If you want to teach in Singapore, What Every Aspiring Educator Needs to Know

A Complete Guide to Requirements, Qualifications, and Life as a Teacher in Singapore

By Junior Publication

Singapore is one of Asia’s top destinations for educators seeking quality teaching opportunities, a competitive salary, and a high standard of living. If you're a teacher planning to work in Singapore, here's everything you need to know before making the leap.

1. Qualifications You Need

To teach in Singapore, especially in public schools you typically need the following:

• A recognized Bachelor's Degree in Education or a relevant subject area.

• Teaching certification or license (such as PGCE, QTS, or a teaching diploma).

• Fluency in English, especially for teaching in English-medium schools.

• For private/international schools. TEFL/TESOL/CELTA may be accepted for English language teaching roles.

2. Types of Teaching Jobs Available

• MOE Schools (Ministry of Education): Competitive but structured. You may need to apply through the MOE directly.

• International Schools: IB, British, American curriculum schools. Requirements vary.

• Language Centres: For ESL/IELTS teaching, less stringent requirements but often lower pay.

• Private Tutors: Popular due to Singapore’s high regard for education

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  3. Required Documents Make sure you prepare.

Certified copies of your degree and transcripts
Teaching license/certificate
Passport (with at least 6 months validity)
Reference letters from past schools or employers
Criminal background check (usually required for work pass applications)

4. Work Visa and Passes

To legally teach in Singapore, you’ll need a Work Pass, usually an Employment Pass (EP) or S Pass, sponsored by your employer.

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) reviews:

• Academic qualifications

• Work experience

• Salary offered

• Employer’s eligibility to hire foreigners

5. Salary Expectations

Salaries vary based on school type and experience.

• MOE schools: SGD 3,500–6,500/month

• International schools: SGD 4,000–8,000/month

• Language centers: SGD 2,500–4,000/month

Some schools offer housing allowance, airfare, relocation bonuses, and medical insurance.

6. Cost of Living

Singapore is clean, safe, and efficient—but it’s not cheap.
Average monthly costs.

• Rent: SGD 800–2,500 (shared/private accommodation)

• Transport: SGD 100–150 (public transport is excellent)

• Food & essentials: SGD 300–600

Budget well and consider schools that offer accommodation or subsidies.

7. Cultural Awareness

Singapore is multicultural and values.

• Punctuality and discipline

• Respect for rules

• A focus on academic excellence

• Multilingualism (though English is the working language)

Be open to working in a structured, high-performance environment.

8. Where to Look for Jobs

• Ministry of Education – Singapore Careers Portal

• International school websites

• JobsDB, LinkedIn, TeachAway

9. Final Tips Before You Move

• Connect with expat teacher groups on Facebook

• Save at least 3 months' worth of expenses before relocating

• Research your employer thoroughly

• Be ready to adapt quickly Singapore’s system is fast-paced

Conclusion

Teaching in Singapore can be a rewarding experience, offering not just financial stability but also professional growth in a highly respected education system. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to step into your classroom with confidence.

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