Education System
International students who have completed their high school and graduate education in their home countries are eligible to study in Singapore. They can get themselves admitted to any of these programs:
The city-state of Singapore, known as Lion City or Garden City, has emerged as a popular overseas study abroad destination in recent years. Education is perceived with the highest importance in the country and Singapore is known as a “global schoolhouse” across the world. National University of Singapore and Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU) are two such universities that are recognized worldwide. Academic excellence, affordable education, safety, student satisfaction and excellent post study work opportunities are some reasons that draw students to this country.
1. Study in QS-Ranked Universities
Singapore is home to some of the finest universities with globally recognised degrees. Each of these universities offers a range of courses and programs catered to each international student’s academic needs and interests. As per the QS World University Rankings 2024, over four universities are ranked from Singapore:
Universities | Ranking |
National University of Singapore (NUS) | Ranked 8 |
Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU) | Ranked 26 |
Singapore University of Technology and Design | Ranked 429 |
Singapore Management University | Ranked 545 |
2. Work With the Top Brands
After pursuing a degree from the top Singapore universities, students can enter the professional world by working with recognizable brands headquartered in Singapore. Apart from them, multiple other brands also have their branches in Singapore and are looking to hire the best talents from this country, such as Demano, Bookman, and much more.
Working in Singapore with such great brands can help international students develop the skills and knowledge needed to perform better in their job roles. These brands have great experience in what the market demands, and based on this, they can help shape a student’s career path well.
Here is a list of the top brands to apply for in Singapore after graduation:
3. Diverse Country
Singapore is a prime example of living in diverse cultures. The multicultural society in this country speaks four official languages, English, Chinese, Malay, and Tamil. This diversity is a magnet to attract the attention of international students studying in a country with diversified values.
4. No Language Barriers
Singapore has four spoken languages: English, Malay, Tamil, and Chinese. It becomes easy for students to engage in the language of their comfort and learn new ones. As a student, communicating in multiple languages can benefit you professionally and help you to engage with locals.
5. Best For Business Studies
Singapore should be your first choice if you’re looking for the best study abroad destination to pursue business studies. After graduation, students can join business jobs or build their own brands in the country. Singapore has a growing economy and has supported talents that wish to contribute to their economy.
Students pursuing business studies at Singapore universities will receive complete training to equip them for the real world. From understanding the basic business foundation to building industry projects, all Singapore business schools provide a high-value learning environment.
The top Singapore business schools you should consider for all business-related studies are:
International students who have completed their high school and graduate education in their home countries are eligible to study in Singapore. They can get themselves admitted to any of these programs:
These programs usually last 3-4 years, with honors degrees available for advanced academic opportunities and research options. These programs provide a strong foundation for further education or employment.
These programs in Singapore last 1 to 2 years and offer specialised education, access to research, industry connections, and internships. They prepare students for their chosen careers or further education.
Doctoral degrees in Singapore can take 2-5 years, depending on the research and field of study. Students conduct independent research and work with faculty advisors to complete a dissertation or thesis. Most students finish within 5 years.
Singapore offers diploma programs for students to specialize in a subject. These programs last 2-3 years and provide practical skills for entry-level jobs.
Singapore is known for its higher education system, featuring some world-class universities that inspire and encourage students to achieve their full potential and prepare them for a brilliant career. These educational institutes offer a wide range of long and short-term courses that meet the student’s educational needs.
The universities in Singapore follow the Grade Point Average (GPA) system. Most public universities follow either a 4-point and 5-point grade point or computation scheme.
4- Point Grade System: Singapore Management University (SMU) follows a 4-point grade point system.
Letter Grade | Mark Range | Grade |
A+ | 86 and Above | 4.3 |
A | 83 to 85 | 4.0 |
A- | 80 to 82 | 3.7 |
B+ | 77 to 79 | 3.3 |
B | 74 to 76 | 3.0 |
B- | 70 to 73 | 2.7 |
C+ | 66 to 69 | 2.4 |
C | 63 to 65 | 2.0 |
C- | 60 to 62 | 1.7 |
D+ | 53 to 59 | 1.3 |
D | 50 to 52 | 1 |
F | 49 and below | 0 |
5-Point Grade System: Nanyang Technological University (NTU), National University of Singapore (NUS), and Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) follow a 5-point grade system.
