🎓 Top 10 Best Performing IP Schools in Singapore 2025 — Are You Aiming High Enough?
If you’re reading this, chances are you or your child is aiming for the stars ✨ and looking at Singapore’s top Integrated Programme (IP) schools. Whether you’re a student, parent, or educator, understanding the best performing IP schools in Singapore for 2025 can help you set the right goals, make informed decisions, and plan ahead. 💡
In this comprehensive guide, we dive into:
✅ The top 10 best performing IP schools in 2025
✅ What makes these schools stand out 🏆
✅ Tips on how to prepare to get in 🚀
✅ How personalized tuition in Singapore can boost your chances
Let’s begin your journey to excellence!
🤔 What is the Integrated Programme (IP)?
The Integrated Programme (IP) is a 6-year through-train programme offered to top-performing students in Singapore. It allows students to skip the O-Levels and go straight to A-Levels, International Baccalaureate (IB), or the NUS High School Diploma. This seamless curriculum gives students more time to delve deeper into academic and non-academic interests. 📘🎭⚽
Students in IP schools are academically strong, self-directed, and often groomed for leadership and scholarship opportunities.
📈 Ranking Methodology: How We Picked the Top 10 IP Schools in 2025
When it comes to ranking the best IP schools in Singapore in 2025, we went beyond just grades. Our comprehensive evaluation covers academic excellence, holistic education, university outcomes, and unique strengths. Here’s a breakdown of the key criteria we used, why they matter, and how they influence the rankings 👇
Criteria 🧠 | Description 📋 | Why It Matters 🌟 | Weight (%) ⚖️ |
---|---|---|---|
1. Academic Results 📚 | Based on latest 2024 A-Level, IB, and NUS High Diploma results, including distinctions and top scorers | Reflects overall academic performance and rigour of the school’s curriculum | 35% |
2. University Admissions 🎓 | Number of students admitted to top local (NUS, NTU, SMU) and overseas (Oxbridge, Ivy League) universities | Shows how well the school prepares students for higher education success | 20% |
3. National & International Competitions 🏆 | Achievements in Olympiads, debates, research fairs, and student leadership awards | Indicates school’s commitment to excellence beyond classroom learning | 15% |
4. MOE Awards & Recognition 🏅 | School Distinction Awards, Best Practice awards, and School Excellence Awards from MOE | Validates the school’s quality through external and government benchmarks | 10% |
5. Special Programmes 🧬 | Availability of niche programmes like GEP, MEP, BSP, LEP, Science/Math Olympiad Training | Highlights opportunities for gifted students to stretch beyond the syllabus | 10% |
6. Holistic Development & Student Culture ❤️ | Focus on character building, student well-being, and CCA excellence (music, sports, drama, leadership) | Ensures that students grow into well-rounded, resilient individuals | 5% |
7. Alumni Success & Scholarships 💼 | Notable alumni, scholarship recipients (e.g., PSC, SAF, MOE) and industry leaders | Tracks long-term impact and real-world success of school graduates | 5% |
🧮 Final Scoring System: How We Ranked the Schools
Each school was scored across the above criteria, weighted accordingly. The top 10 schools earned their spot based on a composite performance score (out of 100), making this the most comprehensive IP school ranking for 2025 in Singapore.
✅ Looking at this breakdown can also help you decide which IP school matches your child’s strengths and aspirations.
🥇 #1: Raffles Institution (RI) 🎓
Location: Bishan
Programme: 6-Year IP → A-Levels
Why RI Leads in 2025:
Raffles Institution continues to be the gold standard for academic excellence in Singapore. Known for its elite student body, RI consistently produces top A-Level scorers, Presidential Scholars, and winners of international academic competitions. Their rigorous curriculum is designed to challenge even the brightest minds.
RI is also famous for fostering leadership through its Raffles Leadership Programme, and has a thriving Research Education Programme (REP) for budding scientists and thinkers. Beyond academics, RI has a rich CCA culture — from drama and debate to chess and canoeing.
University Destinations: Oxford, Cambridge, Stanford, Yale, NUS Medicine, SMU Law – the list is endless.
🔍 Sophia’s JC tuition and IP tuition in Singapore are designed to meet the academic demands of Raffles students — helping them stay ahead of the curve while maintaining balance.
