Study in Singapore

About Singapore

When it comes to pursuing academic excellence affordably, Singapore emerges as a compelling choice. Renowned for its top-tier education system, the Lion City is a prime destination for those seeking quality education without breaking the bank. Whether you aspire to pursue an MBA or a Master’s degree, Singapore offers modern and globally recognized programs, setting the stage for a successful professional career.

One of the key advantages for international students is the financial support provided by Singapore’s Ministry of Education, alleviating the financial strain associated with studying abroad. This blog aims to shed light on the distinctive features of Singapore’s educational landscape, offering a comprehensive guide for individuals contemplating studying in this dynamic Asian nation.

Discover why Singapore stands out as an educational hub, explore the diverse academic opportunities available, and gain insights into the financial assistance programs that make studying in Singapore a viable and rewarding choice for international students. This blog serves as a valuable resource for those seeking a clear path to academic success in one of the world’s leading educational destinations.

Why Study in Singapore?

Influenced by the Western education system, which prioritizes independent learning and skill development, Singapore has firmly established itself as a hub for comprehensive degree programs spanning various disciplines. The nation’s commitment to fostering a corruption-free society, coupled with low tax rates, advanced infrastructure, and a skilled workforce, has attracted significant international investment. Below, we delve into key reasons why studying in Singapore is a compelling choice:

  • Language Diversity and Multicultural Environment:  Singapore embraces four national languages, with English being one of them. This linguistic diversity ensures that language is not a barrier for international students. The multicultural environment allows students to seamlessly blend Eastern and Western cultures, fostering a rich and diverse learning experience as they interact with peers from around the globe.
  • Safe and Hygienic Nation: Renowned as the Garden City, Singapore boasts lush green recreation parks, historic monuments, and tourist attractions. Stringent laws contribute to remarkably low crime rates, prohibiting activities like ragging and drug abuse. This commitment to safety creates a conducive and memorable environment for those who choose to study in Singapore.
  • Affordability: In comparison to other developed countries such as the USA, Canada, Australia, and the UK, studying in Singapore offers a notable cost advantage. The average cost for international students ranges from 200,000 to 400,000 Singapore Dollars. Additionally, various scholarship opportunities can further alleviate financial burdens. While living costs are slightly higher, the overall affordability makes Singapore an attractive destination for academic pursuits.
  • Sports and Recreational Opportunities: Recognizing the importance of balance, Singapore provides an array of sports and recreational activities for students. Beyond the usual entertainment options like movie theaters and shopping complexes, students can engage in thrilling activities such as wakeboarding, windsurfing, and dragon boat racing. These opportunities contribute to a well-rounded and enjoyable experience for those studying in the Asian nation.

Top 10 Universities in Singapore

Singapore welcomes international students from all around the world. The availability of high-end research centers makes MBBS in Singapore as well as Engineering in Singapore the choicest option amongst the aspirants. With advanced infrastructure and affordable education costs, Singapore is rapidly becoming a preferred choice for students aspiring to study abroad. Here are top 10 universities in Singapore for you.

RankUniversity Name
1National University Of Singapore
2Nanyang Technological University
3Singapore Management University
4Singapore University of Technology and Design
5INSEAD – Singapore
6James Cook University – Singapore
7PSB Academy
8ESSEC Business School – Singapore
9Nanyang Polytechnic
10Yale-NUS College

 

1. National University of Singapore

Established 114 years ago as the King Edward VII College of Medicine, the National University of Singapore (NUS) officially took shape in 1962. As the oldest autonomous research university in the nation, NUS holds prestigious rankings, securing the 11th and 25th positions in the QS and Times Higher Education 2021 Rankings, respectively. Offering diverse courses in Sciences, Dentistry, Design, Environmental Studies, Arts, and Medicine, NUS is a beacon of academic excellence. To alleviate financial constraints, the university provides a range of financial assistance, including loans, scholarships, bursaries, and aids for its students.

2. Nanyang Technological University

Established in 1991 as a teaching university, Nanyang Technological University (NTU) has evolved into the nation’s largest research university. Notably, it holds the 38th position in the US News Report 2021 and ranks 13th in the QS World University Ranking 2021. Offering both Coursework and Research programs, NTU covers a wide range of disciplines. Coursework includes Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Electronics, Engineering, Design & Media, while Research programs focus on Chemical & Biomedical Engineering, Humanities, and Physical/Biological Sciences.

3. Singapore Management University

Founded in 2000 in downtown Singapore, Singapore Management University (SMU) stands as a prominent institution. Renowned for its undergraduate and postgraduate programs, SMU offers Research and Professional Master’s, PhD, and Professional Doctorate options. Recently, it introduced a Doctor of Engineering (DEng) program focusing on emerging fields like Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software, and Cyber-Physical Systems. Accredited by AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS, SMU’s degree programs across its six schools are recognized for their quality and excellence.