Letter Grade | NTU/NUS/SIT | SUTD |
A+ | 5.0 | |
A | 5.0 | |
A- | 4.5 | |
B+ | 4.0 | |
B | 3.5 | 4.0 |
B- | 3 | |
C+ | 2.5 | |
C | 2.0 | 3.0 |
C- | ||
D+ | 1.5 | |
D | 1.0 | 2.0 |
F |
In Singapore, course creations are conducted in a unique manner. The country makes use of technology to educate students in their classrooms. Tutors at any Singapore university ensure students learn the course concepts via the interactive learning approach.
One of the unique factors about pursuing a course in Singapore is there are no limitations to the learning environment here. Courses taught in Singapore focus more on developing practical skills, problem-solving capabilities and creative thinking amongst students. The country is moving away from the traditional learning approaches and instead focuses on using technology to make learning fun and engaging for students. Due to this, most international students find pursuing a course in Singapore more efficient and valuable.
Pursuing a course in Singapore has multiple benefits, such as:
Singapore offers broader course options for students to choose from. With the growth in the evolving job market, a few courses have witnessed great demand over the past few years. Here is an overview:
1. Business
2. Technology
3. Engineering
4. Architecture
5. Hospitality and Tourism
Apart from the above, there are also several other courses which you can pursue in Singapore, such as:
The agenda of the courses offered in Singapore is to help students develop the skills and knowledge needed to ace their career goals. Since universities in Singapore equip students with an independent and practical learning approach, it becomes easy for graduates to secure their dream job immediately upon graduation.
Many universities in Singapore stand out due to high quality learning and teaching standards. They feature in university rankings.
University | QS Top University Rankings 2023 |
National University of Singapore (NUS) | 11 |
Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU) | 19 |
Singapore Management University | 561-570 |
Universities | Ranking |
National University of Singapore (NUS) | Ranked 8 |
Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU) | Ranked 26 |
Singapore University of Technology and Design | Ranked 429 |
Singapore Management University | Ranked 545 |
The following are some of the top business schools in Singapore.
Name of School | QS WUR Ranking by Subject | World University Rankings - Masters in Management | EMBA Rankings |
INSEAD Business School | #2 | #4 | #2 - Asia Pacific |
Singapore provides world-class higher education programs in English, making it an ideal destination for international students. To study in Singapore, you must demonstrate proficiency in English by submitting the scores of English Language Proficiency (ELP) tests like IELTS and TOEFL. Indian students who have completed 12 years of school education in English medium, do not need to submit English scores. The students who have completed their education in regional languages must submit scores of ELPs to be considered for admission. However, many colleges and universities in Singapore accept alternate IELTS and TOEFL scores. The following table gives an idea of these scores.
University | Alternate Exam Scores Accepted |
Nanyang Technological University | Pearson Test of English (PTE) |Malaysian University English Test (MUET) |
National University of Singapore | Pearson Test of English (PTE) |Malaysian University English Test (MUET) |
PSB Academy | Pearson Test of English (PTE) |Malaysian University English Test (MUET) |
INSEAD | Pearson Test of English (PTE) |Malaysian University English Test (MUET) |
Dimensions International College | Pearson Test of English (PTE) |Malaysian University English Test (MUET) |
East Asia Institute of Management | Pearson Test of English (PTE) |Malaysian University English Test (MUET) |
Leadership and Management Institute | Pearson Test of English (PTE) |Malaysian University English Test (MUET) |
Curtin University | Pearson Test of English (PTE) |Malaysian University English Test (MUET) |
Heartpower Tesol and Teacher Training Centre | Pearson Test of English (PTE) |Malaysian University English Test (MUET) |
London School of Business and Finance, Singapore | Pearson Test of English (PTE) |Malaysian University English Test (MUET) |
Although education in Singapore is more affordable than in Europe, North America, and Oceania, still many students may find it expensive. The average cost of education in Singapore is SGD 25,000 to 40,000 for a three-year course. The public universities charge low tuition fees than private universities. The average fees at public universities may range between $8200 to $9600 per year. However, the tuition fees at private universities in Singapore may cost up to $46,000 a year, depending on the institute and type of course chosen. The public universities in Singapore offer education at subsidized rates for Singaporeans. However, international students can also apply for government-subsidized programs in exchange of Service Obligation Scheme. The below-given is the list of cost-effective universities in Singapore.
