10 Madrasahs & Islamic Schools in Singapore for Your Child

Introduction

Finding the right Madrasah for your child in Singapore is crucial for the future of their Islamic education. More importantly, to gain access to quality Islamic learning is paramount in their early years to shape their minds and worldviews of Islam.

However, there is a stark challenge for some parents to fulfil this important obligation. 

In this fast-paced era, not all parents are privileged with the time to educate their children on the fundamentals of Islamic faith. Parents might be bogged down with their careers, strenuous commitments and other challenges that may take priority over their child’s Islamic learning and nurturing journey.

Sure, they might spend some time once in a while, but Islamic learning for children should take root consistently in order to see real outcomes in their daily lives. That is where Madrasahs and Islamic schools play their role to fulfil the duty, if not fully, partially.

Hence, we’ve done our research and compiled top 10 Madrasahs in Singapore for you to browse through if you’re interested in sending your child to strengthen their foundation in Islamic studies.

Obligation to Educate Our Children on Islam

Allah Almighty has given us the Amanah or responsibility to take good care of our children; to fulfil their rights as Muslims. Their rights to basic needs include food, water, shelter, safety, clothing, especially education. Allah Almighty mentions in the Qur’an:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا قُوا أَنفُسَكُمْ وَأَهْلِيكُمْ نَارًا وَقُودُهَا النَّاسُ وَالْحِجَارَةُ ۖ عَلَيْهَا مَلَائِكَةٌ غِلَاظٌ شِدَادٌ لَا يَعْصُونَ اللَّهَ مَا أَمَرَهُمْ وَيَفْعَلُونَ مَا يُؤْمَرُونَ

“You who believe, guard yourselves and your families against a Fire fuelled by people and stones, over which stand angels, stern and strong; they never disobey God’s commands to them, but do as they are commanded.”

(Al-Quran, 66:6)

This means that Allah Almighty instructs us as parents to guard not only ourselves, but our families, including children, from the Fire. 

How do we protect ourselves from Hellfire? By raising our children to be compassionate, merciful, embodying the values and principles carried by our beloved Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and at the same time, strengthening the foundation of their core beliefs of Islam.

The Prophet (ﷺ) said,

“Every one of you is a shepherd and every one of you will be held accountable for his flock. The ruler is a shepherd over his people and will be held accountable for them. A man is a shepherd over the members of his household and will be held accountable for them. A woman is a shepherd over her husband’s house and children and will be held accountable for them. A servant is a shepherd over his master’s property and will be held accountable for it.” [Sahih Al-Bukhari]

This beautiful hadith depicts that all of us have responsibility over each other. There is no such thing as ‘every man is on their own’. We are entrusted by Allah Almighty as Khalifahs of the world, and that includes our role as parents. 

That said, the first step to fulfilling your responsibility in providing quality Islamic education for your child is to know how to choose the right Islamic school in Singapore that fits both your child’s and your goals and needs. Let’s take a look.

How to Choose the Right School for Your Child

Understanding the requirements or key criteria before choosing your child’s preferred Madrasah in Singapore will help you make a well-informed decision.

1. Type of Islamic Studies Programme

Some parents look for a specific Islamic studies programme suited to their child’s needs. Some are just looking to strengthen their child’s basic understanding of Islam.

For instance, if your focus is to sharpen your child’s Qur’anic reading skills and memorization, you may need to look for a Tahfiz or Qur’an reading-centered Islamic school. Every parent’s needs are unique.

2. Weekdays or Weekends Schedule

Depending on your child’s schedule, you may want to consider a Madrasah that doesn’t overlap with other activities. 

If your focus is to fill your child’s weekdays so they can have full rests on weekends, your choices are different. If you’re looking to deload their weekdays and set aside some time for enrichment during the weekends, your choices differ too. The key is to find a schedule that fits your child’s capacity.

3. Class Size per Classroom

There are many benefits to both large and small classroom sizes, depending on your preferences. Some parents prefer classes conducted in smaller groups. This allows for more student-teacher interaction, more meaningful discussions and exchanges, making learning more impactful.

