Good Secondary Schools in Singapore: Gateway to Top JCs
Reviewed by Alfred Zhuo, Academic Lead. Updated: August 23, 2026
Singapore Education System - Public School Pathway.
Singapore's education system is world renowned, and its secondary schools play a crucial role in shaping the nation's future leaders. For families considering secondary education options under the public school system, we have compiled a list of Singapore's top 20 secondary schools.
Best Secondary Schools in Singapore.
Raffles Institution.
Hwa Chong Institution.
Nanyang Girls' High School.
National Junior College.
Dunman High School.
Anglo-Chinese School (Independent).
Methodist Girls' School (Secondary).
Singapore Chinese Girls' School (Secondary).
River Valley High School.
Victoria School.
St. Joseph's Institution.
Cedar Girls' Secondary School.
CHIJ St. Nicholas Girls' School (Secondary).
Temasek Junior College.
St. Margaret's Secondary School.
Bukit Panjang Government High School.
Crescent Girls' School.
Commonwealth Secondary School.
Tanjong Katong Girls' School.
CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh).
Academic Excellence.
These schools consistently rank highly in academic performance and are known for their robust co-curricular activities, innovative teaching methods, and strong track records in university placements.
Raffles Institution and Hwa Chong Institution, at the top of the list, are particularly noted for their rigorous academic programmes and illustrious alumni. Nanyang Girls' High School and National Junior College are celebrated for their holistic education approaches and strong international outlook.
It's noteworthy that this list includes a diverse range of schools, including several girls' schools, demonstrating Singapore's commitment to excellence in education across various institutions.
However, it's important to remember that the "best" school varies depending on each student's individual needs, strengths, and aspirations. Factors to consider include the school's culture, teaching style, subject offerings, and co-curricular activities.
At CSI, we understand that choosing the right secondary school is a crucial decision. We work closely with families to understand their children's unique needs and aspirations, helping them navigate the selection and application process for these top schools.
Remember, while academic excellence is important, it's equally crucial to find a school that nurtures your child's overall development, fostering not just intellectual growth but also character, creativity, and leadership skills.
AEIS Singapore: Entrance Exam for International Students.
For parents who are convinced that the Singapore public school pathway is the right one for their child, then you have to understand more about the AEIS exams. For international students who wish to enrol into Singapore public schools, you have to sit for the Admissions Exercise for International Students (AEIS).
The Admissions Exercise for International Students (AEIS) is for international students seeking admissions to Primary 2 to 5 and Secondary 1 to 3 in the following academic year. The AEIS typically starts in July. Successful applicants start school in January the following year.
During this admissions exercise, international students:
Apply to take the relevant AEIS tests.
Take the AEIS tests.
Receive their admissions outcome.
Admission is not guaranteed and is subject to your child's performance in the tests. If successful, placement will be based on the available vacancies in our schools and your declared residential area, where possible.
For more information, you should check out the Singapore MOE portal for AEIS. Contact CSI and understand how the AEIS application works, and how CSI and its subsidiary 7+ Academy can your child in the preparation of the AEIS exams.
FAQ About Good Secondary Schools in Singapore:
What makes these schools among Singapore's top secondary schools?
These schools are widely regarded as Singapore's top public secondary schools for their strong academic track records and a clear pathway into top junior colleges, many via the Integrated Programme.
What is the AEIS exam and who needs to take it?
The AEIS (Admissions Exercise for International Students) is Singapore's entrance exam for international students seeking a place in local public schools, covering Primary 2-5 and Secondary 1-3. It typically starts in July, with successful applicants beginning school the following January; placement depends on test performance, available vacancies, and the student's residential area.
Can international students apply directly to these top 20 schools?
International students generally enter the public school system through the AEIS rather than applying to a specific school directly. Placement into any public secondary school, including those on this list, depends on AEIS performance, vacancy availability, and residential proximity rather than direct choice.
Independent schools (such as Raffles Institution, Hwa Chong Institution, Nanyang Girls' High School, and Anglo-Chinese School (Independent)) set their own curriculum and fees and often run the Integrated Programme, bypassing O-Levels to go straight to A-Levels or IB. The other schools on the list follow the mainstream MOE curriculum through O-Levels.
How can CSI help with a school application?
CSI's education consultants guide families through the AEIS or direct school application process, from choosing the right pathway to preparing the required documents.
Conclusion and Final Words.
Embarking on secondary education in one of Singapore's top schools can open doors to tremendous opportunities. Let CSI guide you in making this important decision, ensuring your child's secondary education journey is both challenging and rewarding.
Whether you're aiming for the top-ranked schools or exploring other options that might be a perfect fit for your child, CSI is here to provide expert guidance every step of the way. Have a look also at the Top Primary Schools and Top Junior Colleges ranking as well!
If you are still considering other education pathways, you might want to explore the international schools in Singapore. There is a plethora of curriculum choice for your child to explore, from IB Diploma to A Levels to American Curriculum to Australian HSC!!
Singapore is the top country in the world for the IB Diploma results. Every year, about half of the IB perfect score of 45 comes from Singapore! Check out the top IB schools in Singapore.
If you are still not sure, please do not hesitate to contact us and arrange a session with our experienced consultants!