German European School Singapore

Founded by parents in 1971, GESS is a not-for-profit international school that reinvests all revenue into teaching and learning. The school emphasizes a holistic, personalized education that fosters freedom to grow, with core values of respect, diversity, and openness. It aims to impart European values while forging links with the diverse cultures of Singapore.

The school offers two primary academic pathways: the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme (Primary Years, Middle Years, and Diploma/Careers programmes) taught in English, and the German curriculum. The school serves students from preschool (18 months) through to high school (18 years). Language education is a key focus, with over 15 languages taught both as integrated subjects and after-school programmes. STEM education is supported by the Junior Engineering Programme, and students participate in experiential learning through outdoor education and service learning initiatives.

GESS is an accredited IB World School, with students consistently surpassing global average scores and gaining admission to top universities in the UK, Europe, the US, and Australia. Graduates from the German section are highly advantaged when applying to leading German universities, having earned qualifications such as the German International Abitur (DIAP) and the German Language Diploma (DSD). The school’s commitment to high standards is reflected in its multiple international accreditations, including those from the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACS WASC).

GESS provides a range of student wellbeing and support services, including study groups, homework help, English support, and professional counselling. The school also offers a Gifted & Talented Programme to support students with specific academic needs.

GESS accepts applications year-round, allowing students to start at any point during the academic year, with the exception of grades 11 and 12. The application process is conducted entirely online, and families do not need to be in Singapore to complete it. Admissions officers are available for online meetings or campus tours to guide families through the process, which includes a grade placement assessment.

The school operates on a two-semester international calendar. Fees are invoiced annually, with payment due in two installments corresponding to each semester. Families must provide notice of withdrawal by October 15 for the first semester or March 31 for the following academic year.

The state-of-the-art campus at Dairy Farm includes over 170 learning facilities, such as 14 technology and science labs, 18 specialized arts facilities, and 13 dedicated sports facilities, including an Olympic-size swimming pool, a FIFA-regulation football pitch, and four indoor sports halls. The campus also features three libraries housing over 27,000 books in 14 languages, 23 collaborative learning and maker spaces, and 5,300 square meters of green outdoor learning areas adjacent to the Dairy Farm Nature Park. A dedicated preschool campus provides specialized classrooms and outdoor play areas for children aged 2 to 5.

The school offers over 200 programmes and activities, including more than 140 after-school options such as private music lessons, STEM, mother tongue languages, theatre, art, and sports. The BeyondClassrooms programme partners with global companies and organizations to provide students with internships, industry expert talks, and hands-on STEM experiences. Additionally, the school maintains a partnership with Borussia Dortmund for football training.