NPS International School vs St Francis Methodist School
NPS International School and St Francis Methodist School are both in Singapore, about 12 km apart. Both schools offer IB, Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary) and Cambridge IGCSE programmes. NPS International School also offers Indian, and St Francis Methodist School also offers Australian and Christian. Published annual fees are close, at SGD 16,200 - 32,100 for NPS International School and SGD 16,350 - 32,863 for St Francis Methodist School. NPS International School takes pupils from 3 to 18, and St Francis Methodist School from 6 to 19. NPS International School is the larger school, with around 1,500 pupils to St Francis Methodist School's 700. Typical class sizes are 24 at NPS International School and 25 at St Francis Methodist School.
IB (DP), Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, Indian Curriculum
Curriculum
IB (DP), Australian Curriculum, Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, Christian Curriculum
Pupils
Pupils
1,500
Pupils
700
Typical class size
Typical class size
24
Typical class size
25
Instruction language
Instruction language
English
Instruction language
English
Opened
Opened
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Opened
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Bus service
Bus service
Yes
Bus service
No
Essentials
Essentials
Location
Location
NPS International School is located at 11 Hillside Drive, Singapore, in a peaceful residential neighborhood in Serangoon. The campus is easily accessible via major roads and is a short distance from Serangoon MRT Station. The surrounding area offers family-friendly amenities, parks, and community facilities.
Location
St Francis Methodist School (SFMS) is situated at 492 Upper Bukit Timah Road. The surrounding area is characterized by lush greenery and peaceful surroundings, offering a conducive environment for learning. The campus is adjacent to Hillview MRT Station, providing convenient access via Singapore's Downtown Line.
Stages
Stages
The school caters to students aged 3–18, structured into Early Years (Kindergarten and Montessori), Primary Years (Grades 1–5), Middle Years (Grades 6–8), and High School (Grades 9–12).
Stages
SFMS has three educational levels; Primary (years 1 to 6), Secondary (years 7 - 10), and Senior High levels (years 11 and 12).
School type
School type
NPS International School is a co-educational day school that does not offer boarding facilities.
School type
SFMS is a co-educational institution and does not provide boarding facilities.
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
NPS International School provides targeted support for students with additional learning needs. Trained specialists work closely with classroom teachers to deliver individualized assistance, ensuring that students receive the resources they need to succeed academically and socially.
Additional learning support
SFMS is committed to supporting students with diverse learning needs. The school provides a School Counselling service to assist students' mental health and social-emotional development. The School Counsellor collaborates with teachers, parents, guardians, and external professionals to offer tailored support.
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
NPS International School is affiliated with the National Public Schools (NPS) group, a prominent education institution headquartered in India.
Country affiliation
The school does not have an affiliation with any particular country.
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
NPS International School does not have any religious affiliation. It welcomes students from all backgrounds and promotes an inclusive and culturally diverse environment.
Religious affiliation
SFMS is affiliated with the Methodist Church in Singapore. The school upholds Christian values, integrating character development and spiritual growth into its educational framework.
School day structure
School day structure
The school day at NPS International typically begins around 8:00 AM and ends by 3:00 PM. Students have a lunch break, along with shorter breaks in the morning and afternoon.
School day structure
The school operates from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Breaks and lunch periods are incorporated within this schedule.
Bus service details
Bus service details
NPS International offers a school bus service for students across various parts of Singapore. The buses are operated by Bedok Transport Pte Ltd, ensuring safe and reliable transportation.
Bus service details
The school does not operate a bus service.
