Studies in Singapore

Why Study in Singapore?

The cost of studying in Singapore can vary depending on the level of study and institution. Here are some estimated costs for different levels of study:

Undergraduate studies: Tuition fees for undergraduate studies in Singapore can range from around SGD 12,000 to SGD 20,000 per year for international students, depending on the institution and course of study.

Postgraduate studies: Tuition fees for postgraduate studies in Singapore can range from around SGD 20,000 to SGD 40,000 per year for international students, depending on the institution and course of study.

Additional expenses: In addition to tuition fees, students may also incur additional expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, textbooks, and other academic expenses. As mentioned earlier, living expenses in Singapore can range from SGD 1,000 to SGD 2,000 per month, depending on individual circumstances.

It is also worth noting that scholarships and financial aid may be available to international students in Singapore, which can help offset the cost of studying. Students should research their options thoroughly and plan their budget accordingly.

Cost of Studying

Life in Singapore is a unique experience, with its blend of Eastern and Western cultures and modern infrastructure. Here are some key aspects of life in Singapore:

Food: Singapore is known for its diverse and delicious food culture, with influences from Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western cuisines. Hawker centers and food courts offer affordable and tasty options, while upscale restaurants offer fine dining experiences.

Transportation: Singapore has a well-developed public transportation system, with buses and trains connecting all parts of the island. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also readily available.

Culture: Singapore has a rich cultural heritage, with its ethnic diversity reflected in its museums, galleries, and festivals. The city-state also has a thriving arts and music scene, with many venues showcasing local and international talents.

Climate: Singapore has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures and high humidity year-round. It is important to be prepared for the heat and occasional heavy rain showers.

Safety: Singapore is known for being a safe city, with low crime rates and strict laws. However, it is important to follow local laws and customs to avoid any legal issues.

Cost of living: Singapore is known for being a relatively expensive city, with a high cost of living. However, the city-state offers a high standard of living with modern amenities and infrastructure.

Overall, life in Singapore offers a unique and exciting experience for international students, with its blend of cultures, modern infrastructure, and high standard of living.

Life in Singapore

Accommodation Costs

Accommodation costs in Singapore can vary widely depending on the type of accommodation, location, and amenities. On-campus accommodation is generally more affordable but can be limited in availability, while off-campus options can offer more flexibility but can also be more expensive.

Here are some estimated costs for different types of accommodation in Singapore:

On-campus accommodation: On-campus accommodation at Singapore universities can range from around SGD 200 to SGD 700 per month for a shared room, and up to SGD 1,500 per month for a single occupancy room with private facilities.

Off-campus shared apartment: Off-campus shared apartments can range from around SGD 400 to SGD 1,200 per month, depending on location and amenities.

Off-campus private apartment: Off-campus private apartments can range from around SGD 1,200 to SGD 3,000 per month, depending on location and size.

Homestays: Homestays with local families can range from around SGD 800 to SGD 1,500 per month, depending on location and facilities.

It is important to note that these are estimated costs and can vary depending on individual circumstances. Students should also consider additional expenses such as utilities, internet, and other amenities, which may not be included in the accommodation costs. It is recommended that students research their accommodation options thoroughly and plan their budget accordingly.

Other Living Costs

The cost of living in Singapore can vary depending on factors such as location, lifestyle, and accommodation preferences. As a general guide, below are some of the estimated living costs for international students in Singapore:

Accommodation: The cost of accommodation can vary depending on the type of housing and location. On-campus accommodation can range from around SGD 200 to SGD 700 per month, while off-campus options such as shared apartments or private studios can range from around SGD 400 to SGD 1,500 per month.

Food: The cost of food in Singapore can range from around SGD 3 for a simple meal at a hawker center to around SGD 20 or more for a meal at a mid-range restaurant. On average, students can expect to spend around SGD 300 to SGD 500 per month on food.

Transportation: Singapore has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trains, which are relatively affordable. The cost of transportation can range from around SGD 80 to SGD 120 per month, depending on the distance traveled and frequency of travel.

Miscellaneous expenses: This includes expenses such as textbooks, stationery, personal care items, and leisure activities. Students can expect to spend around SGD 200 to SGD 400 per month on miscellaneous expenses.

Overall, international students should expect to spend around SGD 1,000 to SGD 2,000 per month on living expenses in Singapore, in addition to tuition fees and other academic expenses. It is important to note that these costs are estimates and can vary depending on individual circumstances.

