Sir Manasseh Meyer International School vs St Francis Methodist School
Sir Manasseh Meyer International School and St Francis Methodist School are both in Singapore, about 10 km apart. Both schools offer Cambridge IGCSE programmes. Sir Manasseh Meyer International School also offers IPC, IMYC and Reggio Emilia, and St Francis Methodist School also offers IB, Australian, Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary) and Christian. Published annual fees are close, at SGD 18,740 - 29,630 for Sir Manasseh Meyer International School and SGD 16,350 - 32,863 for St Francis Methodist School. Sir Manasseh Meyer International School takes pupils from 2 to 16, and St Francis Methodist School from 6 to 19. St Francis Methodist School is the larger school, with around 700 pupils to Sir Manasseh Meyer International School's 290. Typical class sizes are 18 at Sir Manasseh Meyer International School and 25 at St Francis Methodist School.
IPC (International Primary Curriculum), IMYC (International Middle Years Curriculum), Cambridge IGCSE, Reggio Emilia Approach
Curriculum
IB (DP), Australian Curriculum, Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, Christian Curriculum
Pupils
Pupils
290
Pupils
700
Typical class size
Typical class size
18
Typical class size
25
Instruction language
Instruction language
English, Hebrew
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
SMMIS is located in the West Coast area of Singapore, with easy access to public transportation and major expressways. The school is situated in a residential neighborhood and is close to amenities such as shopping malls and parks.
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
SMMIS has three levels; Pre-School, Primary School and Secondary School.
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
SMMIS is a co-educational international school. It provides day school services and 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
At Sir Manasseh Meyer International School (SMMIS), a dedicated Inclusion Department supports students with mild to moderate additional learning needs. This team collaborates closely with class teachers to implement tailored strategies and interventions, ensuring that each child's unique learning requirements are met within the mainstream classroom setting.
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
SMMIS does not have a formal affiliation with any particular country.
Country affiliation
The school does not have an affiliation with any particular country.
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
SMMIS is a Jewish international school, which integrates Jewish values and traditions into its educational framework while welcoming students from various cultural and religious backgrounds.
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 SMMIS runs from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM for Primary and Secondary students, with Pre-School students having an earlier dismissal option. Students have a morning break and a lunch period.
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
SMMIS offers door-to-door school bus services in the morning and afternoon through a partnership with Kaye Transport. Bus routes are arranged based on demand, and parents can register their children for this service through the school's transport company.
Bus service details
The school does not operate a bus service.
Fees
Fees
Fee details
Fee details
Application Fee: A non-refundable application fee of SGD 535 is required.
Tuition Fees: - Pre-School: SGD 17,684 per year - K1-K2: SGD 26,280 per year - Grades 1-5: SGD 27,554 per year - Grades 6-10: SGD 27,958 per year
One-time Charges: - Enrolment Fee: SGD 1,605 - Development Fee: SGD 1,920 for Grades 1-5 and Grades 6-10; no development fee for Pre-School
Annual Charges: - Technology Fee: SGD 530 for K1-G5, SGD 650 for G6-G10 - Fee Protection Insurance: SGD 110 for all levels
English as an Additional Language (EAL) Programme Fees: - Tier 1: SGD 1,685 per semester - Tier 2: SGD 2,250 per semester
Payment Terms - Fees are due before the commencement of each semester. A late payment fee of SGD 50 per week is applied if payment is overdue by 15 days. - Payments can be made via cheque, interbank transfer, or PayNow. All bank charges for remittances are to be borne by the parents.
Refund Information - The application, enrolment, development, technology, and fee protection insurance fees are non-refundable. - Refunds for tuition fees depend on the timing of withdrawal, with up to 50% refunded if the withdrawal notice is received more than 30 days before the course start date.
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
Uniforms are supplied by Bibi & Baba; items can be purchased from their store; uniform guidelines are provided in the SMMIS Uniform Policy.
Uniform requirement
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Food options
Food options
A freshly made hot lunch is provided daily at no extra cost; a kosher hot meat or vegetarian meal is provided daily; children bring a kosher/vegetarian snack for break time.
