Singapore has a well-structured autism support system with both public and private pathways clearly defined. The public route is subsidised but has waiting times of 6�12 months; private clinics can typically be seen within weeks. Singapore's EIPIC (Early Intervention Programme for Infants and Children) is one of the most accessible early intervention systems in Asia.
Getting a Diagnosis in Singapore
KK Women's and Children's Hospital (KKH)
KKH's Child Development Programme is the main public pathway for autism assessment in Singapore. Referral is through a polyclinic doctor. The assessment team includes developmental paediatricians, psychologists, and speech therapists. Subsidised rates apply for Singapore citizens and permanent residents. Current waiting times are approximately 6�12 months from referral.
National University Hospital (NUH) � Child Development
NUH's Child Development Unit provides similar services to KKH through the polyclinic referral pathway. Subsidised rates apply. Waiting times are comparable to KKH. Families can be referred to either hospital depending on their polyclinic's catchment area.
Private Developmental Assessment
Several specialist clinics in Singapore provide private autism assessments � including Integrative Learning Centre, Thomson Paediatric Centre, and specialist developmental paediatric practices. Private assessment costs range from SGD 2,000�5,000. Most can schedule within 2�6 weeks. Private reports are accepted by MOE, DDF, and EIPIC programmes.
Therapy, Support, and Key Organisations
EIPIC � Early Intervention Programme for Infants and Children
EIPIC centres, funded by the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF), provide early intervention for children aged 0�6 with developmental needs. Services include ABA, speech therapy, OT, and parent training. Subsidies are means-tested and can be significant for lower-income families. EIPIC places are available through NCSS-funded providers including Eden School, AWWA, and Rainbow Centre.
Disability Development Fund (DDF)
The DDF provides government subsidies for therapy services at NCSS-funded agencies for children with autism. Eligibility is based on the child's diagnosis and functional needs. The subsidy can cover a significant portion of therapy costs at approved centres. Apply through the assigned EIPIC or SPED centre.
Private Therapy Providers
Singapore has numerous private ABA, speech therapy, and OT providers. Many BCBA-certified therapists and SLPs work in private practice. Unsubsidised private therapy typically costs SGD 150�300 per session. Some providers are registered with the DDF for subsidy claims � check when enquiring.
School Support in Singapore
Singapore's MOE manages a tiered education system for students with special needs.
- Mainstream with support: Students with mild to moderate needs can attend mainstream primary and secondary schools with Learning Support Programme (LSP) assistance and Allied Educators (AEDs) for Learning and Behavioural Support.
- SPED schools: For students with more significant needs, Ministry of Education-funded Special Education (SPED) schools provide specialist education. Schools include Pathlight School (autism-focused, academic curriculum), Eden School, Rainbow Centre, and others. Application is through MOE.
- Exam accommodations: Students with autism may qualify for exam accommodations (extra time, separate room, reader/scribe) through SEAB (Singapore Examinations and Assessment Board). Apply through your school.
- COMCARE: The Ministry of Social and Family Development's COMCARE scheme provides additional support funding for families with significant care needs.
While You Are Waiting for an Appointment
The KKH and NUH public waiting lists of 6�12 months are the primary challenge in Singapore. During this time, applying to EIPIC does not require a completed diagnosis � a developmental concern noted by a paediatrician can be sufficient to start the EIPIC referral process. Starting this in parallel with the diagnostic wait can mean therapy begins sooner.
Nesto's home activities provide structured parent-implemented support in English, Mandarin, Tamil, Malay, and 15 other languages � relevant for Singapore's multilingual families.
The Autism Resource Centre Singapore and the Autism Association (Singapore) both maintain active parent support networks. The ARC's family support programme and parent workshops are well-regarded. Facebook groups for Singapore autism parents are active and useful for real-time local recommendations on therapists and schools.
Support Your Child at Home While You Wait
Nesto provides structured home activities, progress tracking, and screening tools for parents � available in 19 languages. Free for all families.
Explore Home ActivitiesAbout This Page
This page provides a general guide for families in Singapore seeking autism support. Always verify current availability, fees, and subsidy eligibility directly with providers and MSF/MOE. For the diagnosis process, see how to get an autism diagnosis.
If you are concerned about your child's development, consult a qualified developmental paediatrician.