Universities of Singapore

Singapore has several universities that offer a wide range of academic programs for undergraduate and graduate students. Some of the top universities in Singapore are:

National University of Singapore (NUS): NUS is Singapore’s oldest and largest university, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as engineering, business, law, medicine, and social sciences.

Nanyang Technological University (NTU): NTU is a research-intensive university that offers undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as engineering, science, business, humanities, and social sciences.

Singapore Management University (SMU): SMU is a private university that focuses on business, management, and social sciences. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as accounting, finance, economics, and social sciences.

Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD): SUTD is a relatively new university that focuses on design and technology. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as engineering, architecture, and information systems technology and design.

Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT): SIT is Singapore’s fifth autonomous university that focuses on applied learning and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as engineering, hospitality, and social sciences.

Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS): SUSS is a public university that offers undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as business, law, and social sciences. It is known for its focus on lifelong learning and social entrepreneurship.

These universities have strong academic programs and research capabilities, and they attract students from around the world. Each university has its own admission requirements and application procedures, so students should research the specific requirements for the universities they are interested in.

Getting a Student Visa for Singapore

International students who wish to study in Singapore for a period of more than 30 days must obtain a student visa, which is also known as a student’s pass. This pass is issued by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore and is required for foreign students to study in Singapore.

The first step in obtaining a student visa is to apply and be accepted into a recognized university or educational institution in Singapore. Once the acceptance letter is received, students can begin the process of applying for a student visa. The visa application can be completed online through the ICA’s website. Students will need to provide their personal and contact information, as well as their passport details and a recent passport-sized photograph.

In addition to the application form, students will need to provide additional documentation to support their visa application. This may include their acceptance letter from the educational institution, transcripts, English proficiency test scores, medical examination reports, and financial documents to show that they can support themselves financially while studying in Singapore. The financial documents may include bank statements, proof of scholarships or grants, and a letter of financial support from a sponsor.

After the visa application is submitted and all required documents are provided, students will need to pay the visa fee. The fee varies depending on the length of stay and the type of visa, and payment can be made online through the ICA’s website.

It can take several weeks or longer for the visa application to be processed, so it is important to apply well in advance of the intended travel dates. Once the application is approved, students will receive their student’s pass, which will indicate the length of their stay in Singapore and any restrictions or conditions that apply.

It is important to note that while the student’s pass allows foreign students to study in Singapore, it is not a work visa. Students are not allowed to work in Singapore without obtaining additional permits or visas. Students are also required to maintain full-time enrollment in their educational program and meet any other requirements specified by the educational institution or the Singaporean government.

Overall, obtaining a student visa in Singapore requires careful preparation and attention to detail. By following the application procedures and providing all required documentation, students can increase their chances of obtaining a student visa and studying in Singapore.

How to apply in a Singapore University

The application process for Singapore universities may vary depending on the specific university and program you are applying for, but generally, the following steps are involved:

• Choose the university and program: Research the universities and programs that interest you, and select the ones that best match your academic and career goals.
• Check the eligibility requirements: Review the eligibility requirements for the program, which may include academic qualifications, language proficiency, and other criteria.
• Prepare your application materials: Typically, you will need to submit transcripts, test scores, essays, letters of recommendation, and other supporting documents as part of your application. Make sure to follow the specific requirements outlined by the university.
• Submit your application: Submit your application and supporting documents through the university’s online application system or via email.
• Wait for a response: The university will review your application and may request additional information or an interview. Once a decision is made, you will be notified of the outcome.

It’s important to start the application process well in advance of the program start date to allow time for processing and obtaining any necessary visas or permits. Additionally, make sure to carefully follow the application instructions and provide all required information and materials to increase your chances of being admitted.

Scholarships in Singapore

There are a variety of scholarships available for international students to study in Singapore. Some of the most well-known scholarship programs include:

Singapore Government Scholarships: The Singapore Government offers a variety of scholarships for international students at the undergraduate, graduate, and PhD levels. These scholarships are typically awarded based on academic merit and leadership potential.

Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to outstanding students who are interested in pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies in Singapore. The scholarship covers tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of the program.

Nanyang President’s Graduate Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to outstanding graduate students who are interested in pursuing research-based graduate programs at Nanyang Technological University. The scholarship covers tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, and other benefits.

A*STAR Graduate Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to outstanding students who are interested in pursuing graduate studies in science and technology fields. The scholarship covers tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, and other benefits.

These are just a few examples of the many scholarships available for international students to study in Singapore. It’s a good idea to research and apply for scholarships well in advance of the start of the program to increase your chances of being awarded a scholarship.