Food options
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House system
House system
The school has a House System and a Student Council.
House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
The school is a not-for-profit institution; Sir Manasseh Meyer's philanthropic trust supports the school, with oversight by Singapore's Jewish community leaders.
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
SMMIS offers an international curriculum tailored to students from Kindergarten through Grade 10. In Primary School, the British National Curriculum Literacy and Singapore Maths are blended with the enquiry based International Primary Curriculum (IPC). Secondary students follow the International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC) and then work towards the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE).
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.
SMMIS places a strong emphasis on the social and emotional well-being of its students. The school offers free and confidential counseling services, available through an on-site School Counselor. Personal, Social, Health, and Economic (PSHE) education is also integrated into the curriculum to foster emotional literacy and resilience.
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)
SMMIS is equipped to support students with mild to moderate Special Educational Needs (SEN). The Inclusion Department comprises specialists trained to identify and assist students facing academic, emotional, or social challenges. Through individualized support, the school ensures that students with SEN receive appropriate resources and strategies to thrive academically and personally.
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
At SMMIS, the English as a Second or Additional Language (ESAL) programme is structured in two tiers:
Tier 1: Designed for students with basic English proficiency, focusing on foundational language skills.
Tier 2: Aimed at students with intermediate proficiency, enhancing their ability to access the mainstream curriculum.
Placement is determined through assessments by the academic team, and students may progress between tiers based on their development. Regular evaluations ensure that students receive appropriate support to integrate effectively into mainstream classes.
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
The school offers a pastoral care system, including counseling services and programs designed to support emotional health. The school also provides mindfulness practices and has established a Student Council and Mental Health Ambassadors to promote a supportive community environment.
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
SMMIS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of every pupil, both inside and outside of the school premises. The school's Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy outlines clear procedures for reporting and addressing concerns, ensuring a safe learning environment. All staff members are trained to recognize signs of abuse and are required to adhere to the policy, reflecting the school's dedication to the safety and well-being of its students.
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.
The school has state-of-the-art facilities, including a 25-meter rooftop pool, a 450-seat auditorium, a soccer pitch, a basketball court, and age-appropriate outdoor play areas for all students.
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 school provides a 25-meter rooftop pool, a soccer pitch, and a basketball court as part of its sports facilities.
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 school delivers an internationally-minded curriculum using the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) and the International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC), with Cambridge IGCSEs in Grades 9-10. It follows the British National Curriculum Literacy and Singapore Maths Curriculum.
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
After-School Activities (CCAs) offer a range of programmes. There is an Innovation & Makerspace on campus. The school collaborates with external organisations such as the Singapore Science Centre, Hash Peace, IRO, World ORT and Yad Vashem, and STEAM enrichment courses are run by Tel Aviv University and the Technion: Israel Institute of Technology.
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
Sir Manasseh Meyer International School (SMMIS) was founded in 1996 as the Ganenu Learning Centre, a nursery for young children. Over the years, it evolved into a full primary school and relocated to Sembawang in 2016, adopting its current name to honor philanthropist Sir Manasseh Meyer, whose trust continues to support the school.
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
SMMIS fosters a diverse and inclusive environment, celebrating over 25 nationalities within its student body. The school emphasizes ethical values and social responsibility, encouraging students to engage in community service and view themselves as global citizens.
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 PTA at SMMIS plays a vital role in enhancing the school community by organizing fundraising events, social gatherings, and educational support initiatives. Parents are actively encouraged to participate, strengthening the partnership between home and school.
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
The school follows the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) and International Middle Years Curricula (IMYC) and offers Cambridge iGCSEs in Grades 9–10. Learning is delivered by internationally trained staff in a rigorous, broad and relevant program. The curriculum emphasises collaboration and enquiry as enduring skills.
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
K‑Pop Dance is offered weekly with guidance from Legacy Dance Co.; it develops dance technique, memory, cardio fitness and flexibility. The Artopreneur Club offers students the opportunity to explore Innovation and Entrepreneurship through Art and Design. Coding is available as an extracurricular activity, with instruction from Algokids.
