Studying in Singapore

With its promise of an academically and culturally enriching experience, Singapore is one of the most sought-after destinations for students studying abroad. Registering a footfall of around 55,000 students of varying nationalities every year, the Lion City offers prospects of a globally recognized degree coupled with job opportunities.

Singapore is one of the top cities for higher education thanks to its excellent school system, diverse educational programs, highly qualified professors, emphasis on research, and world-class infrastructure. The presence of people from around the globe makes Singapore a veritable melting pot of civilization and demonstrates a unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures. Therefore, no matter the student's cultural background, they will have ample opportunity to fit in.

Universities in Singapore

Singapore is home to 34 universities, including six national institutions. Among these, The National University of Singapore and Nanyang Technological University are recognized in the top 20 of the QS global rankings for the best universities. The top universities are as follows:

• National University of Singapore
• Nanyang Technological University
• Singapore University of Technology and Design
• Singapore Management University
• Ngee Ann
• Singapore Institute of Technology
• Singapore University of Social Sciences
• SIM, Singapore Institute of Management
• Republic Polytechnic
• SIM University

Master's Degree Programs in Sinagpore

• Business and Management
  - MBA (Master of Business Administration): Many universities offer specialized MBAs focusing on areas such as finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, and international business.
  - Master of Management: Programs designed for those looking to enhance their managerial skills and leadership capabilities.
  - Master of Finance: Focuses on financial markets, investment strategies, and risk management.
• Engineering and Technology
  - Master of Engineering (MEng): Various specializations such as civil, mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering.
  - Master of Information Technology: Programs covering data science, cybersecurity, and software engineering.
  - Master of Data Science: Focuses on big data analytics, machine learning, and data management.
• Health and Life Sciences
  - Master of Public Health (MPH): Addresses global health issues, epidemiology, and health policy.
  - Master of Nursing: Advanced practice nursing programs for registered nurses.
  - Master of Biomedical Informatics: Combines healthcare and information technology.
• Social Sciences and Humanities
  - Master of Arts (MA): Various specializations, including sociology, psychology, and international relations.
  - Master of Education (MEd): Programs aimed at educators looking to advance their teaching skills and educational leadership.
  - Master of Social Work (MSW): Focuses on social welfare policies, community practice, and clinical social work.
• Law and Governance
  - Master of Laws (LLM): Specializations in international law, corporate law, and intellectual property law.
  - Master in Public Administration (MPA): Designed for professionals in public service and governance.
• Environmental Studies
  - Master of Environmental Management: Focuses on sustainable development, environmental policy, and conservation.
  - Master of Urban Planning: Addresses urban development, planning policies, and sustainable cities.

Bachelor's Degree Programs in Singapore

• Business and Management
  - Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA): Focuses on core business principles, including finance, marketing, and human resources.
  - Bachelor of Accountancy: Prepares students for a career in accounting, auditing, and financial management.
  - Bachelor of International Business: Emphasizes global business practices and cross-cultural management.
• Engineering and Technology
  - Bachelor of Engineering (BEng): Available in various specializations such as Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and Chemical Engineering.
  - Bachelor of Information Technology: Covers areas like software development, cybersecurity, and data analytics.
  - Bachelor of Computer Science: Focuses on programming, algorithms, and systems design.
• Health Sciences
  - Bachelor of Nursing: Prepares students for a career in nursing, emphasizing clinical skills and patient care.
  - Bachelor of Pharmacy: Focuses on pharmaceutical sciences, drug development, and patient medication management.
  - Bachelor of Public Health: Covers topics related to health policy, epidemiology, and community health.
• Arts and Humanities
  - Bachelor of Arts (BA): Offers various majors such as Psychology, Sociology, History, and Literature.
  - Bachelor of Design: Focuses on design principles, including graphic design, industrial design, and fashion design.
  - Bachelor of Music: Provides training in performance, composition, and music education.
• Social Sciences
  - Bachelor of Social Work: Prepares students for careers in social services, focusing on community support and welfare.
  - Bachelor of Political Science: Explores political theory, international relations, and public policy.
  - Bachelor of Economics: Covers micro and macroeconomic principles, economic theory, and quantitative methods.

Cost of Education in Singapore

The government subsidizes tuition fees for local students, making them significantly lower than for international students. For example, local undergraduates might pay between SGD 8,000 to SGD 12,000 per year, while international students could face fees ranging from SGD 20,000 to SGD 40,000 annually. Tuition fees at private universities and institutions can vary widely, often ranging from SGD 15,000 to SGD 30,000 per year, depending on the program and institution.

Students can choose between on-campus housing, which may cost around SGD 300 to SGD 1,200 per month, or off-campus options, which can be more expensive depending on location and accommodation type. Monthly food expenses can range from SGD 200 to SGD 500, depending on whether students eat at hawker centers, food courts, or dine at restaurants. Public transportation is relatively affordable, with monthly costs typically around SGD 100 to SGD 150. Students may also consider purchasing a student concession card for additional savings.