Fees
Fees
Fee details
Fee details
Application Fees (one-time, non-refundable) - Nursery to Grade 8: SGD 200 - Grades 9 to 12: SGD 3,600
Tuition Fees (per term and annual; each academic year has 3 terms) - Nursery: SGD 5,730 per term; SGD 17,190 annually - Kindergarten (K1 & K2): SGD 6,730 per term; SGD 20,190 annually - Grades 1–5: SGD 8,975 per term; SGD 26,925 annually - Grades 6–8: SGD 9,700 per term; SGD 29,100 annually - Grades 9–10 (CBSE): SGD 10,000 per term; SGD 30,000 annually - Grades 9–10 (IGCSE): SGD 11,040 per term; SGD 33,120 annually - Grades 11–12 (CBSE): SGD 10,700 per term; SGD 32,100 annually - Grades 11–12 (IB Diploma, new students): - First year: SGD 12,200 per term (includes one-time materials fee of SGD 800); SGD 36,600 annually - Subsequent terms (continuing IB students): SGD 11,400 per term; SGD 34,200 annually
Facility Fee (Annual, per student) - Early Years: SGD 840 - Primary: SGD 1,500 - Secondary: SGD 1,800
Other Fees - Uniform: SGD 30–35 per set (approx.) - School Bus Transport: SGD 150–350 per month (approx.) - Books: Included - Additional external activities or specialist coaching may incur separate charges.
Billing Schedule and Payment Terms - Fees are invoiced per term and must be paid before each term begins: - Fees listed do not include GST, which is additional.
Refund Information - The school does not require a refundable deposit; application fees are non-refundable.
Payment Options - Fees can be paid via bank transfer or credit card.
Sibling Concession - A sibling concession of SGD 150 is available per sibling enrolled.
Boarding - Boarding facilities are not provided by NPS International School.
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) -Total Annual Fee: SGD 34,771.00 Includes additional examination and enrichment programme fees
Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) -Total Annual Fee: SGD 26,356.20
All fees include 9% GST
Fee Policies Sibling discount: 10% off first-year course fees for the younger sibling Only one discount applicable at a time School fees do not include uniforms or additional textbooks
Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements
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Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
Students wear uniforms. Formal uniforms, PE uniforms and jackets can be purchased at Bibi and Baba Uniforms at Far East Shopping Centre; House T-shirts and PE hats are sold at the school bookshop. Students wear plain black shoes and white socks with the formal uniform, and plain white shoes and white socks on PE days; House T-shirts are worn on Fridays.
Uniform requirement
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Food options
Food options
There are separate canteens for primary and high schools. A simple, vegetarian menu is offered through a caterer.
Food options
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House system
House system
The school operates a house system. House T-shirts are worn on Fridays and can be bought at the school bookshop.
House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
The school has an Advisory Board. Mr K. V. Rao serves as Board Advisor; he is Resident Director – ASEAN, of Tata Sons in Singapore.
Governance and ownership
St Francis Methodist School (International) is governed by a Board of Directors and an Academic & Examination Board. The Board of Directors is chaired by Mr. Lee Chong Min, and the Academic & Examination Board is chaired by Mrs Kelvyna Chan. The school partners with Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) for Cambridge Primary and IGCSE, with the Ministry of Education, Singapore for GCE O-Level, with the School Curriculum and Standards Authority for Western Australia WAEC, and with the International Baccalaureate for the Diploma Programme. The school is located at 492 Upper Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 678095.
Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
Early Years learners (aged 3–6) are guided through a Montessori and play-based approach. Primary students (Grades 1–5) follow the Cambridge Primary curriculum. Middle Years (Grades 6–8) offers both pre-CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) and pre-IGCSE programmes. High School students (Grades 9–12) have a choice between International qualifications or the Indian Curriculum.. Students in Grades 9 and 10 can pursue the Cambridge IGCSE or the CBSE, while Grades 11 and 12 have the option of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) or the CBSE curriculum.
Curriculum details
St Francis Methodist School (SFMS) offers a diverse curriculum tailored to various educational stages. At the primary level (Years 1–6), students engage in the International Cambridge Primary Programme, focusing on languages, mathematics, science, and global perspectives. In lower secondary (Years 7–8), the Singapore-Cambridge Lower Secondary curriculum builds a strong foundation in languages, mathematics, science, and humanities. Upper secondary students (Years 9–10) can choose between the IGCSE and GCE 'O' Level programmes, both emphasizing proficiency in languages, mathematics, and sciences. Senior High students (Years 11–12) offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme and the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE), preparing students for global academic pursuits.
