Finding Scholarships to Singapore's Top Schools

One of Singapore’s most affordable international schools, Invictus, has launched a scholarship programme for secondary students. Invictus International School adds to the small number of secondary schools in Singapore that currently offer scholarships to international students.

Some of Singapore’s top schools have scholarship programmes that typically covers the tuition fees for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, and in some cases the two-year IGCSE programme. There are also art and sports scholarships available. These schools include Nexus, Singapore American School and Dover Court International School, where average annual tuition fees range from $35,000-29,500.

Invictus may have lower annual fees of $17,000 but its new Invictus Scholarship Programme (ISP) offers some very attractive savings. The ISP offers two full annual scholarships for 100% of the school fees and two partial annual scholarships for 50% of the school fees. Invictus will also offer two bursaries for 25% of the school fees and two bursaries for 10% of the school fees.

It is open for students from Grade 7 onwards who are enrolled at its existing Dempsey Hill campus or its new secondary school, which is due to open at a centrally located campus in August 2020. 

Who are scholarships awarded to?

Competition for scholarships is often high and the application process can be rigorous. Scholarships are typically awarded to students aged 14-17 in Years 10-13, regardless of nationality. International students are eligible to apply for most scholarship schemes, but most schools require students to have a Dependent’s Pass. In most cases, scholarships are available to both new and existing students at a school.

What do scholarships cover?

Scholarships range from 10% to 100% of the tuition fees; some will also cover the cost of items such as MacBooks, but not all. Parents will typically have to pay for additional fees such as uniform, books, building fund fees and capital levy.

How and when should I apply?

Schools typically require you to apply by March prior to the start of the academic year in September.

Each school has its own requirements and you should refer to the school’s website for information about who qualifies for the scholarship and how to apply – and always meet the application deadline.

Most schools require you to apply with the following:

• A one-page essay by the student expressing why they believe they deserves this scholarship
• Letters of recommendation from the student’s secondary school teachers or administrators
• An official transcript for the student’s past two years of study
• Sporting or musical achievements and/or sport certificates (if any), and sports trials if relevant

How long do scholarships last?

Most scholarships are awarded for two years, and cover either the IGCSE or IBDP programmes.

Are there any non-academic scholarships available in Singapore?

Students can apply for a swimming scholarship at Nexus International School (Singapore) (NISS). All scholarships will be for an initial two years and will be re-assessed at the end of that period. Entries are invited from children of any age, but will usually not be considered for those under 10 years of age.

Which schools in Singapore offer scholarships?

Click here for a roundup of schools that offer scholarships in Singapore