SAP, Government, Autonomous and Independent Schools

Generally autonomous schools and secondary schools differ in terms of their governance structure, curriculum flexibility, and level of autonomy.

Most secondary schools in Singapore offer 4-year Express course (Special course for SAP schools) or 5-year courses leading up to the GCE O-level examination. A notable exception is the Integrated Programme (IP) schools, which offer a 6-year course leading up to the GCE A-level examination or the International Baccalaureate examination.

Autonomous schools have more autonomy as compared to other government-run secondary schools to plan their own curriculum and activities. However, such schools may charge an additional miscellaneous fee on top of the regular school fees paid by all students attending government or government-aided schools.

Independent schools are granted autonomy to its own school curriculum, programmes and school fees. Autonomous schools are still govt schools although the schools have more funding & more programmes for the kids. They are still subjected to MOE’s syllabus.
Independent schools do not need to get budget approval & such from MOE. They have the autonomy to decide on curriculum (thus the IB diploma programs available). Teaching style may also defer depending on the school’s focus. It’s better to know what the child wants & enjoys if budget is not a problem.

Autonomous Schools collect Autonomous School Fees, ranging from $3 to $18 per month, on top of second-tier miscellaneous fees.

Independent Schools charge a separate scale of fees. The range of school fees for local students (excluding miscellaneous fees) as at 2010 is $200- $300 per month.