If you are looking for a one-to-one session between teacher and student, there are options for this too. If you are a parent who prioritizes collaborative learning, or a nurturing environment where your child can connect with like-minded peers, a bigger classroom size is the way to go.

4. Medium of Instruction

This is one of the most important criteria for parents when looking for a Madrasah in Singapore. Every family has their own upbringing and preferred language they like to speak at home.

Some prefer to send their children to Malay-speaking Islamic schools, and some others who are more English-speaking forward would prefer English Islamic schools.

This is considered important so that students can make mental and emotional connections with their faith through a language they’re familiar with.

5. Asatizah Certification

Certification is crucial for any Islamic Studies educator to be allowed to teach in Singapore. If you are looking for a Madrasah with ARS (Asatizah Recognition Scheme) certified Asatizah, contact the school and inquire more about the matter.

6. Learning Materials & Resources

Some of the most impactful Islamic learning comes from the learning materials and resources they use in the classroom. 

Contact the schools and ask about the syllabus they’re using, the text and workbooks; if they’re prepared in-house or sourced from a trusted Islamic Education organisation.

7. School Policies

Some Islamic schools in Singapore adhere strictly to policies to ensure safety and order among students and teachers. However, different schools have various degrees of restrictions and policies.

Some schools require their students to wear uniforms and some don’t. Some schools allow students of different genders to sit together as long as there is adult supervision. 

Some strictly divide classrooms according to genders. 

It is up to you as a parent to determine if the school policies suit your preference.

8. Value vs. Budget

It all comes down to what you seek in an Islamic school. Do you prefer the value regardless of budget, or are you working with something within your budget? There is no good or bad; it is a matter of working around your available resources.

9. Location Strategy

Of course, part of finding the ideal Madrasah in Singapore is its strategic location. Is it near public transport? If you have to drive to the school, are the roads congested? Are there available parking spaces in the area? Knowing this head on will also save you the trouble when you drop off and pick up your child from school.

10. Enrichment vs. Professional

What is your goal for your child? Do you send them to Islamic schools just to enrich their knowledge of their faith? Do you intend to send them with a purpose to seek higher education in Islamic studies? 

Knowing the long-term goal for your child’s Islamic learning journey will greatly help you in determining which school is the best for them.

Weekend Islamic Schools vs. Full-Time Madrasah: What’s the Difference?

In Singapore, the main difference between a madrasah and an Islamic school lies in their educational structure, purpose, and recognition. 

A madrasah is a full-time Islamic institution registered under the Ministry of Education (MOE) and supervised by MUIS (Islamic Religious Council of Singapore). Students in madrasahs follow a dual curriculum. They study both the national academic syllabus (like English, Mathematics, Science) and Islamic religious subjects (such as Qur’an, Fiqh, Arabic, and Sirah). 

This means madrasahs prepare students not only for religious understanding but also for national exams like PSLE, GCE ‘O’ and ‘A’ Levels. Graduates can pursue further studies in local universities or Islamic institutions overseas. 

On the other hand, a weekend Islamic school typically operates as a supplementary or part-time religious education centre. These schools fall under the Islamic Education Centres and Providers (IECP) scheme managed by MUIS, rather than the MOE system. 

They focus on weekend or after-school religious learning, teaching Qur’an recitation, Islamic manners, Arabic basics, and values in an engaging and age-appropriate way. Unlike madrasahs, Islamic schools do not offer mainstream academic subjects or national certification, but they serve as a vital platform for Muslim children in national schools to gain a structured religious foundation and a stronger spiritual identity.

In short: madrasahs are formal, full-time schools integrating both secular and religious studies, while Islamic schools are community-based or weekend institutions focused primarily on nurturing faith, character, and Islamic knowledge alongside a child’s mainstream education.

