SOTA Singapore: A Friendly Guide to the School of the Arts Singapore
If you’re looking for a school that offers a unique approach to education, School of the Arts Singapore (SOTA) might be the perfect fit. SOTA is a six-year integrated arts and academic curriculum that caters to students aged 13-18. The school is located in the arts and heritage district of Singapore and boasts a campus with performing arts venues and a gallery.

At SOTA, students are encouraged to pursue their passions and develop their creativity while also receiving a well-rounded education. The school offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) or the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP), both of which prepare students for higher education and future careers.
If you’re interested in learning more about SOTA, keep reading to discover its unique approach to education, admissions process, and student life. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions to help you decide if SOTA is the right fit for you.
Key Takeaways
- SOTA offers a six-year integrated arts and academic curriculum for students aged 13-18.
- The school is located in the arts and heritage district of Singapore and offers the IBDP or IBCP.
- SOTA encourages students to pursue their passions and develop their creativity while also receiving a well-rounded education.
About School of the Arts Singapore

If you are interested in pursuing a career in the arts, School of the Arts Singapore (SOTA) is the perfect place for you. Located in the heart of Orchard Road, SOTA is Singapore’s first national pre-tertiary specialized arts school for youths aged 13-18.
Integrated Curriculum
SOTA offers a six-year integrated arts and academic curriculum, leading to the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma or career-related programmes in Singapore. At SOTA, arts and academics share the same stage. The school’s vision is to produce “Creative Citizens for the Future”. This means that you will not only receive a comprehensive arts education but also a well-rounded academic education.
Award-Winning Campus Architecture
SOTA’s architectural award-winning campus houses a variety of arts facilities as well as performance spaces for teaching and learning needs. Designed by WOHA Architects, the campus is located at the gateway to the arts and heritage district of Singapore. The building’s unique design includes a green wall, which is a vertical garden that covers the exterior of the building. The green wall helps to reduce the building’s carbon footprint and provides a natural and calming environment for students.
Arts and Academic Programmes
SOTA offers a range of arts and academic programmes that cater to different interests and talents. The school offers six different arts disciplines: dance, music, theatre, visual arts, literary arts, and film. SOTA’s faculty is made up of experienced and passionate professionals who are dedicated to helping students achieve their full potential. The school also provides students with opportunities to participate in performances and exhibitions both locally and internationally.
Overall, SOTA is an excellent choice for students who are passionate about the arts and want to receive a well-rounded education. With its integrated arts and academic curriculum, award-winning campus architecture, and range of arts and academic programmes, SOTA is one of the top arts schools in Singapore and is supported by the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth.
Admissions and Student Life

Admission Process
If you are interested in applying to the School of the Arts (SOTA) in Singapore, you must first go through the Talent Academy (TA) selection process. This process includes an individual audition/portfolio presentation, interview, group activities, panel interview, and entrance tests (where applicable).
To be eligible for the TA, you must be a Singapore citizen, permanent resident, or an international student studying in Singapore. SOTA also offers the Direct School Admission (DSA) scheme for Secondary 2 and 3 students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the arts.
Talent Development and Academies
At SOTA, you will have the opportunity to develop your artistic talents through a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum. The school offers six different academies: Dance, Music, Theatre, Visual Arts, Literary Arts, and Film.
Each academy is led by experienced professionals in the field, who will guide you through your artistic journey. You will also have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dance studios, theatres, and art galleries.
Campus Experience
As a student at SOTA, you will have access to a vibrant and dynamic campus community. You will have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including clubs, societies, and sports teams.
You will also have the opportunity to participate in international exchange programmes and study tours, which will broaden your horizons and expose you to new cultures and perspectives.
Overall, the education experience at SOTA is designed to produce “Creative Citizens for the Future.” Whether you choose to pursue a career in the arts or another field, you will be equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to make a positive impact on the world around you.
If you are interested in learning more about SOTA, you can visit the official website, attend an open house, or take a campus tour. You can also learn more about the school’s prestigious President’s Scholar programme, which provides full scholarships to outstanding students who demonstrate exceptional talent and potential.
Frequently Asked Questions

What are the fees for attending SOTA?
SOTA is a publicly-funded school, which means that tuition fees are heavily subsidised by the Singaporean government. The fees for Singaporean citizens are significantly lower than those for international students. For the latest information on fees, please visit the SOTA website.
How does SOTA rank among other Singaporean schools?
SOTA is a unique school that focuses on the arts, and as such, it is not ranked in the same way as other schools in Singapore. However, SOTA has consistently performed well in national and international competitions and has produced many successful alumni in the arts industry.
Could you share some reviews of SOTA from students and parents?
SOTA has a reputation for being a challenging and rigorous school, but also for providing a supportive and nurturing environment for students to pursue their artistic passions. Many students and parents have praised the school for its dedicated and talented teachers, as well as the opportunities it provides for students to showcase their work.
What is the Direct School Admission (DSA) process for SOTA?
The DSA process allows students to apply for admission to SOTA based on their artistic talents and achievements, rather than solely on academic performance. The application process typically involves an audition or portfolio review, as well as an interview with the school. For more information on the DSA process, please visit the SOTA website.
How challenging is the admission process to secure a place at SOTA?
The admission process for SOTA is highly competitive, as the school receives many more applications than it has places available. However, the school is looking for students who are passionate and dedicated to the arts, and who demonstrate potential for growth and development. The admission process typically involves an audition or portfolio review, as well as an interview with the school.
Does SOTA offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme?
Yes, SOTA offers both the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and the IB Career-related Programme. These programmes provide a rigorous and well-rounded education that combines academic study with artistic practice, and prepares students for further study or careers in the arts.