Admission Requirements

Certain educational and professional prerequisites must be fulfilled by the candidate in order to successfully apply for admission to a particular university or college in Singapore.

Some of the important criteria for various degree programs are given below:

Degree	Educational and Professional Criteria
Graduate Diploma	A recognized Bachelor's Degree from a well-known institution. Proof of English Language Proficiency. Relevant work experience (depending on the course chosen).
Bachelor's Degree	A recognized High School Diploma with a great academic track record. SAT or ACT exam scores (required by some universities). Proof of English Language Proficiency.
Master's Degree	A recognized Bachelor's Degree with an impressive GPA. GMAT or GRE scores (mandatory for taking admission in certain universities). A well-written Statement of Purpose. Valid academic proof reflecting consistently great performance.
Doctorate Degree	A research proposal clearly stating the area of interest. A recognized relevant Master's Degree with good academic scores. Relevant references from the academic or professional field.

Scholarships in Singapore

Singapore offers a variety of scholarships for advanced studies, catering to both local and international students. These scholarships support individuals pursuing postgraduate degrees, including master's and doctoral programs, across various fields of study. Here’s an expanded overview of the types of scholarships available:

• MOE Tuition Grant: The Ministry of Education Tuition Grant is an initiative by the Government of Singapore to help subsidize the cost of education for both local and international students in Singapore. This grant substantially reduces the fees of educational institutions, making it easier for students to pursue higher education. Singapore citizens will receive the grant automatically, and the rest must apply when they commence their studies.
• Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA): This scholarship is aimed at international students pursuing PhD programs in science and engineering. It covers tuition fees, monthly stipends, and travel allowances.
• ASEAN Scholarships: Offered to students from ASEAN countries, these scholarships support postgraduate studies in Singaporean universities, promoting regional collaboration and development.
• National University of Singapore (NUS) Scholarships: NUS offers various scholarships for both local and international students, including the NUS Research Scholarship for PhD candidates, which provides a monthly stipend and tuition fee coverage.
• Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Scholarships: NTU provides several scholarships for postgraduate students, including the NTU Graduate Scholarship, which supports research students with financial assistance and research funding.
• Singapore Management University (SMU) Scholarships: SMU offers scholarships for graduate programs, including the SMU Graduate Scholarship, which is available for both local and international students.
• Fulbright Program: This program offers scholarships for U.S. citizens to study in Singapore and vice versa, promoting cultural exchange and academic collaboration.
• Commonwealth Scholarships: For students from Commonwealth countries, these scholarships support advanced studies in Singapore, focusing on areas that contribute to the development of their home countries.

Health Insurance in Singapore

While making arrangements for educational expenses, setting aside some funds for health insurance is also necessary. Though Singapore is known for its high-quality healthcare services, the expenses involved are on the higher end. Hence, a careful choice of health insurance can help the students rest assured regarding any expenses pertaining to their health concerns.

Besides their necessity, health insurance is also a mandatory requirement for a Student Pass. Some of the renowned universities in Singapore (such as the National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore Management University (SMU), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), etc.) also provide health insurance facilities to their students. As some universities have mandatory health insurance coverage, international students whose universities lack this facility can approach well-known health insurance providers.

Some of the most popular international health insurance providers are:

• FWD Health Insurance
• AIA Health Insurance Singapore
• MSIG Health Insurance Singapore
• Allianz Care Health Insurance Singapore
• Liberty Insurance Singapore
• Cigna Health Insurance Singapore

Working While Studying in Singapore

Gaining hands-on professional experience while studying in Singapore is something which any international student would look forward to. With its easy rules and regulations pertaining to this work permit, students can ensure real-world experience coupled with earning. Students interested in working after finishing the course may apply for a one-year visit pass through the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority of Singapore.
To start working while studying in Singapore, the following criteria are required to be fulfilled:

• Having a Valid Student VISA
• At least 14 years of Age
• Permission for Part-time Work from School/University
• Should not be an Exchange Student

Visa Regulations

The procedure for applying for a visa as an international student in Singapore involves several key steps that must be meticulously followed. Initially, prospective students need to secure admission to a recognized educational institution in Singapore, as this is a prerequisite for the visa application. Once accepted, students can gather the necessary documentation, which typically includes proof of acceptance, financial statements, and identification documents.

After compiling the required materials, students must submit their visa application through the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) or the relevant online portal. It is essential to ensure that all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays in processing. Following submission, applicants may need to attend an interview or provide additional information if requested. Once the application is approved, students will receive their Student Pass, allowing them to study legally in Singapore.

Map of Singapore