Singapore boasts a wide range of International Baccalaureate (IB) schools that serve both local Singaporean students and international families living in the city-state. The IB curriculum, known for its high academic standards and holistic approach to education, has become increasingly popular in Singapore over the years.
For a comprehensive list of local and international IB schools in Singapore, read more here.
While both local and international schools in Singapore provide the IB curriculum, there are five key differences between them.
1. Schools Have Different Academic Calendar
Local IB schools follow the standard Singaporean academic calendar, with the school year running from January to November.
On the other hand, international IB schools, primarily catering to expat students, usually follow the more common August to May school year found in other countries.
This variation in school calendars can influence the timing and pacing of the IB program, as well as when students take their final IB exams.
2. Schools Often Have Unique IB Curriculum
Locally, schools follow the same Ministry of Education (MOE) curriculum. IB programs are offered as an alternative for higher-performing students. Some notable local schools offering IB programs include St Joseph’s Institution and Anglo-Chinese School (Independent). These schools are highly sought after by Singaporean parents who want to provide their children with a globally oriented education that emphasises critical thinking and international-mindedness, all while maintaining the competitive nature of Singaporean education.
In addition to local IB schools, international institutions such as UWC and Tanglin Trust School serve the diverse international community in Singapore. They provide an IB education in an environment that values cultural diversity and equips students for success in a connected world. Besides the IB programme, many international schools also offer alternative curricula, including the UK’s IGCSE and A Level, as well as the US’s Advanced Placement Programme.
3. Bilingualism
Both local and international schools in Singapore teach the main curriculum in English. At local schools, it’s compulsory to study a mother tongue language (Mandarin, Malay or Tamil).
International schools teach Mandarin as part of the daily syllabus and the language of their origin, such as German, French or Dutch. Many will offer other language options as well, including Spanish and Japanese.
4. Schools Have Different Focus and Emphasis
Local IB schools in Singapore generally prioritise core academic subjects like math, science, and languages, often offering a more rigorous and accelerated program to prepare students for the competitive university admissions landscape in Singapore.
In contrast, international IB schools may provide a more comprehensive curriculum that includes a wider variety of electives and extracurricular activities, catering to the diverse interests and backgrounds of their international student population.
5. IB Performance Can Vary Wildly
Annual IB test results indicate that students at local IB schools in Singapore typically achieve higher average scores than their counterparts at international IB institutions. This trend reflects the Singaporean education system’s strong focus on academic excellence, along with the extra academic support and resources available at government-funded local schools.
On the other hand, international IB schools may provide a more diverse and enriching learning environment, allowing students to benefit from exposure to various cultures, perspectives, and learning styles.
Ultimately, the decision between a local or international IB school in Singapore hinges on the individual student’s educational goals, learning preferences, and family circumstances. Both options offer a rigorous and internationally recognised IB education, but the differences in curriculum, school calendar, and overall performance outcomes can significantly impact the student experience and academic path.
Regardless of whether they are local or international, IB schools in Singapore are well known for their dedication to nurturing well-rounded, globally-conscious individuals who are prepared to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world. The growth of these IB institutions in the city-state highlights Singapore’s status as an educational hub that prioritises innovative and forward-thinking approaches to learning.