10 Madrasahs & Islamic Schools in Singapore Your Child Should Try

SimplyIslam Weekend Islamic School

SimplyIslam Weekend Islamic School is a well-established institute in Singapore offering Islamic education through a hybrid programme that blends in-person and online learning. Approved by MUIS, it focuses on delivering a holistic, values-centered curriculum in English to children from Kindergarten through Secondary levels. The school aims not only to impart knowledge of Qur’an, faith, morals, prayer etc., but to help students grow spiritually, ethically, and culturally, rooted in tradition yet accessible and relevant to modern life. 

Key Features:

• Hybrid Learning Model:

Classes are a mix of in-person sessions and online classes (for older students), allowing flexibility.

• Age-/Level-based Programmes:

Two main tracks: Junior Programme (K1 to Primary 4) and Youth Programme (Primary 5 to Secondary 4).

• Holiday Elective & Enrichment Sessions:

There are holiday programmes (e.g. in June, November/December) to supplement regular classes, with elective sessions so children can select according to interest. 

• Certified Teachers:

Teachers are MUIS-certified (or ARS-certified) and the school is recognised by MUIS.

• Curriculum Content:

Their approach is Nabawi-centric, covering subjects like the Qur’an, Islamic history, morals & ethics, faith, prayer, basics of Arabic, designed not just for rote learning but character & spiritual growth. 

• English as Medium of Instruction:

The instruction is delivered in English, making it accessible to children who attend secular schools and may not have strong Malay/Arabic as first languages. 

• Multiple Centres and Widely Accessible:

SimplyIslam operates multiple physical centres in Singapore (e.g. HQ, Woodlands, Jurong East) to improve accessibility,

Imad Perdaus

Imad Perdaus is the educational arm of Perdaus, a long-standing Muslim organization in Singapore committed to nurturing faith, knowledge, and character within the community. It offers weekend Islamic education for children, youths, and adults, focusing on holistic spiritual development and experiential learning that connects Islamic values to real-life experiences.

Key Features

• Comprehensive Islamic Education:

Offers weekend classes for children from kindergarten to secondary level, as well as adult Islamic learning modules under the ALIM programme.

• Qualified Asatizah

All teachers are trained and accredited under the Asatizah Recognition Board (ARB), ensuring quality and authenticity in teaching.

• Accredited Institution

Recognised under MUIS’ Islamic Education Centres & Providers (IECP) framework for upholding high standards in religious education.

• Accessible Learning Locations

Operates at key centres in Bukit Batok and Bedok, offering both in-person and online classes for flexible access.

• Innovative Quranic Literacy

Implements the Inspire Me Qur’an (IMQ) method for effective, engaging, and systematic Quran recitation learning.

Jamiyah Education Centre

Jamiyah Education Centre (JEC) is part of Jamiyah Singapore, offering a broad spectrum of Islamic-education services for children, youths, adults, and senior citizens. Located centrally in ESR Bizpark@Chai Chee (and other centres like Rivervale), it provides Weekend Madrasah classes, full/part-time academic / diploma courses, and adult learning programmes. JEC aims not only to impart Islamic knowledge (Belief, Qur’an, Arabic, etc.) but also to nurture character, identity, and lifelong learning. Teachers are certified via MUIS’s Asatizah Recognition Scheme (ARS).

Key Features

• Wide Range of Programmes 

Offers everything from Weekend Madrasah for children, Certificate‐/Diploma-/Degree-level Islamic Studies, to adult & senior citizen courses.

• Academic & Qur’anic Focus 

Includes specialised tracks like Diploma Syariah Islamiyyah (DSI) and Diploma Tahfiz wal Qiraat for serious religious scholarship, plus programmes in Islamic banking, halal management, etc.

• Holistic Learning Ethos

Pillars of JEC emphasise Knowledge, Personality, Identity, with goal of producing students who can serve as Khalifatullah.

• Accessible Locations & Flexible Modes

Main campus at Chai Chee and other centres (e.g. Rivervale), and programmes offered full-time, part-time, and weekend; also adult education for lifelong learning.

• Community & Moral Engagement

Regular dakwah / theological lectures (‘Siri Ceramah Dakwah Bulanan’), outreach to adult learners, moral education alongside the academic/religious content.