4. Singapore University of Technology and Design

Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), a favored choice for those aspiring to study in Australia, emphasizes core values such as creativity, integrity, and leadership. With collaborations with 45 esteemed institutions like MIT, Zhejiang, and SMU, SUTD has made a mark in Engineering and Architecture. The university offers a plethora of degree programs at both graduate and undergraduate levels, with accreditation for its Bachelor of Engineering from EAB and Master in Architecture from BOA.

5. INSEAD

The Asia campus of the renowned INSEAD university is situated in Singapore, offering coveted MBA and Global MBA courses. Notably, it stands out for its Executive MBA programs in Finance, courses on Digital Transformation and Innovation, PhD in Management, and various online programs. INSEAD enhances the study experience by providing dedicated residences for executive program enrollees, making it an ideal choice for those seeking quality education in Singapore.

Study in Singapore after 12th Commerce

There are numerous universities and colleges in Singapore that offer a wide range of undergraduate programs for Commerce students. From Business Administration to Economics and Information Studies, you can choose from a plethora of commerce courses to study in Singapore after 12th. Here are the best courses to study in Singapore after 12th commerce:

  • Bachelor of Accounting
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Finance
  • Bachelor in Supply Chain Management
  • Bachelor in Business Studies
  • Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
  • Building & Real Estate
  • Communication
  • Computing
  • Economics
  • Finance
  • English
  • IT

Study in Singapore after 12th Non-Medical

If you have completed your 12th with Science and Non-medical subjects, then you can choose from an array of engineering, technology and specialized courses to study in Singapore. Here are the sought-after courses to study in Singapore after 12th Non-Medical:

  • Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech)
  • Bachelor of Science (BSc)
  • Bachelor of Engineering (BEng)
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Civil Engineering
  • Bioengineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Physics
  • Biotechnology
  • Information Technology

Study in Singapore after 12th Medical 

Those students who wish to study in Singapore after 12th with a medical background have a sea of options to pursue. They are listed below: 

  • MBBS in Singapore
  • Nursing
  • Pharmacy
  • Dentistry
  • Biological Sciences
  • Medicine and Surgery
  • Psychology
  • Physics

Study in Singapore after 12th Arts

Singapore is a hub of educational institutions and offers various courses for students wishing to pursue arts stream after class 12th. The courses are listed below: 

  • Filmmaking and Media 
  • Sociology
  • Visual and Fine Arts
  • Interior Design
  • Music
  • Law
  • Fashion Design
  • Social Science
  • Architecture
  • Digital Animation
  • Theatre Studies
  • Music
  • Industrial Design
  • Architecture
  • Social Work

Educational Institutes and Language Requirements to Study in Singapore

Having etched its name in various world rankings, the Singaporean universities are known for offering comprehensive courses and world-class infrastructure. Enlisted are the types of institutions available for those who want to study in Singapore: 

  • Public Universities: These universities are financed by the government and admit Singaporean and international students. There are six public universities in Singapore that offer higher education degrees in different disciplines. They are: the National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore Management University (SMU), Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT), and Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS).
  • Private Universities: Most private universities in Singapore have partnered with foreign universities to offer a wide variety of courses and improve their education standards. These universities charge higher tuition fees than public universities.
  • Polytechnics: As of 2024, there are four polytechnics in Singapore, which offer three-year diploma courses in engineering, business studies, tourism and hospitality management, accountancy, and so on.
  • Institutes of Technical Education: These vocational schools offer two-year courses with a National ITE Certificate. There are currently three ITE institutions in Singapore, which offer four levels of certification – Master National ITE Certificate (Master Nitec), Higher National ITE Certificate (Higher Nitec), National ITE Certificate (Nitec), and Specialist Nitec (Marine). They also offer diploma levels – Work Learn Technical Diploma (WLTD) and Technical Engineer Diploma (TED).
  • Art Schools: They are private arts colleges offering specialized courses in arts. In 2021, the government of Singapore announced the country’s first art university the University of the Arts Singapore (UAS).

When we talk about language requirements, it is important to note that even though the Asian nation has 4 official languages, most of the courses are offered in English. Hence, the non-native students have to submit valid scorecards of English proficiency tests like IELTS and TOEFL. 

Study in Singapore Masters

Universities in Singapore are renowned for offering quality education in almost every field. Revered among the top universities in the world, these institutes witness a great international student inflow making the country one of the best destinations for higher education. The universities are also known for offering specialized courses in the fields of Engineering, Management, and Law with flexibility in the duration of the course. Listed below are some of the top universities for studying masters in Singapore: 

  • National University of Singapore
  • Nanyang Technological University
  • Singapore Management University
  • Singapore at Institute of Systems Science
  • INSEAD
  • Singapore University of Social Sciences
  • Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts
  • PSB Academy
  • American Center for Education
  • James Cook University 
  • Curtin University
  • ESSEC Business School

Even though universities of Singapore offer scores of undergraduate, postgraduate, doctorate and short term courses, there are certain programs that are opted by both domestic as well as international students in high numbers. Glance over the following list of popular courses to study in Singapore: 

