Budgeting for tuition: what families spend and how to save
The KiddoSG app is launching soon. This guide shows how it will work.
Photo: for illustration.
Tuition can add up quickly, especially with more than one child. A plan helps you spend where it matters most.
What families spend
Singapore households spent an average of about S$105 a month on tuition in 2023 (Household Expenditure Survey, reported figures). Spending is much higher in some households and much lower in others.
Typical costs for one subject with a home tutor (2 lessons of 1.5 hours a week):
- Primary, part-time tutor at S$35/h: about S$420 a month
- Primary, shared group of 3 at S$22/h each: about S$265 a month
Ways to save
- Share a tutor. Groups of 2–4 typically cut the cost per child by 35–60%.
- Focus on one or two subjects where help is really needed.
- Shorter or less frequent lessons once your child is on track.
- Online lessons, so tutors don't need to charge for travel.
- Part-time tutors (undergraduates) for younger levels.
- Pause during school holidays if your child needs a break.
Plan for the year
- Exam years (P6, Sec 4/5, JC2) often need more support. Plan ahead.
- Watch out for prepaid packages. Singapore has no special protection if a provider closes, so prefer paying monthly.
The free plan is enough for many families
You don't need to pay for the app to find a great tutor. Everything for parents is free; see Free for every parent.