Tuhfah Learning Centre

Tuhfah Learning Centre (established ~ October 2017) is an Islamic education centre, with its core intent to offer “the best gift” to learners. Not just Quran memorization or religious studies, but to help students become good Muslims with strong adab (manners), discipline and respect. They serve children, youths, and adults across different programmes, focusing on Qur’anic literacy, memorisation, basic Islamic knowledge, and practical worship. 

Key Features

• Mini Madrasah / After School Enrichment

For ages ~7-12. Includes Quranic literacy with tajweed, memorisation of short surahs (notably Juz Amma), practical solah, and basic Islamic studies. Offered after regular school hours.

• Sijil Pengajian Islam (Islamic Study Certificate)

A part-time two-year programme for adults (16+), covering foundational Islamic knowledge: Aqidah, Akhlaq, Fiqh, Quran reading & tajweed, and Arabic basics.

• Quranic Literacy & Memorisation

Regular classes for reciting correctly (tajweed), and memorising selected surahs / Juz, plus enrichment / tahfiz-lite style options.

• Flexible Modes / Access

Some programmes are fully physical, some hybrid / virtual; they seem to accept registrations online. Also, they run short holiday / khotam Quran programmes and weekend enrichment classes.

Pertapis Community Services – Weekend Classes / Madrasah

PCS (Pertapis Community Services) offers weekend Islamic education programmes under its Education Centre arm for Muslim children starting roughly from age 6 and above. It is a community-based, IECP-registered provider (Islamic Education Centres & Providers under MUIS). The syllabus covers moral character, basic religious studies, Arabic literacy, Quran recitation, and foundational Islamic laws, designed to serve a diverse student body in different age bands. PCS runs classes across multiple centres (Bukit Panjang, Punggol, Tampines etc.) with small class sizes, ARS-certified Asatizah, and uses an approved syllabus.

Key Features

• Age- & Level-Segmented Syllabus

For example: Foundation (Asas) for ages 6-8; Primary (Darjah) for ~8-14; Secondary (Menengah) for ~14-17 years. Each has age-appropriate subjects.

• Subject Mix

Covers Arabic language & reading, Quran recitation & tajwid, moral values (Akhlaq), Fiqh, and History/Sirah.

• Certified Teachers

Teachers are ARS-certified Asatizahs; curriculum is approved under IECP.

• Multiple Locations

Classes run at various centres: PCS Bukit Panjang, PCS Punggol, PCS Tampines.

• Weekend & Weekday Options

Main teaching is during weekends; there are also weekday classes (for housewives etc.) to accommodate different schedules. 

Darul Huffaz Learning Centre

Darul Huffaz Learning Centre, established in 2009, is a Singapore-based institute focused primarily on Quranic literacy, memorisation (Tahfiz), and Islamic education. Its mission is to empower individuals to connect deeply with the Quran—not just by recitation, but by understanding and applying its teachings. It offers programmes for various ages and levels, including full Tahfiz tracks, weekend and online classes, and Islamic education for adults, youths, and children. 

Key Features

• Tahfiz Programmes

Includes Daily Tahfiz for intensive memorisation, Weekend Tahfiz for those who attend only on weekends, Online Tahfiz for those not able to attend physically, and Huffaz Kids for younger learners (7-12 yrs).

• Weekend & Weekly Islamic Education (Madrasah)

They offer Weekend Madrasah in English (for ages ~7-12), Madrasah Mingguan in Malay, with a spiral syllabus covering core subjects like Al-Quran, Tauhid, Fiqh, Akhlak, Sirah.

• Assessment & Certification

Periodic assessments (monthly Tahfiz exams, semester/exam schedule in Madrasah tracks), certification for completing memorisation or levels in religious education.

• Flexible Delivery Modes

Physical classes at their centre, online classes available (especially for those who can’t attend in person), and weekend schedules that cater to working or school-bound students.

