Singapore
Asia's education hotspot: world-ranked universities, English-language teaching and a prime business environment, just a few hours from India.
Country overview
Situated at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, Singapore is one of the world's global financial, trading, technological and logistics hubs. The multiethnic mix of Chinese, Malay, Indian and international communities adds to a reputation as one of the world's safest and cleanest cities.
Capital: Singapore (city-state)
Official languages: English, Malay, Mandarin, Tamil
Language of instruction: English
Currency: Singapore Dollar (SGD)
Main university intakes: August (some programmes also admit in January); private institutions have multiple intakes throughout the year
Student visa: Student's Pass, issued by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA)
Why choose Singapore
- World-class universities. Singapore's public universities, notably the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU), are ranked among the best in Asia and the world.
- No language barrier. English is the language of instruction, government and business, so there is no need to learn another language.
- Government tuition support. Eligible international undergraduates at public universities can apply for the MOE Tuition Grant, which significantly reduces fees.
- Regulated private sector. Private institutions are governed by SkillsFuture Singapore under the Private Education Act, offering students a high degree of protection.
- Career opportunities. Students are able to work part-time under Ministry of Manpower rules and find excellent graduate employment in this thriving economy.
- Safe and near home. Singapore is a safe, connected city with a large Indian community and direct (and frequent) flights to India.
Education system
Higher education in Singapore is provided through three different categories of institutions. The six autonomous (public) universities, 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), offer bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees. The universities' polytechnics provide practice-oriented diplomas. Private Education Institutions (PEIs) offer certificates, diplomas and degrees, often in conjunction with universities in the UK, Australia and USA.
Private institutions must be registered with SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) which has taken over the functions of the former Committee for Private Education as of October 2024. SSG administers the EduTrust certification scheme which provides assurance that PEIs have met rigorous standards of good management, education and student care. Students considering studying at a private institution should ensure that the institution is registered with SSG and holds an EduTrust certificate.
Cost of studying
Tuition fees for public universities are highly subsidised by the Singapore Government. International undergraduates are able to apply for the MOE Tuition Grant which significantly reduces fees – in exchange, recipients commit to working for a Singapore-registered entity for three years after graduation. Students not receiving the grant are liable for the non-subsidised fees which are significantly higher. These fees vary depending on the university and course and are published annually on each university's registry website.
Private institutions set their own tuition fees, which are generally lower than non-subsidised fees for university degrees, particularly for diploma and advanced diploma courses. Our counsellors will provide you with the latest tuition fee information relevant to your chosen institution(s).
Living expenses
Singapore has a higher cost of living than most study destinations in Asia. The following estimates from NUS, based on EDB Singapore figures, indicate the average monthly costs for an international student:
On-campus housing (subject to availability): S$900 – S$1,800 / month
Room in a public housing (HDB) flat: S$700 – S$1,000 / month
Room in a private apartment: S$1,000 – S$2,000 / month
Meals: S$300 – S$800 / month
Transport (buses and trains): S$80 – S$200 / month
Personal expenses: S$200 – S$350 / month
Mobile phone and broadband: S$98 – S$280 / month
NUS recommends a minimum of approximately S$19,500 for annual living expenses, depending on lifestyle.
Culture and lifestyle
Influenced by Chinese, Malay, Indian and Western cultures, Singapore offers a rich mix of food, festivals and ethnic enclaves. Deepavali, Chinese New Year and Hari Raya are widely celebrated and the district of Little India offers a taste of home. The city's hawker centres offer reasonably priced meals in a variety of cuisines, including plenty of vegetarian options.
Public transport in Singapore is clean, efficient and cheap, and there are plenty of parks, nature reserves and water sports. Known for its harsh laws and extremely low crime rate, Singapore is one of the safest cities in the world to live and study. Located near Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia, weekend getaways are easy to organise.
Entry requirements
Academic requirements Undergraduate: completion of Class 12 with satisfactory results; public universities have competitive entry requirements and may ask for specific subject qualifications or aptitude tests. Postgraduate: a recognised bachelor's degree; some courses require GMAT/GRE scores or work experience. English proficiency: IELTS, TOEFL or PTE scores as required by the institution. Student's Pass requirements (ICA) Acceptance into an approved full-time course; part-time, evening or weekend courses are not eligible. Online application through ICA's e-Service, using the reference number provided by your institution. An In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter from ICA, after which you enter Singapore and complete the formalities by appointment. A medical examination report (if applicable) and any other documents listed in the IPA letter.
Available institutions
London School of Business & Finance (LSBF) Singapore
Singapore
Curtin University Singapore
Singapore
Management Development Institute of Singapore (MDIS)
Singapore
Nanyang Institute of Management (NIM)
Singapore
PSB Academy
Singapore
SP Jain School of Global Management (Singapore Campus)
Singapore
SIM Global Education (Singapore Institute of Management)
Singapore
Beacon International College
SingaporeFAQs
How much does it cost to study or train in Asia?
Studying and training across Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia and other Asian destinations costs a fraction of what similar programmes cost in the West — so you get the same quality education and career exposure at a much lower overall cost.
What do I actually walk away with at the end of a programme?
More than a certificate — these programmes are designed around practical, job-oriented training, so you finish with real industry experience and workplace-ready skills, not just classroom knowledge.
Are internships paid?
Paid practical training may be available for some internships and career programmes, depending on the host organisation and eligibility. This varies by programme.
Can I speak to a counsellor for free?
Yes. You can book a free consultation using the "Talk to a Counsellor" button. A counsellor will contact you with programme guidance.
What are the entry requirements?
Requirements vary by institution and programme. Typically a recognised prior qualification and English proficiency are needed.
How do I apply?
Fill in the online application form, upload your documents, and our team will guide you through the next steps.
Explore programmes in Singapore
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