Enrolling a child in preschool is a significant milestone, but navigating the admission process in Singapore can feel overwhelming. With numerous preschool options, varying admission timelines, and different enrollment requirements, parents must plan ahead to secure a spot in their preferred preschool.
This guide breaks down the preschool admission process step by step, covering everything from researching schools to preparing your child for their first day. By understanding the process early, parents can make informed decisions that best suit their child’s learning needs and family preferences.
Understanding the Admission Timeline
Most preschools in Singapore accept children as young as 18 months old for infant care and 2 years old for playgroup programs. While some preschools offer rolling admissions throughout the year, others follow a structured annual intake.
For parents targeting popular preschools, early registration is essential. Some preschools have waitlists that require parents to register at least a year in advance, especially for sought-after Montessori or bilingual programs.
Key Preschool Admission Timelines
While every preschool operates on its own schedule, a general timeline for admissions includes:
- 12 to 18 months before enrollment: Start researching preschools and understanding different curriculum models. If you are considering structured programs such as the NEL Framework, Montessori, or Reggio Emilia, this is the time to explore how each approach aligns with your child’s learning style.
- 6 to 12 months before enrollment: Shortlist potential preschools and check their application deadlines. Some preschools have limited intakes per year, while others admit children throughout the year.
- 3 to 6 months before enrollment: Attend open houses, submit applications, and prepare for interviews or assessments if required.
- 1 to 3 months before enrollment: Confirm placement, settle administrative fees, and start preparing your child for the transition.
Understanding how different preschool curriculums in Singapore impact admission processes can help parents determine the right fit for their child and ensure they apply on time.
Researching and Shortlisting Preschools
Before applying, parents should take time to evaluate different preschools based on the following key factors:
- Curriculum and Teaching Philosophy: Some preschools emphasize structured learning, while others focus on play-based or inquiry-driven education. Understanding the differences between Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and NEL Framework-based preschools can help parents make an informed decision.
- Location and Accessibility: Convenience matters when choosing a preschool, especially for working parents. Consider preschools near your home or workplace to minimize travel time.
- School Fees and Subsidies: Costs vary widely depending on the preschool type. Parents should factor in preschool subsidies in Singapore and explore financial assistance options to make preschool more affordable.
- School Environment and Facilities: A preschool setting plays a crucial role in a child’s learning experience. Check if the school offers ample play areas, well-equipped classrooms, and a safe, clean environment.
- Parent Reviews and Reputation: Word-of-mouth recommendations and online reviews can provide insights into the preschool’s teaching quality, teacher-child ratio, and overall school culture.
Using Online Resources to Find Preschools
Several online platforms help parents explore preschools based on location, fees, and teaching approaches. The ECDA website and various parenting forums offer school directories, fee comparisons, and insights from other parents’ experiences.

Visiting Preschools and Attending Open Houses
While online research provides useful information, visiting a preschool in person gives a clearer picture of the school’s environment, teaching style, and overall atmosphere. Open houses allow parents to interact with teachers, observe classroom activities, and assess if the preschool aligns with their expectations.
What to Look for During a Preschool Visit
- Teacher-Child Interaction: Observe how teachers engage with children. A warm, responsive approach indicates a nurturing environment.
- Classroom Setup and Learning Materials: Check if classrooms are well-organized, stimulating, and age-appropriate. Montessori schools, for example, often have hands-on learning materials designed for self-directed learning.
- Cleanliness and Safety Measures: Ensure the preschool maintains proper hygiene, secure entry points, and safe play areas.
Questions to Ask During an Open House
- What is the teacher-child ratio?
- How does the school handle discipline and conflict resolution?
- What is the daily schedule like?
- Are meals and snacks provided?
- How does the school communicate with parents?
Completing the Application Process
Once a preschool has been selected, the next step is to complete the application process. Each school has its own requirements, but common steps include:
- Filling Out the Application Form: Most preschools allow online or in-person submissions.
- Submitting Required Documents: These typically include:
- Child’s birth certificate
- Parents’ NRIC or FIN
- Immunization records
- Proof of residential address
- Paying Registration Fees: Most preschools charge non-refundable registration fees, which vary from $50 to $500 depending on the school.
- Attending an Interview or Trial Session: Some schools require a short interview with parents and children or a trial class to assess a child’s readiness.
- Confirming Placement: If accepted, parents need to pay a deposit to secure the child’s spot.
Tips for a Smooth Application
- Apply Early: Popular preschools have long waitlists. Submit applications as soon as possible.
- Be Prepared for Assessments: Some schools assess children’s social skills and communication abilities before admission.
- Keep Multiple Options Open: Since placements are not guaranteed, parents should apply to more than one preschool.
Securing a Place and Preparing for Preschool
Once a child is accepted into a preschool, parents need to complete the final preparations:
- Confirm Enrollment: Submit any outstanding documents and settle school fees.
- Attend Orientation Sessions: Many preschools hold parent orientations to explain school policies, curriculum, and daily routines.
- Arrange for Subsidy Applications: Parents eligible for preschool subsidies should work with the preschool to ensure all necessary paperwork is submitted.
Preparing Your Child for Preschool
Starting preschool is a big transition, and preparing a child emotionally and mentally can help ease the adjustment.
- Talk About Preschool Positively: Introduce the idea of preschool as an exciting place to learn and make friends.
- Practice Separation: If your child has not been away from you before, try short separations to help them adjust.
- Establish a Routine: Set consistent sleep and meal schedules that align with preschool timings.
- Visit the School Together: If possible, bring your child to the preschool before the first day to familiarize them with the environment.
Conclusion
Navigating the preschool admission process requires careful planning and research. From understanding timelines to shortlisting schools and securing subsidies, parents must be proactive in making informed decisions.
By choosing a preschool that aligns with their child’s needs and family values, parents can provide a strong foundation for lifelong learning. Taking the time to visit schools, ask the right questions, and prepare for the transition will ensure a smoother and more rewarding preschool experience.