IB vs MOE Curriculum: Which Path Is Right for Your Child?

The IB curriculum emphasises inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and international mindedness, while the MOE curriculum focuses on content mastery, examination performance, and Singapore-specific context. Neither is objectively better — the right choice depends on your child's learning style, future goals, and family circumstances. This guide compares both pathways to help you decide.

At Ancourage Academy, we support students on both pathways through our IB PYP, IB MYP, IB DP, and MOE-aligned programmes. Having worked with students from both systems, I can share insights on what each pathway offers.

Overview of Both Systems

The MOE curriculum is Singapore's national education system used by government and government-aided schools, while the IB (International Baccalaureate) is a globally recognised programme offered by international and some local schools.

Teaching Philosophy Differences

MOE emphasises content mastery and structured learning progression, while IB emphasises inquiry-based learning and developing thinking skills.

MOE Approach:

• Structured syllabus with clear learning outcomes
• Teacher-directed instruction with student practice
• Regular testing and examinations
• Focus on getting correct answers and methods
• Singapore context and national values embedded

IB Approach:

• Concept-driven curriculum with flexibility
• Student-led inquiry and discovery
• Varied assessment including projects and portfolios
• Focus on thinking process and reflection
• International mindedness and global perspectives

Assessment Methods Compared

MOE assessment is heavily exam-based with high-stakes national examinations, while IB uses a combination of internal assessments, coursework, and final examinations.

MOE Assessment:

• PSLE: National exam at end of Primary 6
• O-Levels/N-Levels: National exam at end of Secondary (being replaced by SEC)
• A-Levels: National exam at end of JC
• Weighting: Final exams carry majority of assessment weight

IB Assessment:

• PYP Exhibition: Culminating project in final PYP year
• MYP Personal Project: Extended individual project
• DP Exams + IA: External exams plus Internal Assessments (weighting varies by subject — refer to the IBO assessment page for details)
• Extended Essay: 4,000-word independent research paper

Subject Structure and Flexibility

MOE offers subject-based banding in Secondary with some flexibility, while IB requires students to study across multiple disciplines with built-in breadth.

MOE Structure:

• Primary: Core subjects (English, Mother Tongue, Maths, Science) for all
• Secondary: Subject-Based Banding with G1/G2/G3 levels
• JC: 3-4 H2 subjects plus H1s; some specialisation possible

IB DP Structure:

• Must choose one subject from each of 6 groups (Studies in Language, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, The Arts)
• 3 subjects at Higher Level (HL), 3 at Standard Level (SL)
• Core requirements: Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge, CAS

Who Suits MOE Better?

The MOE curriculum suits students who thrive with structured learning, clear expectations, and defined pathways.

Consider MOE if your child:

• Prefers clear structure and knows what to expect
• Performs well under exam conditions
• Is comfortable with Singapore-specific content and context
• Plans to study at Singapore universities (NUS, NTU, SMU)
• Benefits from teacher-directed instruction
• Wants a more affordable education (government school fees)

Who Suits IB Better?

The IB curriculum suits students who are curious, self-directed learners who enjoy exploring ideas and expressing themselves through varied assessments.

Consider IB if your child:

• Enjoys asking questions and exploring topics independently
• Performs better with coursework than high-stakes exams
• Has international exposure or plans to study overseas
• Thrives with project-based and creative assessments
• Is comfortable with ambiguity and open-ended tasks
• Values breadth of learning across disciplines

University Recognition

Both MOE qualifications (A-Levels) and IB Diploma are recognised by local and international universities, but some courses have specific requirements.

Singapore Universities:

• NUS, NTU, SMU accept both A-Levels and IB Diploma
• Specific course requirements may differ slightly
• A-Level H2 subjects often map directly to course prerequisites

Overseas Universities:

• IB is widely recognised globally, particularly in UK, US, Europe
• A-Levels are also recognised internationally
• Some US universities appreciate IB's breadth and Extended Essay

Cost Considerations

IB schools in Singapore are predominantly international schools with significantly higher fees than government schools following the MOE curriculum.

• Government schools (MOE): Nominal monthly fees for citizens (refer to MOE fee schedules for current rates)
• International schools (IB): Significantly higher annual fees (check individual school websites for current fee schedules)
• Local IB options: Some local schools offer IB (e.g., ACSI, SJI) with lower fees than international schools

Cost should not be the only factor, but it is a practical consideration for long-term planning.

Making the Transition

Switching between MOE and IB systems is possible but challenging — the earlier the switch, the easier the adjustment.

Key transition considerations:

• MOE to IB: Students may need time to adjust to inquiry-based learning and self-direction
• IB to MOE: Students may need to adapt to exam-focused assessment and structured syllabus
• Best timing: Start of a new phase (e.g., entering MYP or Secondary 1) is smoother than mid-programme

The International Baccalaureate Organisation reports strong university placement outcomes for IB Diploma candidates globally, with the programme offered in over 150 countries worldwide.

One parent who switched their child from MOE primary to IB MYP shared: "The first year was challenging as my son adjusted from structured worksheets to inquiry-based projects. But by Year 2, he was more engaged and curious than he had ever been in primary school. The IB approach suits children who ask 'why' constantly."

Common Questions About IB vs MOE

Is IB harder than A-Levels?

Different rather than necessarily harder. IB Diploma requires breadth across six subject groups plus core components including the Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge, and CAS activities, which is demanding but distributed differently than A-Levels' depth in 3-4 subjects. Students who excel at focused depth may prefer A-Levels, while those who enjoy exploring connections across disciplines and managing varied assessments may prefer the IB approach.

Can my child switch from MOE primary school to IB secondary?

Yes, switching is possible though an adjustment period is expected. Students from MOE primary schools joining IB MYP will need time to adapt to inquiry-based learning, criterion-referenced assessment, and different expectations around self-direction and reflection. Many students successfully make this transition with appropriate school support and parental encouragement, typically adjusting fully within the first year.

Do Singapore universities prefer A-Levels or IB?

Neither pathway is explicitly preferred by Singapore universities — both A-Levels and IB Diploma are accepted with specific grade requirements that vary by course and institution. You should check individual course requirements at NUS, NTU, and SMU as some competitive courses may have slightly different grade expectations or subject prerequisites for A-Level versus IB applicants. Both qualifications provide valid pathways to local university admission.

Is IB worth the higher fees?

The value depends on your family's priorities, financial situation, and your child's learning style. If the IB's inquiry-based approach aligns well with how your child learns, your family has plans for international mobility, or you value the IB's holistic assessment approach, the investment may be worthwhile. However, if your child thrives in structured environments with clear examination goals and Singapore university is the primary destination, the MOE pathway may serve them equally well at significantly lower cost.

Related: Choosing Secondary School | Full SBB Guide | DSA Guide