Arts & creative
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Cultural & language
Cultural & language
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Cultural & language
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Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
The Co-curricular Activities programme offers a broad range of activities that support physical and social development. Sport options include swimming, badminton, basketball, bouldering, Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu and soccer, with coaching and opportunities to compete beyond SMMIS. Field trips and overnight camps are a highlight of the school experience.
Social & hobbies
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Community & service
Community & service
Overseas Service Trips are offered for secondary students in Grades 6–9. Charity and volunteering are strong aspects of school life, with a focus on developing global citizenship. The school fosters a community culture that emphasises social action and service.
Community & service
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Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
The Artopreneur Club offers students the opportunity to explore Innovation and Entrepreneurship through Art and Design. This activity is part of the school's Co‑curricular Activities.
Leadership & professional
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
A range of sports is offered as part of the Co‑curricular Activities. Swimming has weekly lessons and a competitive team that trains five times per week in a rooftop 25‑metre pool. Badminton, basketball, bouldering, Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu and soccer are provided with coaching and opportunities to compete externally.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Mandarin is taught as a foreign language using the Youth Chinese Curriculum, with YCT exams from Grade 2. Hebrew is taught as a foreign modern language with two tracks: the Talam programme and the Ulpan programme for beginners. These are the languages taught at SMMIS.
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
Hebrew is taught as a foreign language with immersion options. A full immersive Jewish Education track is offered in Primary, alongside a Cultural track. Hebrew instruction includes the Ulpan programme for beginners and the Talam programme for continuing learners. Mandarin is taught as a foreign language using the Youth Chinese Curriculum, with YCT exams taken from Grade 2.
Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
HoneyKids Singapore Education Awards 2023: - *Principal of the Year*: Awarded to Elaine Robinson for her exceptional leadership and dedication to fostering a nurturing educational environment. - *Teacher of the Year (Primary)*: Recognized Cathy Austin for her outstanding contributions to primary education and her commitment to student development. - *Teacher of the Year (Secondary)*: Honored Nithiya Anbuselvam for her excellence in secondary education and her innovative teaching methods.
HoneyKids Singapore Education Awards 2024: - *Silver Award for Best Principal of the Year (Secondary)*: Elaine Robinson was commended for her exceptional leadership in secondary education.
WhichSchoolAdvisor.com Best Schools Awards Singapore 2024: - *Highly Commended School Most Loved by Parents*: SMMIS was recognized for its strong community engagement and parental satisfaction.
HoneyKids Singapore Education Awards 2023: - *School Most Loved by Parents*: SMMIS was honored for its commitment to creating a supportive and engaging learning environment that resonates with parents.
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
Council of International Schools (CIS): An accreditation body that evaluates schools based on rigorous international standards, ensuring quality education and continuous improvement.
EduTrust Certification: A certification awarded by the Singapore government to private education institutions that meet stringent quality standards in areas such as student support, academic processes, and financial stability.
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
Attend an Open House or School Tour. While not mandatory, attending an Open House or scheduling a tour provides valuable insight into the school's environment, culture, and facilities. It's an opportunity to meet faculty, ask questions, and determine if SMMIS aligns with your family's educational values.
Complete and Submit the Online Application. Fill out the online application form available on the school's website. Ensure you have all necessary supporting documents ready, such as your family's passports, NRIC details, and your child’s immunisation records and previous school reports.
Provide Additional Documentation. After submitting the application, you may be asked to provide further documents, such as teacher recommendations or educational assessments.
Assessment and Interview. Depending on your child's age and educational background, the school may request an assessment or interview.
Offer and Enrollment. If successful, you'll receive an offer letter detailing the next steps, including enrollment procedures, orientation dates, and other essential information to prepare for your child's start at SMMIS.
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
SMMIS does not offer scholarships currently.
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
At SMMIS, certain classes may have waiting lists due to limited capacity. The school operates on a rolling admissions basis, welcoming new applications throughout the academic year. However, where possible, they recommend students join at the start of a semester. Placement on a waiting list indicates that, while a spot is not currently available, your child will be considered for enrollment if space becomes available. The admissions team will notify parents promptly if a place opens up.
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.