Madrasah Al-Junied al-Islamiah

Madrasah Al-Junied Al-Islamiah is one of Singapore’s oldest and most prestigious full-time Islamic madrasahs. Founded in 1927 by Syed Abdul Rahman Aljunied, it has a long legacy of combining traditional Islamic education with secular/academic studies. Over the decades, it has evolved its programmes to keep pace with modern educational demands while maintaining strong religious foundations. It is registered under the Education Act, under MUIS, and offers multiple pathways, including the Cambridge GCE ‘O’ Levels, the Azhar 2.0 programme, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme at the pre-university (Aliyah) level. Its mission is to nurture global Islamic leaders, scholars, and asatizah who are committed to both faith and intellectual rigor. 

Key Features

• Dual / Integrated Curriculum

The madrasah offers a blend of religious studies (Qur’an, Hadith, Fiqh, Tafsir, Islamic history, Arabic language, etc.) and secular/academic subjects (English, Mathematics, Sciences, etc.). 

• Multiple Educational Tracks

Students can follow:

• The Singapore-Cambridge GCE ‘O’ Level track
• The Azhar 2.0 programme
• The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) for eligible/pre-university level students 
• Strong Academic Performance

For example, all students in its Azhar-IB track passed the IBDP exams in recent years, earning a Bilingual Diploma and achieving strong average scores. 

• Long History & Reputation

Over nearly a century of operation, Aljunied has built a reputation in Singapore and the region for high standard of Arabic language usage, religious scholarship, and for producing many prominent Islamic leaders. 

• Strong Institutional Support and Governance

It is regulated under MUIS, and its programmes meet both religious accreditation (e.g. Azhar-recognised elements) and academic recognition under Singapore’s education system. 

• Co-educational

The institution is coeducational, though, in practice, some gender-segregated classes or settings may apply.

Madrasah Al-Arabiah al-Islamiah

Madrasah Al-Arabiah Al-Islamiah (MAI) is one of Singapore’s full-time co-educational madrasahs, offering a dual curriculum that combines religious (ukhrawi) education with secular or academic subjects. Founded in the 1930s and officially registered in 1946, MAI has grown significantly in scope, infrastructure, and academic performance. It aims to develop “future-ready learners that radiate blessings to all” by nurturing faith, character, scholarship, and service. In 2020, MAI shifted into a new, modern campus in Toa Payoh to better support its expanded programmes and facilities. 

Key Features

• Dual Curriculum (Academic + Islamic Studies):

MAI offers the full GCE ‘O’ Level suite, including pure sciences, Additional Mathematics etc., alongside a strong Islamic studies curriculum (Qur’an, Dirasat Deeniyyah, Al-Quran, etc.). 

• STEM Emphasis and Innovation:

Around 2016 onward, there’s been a strong drive to incorporate STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) subjects into the academic curriculum, ensuring students are prepared for modern challenges. 

• Islamic Studies with Contextual & Thematic Learning:

Religious knowledge (Dirasat Deeniyyah) is taught not just via rote methods but using thematic and contextual approaches. Discussions, inquiry, reflection, service learning and learning journeys are incorporated to help students apply their learning in real life contexts. 

• Admissions & Support:

They provide financial assistance, scholarships, and try to ensure students with strong potential can access the curriculum regardless of family income. There is also choice in Mother Tongue options (Malay or Higher Malay, and for Tamil speakers).

Madrasah Wak Tanjong Al-Islamiah

Madrasah Wak Tanjong Al-Islamiah (MWTI), founded in 1958 by Ustaz Mohammad Noor bin Taib, is a full-time co-educational madrasah in Singapore offering religious and secular academic education from primary through pre-university levels. It is located at 589 Sims Avenue and is registered under the Education Act. The madrasah aims to develop “holistic religious and academic education,” preparing learners who are grounded in Islam while being equipped for broader national and global challenges. Over its long history, it has seen infrastructural upgrades, support from MUIS (Islamic Religious Council of Singapore), and implemented changes such as a one-session school day for all levels starting in 2025. 

Key Features

• Levels Offered

Primary (Years 1-6, ages approx. 7-12), Secondary (Years 7-11, approx. 13-17), and Pre-University (2 years) programmes. 