  • Masters of Business Administration [MBA]
  • Architecture Courses 
  • Hospitality Management Courses
  • Fine Arts
  • Engineering courses like Mechanical Engineering, Telecommunications, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, etc. 
  • Medical Science courses

Eligibility Criteria to Study in Singapore

When you plan to study abroad, you have to fulfill certain parameters set by both the university and the country. So, in order to study in Singapore, here are the criteria or prerequisites you have to adhere with:

  • You must have completed Class 12th or an equivalent exam to enroll in an undergraduate program.
  • For postgraduate courses, you will need a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in the chosen field.
  • For some programs, GMAT/GRE scores may also be required.
  • Clear the entrance exam, if any.
  • Ensure that you have a valid passport that has at least 6 months of validity.
  • Prepare a statement of purpose (SOP) and keep letters of recommendation (LOR) ready.

It is important to note that like other nations, Singapore doesn’t have a centralized agency for admission. So you will need to apply directly to the respective institution and submit the required documents along with it. You will also have to show the proof of funds in order to proceed with the process. Don’t forget to apply for the scholarships when you plan to study in Singapore. They may even ask you to submit an additional essay for a scholarship.

Cost of Studying in Singapore

Compared to countries like the USA, UK, and Australia, Singapore offers a more cost-effective option for international students. Additionally, the availability of numerous scholarships further assists students in managing their finances. Each university in Singapore has a unique fee structure based on factors like the course and others. For undergraduate degrees, the cost ranges from SGD 37,926 to 54,181 (INR 2,100,000 to 3,000,000), while postgraduate courses typically range from SGD 36,120 to 45,150 (INR 2,000,000 to 2,500,000).

Cost of Living in Singapore

Understanding the cost of living in Singapore is crucial, and it varies depending on the city. While some areas are more affordable, others can be expensive. Fortunately, there are numerous part-time job opportunities for students to help manage day-to-day expenses. Here are key factors contributing to the cost of living in Singapore for an estimated overview:

Accommodation1500 SGD ( INR 82975)
Groceries1200 SGD  (INR 66538)
Leisure700 SGD (INR 38813)
Transportation500 SGD (INR 27724)
Miscellaneous

400 SGD (INR 22179)

 

Study in Singapore Without IELTS

Singapore does not have strict regulations regarding the compulsion of IELTS exam scores for foreign students seeking admission in their universities. Hence, many universities and Colleges in Singapore, in accordance with the Singapore education system offer preparatory courses and foundation programs for international students who don’t wish to give IELTS. These courses and programs are designed as foundation and certification courses for those who wish to complete their studies in Singapore for a longer duration. Also, there are other preparatory courses available for international studies whose native language isn’t English. To know more check out our blog on Study in Singapore Without IELTS.

Work and Study in Singapore

An international student can work for a maximum of 16 hours a week while studying. For this, you need to have a work permit issued by the Ministry of Manpower. Let’s go through the following points to understand the process:

  • Those who are enrolled in accepted colleges for full-time courses, they are exempted to apply for a work permit.
  • Students or semi-skilled international trainees who have to undergo a training program for up to 6 months have to apply for a Training work permit.
  • The students and graduates who are willing to work as well as holiday in the Asian nation for 6 months and are aged between 18 to 25 need to apply for a Work Holiday Pass.

Study in Singapore with Scholarship for Indian Students

Eager to start your journey in Singapore but taking a step back because of the cost of education? There are various scholarships available for International students in Singapore based on merit and other factors. Some are fully funded, some are university specific, course specific. To know more about the scholarships reward and process check out our blog on scholarships in Singapore Some of the popular scholarships are mentioned below:

  1. Lee Kong Chian Graduate Scholarships At National University Of Singapore (NUS)
  2. INSEAD-Syngenta MBA Scholarships For Developing Country Leaders
  3. Singapore International Graduate Award
  4. Science & Technology Undergraduate Scholarship From NUS
  5. Singapore Millennium Foundation Scholarship
  6. Singapore International Pre-Graduate Award
  7. GIIS Singapore Global Citizen Scholarship
  8. SIA Youth Scholarship
  9. President’s Graduate Fellowship
  10. Amity Global Institute Merit Scholarship

Jobs After Studying in Singapore

The average income in Singapore is 8450 – 10000 SGD/month. Here’s the average :

  • 25% of employees earn around 50,000- 75,000 SGD
  • 50% of employees earn around 80,000- 100,000 SGD
  • 75% of employees earn around 120,000- 200,000 SGD
  • 100% of employees earn around 300,000- 400,000 SGD

For aspiring students looking to study in Singapore, there’s a plethora of universities to consider. However, the process of choosing the right subject combination and university aligned with your professional goals can be overwhelming. Fret not; Leverage Edu experts are here to assist you. From completing application formalities to preparing for Visa interviews, they offer guidance at every step of the way!

Please contact us for more guideline and VISA apply.

Interested in studying abroad?

Request Information