Indian and international aspirants have struggled to study in Singapore as the country has evolved into one of the top educational destinations. Singapore is popularly known as Southeast Asia’s financial center and enjoys its reputation as one of the world’s educational hubs.

The city-state, ranked among the top five student places in Asia, promises to deliver on a platter all the demands of foreign students. Singapore is home to a number of top universities and colleges, including both domestic and international university campuses thus making it a popular destination for both students and academics.

It is highly considered to study in Singapore as it is the best place to enjoy the benefits of world-class education and to be exposed to a global work environment. Singapore’s best part is its technology-driven classrooms and an exciting campus life that fosters an environment of adventurous ideas.

About Singapore

Singapore, or the Republic of Singapore, is a 721,5 square kilometer sovereign state located just above the equator. One main island and 62 islets make up the country. Singapore ranks 5th, according to the Human Development Index.

Study in Singapore

The motley of opportunities for students from all fields of study is a major attraction for international students flocking to study in Singapore. Essentially known as Asia’s financial center, Singapore is popular as a work center as well as establishing its Asian headquarters in the city with big brands from around the world.

Not only are students studying graduate and other online degree programs able to reap the full benefits of Singapore’s pragmatic approach to learning, but even exchange program students.

What puts it on the educational radar is its two most popular universities— Singapore’s National University and Nanyang Technological University, ranked among the world’s top universities. More than 50,000 international students live in Singapore, which is one of Asia’s highest.

Not only that, but it also attracts the largest number of Asian and European students, especially exchange students who are going to study for a shorter period in Singapore.

Management and engineering are well known for two of the Singapore programs. Many popular universities in Singapore, including INSEAD and Singapore National University (NUS), are ranked among the world’s top business schools. Finance and informatics attract a lot of students to Singapore as well.

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Top universities to study in Singapore

Here is a list of top 5 universities in Singapore:

• National University of Singapore
• Nanyang Technological University
• Singapore Management University
• SIM University
• Singapore University of Technology and Design

The academic session for study in Singapore

The academic session for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses begins in August. Ideally, candidates should start the process one year in advance. Ideally, candidates should start their search in July of the previous year for the preferred programs for the August session and take the prescribed tests and work towards completing the application process. There are two intakes from Nanyang Technological University, August semester and January semester.

Singapore Admission Cycle

Singapore Admission Cycle

Cost of living in Singapore

Singapore is not just one of the world’s most sought after educational destinations, but one of the most expensive as well. In fact, expenses can be compared to countries like Australia and the USA for students studying in Singapore. Studying an MBA can cost up to USD 62,000 in tuition fees alone. The undergraduate courses are comparatively cheaper and can cost from S$29,350 to S$37,550.

Apart from tuition fees, accommodation is the second big chunk with an average annual expense of USD 5000. Needless to say, Singapore can also be heavy on your pocket when it comes to living. Including food and transportation, Singapore’s total living costs can rise to USD 22,000

However, the cost of education differs in accordance to the level of study. Here is the average cost of study for an international student:

Diplomas– 1 – 2 years: Around S$8000 – S$15000                                  

Bachelors– 2-4 years: Around S$24,000- S$40,000

Masters– 1- 1.5 years: Cost- S$ 18,000- S$30,000

Living expenses in Singapore

In terms of living standards, Singapore is one of Asia’s most expensive countries. The HSBC report puts the country’s cost of living at almost S$28,000 a year, making it the second most expensive country for international students. Living costs are, of course, entirely dependent on the student and facilities. Common Singapore spending may be:

Food: Usually, the monthly cost for meals can be around S$300 for international students in Singapore. It is better for students to go for accommodations where meals are included as eating outside everyday could put a heavy burden on their pocket.

Public expenses: Students also have personal expenses in addition to food and transportation that they have to take care of while living in a foreign country. To meet one’s personal expenses in Singapore, it is advisable to keep around S$300.

Books and stationary: While many universities provide study materials and libraries, as with any university around the world, students are still required to refer to books and stationeries beyond the campus. Keep taking care of such expenses at least $200.

Language required for study in Singapore

Singapore’s official languages are English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil. There are many other languages that you can expect to hear spoken across the country.

If you choose to study in a non-native language, your language skills will likely have to be demonstrated. You may be able to take a language course to help you improve if you do not meet the required standards. Although you can study English, living in Singapore is a great opportunity to learn more than one new language. The perfect way to practice is to communicate with locals and other students.

Visa for study in Singapore

A student visa will be required for international students wishing to study in Singapore. If you receive your letter of approval, your institution will also issue a visa. You will need to apply for a Student Pass to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) within two weeks of your acceptance.

There also needs to be no earlier than two months before starting your course and no later than one month before. This process will be carried out through the Online Application and Registration System (SOLAR) of the Student Pass.

Your institution will provide you with registration details, which you will use to complete and submit the required forms. After you arrive in the country, you will need to complete the process.

To do this, you will need to make an appointment with the ICA and take with you the disembarkation/embarkation card granted to you upon your arrival for study in Singapore.