IB Middle Years Programme (Grades 7–10) and IB Diploma Programme (Grades 11–12). Language of instruction is English. Bilingual programmes are available: Chinese-English (Pre-K to Grade 6) and French-English (Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6), with two teachers per bilingual class. English Language Learner support is provided for non-native speakers, and after-school language activities are offered.
The Arts programme includes music, dance, drama and visual arts, with curricular and co-curricular offerings and performance opportunities. The Academy of Music provides instrumental and vocal lessons, ensembles and performance spaces such as the David Foster Theatre and Black Box Theatre. CIS also runs STEAM education with interdisciplinary maker spaces and project work, and promotes outdoor learning, field trips and service/leadership activities.
CIS offers extra curricular activities (ECAs), co-curricular activities (CCAs) and competitive sports across three terms for students from Pre-K to Grade 12. After-school language classes, including mother tongue and other language acquisition, are offered as paid services and run by independent providers. Media and design activities use film and recording studios and STEAM facilities, and dramatic or musical productions are staged in the David Foster Theatre. Students participate in arts ensembles and choirs, including Symphonic, Concert and rock bands, as well as junior and senior choirs.
Arts opportunities include a range of musical ensembles and bands, choirs, drama productions and visual art exhibits. Performances and showcases occur across divisions and may be conducted in languages other than English. Dramatic or musical productions are staged in the David Foster Theatre.
Mother tongue language classes and other language acquisition courses run after school as paid services. The school runs two bilingual programmes: Chinese-English for Pre-K to Grade 6, and French-English for Grade 1 to 5. Some performances are conducted in languages other than English, such as Chinese or French.
CIS offers a broad range of after-school clubs and activities. There are 38 secondary student clubs, including sustainability groups and Model United Nations. Clubs operate across three terms each school year, with registrations via My.CIS. Recreational and hobby groups provide opportunities for social interaction and personal interest development.
CIS offers community service programs and volunteering opportunities through service-oriented clubs. The Memory Project is an example of a service-focused club. Some clubs provide opportunities for MYP and Diploma Programme students to meet CAS or Service as Action requirements.
CIS provides leadership opportunities through student government and leadership programs. The school includes clubs and activities such as Model United Nations to develop leadership and global awareness. Other clubs focus on entrepreneurship, career development and professional skills.
Sports and fitness are offered in recreational and competitive formats across three terms. Each campus has representative ACSIS teams that compete with other international schools. Swimming is year-round at Lakeside with two annual trials. Outdoor learning and experiential programs such as Excursion Week and Open Minds support wellbeing.
Languages taught include English, Chinese, and French, with additional languages highlighted as part of CIS's programme. Chinese-English bilingual programme provides Chinese language instruction and literacy development through five weekly classes and a 36-level reading programme. French-English bilingual programme runs from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6 and is IB PYP-aligned. The IB programmes include PYP (Pre-K–6), MYP (7–10), and DP (Diploma Programme).
Chinese-English bilingual programme is available to pre-kindergarten to grade 6 with two teachers per class: one native English speaker and one native Chinese speaker; classes alternate between English and Chinese for equal exposure. Chinese literacy development is supported by a 36-level guided reading programme, and Chinese language classes are taught five times per week by native-speaking teachers. A bilingual pathway continues into Secondary School and the Middle Years Programme, with Senior Kindergarten entry requiring language-specific criteria. French-English bilingual programme runs Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6 and is IB PYP-aligned, with entry requiring language requirements from Junior Kindergarten onward.
The immersion programmes at CIS are a distinctive part of its Primary School, offering students the option to learn through full bilingual pathways rather than traditional language classes. In addition to an English-immersion track, CIS provides Chinese–English and French–English bilingual programmes in which students receive roughly 50% of instruction in each language from native-speaking teachers, learning core subjects such as maths, science, and social studies in both languages. Based on the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), the approach is inquiry-driven and designed to develop fluency, literacy, and cultural understanding simultaneously, aiming to produce confident bilingual learners rather than students with basic conversational skills.
HoneyKids Education Awards CIS has been awarded Gold for Best in Bilingual Education at the HoneyKids Singapore Education Awards 2025! This achievement is a testament to our School’s dedication, our families continued trust, and the remarkable growth and success of every child in our bilingual programme.
International Baccalaureate (IB) World School Accreditation: CIS is authorized to offer the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and the Diploma Programme (DP). .
Council of International Schools (CIS) Accreditation: This accreditation recognizes schools that maintain high international education standards and demonstrate a commitment to continually improving the educational experience.
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Accreditation: CIS holds accreditation from WASC, a regional accrediting agency in the United States. This accreditation confirms that the school meets rigorous standards of educational quality, ongoing improvement, and organizational health.
Edutrust Certification: Awarded by the Singapore Committee for Private Education (CPE), this certification ensures that CIS adheres to statutory requirements aimed at improving the quality and accountability of education providers.
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. Book an Open House
After you've received a response from the admissions team, consider booking an open house visit. This is a valuable opportunity to explore the school's campus, facilities, and learning environment firsthand. During the visit, you will also get a chance to meet some of the faculty and ask any additional questions you may have about curriculum, extra-curricular offerings, or the school's philosophy and values.
Submit Your Application
With a sense of familiarity with the school, proceed to submit a formal application. Ensure you have all necessary documentation ready, which typically includes previous school records, a copy of your child’s passport, and any relevant assessment reports.
Attend an Interview or Assessment
If your application moves forward, your child may be invited for an interview or assessment. This step aims to understand your child’s academic capabilities, interests, and social readiness. The school will inform you about the format and what to expect during the session, ensuring both you and your child are well-prepared.
Receive an Admissions Decision
Following the evaluation, you will receive an admissions decision. The school commits to communicating the outcome promptly. If your application is successful, you'll be given details about the enrollment process. If not, the admissions team is usually available to discuss any next steps or alternative options.
Complete Enrollment Requirements
Once your child is offered a place, you’ll need to complete the enrollment process by signing the acceptance documents and paying the necessary fees by the given deadline. The admissions team will provide assistance with logistical details like visa applications, uniform purchasing, and start dates, ensuring a seamless transition for your family.
Read more about our secondary school scholarship programme here:
www.cis.edu.sg/admissions/scholarships
Waitpool System: Unlike a traditional waitlist where students are lined up on a first-come, first-served basis, a waitpool approach allows the school to consider each applicant's unique profile and the balance and diversity of the existing student body. When a place becomes available, the admissions team evaluates all candidates in the pool to select the student who best fits the school’s current needs and objectives.
Evaluation Criteria: Several factors are taken into account when assessing students in the waitpool. These can include the student's academic background, English language proficiency, citizenship to maintain a diverse international environment, and any particular skills or talents that might contribute to school life.
Notification Process: Families in the waitpool are kept informed about their application status and are notified once a decision has been made. As soon as a suitable place becomes available that matches a student’s profile, the admissions team promptly contacts the family to discuss placement.
Flexibility and Timing: While it’s challenging to predict the availability of places due to various factors such as student turnover and the dynamic nature of school populations, the admission team at CIS makes every effort to accommodate families and maintain transparent communication.
