Tuition in Singapore: the complete parent guide
This is your starting point for tuition in Singapore. It explains the main options, what they cost and how to choose, with links to detailed guides. Prices and rules change, so we cite sources and update this page.
1. Do you need tuition at all?
Not always. Many children do well with school lessons, daily practice and parent support. Tuition helps most when a topic stays unclear after practice, when exam technique needs work, or when a child needs structure. Start by finding which topics are weak.
2. The main options
| Option | Good for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| School support | Weak foundations, free | Limited places |
| Community programmes (CDAC, SINDA, MENDAKI) | Low-cost weekly classes | Eligibility and registration windows |
| Tuition centre | Routine, peers, exam practice | Group pace, travel |
| Home or online tutor | Personal explanation | Highest hourly cost |
| Practice platform | Daily practice, tracking | Needs a habit and some parent follow-up |
3. What does tuition cost?
Published 2026 rates for primary private tutors range from about $25 to $35 an hour for part-time tutors up to about $60 to $90 for ex or current MOE teachers. See the full rate table and the online tuition cost guide.
4. Ways to pay less
Read 7 ways to save and the guide to free and subsidised tuition.
5. Choosing a tutor
Use our 10 questions to ask, and book a trial lesson. You can browse tutors on the ALEC tutor map.
6. Know the exam
Understand how PSLE grades work in the AL score guide, and plan the last months with the P6 timetable.
7. Build a daily practice habit
Ten to fifteen minutes a day of exam-style practice with instant feedback is one of the most cost-effective things you can do. ALEC gives short lessons, practice and parent reports, with a free start.
More parent guides
- Online tuition in Singapore (2026): costs, options and what actually works for primary school
- PSLE AL score explained for parents: bands, calculation and how to improve
- Cheap tuition in Singapore: 7 ways to save without hurting results
- Home tuition rates in Singapore 2026: what primary tutors charge
- How to choose an online tutor in Singapore: 10 questions to ask
- P6 timetable: a 6-month plan to PSLE
- Free and subsidised tuition in Singapore: CDAC, SINDA, Mendaki and school support
- Singapore education system: a parent guide for 2026
Frequently asked questions
What is the best type of tuition in Singapore?
It depends on your child. Many families combine daily practice, school support and a tutor or centre for the weakest subject. Start with a diagnosis of weak topics.
How much does tuition cost in Singapore?
Published 2026 hourly rates for primary private tutors range from about $25 to $90 depending on tutor type and level. Centre fees and subsidised programmes vary.
Is online tuition as good as face-to-face?
It can be, if the child can focus on screen, the tutor explains well and there is practice between lessons.
When should we start tuition?
When there is a clear need, for example a topic that stays weak, rather than by default. Most families focus on P3 onwards, with extra effort in P5 and P6.
ALEC gives Singapore primary kids short lessons, exam-style practice and a clear report for parents.
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ALEC is an independent practice platform and is not affiliated with MOE or SEAB. Prices and figures quoted from other sources are indicative and change often. Check the source before you decide.