The school prioritizes the emotional well-being of students by embedding SEL into the daily curriculum. Dedicated staff members run programs and workshops designed to enhance self-awareness, empathy, and interpersonal skills. Students are encouraged to develop resilience and strong relationships through structured activities, peer mentoring, and collaborative projects.
Social & emotional learning
SFMS places a strong emphasis on Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), aiming to equip students with essential life skills and values. The school's Student Development program encompasses Character and Values Education (CVE), Christian Ministry, Student Leadership, Service Learning, and more. These initiatives are designed to foster self-awareness, empathy, and responsible decision-making among students. The school also offers Interest Groups and Co-Academic Programs.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
NPS International School offers a SEN program for students requiring additional support. The school’s specialists provide individualized learning plans and work in close partnership with families and external professionals. They address a range of needs, including learning difficulties, attention challenges, and mild developmental delays. While not a specialist SEN institution, NPS focuses on early intervention and consistent monitoring to help each student achieve their potential.
Special educational needs (SEN)
SFMS is dedicated to supporting students with Special Educational Needs (SEN). While the school is not exclusively a specialist SEN institution, it strives to accommodate a range of SEN, including learning difficulties, emotional challenges, and behavioral concerns. The School Counsellor plays a pivotal role in providing counseling support tailored to each student's needs. Collaborative efforts involve working closely with teachers, parents, guardians, and, when necessary, external professionals and community agencies to ensure support.
English as an additional language
English as an additional language
NPS International provides support for students who are not yet proficient in English. EAL programs include small-group instruction, in-class language scaffolding, and focused intervention sessions. Experienced language teachers develop customized lesson plans that blend English instruction with the core curriculum, ensuring a smooth integration into academic and social life.
English as an additional language
St Francis Methodist School (SFMS) acknowledges the importance of supporting students for whom English is an additional language. To address this, the school offers the 'GROW with English' programme, a differentiated initiative designed to cater to students with varying language proficiency levels. This programme aims to help students become confident users of the English language, ensuring they can fully engage with the curriculum and school activities.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
A range of initiatives is in place to promote students’ mental health and emotional resilience. The school employs qualified counselors who offer one-on-one sessions, group workshops, and proactive well-being programs. These professionals guide students through stress management, conflict resolution, and coping strategies. The curriculum also integrates mindfulness activities and promotes a healthy balance between academics and personal interests.
Mental wellbeing
SFMS is committed to fostering the mental wellbeing of its students. The school provides a range of self-help resources to empower students to manage their wellbeing effectively. The School Counsellor is available to offer counseling support for students facing mental health or social challenges.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding
Safeguarding and child protection are integral parts of the school’s ethos. Robust policies ensure that all staff receive regular training on recognizing and reporting concerns. The school’s designated safeguarding team maintains clear procedures and works closely with parents and external agencies as needed. Regular audits and policy reviews keep standards high, while open communication channels ensure that students and parents feel confident about safety measures.
Safeguarding
The safety and protection of students are paramount at SFMS. The school has established policies and procedures to safeguard students, including guidelines for dispute resolution and protocols for reporting concerns. Staff members are trained to identify signs of abuse and neglect, with clear procedures in place for reporting and addressing such issues. SFMS also emphasizes the importance of safer recruitment practices to ensure that all staff are suitable to work with children.
Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy
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Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
Facilities overview
The Hillside Primary Campus is well-resourced with indoor and outdoor play and study spaces designed to support happiness and well-being, with pastoral care to support learning. It includes a Multi-Purpose Hall, Library, Innovation Centre, Music Studio, Art Studio, Dance Studio, Basketball Court, Outdoor Sports Field, Maker Space Room, Examination Hall, Healthcare Centre, Canteen, Playground and Spacious Classrooms. The Scotts Secondary Campus was relocated in 2023 to Orchard-Scotts to serve older students in a modern learning environment. Many classrooms have movable and glass partitions to support collaboration, and there is a large double-height library, a Makerspace, and fully equipped labs for sciences, computers, and design and technology. The campus includes dedicated dance, drama and art & craft classrooms, a spacious concourse, a gallery space for exhibitions, indoor sports facilities, an indoor track, and it is fully air-conditioned with about 100,000 square feet of learning space and robust Wi-Fi.
Facilities overview
The campus is located at 492 Upper Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 678095. It is adjacent to Hillview MRT, providing convenient access for students and families. The campus is described as having custom-built facilities to provide a conducive learning environment. St Francis Methodist School (International) offers primary, secondary, and pre-tertiary education on this campus.
Sports facilities
Sports facilities
The Hillside Campus provides a Basketball Court and Outdoor Sports Field. The Scotts Secondary Campus offers indoor football and cricket nets, a 9-meter-high basketball court, a badminton court, and table tennis tables. The campus also includes an indoor track and is fully air-conditioned to support athletic programs.
Sports facilities
The school offers co-curricular sports including badminton, soccer, basketball, table tennis, and pickleball. Badminton is available from primary level. Soccer is available from secondary level. Basketball, table tennis, and pickleball are offered across multiple levels with regular practice and matches to develop skills and teamwork.
Academic facilities
Academic facilities
The Hillside Primary Campus includes a Library, Innovation Centre, Music Studio, Art Studio, Dance Studio, and spacious classrooms, an Examination Hall and Healthcare Centre, a Canteen, and a Playground. The Scotts Secondary Campus features a large double-height Library, a Makerspace, and fully equipped labs for Sciences, Computers, and Design & Technology, plus dedicated Dance, Drama and Art classrooms. A large concourse supports teamwork and project activities, and a gallery space enables student exhibitions.
Academic facilities
Cambridge Primary School (International Cambridge Primary School) serves Y1–Y6. Singapore-Cambridge Lower Secondary serves Y7–Y8. IGCSE serves Y9–Y10. GCE O-Level serves Y9–Y10. Senior High offers Western Australian Certificate of Education (Y11–Y12) and the IB Programme (Y11–Y12). The Senior High programmes support progression to universities worldwide.
Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
The school offers clubs, a Sports Academy, ECAs and Team Sports, as well as Community Service and Events. Arts are supported through Dance, Drama, Music, and Visual Arts & Design facilities. The Scotts Campus has dedicated dance, drama and art classrooms and a gallery space for exhibitions, while the Hillside Campus provides spaces for arts and performance. On-campus and off-campus experiences and outdoor activities are emphasised as part of holistic development.
Extra curricular facilities
Co-Curricular Activities include sports, clubs, and faith-based interests. Sports CCAs include Badminton, Soccer, Basketball, Table Tennis, and Pickleball. Clubs include Green Club, Photography Club, Band Club, and Board Games. There is Christian Fellowship as an Interest, offering faith-based activities and community-building.
Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
NPS International School was established in Singapore in 2008 as part of the esteemed National Public Schools (NPS) group headquartered in India. The school is privately owned and managed by the NPS Group, a respected educational network known for academic excellence. It was founded to offer international curricula alongside the Indian CBSE curriculum, catering to both local and expatriate communities in Singapore.
History
St Francis Methodist School (SFMS) was founded in 1960 by Mrs. Harriet T. Doraisamy as St Francis Girls' School, initially enrolling 27 students. In 1994, Mrs. Doraisamy handed the school over to The Methodist Church in Singapore upon her retirement, marking a significant transition in its leadership and mission. This change allowed SFMS to expand its educational offerings and facilities, evolving into the vibrant international learning community it is today.
Community
Community
NPS International School hosts a diverse, multicultural community that actively participates in school life through various cultural and community events. The school regularly organizes celebrations for international festivities such as International Day, Diwali, Chinese New Year, and other cultural occasions. Community involvement is encouraged through events, performances, and charity initiatives designed to foster unity and cross-cultural understanding among students, staff, and parents.
