Admissions Requirements

A Successful Journey for Your Child Begins with Finding the Right Fit

Every child brings unique strengths, experiences, and aspirations. Our admissions process is designed to help us understand each learner while giving families the confidence to determine whether RD American School is the right fit for them.

We welcome students from diverse educational backgrounds and are committed to making the admissions journey clear, transparent, and supportive from your first inquiry through enrollment.

Students at RD American School, an American international school in Singapore
01

Who Can Apply?

RD American School welcomes applications from students of all nationalities seeking an American international school education in Singapore. Admission is based on a holistic review that considers:

Student age and grade eligibility
Previous school experience
Academic readiness and potential
English language proficiency
Learning support needs, where applicable
Availability of places within the requested grade

Our goal is to ensure every student is placed in an environment where they can thrive academically, socially, and personally.

02

Student Assessment

Our admissions process is designed to understand each child—not simply evaluate them. Depending on the student’s age and grade level, the admissions review may include:

Classroom observation
Academic assessment
English Language assessment
Student interview (In person or virtual)
Review of previous school reports
Teacher recommendations, where applicable

These assessments help us understand each learner’s strengths, readiness, and learning profile so we can determine the learning environment and support that will best enable them to succeed.

Application outcome is subject to the assessment of the student profile, suitability of the learning environment, and availability of resources to support the student’s progress.

03

English Language Requirements

Students whose first language is not English are welcome to apply.

English language proficiency is considered as part of the admissions review to ensure students can confidently access the curriculum and participate fully in school life. A foundational level of English will be required for effective learning and participation in school life.

Where appropriate, our Admissions Team will discuss available English language support and recommend the pathway that best supports your child’s transition into RD American School.

04

Learning Support

Every learner is unique.

During the admissions process, families are encouraged to share any educational, psychological, or specialist reports that provide insight into their child’s learning profile.

Applications are reviewed individually to determine whether RD American School can provide the appropriate level of support needed for each student’s long-term success.

05

Application Documents

To complete an application, families are required to submit:

Our Admissions Team will advise if any additional documentation is required during the admissions review.

06

Visa & Residency Requirements

Families residing in Singapore under another valid immigration status should provide the relevant documentation during the admissions process.

Singapore citizens aged 6 and above by birth or registration are required to apply for a Compulsory Education Exemption from the Ministry of Education (MOE) to pursue their study in an international school. Please declare this information at the time of application. Our Admissions Team will assist with the application to MOE before an official offer is made.

Age and Grade Placement

Choosing the right grade placement is an important step in ensuring every child feels confident, challenged, and supported from the very beginning.

Students are generally placed according to their age as of September 1, while also considering previous school experience, academic readiness, and overall developmental needs. This balanced approach helps ensure each child is well positioned for success both inside and outside the classroom.

The grade placement chart below serves as a general guide. Placement decisions are made through a holistic review conducted by our Admissions Team and school leadership. In exceptional circumstances, adjustments may be considered based on individual educational needs and prior learning experiences.

Grade placement chart — a general guide. Ages are calculated as of September 1.

Elementary School

Grade LevelAge as of September 1
Kindergarten5 years
Grade 16 years
Grade 27 years
Grade 38 years
Grade 49 years
Grade 510 years

Middle School

Grade LevelAge as of September 1
Grade 611 years
Grade 712 years
Grade 813 years

High School

Grade LevelAge as of September 1
Grade 914 years
Grade 1015 years
Grade 1116 years
Grade 1217 years