University Name | Type of University |
National University of Singapore (NUS) | Public University |
Nanyang Technological University (NTU) | Public University |
Singapore Management University (SMU) | Public University |
Singapore University of Technology & Design (SUTD) | Public University |
Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) | Public University |
Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) | Public University |
The application process for undergraduate and graduate programs in Singapore is much simpler than other countries. However, it must be done carefully in given deadlines. The following are common steps for application.
The eligibility criteria for public and private universities and colleges in Singapore slightly differ. However, certain requirements, as the ones described below, remain the same across them.
The Following Documents Must be Submitted During the Application:
Universities in Singapore have two admission intakes, fall and spring (very few options). Based on the intake choice, international students should start preparing a minimum of 1 year in advance.
This semester starts in August / September and ends in December. Here is the admission timeline:
This semester starts in January / February and ends in May. Here is the admission timeline:
Here we have included the cost of education in SGD ($). Actual values may differ across cities and universities in Singapore.
Types of Expenses (Annual) | Expenses in SGD |
Tuition Fees | $20,000-$40,000 yearly for undergraduate programs (3-4 year courses) and up to $50,000 yearly for graduate programs at public universities $51,000 and above yearly for 3-4 year undergraduate programs and $40,000 and above for 1-2 year graduate programs at private universities depending on the course duration $46,000-$100,000 yearly for MBA courses |
Living expenses including accommodation | $33,600 for one bedroom apartment + $1248 in utilities + $1440 in monthly public transport + $3600+ for food. On campus apartments are cheaper and available at $3000 and upwards. |
The Student Pass is the only type of Singapore student VISA required to study in Singapore for Indian students. This VISA is accepted in all 34 Institutes of Higher Learning in Singapore. However, there are two variations of this VISA depending on the course duration and type of program.
This pass can be issued for a wide range of programs, including bachelor’s and master’s courses, diplomas, vocational and certificate courses, and so on. So, your pass will be marked with the information of the course you wish to attend.
A long-term or short-term pass will be issued depending on the course duration. Long term pass is issued to students wishing to apply for bachelor’s or master’s programs and short-term pass for students wishing to apply for a diploma.
Students need to apply for Singapore student VISA at least one or two months before the commencement of the course by following the below steps:
You would require the following documents in order to apply for Singapore student VISA:
Most universities in Singapore admit students considering their academic achievements and scores of standardized and ELP tests. PTE, IELTS, and TOEFL are popular ELP tests accepted in Singapore.
Standardized Exams for Undergraduate and Graduate Programs
There are several Singapore scholarships for Indian students awarded by government or private agencies. These scholarships are generally awarded on the basis of academic achievements and are known to cover a major portion of studies.