Community
SFMS fosters a nurturing environment, integrating academic excellence with character building and spiritual growth. Community events and cultural activities are integral to school life, providing students with opportunities to engage, celebrate, and contribute to the vibrant school community.
Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) at NPS actively contributes to enhancing the school experience through strong parental involvement. The PTA organizes events such as the annual Family Carnival, fundraising initiatives, teacher appreciation activities, and parent workshops aimed at supporting student learning and well-being. Regular PTA meetings allow parents to collaborate closely with teachers and school leadership, providing a platform for dialogue and feedback. The association also facilitates parent volunteers for classroom activities, school trips, and special events.
Parent teacher association
The PTA at SFMS plays a pivotal role in enhancing the educational experience by fostering collaboration between parents and teachers. It organizes various activities and events aimed at building a supportive community. Through initiatives such as workshops, seminars, and social gatherings, the PTA facilitates open communication and strengthens the partnership between home and school.
Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
NPS International School operates on two campuses: Hillside Campus and Scotts Campus. The Cambridge curriculum (integrated) is used in the Primary and Middle School levels, with emphasis on experiential learning and social development alongside academics. The High School offers multiple pathways: IX–X include IGCSE and CBSE options, while XI–XII include the IBDP and CBSE; there is also learning support and university counselling services. The school reports an average IB Diploma score of 39.5 and a 100% IB Diploma pass rate.
Academic & intellectual
The school is St Francis Methodist School (International) in Singapore, an international school offering primary, secondary and pre-tertiary education guided by the Word of God.
Arts & creative
Arts & creative
Non-scholastic offerings include Arts (dance, drama, music, visual arts and design) and a range of extracurricular activities, clubs, sports, and team-based programs. The program emphasizes a holistic learning experience through creative engagement and performance opportunities.
Arts & creative
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Cultural & language
Cultural & language
Language options include French and Spanish, with Hindi as a second language and Mandarin as a third language, enhancing cultural awareness and multilingual skills.
Cultural & language
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Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
There are multiple clubs, sports academies, and extracurricular activities that foster social interaction, collaboration, and personal interests outside the core curriculum.
Social & hobbies
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Community & service
Community & service
Community service and service-learning components are part of the holistic development model, encouraging students to contribute to their communities and build social responsibility.
Community & service
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Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
Pastoral care and empathy support student well-being, with a focus on developing leadership qualities, student engagement, and responsible citizenship.
Leadership & professional
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
The school emphasizes a holistic development approach, balancing academics with sports, wellness activities, and club participation to promote physical and mental well-being.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
French, Mandarin, Hindi and Tamil are language options in Primary School. Second languages offered include Hindi, French and Spanish. Third languages include Hindi, French and Mandarin. Language offerings in IGCSE and IB Diploma Programmes include French, Hindi, Spanish, Mandarin and Tamil.
Language provision
The school uses English as the language of instruction across its programmes. Cambridge Primary course offerings include English and Chinese. In IGCSE (Year 9–10), English – First Language (EFL) and English as a Second Language (ESL) are offered, as well as Chinese – First Language and Foundation Chinese. English and Chinese are the primary language offerings across the curriculum.
Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching
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Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
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Awards
Most Inspiring Student Award: Presented by Pearson Edexcel, this award honors students who demonstrate exceptional dedication and enthusiasm in their studies. SFMS student Tung Shun Yiu Neo received this accolade in 2019.
Accreditations
Accreditations
IB World School (International Baccalaureate): Authorized by the IB Organization to offer the IB Diploma Programme, ensuring adherence to internationally recognized standards.
Cambridge International School (CIE): Accredited by Cambridge Assessment International Education to deliver the globally recognized IGCSE curriculum and examinations.
Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), India: Officially affiliated with India’s CBSE, allowing students to undertake the standardized Indian curriculum and national board exams.
