The Ministry of Education (MOE) in Singapore has revised the monthly school fees for non-citizen students in government and government-aided schools. This latest update directly affects Permanent Residents (PRs) and international students enrolled in primary and secondary schools across the island. These fee adjustments are part of MOE’s broader initiative to maintain a fair and sustainable education financing structure.
What Has Changed in MOE School Fees 2025?
The MOE has incrementally raised school fees for PRs and foreign students to reflect the differentiated subsidies provided by the government. Singapore citizens continue to receive the highest level of subsidy, while PRs and foreign students pay more to reflect the tiered approach. The MOE School Fees 2025 revision is designed to support resource allocation while ensuring educational equity.
The latest adjustment, implemented in July 2025, includes a monthly increase ranging from $25 to $60, depending on the education level and residency status.
Updated Monthly School Fees for PR and Foreign Students
Below is a comprehensive table detailing the new monthly rates effective from July 2025:
| School Level | Student Type | Monthly Fee (SGD) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary School | PR | $260 |
| Foreign Student | $550 | |
| Secondary School | PR | $460 |
| Foreign Student | $900 | |
| Pre-University | PR | $540 |
| Foreign Student | $1,100 |
These fees apply to students in both government and government-aided schools. For Specialised Independent Schools and other private educational institutions, tuition rates are set independently and may be higher.
Reasons Behind the Fee Revision
The increase in Singapore PR school fees and foreign student fees SG is rooted in a long-standing policy direction. The MOE aims to prioritize educational resources for Singaporean students while ensuring the system remains accessible and affordable for others. The revised fees also take into account rising operational costs and inflationary pressures, which have impacted school expenditure over the past year.
Another key reason for the fee adjustment is to reinforce the value of citizenship. By maintaining lower fees for Singaporeans, the MOE emphasizes national identity and commitment, while still accommodating PRs and international students through a transparent and tiered structure.
Implications for Parents and Guardians
For families with children who are PRs or hold foreign citizenship, the July 2025 fee change means a notable shift in monthly education budgeting. The cumulative cost over an academic year can exceed $6,000 for foreign secondary school students. Parents may need to explore financial planning tools or seek assistance through school-based support programmes if needed.
Some schools may also introduce additional services or fee waivers for qualifying students, although such measures vary by institution. It’s advisable for parents to consult with the school administration to get a clearer picture of possible assistance schemes.
Planning Ahead: What Parents Should Do
- Review Budget: Reassess household educational budgets to accommodate the new MOE School Fees 2025.
- Explore Scholarships: Some schools offer merit or need-based financial aid options for non-citizen students.
- Stay Informed: Monitor MOE’s official announcements and school circulars to keep updated with any further policy changes.
FAQ
What is the MOE School Fees 2025 structure for PRs?
PR students will pay $260 per month at the primary level, $460 at the secondary level, and $540 at pre-university institutions from July 2025 onwards.
How much do foreign students pay in Singapore schools now?
Foreign student fees SG have increased to $550 for primary, $900 for secondary, and $1,100 for pre-university levels per month as of July 2025.
Are there any exemptions or discounts available?
Some schools may offer limited financial support or bursaries for eligible PR or foreign students, but these are subject to school policies.
Will the fees increase again soon?
While MOE reviews its fee structures periodically, no further changes have been announced for 2025. However, future adjustments may be introduced in alignment with national education policies.
Why are Singapore PR school fees higher than local students?
The MOE provides higher subsidies to citizens as part of its policy to prioritize Singaporeans in public services. PRs and foreign students receive lesser subsidies, hence the higher fees.
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