Name of the Scholarship | Description | Eligibility | Amount in SGD |
Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) | Spearheaded by a collaboration between four leading universities - NTU, A*STAR, NUS and SUTD, this scholarship is awarded to students who wish to pursue a PhD in biomedical sciences, engineering, and physical sciences. | A student with a passion for research can apply for this scholarship. | It covers monthly stipend of $2000-$2500 + one-time air-fare grant and one-time setting in allowance |
ADB - Japan Scholarship for Developing Countries | This Asian Development Bank – Japan Scholarship Program (ADB – JSP) scholarship is awarded to students wishing to pursue their graduate studies in business, economics, technology, management, and science | The candidate must be a citizen of the country that borrows from ADB and must possess a bachelor’s degree or equivalent. The candidate must be 35 or below at the time of application. | It covers tuition fees, study materials, monthly travel allowance, travel expenses, and medical insurance. |
Commonwealth Scholarship for Integrated Science | This scholarship is awarded to students from commonwealth countries wishing to pursue their master’s and PhD programs in Singapore. It is one of the oldest available scholarships for Indian students and is funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). | The candidate must be a citizen of the commonwealth country, possess bachelor’s/master’s degree, and should be below 40 years at the time of application. | It covers tuition fees, travel expenses, and many allowances. |
Lee Kong Chian Graduate Scholarships | Funded by Lee Foundation, this scholarship is awarded to students who want to apply for PhD courses at the National University of Singapore. | The candidate must possess a bachelor’s degree, and a valid offer to pursue degree at the NUS. The candidate must be eligible to receive a subsidy from the Singapore Ministry of Education (MOE). | It covers monthly stipend of $3,300 + examination fees + approved fees at NUS + laptop and travel allowance |
Singapore Millennium Foundation Scholarships | Funded by Singapore Millennium Foundation, these scholarships are availed by students wishing to pursue their postdoctoral and predoctoral courses in Singapore. | The candidate must be a graduate, wishing to pursue their research program at any IHL. | It covers travel fees and monthly stipend. |
Students who wish to work in Singapore can apply for any of the following post study work permits after successfully completing their course from a Singaporean university:
Service Obligation (SO) Scheme
This scheme requires international students to work for a Singapore-based company for up to three years from the date of graduation to repay their fees. This program is currently applicable to graduate students only. The term Singapore-based company refers to international and local businesses with registered offices in Singapore. These offices must be registered with the Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).
In Singapore, students can work for 16 hours/Week when the semester is in progress.
On-Campus Jobs:
Off-Campus Jobs:
This section features the highest paying careers in Singapore along with their annual average salaries.
Job Description | Average Annual Salary |
Accountant | SGD $39,903 - $72,000 |
Data Analyst | SGD $20,000 -$102,000 |
AI Specialist | SGD $58,000 upwards |
Robotics Engineer | SGD $17,000 -$84,000 |
Cyber Security Specialist | SGD $40,000 -$60,000 |
E-Commerce Specialist | SGD $34,000 -$133,000 |
UX/UI Professional | SGD $10,400-$48,000 |
If you plan to study in Singapore, you may have certain questions. This section aims to answer many such common questions that students may have.
Yes, you can continue in Singapore, but you will require a short-term Student Pass. This allows you to stay in the country for 90 days. You can apply for this pass through the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority website.
Yes, you can work on Student Pass for 16 hours per week when the academic semester is in progress. However, you can work for unlimited hours during the summer, provided you are enrolled as a full-time student at one of the IHL.
No, you cannot work using Student Pass after the course completion. This pass is usually issued for the duration of your program or the type of program you are applying to. You must have a Work Pass to work in Singapore. This also protects you from exploitation.
The pay would entirely depend on your type and nature of job. However, depending on the job, students earn anywhere between $1000 to $2000 every month depending on the job. According to Glassdoor, an average salary earned by students in Singapore by working part time is SGD 1800.
Yes, you need both. You can check the website of the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore to learn more about the type of health insurance required. You will be required to undergo medical tests like BMI test, urine test, blood test, complete blood count, blood sugar, and so on.
You may have several questions regarding pursuing your studies in Singapore. You can approach our experts at Collegepond for answers. You can write to us at info@collegepond.com or call us at 022-26103135 to book an appointment with our expert.
Address: Office No. 204, 2nd Floor, ML Spaces, Dashrathlal Joshi Rd. Opp. Old Jain Mandir, Vile Parle West, Mumbai - 400056.
Email: info@collegepond.com
Call Us: 022-46003655
Address: Office No. 204, 2nd Floor, ML Spaces, Dashrathlal Joshi Rd. Opp. Old Jain Mandir, Vile Parle West, Mumbai – 400056.
Email: info@collegepond.com
Call Us: 022-46003655
Copyright © 2002 – 2024 | All Rights Reserved | Collegepond Counsellors Pvt. Ltd.
Address: Office No. 204, 2nd Floor, ML Spaces, Dashrathlal Joshi Rd. Opp. Old Jain Mandir, Vile Parle West, Mumbai – 400056.
Email: info@collegepond.com
Call Us: 022-46003655
Copyright © 2002 – 2024 | All Rights Reserved | Collegepond Counsellors Pvt. Ltd.