Council for Private Education (CPE), Singapore (EduTrust certified): EduTrust certification ensures compliance with quality standards for private education institutions in Singapore, required for enrolling international students.
Accreditations
EduTrust Certification: Administered by Singapore's Committee for Private Education (CPE), the EduTrust Certification recognizes private education institutions for maintaining high standards in academic and non-academic processes.
Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE): SFMS collaborates with CAIE to deliver the Cambridge Primary Programme (Years 1–6) and the Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) for Years 9 and 10, preparing students for global academic standards.
Singapore-Cambridge GCE 'O' Level: In partnership with the Ministry of Education, Singapore, and CAIE, SFMS offers preparatory courses for the Singapore-Cambridge General Certificate of Education 'O' Level examination. This program aligns with Singapore's rigorous educational framework, ensuring students receive a robust and recognized qualification.
Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE): SFMS provides courses leading to the WACE, an internationally recognized senior secondary school qualification. Offered in collaboration with the School Curriculum and Standards Authority, WACE facilitates university entry in Australia and other countries, broadening students' global educational opportunities.
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP): The IBDP is a two-year educational program for students aged 16 to 19, leading to a qualification that is widely recognized by the world's leading universities. SFMS's offering of the IBDP reflects its commitment to providing a comprehensive and internationally minded education.
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Schedule a school tour or attend an Open House If applicable, you can book a spot at one of the school’s open house events to get a first-hand look at the facilities, meet the teaching staff, and learn more about the curriculum. Submit application form After initial contact, complete the online application form and upload all required documents, such as previous school reports, birth certificates, and any standardized test scores. Attend entrance assessment The school may invite the student for a placement test or interview, depending on the grade level and curriculum pathway. These assessments help determine the student’s readiness and placement within the school’s programs. Receive and accept offer Once the assessment and document review are complete, the admissions team will notify you of the outcome. If your child is offered a place, you’ll receive an official letter of acceptance along with instructions for paying enrollment fees and confirming the spot.
Admissions
Attend a school tour or open house: Schedule a visit to SFMS to experience the campus environment firsthand, meet faculty, and gain a better understanding of the school's culture and facilities.
Submit the application: Complete the online application form and upload all required documents.
Schedule the admissions test and interview: After submitting your application, book a date for the admissions test. The test assesses proficiency in English and Mathematics; Science is required for pre-tertiary programmes.
Attend the admissions test and interview: Attend and complete the admissions test on the scheduled date. An interview with school representatives will also be part of the process.
Receive the Letter of Offer: Successful applicants will receive a Letter of Offer, Confirmation of Acceptance, and Course Application Fee Quotation.
Confirm acceptance: Sign and return the Confirmation of Acceptance along with: - Application for Admissions (Form B) - All documents required for Student’s Pass application - Course application fees of S$981 (inclusive of GST)
Complete admission formalities: Upon approval of the Student’s Pass, finalize all admission procedures, including verification of original documents, before the school term begins.
Scholarships
Scholarships
NPS International School does not currently offer scholarships or financial aid. All fees and costs must be covered by families directly, without any additional funding support from the school.
Scholarships
SFMS offers scholarships to recognize and support outstanding students. The SFMS Scholarship is valued between S$2,000 to S$4,000 and is tenable for one year, with the possibility of renewal upon reapplication and evaluation.
Applicants must have outstanding academic achievements, good co-curricular and leadership records, be of good conduct, and have excellent recommendations from teachers.
Applicants should have been a student of SFMS for at least one semester prior to applying. The scholarship also requires active contribution to the school community in areas such as leadership, service, publicity, and events.
Waitlist
Waitlist
NPS International School does not operate a formal waitlist or pool system. Admissions are typically handled on a rolling basis, and places are offered as they become available.
Waitlist
SFMS operates a waitlist system for applicants. If a desired programme is full, qualified applicants may be placed on the waitlist and offered a place if it becomes available.