🥈 #2: Hwa Chong Institution (HCI) 🏮
Location: Bukit Timah
Programme: 6-Year IP → A-Levels
Why HCI Stands Out:
HCI is synonymous with academic brilliance and Chinese cultural heritage. Its Bicultural Studies Programme (BSP) and Humanities Programme (HP) are among the most competitive in Singapore, producing scholars with deep global perspectives and bilingual proficiency.
In 2025, HCI continues to shine with high university admission rates and multiple gold medals in the International Science and Math Olympiads. Students here often graduate with multiple distinctions and portfolios filled with research, community service, and leadership milestones.
School Culture: Strong sense of tradition, discipline, and innovation. Weekly school-wide assemblies and cultural celebrations are a big part of HCI life.
🧠 Need help tackling high-level Math, Physics, or Chinese? Our HCI-focused tuition programmes give you a clear academic edge.
🥉 #3: Nanyang Girls’ High School (NYGH) 👑
Location: Bukit Timah
Programme: 4-Year IP → 2-Year JC at HCI
Why NYGH Shines:
As the top all-girls IP school, NYGH combines academic power with a nurturing environment. Students here transition to Hwa Chong Institution in Year 5 and often outperform their peers in both STEM and Humanities.
In 2025, NYGH students continue to excel in Science Fairs, National Literature Competitions, and leadership conferences. They are also known for their strong Chinese Language & Literature programme and cultural immersion opportunities.
Standout Features:
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Music Elective Programme (MEP) 🎶
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Language Elective Programme (LEP)
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Leadership Development through school-wide roles and external competitions
💬 Sophia’s English tuition, Chinese tuition, and Science tuition are tailored to empower NYGH students preparing for the next leap into JC life.
🎖 #4: National Junior College (NJC) 🦁
Location: Bukit Timah
Programme: 6-Year IP → A-Levels
Why It’s a Top Choice:
NJC offers one of the most well-balanced Integrated Programmes, combining rigorous academics with a progressive and supportive environment. Its IP students are exposed to early research, overseas exchange, and critical thinking development from the start.
In 2025, NJC gains recognition for producing top-tier results in General Paper, Chemistry, and Project Work. It is also home to some of Singapore’s most creative minds in performing arts and student journalism.
Notable Programmes:
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Talent Development Programme (TDP)
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Science and Humanities Research Projects
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Student-Led Initiatives in Entrepreneurship & Sustainability
📚 Sophia Education provides A-Level tuition aligned with NJC’s curriculum, helping students stay on top of key subjects and university admissions prep.
🏆 #5: Victoria-Cedar Alliance (VJC + Cedar Girls’) 👯♀️
Location: East Coast
Programme: Cedar Girls’ (Years 1–4) → Victoria JC (Years 5–6)
Why It’s Exceptional:
The VCA is a unique collaboration between Cedar Girls’ and Victoria Junior College, combining the strengths of two powerhouse schools. Cedar Girls’ trains students in foundational years, before they move on to VJC for JC.
In 2025, the alliance maintains a reputation for stellar A-Level performances, especially in GP, Literature, and Biology. VJC’s vibrant arts scene, debate team, and sports achievements make it a standout in holistic education.
Fun Fact: VJC’s choir and dance teams have won numerous national awards — proving academic success doesn’t mean sacrificing the arts.
🎭 Struggling with English or Biology? Our English tuition and Biology tuition programmes are tailored for IP students navigating the transition from secondary to JC.
🎓 #6: Dunman High School 🌱
Location: Tanjong Rhu
Programme: 6-Year IP → A-Levels
Why Dunman Excels:
Dunman High is a top SAP school with a rich tradition in Chinese language excellence and high academic standards. The school’s high distinction rate in A-Level subjects like Chemistry, Economics, and Chinese makes it a consistent performer.
Students benefit from leadership development tracks, international cultural immersion, and unique school-wide projects aimed at innovation and entrepreneurship.
School Culture: A blend of diligence, mutual respect, and resilience — students are encouraged to become bilingual global citizens.
🈶 Sophia’s Chinese tuition and Economics tuition programmes support Dunman High students in excelling across both languages and core academic subjects.
