Study in Singapore Fees
1. Tuition Fees
The tuition fees for international students in Singapore are generally more affordable compared to countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. However, fees can vary depending on the program and the institution. Below is an average breakdown of the tuition fees for different levels of study:
Undergraduate Programs: Tuition fees for undergraduate programs in Singapore range from SGD 17,000 to SGD 55,000 per year. The fees depend on the course and the institution. For example, courses like business, engineering, and law tend to have higher fees, while arts, social sciences, and humanities programs are generally less expensive.
Postgraduate Programs: For postgraduate studies, the tuition fees range from SGD 20,000 to SGD 60,000 per year. Professional courses such as business administration (MBA), engineering, and law tend to be at the higher end of the price spectrum, while research-based courses may be comparatively lower.
Vocational Education and Training (VET): VET programs offered at polytechnics and other institutions cost between SGD 8,000 and SGD 15,000 per year, depending on the course and institution.
English Language Courses: For students requiring English proficiency improvement, English language courses can cost between SGD 1,000 and SGD 3,000 per month, depending on the duration and intensity of the course.
2. Accommodation Costs
Accommodation is one of the significant expenses for international students studying in Singapore. The cost of accommodation can vary depending on whether you choose on-campus housing, off-campus apartments, or hostels.
On-Campus Accommodation: Many universities offer on-campus accommodation for international students. The cost of on-campus housing typically ranges from SGD 200 to SGD 1,200 per month, depending on the university and the type of room (single, shared, or suite).
Off-Campus Accommodation: If you decide to rent an apartment or house off-campus, the costs will vary by location. In the city center, the rent for a one-bedroom apartment can cost between SGD 2,000 and SGD 3,500 per month. In suburban areas, rent can be more affordable, ranging from SGD 1,500 to SGD 2,500 per month.
Hostels and Shared Apartments: For more budget-conscious options, student hostels and shared apartments are available at rates ranging from SGD 500 to SGD 1,200 per month.
3. Living Expenses
In addition to tuition fees and accommodation, you will need to budget for everyday living expenses. On average, international students in Singapore spend between SGD 800 and SGD 1,500 per month on living expenses, which includes:
Food: Eating at food courts or hawker centers (which offer affordable local dishes) costs between SGD 3 to SGD 6 per meal. If you choose to eat at restaurants or cafes, meals can cost between SGD 10 and SGD 20.
Transportation: Public transport in Singapore is efficient and relatively affordable. A monthly transportation pass can cost around SGD 100 to SGD 150, depending on how much you travel.
Personal Expenses: Other expenses such as entertainment, clothing, and toiletries can vary based on your lifestyle. On average, students spend around SGD 200 to SGD 300 per month on personal expenses.
4. Health Insurance
International students are required to have health insurance while studying in Singapore. The majority of universities provide health insurance plans for students, which typically cost between SGD 100 and SGD 200 per year. Alternatively, you can opt for a private insurance plan that meets the university’s requirements.
Study in Singapore Scholarships
1. Singapore Government Scholarships
The Singaporean government offers several scholarships for international students, including:
Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA): The SINGA scholarship is aimed at postgraduate students pursuing a PhD degree in Singapore. The scholarship covers full tuition fees, a monthly stipend of SGD 2,000 (which can be increased to SGD 2,500 after passing the qualifying examination), and allowances for research and travel.
ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship: This scholarship is available for undergraduate students from ASEAN countries and covers full tuition fees, a living allowance, and an airfare grant. It is offered by various universities in Singapore.
Singapore International Foundation Scholarships: These scholarships are designed for students from ASEAN countries and cover tuition fees, accommodation, and a living allowance for the duration of the degree program.
2. University-Specific Scholarships
In addition to government scholarships, Singapore’s universities offer numerous merit-based and need-based scholarships for international students. Some of the prominent scholarships include:
National University of Singapore (NUS) Scholarships: NUS offers a range of scholarships, including the NUS Global Merit Scholarship and NUS Graduate Research Scholarships. These scholarships provide full or partial tuition fee coverage, monthly stipends, and allowances for research.
Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Scholarships: NTU offers various scholarships such as the Nanyang President’s Graduate Scholarship, which provides full tuition coverage, a monthly stipend, and a research allowance for students pursuing a graduate degree at NTU.
Singapore Management University (SMU) Scholarships: SMU offers undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships for international students, including the SMU Global Impact Scholarship and the SMU Postgraduate Research Scholarship, which provide full tuition coverage and living allowances.