• Dual / Tripartite Curriculum

Students take academic subjects (English, Maths, Sciences etc.), religious subjects (Qur’an, Fiqh, Hadith, Tauhid, Sirah etc.), and Arabic language subjects (e.g. Nahu, Insyak etc.). The curriculum is designed to satisfy national benchmarks (like PSLE, GCE ‘O’ Levels, GCE ‘A’ Levels) as well as religious examinations. 

• Admissions Criteria

For moving into Secondary, applicants are assessed on PSLE results, religious subject grades (e.g. Qur’an, Arabic etc.). There are also criteria for applicants transferring from other madrasahs. 

• Facilities

The school has a good set of facilities: ~14 air-conditioned classrooms, an IT lab, a science laboratory, a lecture theatre, library (with books in Arabic, Islamic, and English), a multi-purpose hall, open field, canteen, etc. 

• Governance & Support

It is registered under the Education Act, with oversight by MOE and MUIS. It has also received financial and other support—e.g. in 2024-2025 MUIS provided S$7.5 million so the madrasah could extend its lease by 30 years. 

• Session Structure

Starting 2025, MWTI moved to a one-session school schedule for all levels, meaning classes are held in the morning. Formerly, younger and older students had staggered schedules (some starting later). 

Madrasah Al-Ma’arif al-Islamiah

Madrasah Al-Ma’arif Al-Islamiah (often just “Al-Ma’arif”) is one of Singapore’s six full-time madrasahs, and it is exclusively for girls. Founded in 1936 by Sheikh Muhammad Fadhlullah Suhaimi, it has a long history of combining religious education with secular (academic) studies, from primary through pre-university levels. The madrasah is located at 3 Lorong 39 Geylang, Singapore, on wakaf land.Their mission is to nurture future Muslimah leaders who are spiritually grounded yet intellectually progressive, with values such as respect, adaptability, resilience, and empathy (acronym “R.A.R.E.”) at the core of their culture. 

Key Features

• All-Girls School

Only admits female students, from Primary 1 up to Pre-University.

• Dual Emphasis Curriculum 

Balances the MOE secular curriculum (like English, Maths, Science) with Islamic religious subjects, giving equal importance to both dimensions.

• Pre-University Modular Programme

Their Pre-U (Post-Secondary) programme is progressive, using a modular approach (e.g. modules in Syariah, Usuluddin, Critical Thinking & Writing, Islamic Worldview), and includes research work & attachment programmes.

• Holistic Co-Curricular Activities (CCA)

Offers a varied CCA programme: clubs & societies, sports (e.g. archery, silat, netball), media and entrepreneurship, etc., designed to develop character and non-academic skills.

• Innovative & Experiential Learning

Signature initiatives like “Science Comes Alive”, Experiential Humanities, alternative assessments, morning-values programmes, etc., to make learning more engaging.

Why SimplyIslam Weekend Madrasah is the Best for Your Child

If you are looking for a Madrasah that emphasizes on Nabawi-centric approach, English as a medium of instruction, learning that nurtures and enriches your child to strengthen their fundamentals of Islamic faith, SimplyIslam Weekend Madrasah is the one for you and your child.

At SimplyIslam, we are committed to shape young learners to become dynamic and virtuous Muslims; by not only teaching the basics but empowering them with values of compassion, mercy and love.

Reach out to our team to learn more about our school or secure your child’s slot with us today.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Madrasah for your child in Singapore can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. We’ve compiled the list for you to look through and make an informed decision, best for you and your child.

The most important thing is to ensure your child’s bright future not only in this world, but in the Hereafter too, Insha’Allah. Let’s end with a wholesome du’a:

رَبَّنَا هَبْ لَنَا مِنْ أَزْوَاجِنَا وَذُرِّيَّاتِنَا قُرَّةَ أَعْيُنٍ وَاجْعَلْنَا لِلْمُتَّقِينَ إِمَامًا

“Our Lord, grant us joy in our spouses and offspring, and make us good examples for those who are mindful of You.”