⭐ #7: River Valley High School (RVHS) 🐉
Location: Boon Lay
Programme: 6-Year IP → A-Levels
Why It’s Rising Fast:
RVHS has steadily moved up the ranks with its strong focus on bilingualism, STEM development, and holistic education. With its research-based curriculum, students are encouraged to think critically and present confidently.
In 2025, RVHS is recognised for its excellence in Math, Science, and Chinese, as well as initiatives in student-led sustainability and innovation projects.
Culture & Character: River Valley nurtures a caring and collaborative environment where students support each other academically and emotionally.
📐 Sophia Education offers IP Math tuition and Science tuition to support RV students aiming to balance academic rigour with personal growth.
🧠 #8: NUS High School of Math and Science 🔬
Location: Clementi
Programme: 6-Year IP → NUS High Diploma
Why It’s Specialised:
If your child is a science genius or aspiring engineer, NUS High is the place to be. It’s the only IP school with a custom NUS-endorsed diploma, focusing on high-level STEM research and academic depth.
In 2025, NUS High students win medals in international competitions, file patents, and even publish research papers before turning 18. Talk about future-ready! 🔬💡
Unique Advantages:
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Strong tie-ins with NUS professors and labs
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Early research and mentorship
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Access to specialised Math and Science curriculum
⚗️ Sophia’s Advanced Science tuition and IP Math tuition are perfect for students aiming to tackle the intensity of NUS High’s curriculum.
📚 #9: Temasek Junior College (TJC) 📖
Location: Bedok
Programme: 6-Year IP → A-Levels
Why TJC Shines:
TJC’s IP programme continues to produce well-rounded students who excel both in academics and character. Known for its emphasis on values education, cross-cultural programmes, and critical thinking, TJC is rising in popularity.
In 2025, TJC sees a strong performance in Project Work, Economics, and Literature, alongside increased overseas university placements.
Notable Features:
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Humanities Scholarship Programme
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Global Studies Modules
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Mentorship and Student Ambassador Initiatives
📈 Our Literature tuition and Economics tuition support TJC students in gaining deeper analytical skills to ace the A-Levels.
🏫 #10: Catholic High School (CHS) 🧮
Location: Bishan
Programme: 4-Year IP → Eunoia JC (Years 5–6)
Why CHS Makes the List:
CHS is a top all-boys SAP school that partners with Eunoia Junior College for the JC years. Its emphasis on STEM, leadership, and bilingualism makes it a well-rounded choice for high-achieving boys.
In 2025, CHS boasts strong Math and Science results and a track record of student innovation competitions and bilingual speech contests.
Why Boys Like It: Strong brotherhood culture, academic discipline, and solid foundations for future leadership.
➕ Sophia’s Eunoia-focused tuition programmes and IP Math tuition are tailored to help CHS students stay ahead during their secondary and JC years.
📌 Summary Table: Top 10 IP Schools in Singapore 2025
Rank | School | Programme Type | Final Qualification |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Raffles Institution | IP (A-Level) | A-Level |
2 | Hwa Chong Institution | IP (A-Level) | A-Level |
3 | Nanyang Girls’ High | IP → HCI (A-Level) | A-Level |
4 | National Junior College | 6-Year IP (A-Level) | A-Level |
5 | Victoria-Cedar Alliance | IP → VJC (A-Level) | A-Level |
6 | Dunman High School | IP (A-Level) | A-Level |
7 | River Valley High School | IP (A-Level) | A-Level |
8 | NUS High School | IP (NUS High Diploma) | NUS Diploma |
9 | Temasek Junior College | 6-Year IP (A-Level) | A-Level |
10 | Catholic High School | IP → Eunoia JC (A-Level) | A-Level |
🧭 Who Should Consider the IP Route?
The Integrated Programme (IP) isn’t for everyone — and that’s okay! But for students who are:
✅ Self-motivated and independent learners
✅ Scoring in the top 10–15% of their cohort
✅ Interested in academic depth and research
✅ Planning to take A-Levels, IB, or a specialized diploma
✅ Eyeing top universities locally or abroad
… then the IP track could be a perfect fit. 🎓
That said, it’s important to consider the non-academic demands too. With fewer national exams (no O-Levels!), students must manage their own learning pace and time well. 💼
👨👩👧 Tip for Parents: Regular check-ins, enrichment opportunities, and personalized tuition can help your child thrive without feeling overwhelmed.