3. Private and Non-Governmental Scholarships
There are also private organizations and foundations that offer scholarships to international students studying in Singapore. Some of these scholarships are based on merit, while others are need-based. A few examples include:
Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship Fund: This scholarship is offered to international students pursuing postgraduate studies in Singapore. It covers tuition fees, living allowances, and travel expenses.
The Khoo Teck Puat Scholarship: This scholarship is offered by the Khoo Teck Puat Foundation and provides financial support for undergraduate and postgraduate students from developing countries in Asia.
Study in Singapore Requirements
1. Academic Requirements
Undergraduate Programs: To apply for an undergraduate program in Singapore, you must have completed secondary education equivalent to Singapore’s GCE ‘A’ Levels or its international equivalent, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or SAT scores. You will need to provide your academic transcripts, certificates, and any standardized test scores as part of your application.
Postgraduate Programs: To apply for a postgraduate program, you must hold a recognized undergraduate degree. In addition, some universities may require relevant work experience, especially for professional courses like an MBA or a Master’s in Law.
Vocational Education: For VET programs, you must have completed secondary education or its equivalent. Specific academic qualifications may be required depending on the program.
2. English Language Proficiency
Since most programs in Singapore are taught in English, you need to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. The most common ways to prove your proficiency are:
IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum score of 6.0–7.0 is required, depending on the program.
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): A minimum score of 80–100 is generally required.
Pearson Test of English (PTE): A score of 50–65 is generally acceptable.
Some universities may offer alternative methods to prove English proficiency, such as completing a certain number of years of English-language education.
3. Student Visa
To study in Singapore, international students must apply for a Student Pass (also referred to as a student visa). To be eligible for a Student Pass, you must meet the following requirements:
You must be accepted into a full-time course at a recognized institution.
You need to show proof of sufficient financial resources to cover your tuition fees and living expenses.
You must be at least 16 years old.
The application for a Student Pass can be made through the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore, and it typically takes 1 to 2 months for processing. You will need to submit documents such as an offer letter from your institution, proof of financial support, and your passport.
Study in Singapore Application Process
1. Research Programs and Universities
Start by researching universities in Singapore and the programs they offer. Singapore has several prestigious institutions, such as:
National University of Singapore (NUS)
Nanyang Technological University (NTU)
Singapore Management University (SMU)
Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT)
Temasek Polytechnic
Look at the course offerings, application deadlines, and entry requirements for each institution.
2. Prepare Documents
Once you’ve decided on a course and university, you’ll need to prepare your application documents. Common documents required include:
Academic transcripts and certificates
English proficiency test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
Statement of purpose or personal statement
Letters of recommendation
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Passport copy
Proof of financial resources
3. Submit Application
Submit your application to the university’s online portal, adhering to their specific deadlines. Make sure all your documents are in order and meet the requirements.
4. Receive an Offer Letter
If your application is successful, you will receive an offer letter from the university. Depending on the course and university, this may be a conditional or unconditional offer.
5. Apply for a Student Pass (Visa)
Once you’ve received your offer letter, apply for a Student Pass through the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA). You’ll need to provide your acceptance letter, proof of funds, and other required documents.
6. Prepare for Arrival
Once your Student Pass is approved, you can start making preparations for your move to Singapore. This includes arranging accommodation, purchasing health insurance, and familiarizing yourself with Singapore’s local customs and regulations.
Study in Singapore Related Posts
FAQs
1. Can international students work while studying in Singapore?
Yes, international students can work part-time while studying. You can work up to 16 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during vacation periods. However, you must have a valid student pass and obtain approval from the Ministry of Manpower for part-time work.
2. What are the top universities in Singapore for international students?
Singapore is home to several world-class universities, including the National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore Management University (SMU), and Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD).
3. Can I stay in Singapore after completing my studies?
Yes, graduates can apply for the Long-Term Visit Pass or the Employment Pass if they have secured a job in Singapore after completing their studies. Additionally, the Singaporean government has a post-graduation work visa program that allows eligible graduates to work in Singapore.
4. How do I find accommodation while studying in Singapore?
Accommodation options for international students in Singapore include university-hosted halls of residence, private hostels, shared apartments, and rental units. Most universities provide student accommodation on or near campus, and some also offer assistance in finding off-campus housing.
5. What is the cost of living in Singapore for international students?
The cost of living in Singapore varies depending on lifestyle. On average, students spend between SGD 800 and SGD 2,000 per month, covering rent, food, transportation, and other personal expenses. Staying on campus may help reduce costs, as it includes utilities and internet.