🏃 How to Prepare Early for IP School Admissions
📌 For Primary School Students (P5–P6):
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Build strong PSLE foundations, especially in English, Math & Science
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Explore DSA (Direct School Admission) opportunities for IP schools
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Participate in academic and talent-based competitions (e.g., Olympiads, SYF, coding camps)
🔍 Explore our PSLE tuition in Singapore to build a solid base for future IP success!
📌 For Lower Secondary (Sec 1–2):
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Develop critical thinking, not just content mastery
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Start learning how to write essays, argue viewpoints, and understand global issues
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Build portfolios for DSA-JC or scholarship applications
📘 Sophia’s Secondary tuition focuses on analytical writing, Math problem-solving, and Science concepts to get students IP-ready.
📌 For Upper Secondary (Sec 3–4/IP Y3–4):
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Master exam skills for A-Level, IB or NUS High content
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Develop research and presentation skills
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Time management & stress coping skills
📚 Our IP tuition in Singapore helps students keep up with the fast-paced, demanding curriculum of top schools like RI, HCI, and NYGH.
🎒 What Makes a Good IP Student?
Top IP schools don’t just look for book smarts. Here are qualities they value:
Trait 💡 | Why It Matters |
---|---|
Curiosity 🔍 | IP encourages exploration beyond the syllabus |
Discipline 🧘 | With fewer exams, students must self-manage learning |
Creativity 🎨 | IP projects often require out-of-the-box thinking |
Leadership 🧑🏫 | Many programmes groom future community leaders |
Grit 💪 | The curriculum is challenging — perseverance is key! |
🙌 Students can build these traits through CCAs, enrichment, volunteering, and of course — the right mentorship and academic guidance.
📝 Real Voices: What Students & Parents Say About IP
“Joining an IP school was the best decision for my daughter. She’s now doing research and thinking like a university student — at age 15!”
— Mrs. Tan, mother of NYGH student
“The IP route gave me freedom to explore Math and Science deeply without exam pressure. But I also had to grow up faster.”
— Ryan, NUS High School Year 4
“We couldn’t keep up at first, but Sophia’s IP tuition helped my son stay on track and even become top in his class.”
— Mr. Lim, father of RVHS student
🧪 Comparing IP vs. O-Level Tracks — What’s Right For You?
Feature 🏫 | IP Track | O-Level Track |
---|---|---|
Exams | Skips O-Levels | Takes O-Levels at Sec 4 |
Curriculum | Broad, in-depth, project-heavy | Structured and exam-focused |
University Prep | Early exposure to A-Level/IB | JC or Poly path post-O-Level |
Flexibility | More time for research, internships, CCAs | Less flexibility but clear checkpoints |
Ideal for… | Independent, high-performing students | Students who thrive with structure |
🔄 Still unsure? Talk to our academic consultants — we’ll help assess which track suits your child best.
🛠️ How Sophia Education Supports IP Students
At Sophia Education, we specialize in supporting IP students with:
🔍 IP-level tuition for English, GP, Math, Chemistry, Biology, Chinese, History & more
📚 Customized learning plans based on school syllabus (RI, HCI, NYGH, etc.)
👩🏫 Top 1% tutors — ex-MOE teachers, IP graduates, and subject specialists
🧘♂️ Study skills & stress management workshops
🌐 Online & physical classes across Singapore
🔥 Our students consistently rank top in class and gain admission to elite universities like NUS Medicine, Yale-NUS, and Oxford.
✅ Final Tips for Parents & Students (2025 Edition!)
🎯 Start early — The IP route begins before PSLE ends
📘 Focus on deep learning, not just grades
🧑🏫 Get support when needed — Tuition isn’t a crutch, it’s a launchpad
🌍 Explore enrichment beyond school — internships, competitions, global issues
👨👩👧 Stay involved — Parents play a crucial role in motivation and emotional support
📞 Ready to Aim High? Sophia Education Can Help You Get There
Whether you’re aiming for Raffles Institution, Hwa Chong, NUS High, or VJC, the journey starts with smart planning and expert support. 💼📈
🌟 Join the hundreds of IP students who trust Sophia Education for their academic journey. Book a free consultation now — your dream school awaits! 🚀