Study in Singapore

The all-inclusive city-state: Singapore is the place where ancient traditions meet progress and innovation. This small island state, population 4.6 million, is located between Malaysia and Indonesia and is an ideal starting point for travelling around Asia.

A unique mixture of traditional culture and western living standards at comparatively low costs create an interesting study abroad destination. All courses at the universities are taught in English which makes for an easy transition into the Asian world.

The higher education system is structured like the Anglo-Saxon system and offers undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD degrees. The ideal study conditions combined with economic emergence attract many universities from overseas who establish campuses in Singapore in addition to their original ones. Australian universities in particular offer a wide range of study programs in Singapore. Singapore is a multicultural city which attracts people from all over the world. The majority of the population is descended from immigrants. Singapore's population consists of 76% ethnic Chinese, 14% Malaysians and 8% Indians.

In addition to the cultural and culinary diversity, Singapore's weather is also very unique. Singapore has an equatorial climate which means high humidity and a temperature of 27⁰C throughout the year. There are no limits on leisure activities in this metropolis. The multitude of sports grounds, coffee shops, parks and shopping malls with culinary stalls open seven days a week from 9 am till 11 pm combined together with amazing beaches will guarantee you never get bored.

Singapore is also an ideal place to start your travels throughout South-East Asia.

Undergraduate and Postgraduate Degrees, Classes are taught in English, Inexpensive Alternative

Capital: Singapore
Population: Approximately 4.6 Million.
Size: Approximately 710 km²
Time Zone: UTC +8 hours
Currency: Singapore Dollar (S $) Currency Calculator
Official languages: Malay, Mandarin, Tamil, English

A typical Bachelors Degree in Singapore is about three-four years in duration for full time students. Students are able to undertake studies both in general areas, i.e. Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS), or more programmes with a more specific focus within those fields such as a Bachelor of Science (Business Analytics).  Students undertaking programmes of study in general fields will have to select an area they will specialise in within that field. This area is called a ‘major,’ and students will need to complete a quota of subjects within it in order to be awarded the title. Some programmes offer students the chance to complete a secondary tract of study within the same field with a lower required subject quota, called a ‘minor.’ Different majoring, minoring and credit options should be pursued directly with each institution.

Students may complete postgraduate study programmes at both Masters and Doctorate levels, across all areas of general study. A typical Masters degree for a full-time student is one-two years in length, whilst a PhD may take between two-five years to complete. Specific requirements, course and credit options for postgraduate programmes varies between institutions more significantly than undergraduate studies, and should always be researched thoroughly and confirmed directly with host and home departments. Postgraduate study takes a deeper, more specialised focus upon a field of study than in undergraduate, and so students should be more decisive about their subject choices.

The academic culture of Singapore aims to provide students with a holistic, broad education. Singapore is an increasingly international country, and from secondary school level emphasises importance of students learning English as a common working language.

Teaching style in Singapore is systematic, pragmatic and instructional, based on pedagogical traditions from both East and West. Examinations are considered necessary and key parts of educational assessment, with professors placing crucial focus on preparing students for exams as thoroughly as possible. Curriculum emphasises understanding and proficiency of specific learning procedures and worked examples to acquaint students with concepts covered in the broadest way possible. Students are pushed to understand what they’re learning as well as why they’re learning it, and so are better equipped to deal with the ‘real-world’ application of class content.

Whilst some classes encourage discussion, education in Singapore is generally teacher-lead and assumes students will follow course content with individual attention. There is key cultural value placed on hard work and meritocracy, with importance placed on grades. Whilst recent initiatives have been put in place to shift focus from the important of grades, university culture is generally quite competitive and students will often complete independent research in addition to set coursework in order to maintain a high academic standard.

Application procedures are dependent on the type of institutions the students are applying to. In general, one needs to check the application procedures with the educational institution of choice.

In general, the Singapore application process is very simple; following documents are required to apply in Singapore.

• Application Fee Draft
• Application form
• Academic Documents
• Passport Copy
• Birth Certificate
• Passport Size snaps
• Work Experience letter ( if applicable)

You can choose between a rented room or a larger flat which is available on the private market or in a public accommodation complex. We recommend you look for accommodation before leaving home.

Singapore is known for its rigorous educational standards and strong emphasis on research. Many universities in Singapore have strong connections with industry, providing opportunities for students to gain practical experience while pursuing their degree. This not only enhances the overall educational experience, but also increases the chances of finding employment after graduation.

Singapore is a country with a highly developed education system that offers numerous opportunities for international students. Education is a top priority in Singapore and the country has earned a reputation as a global center for education. This focus on education can be traced back to the introduction of the British-based education system by Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles in 1823, when he founded the Singapore Institution (now known as the Raffles Institution). Today, Singapore is recognized as a leader in higher education, both in Asia and globally.

Two of Singapores universities are ranked among the top 500 in the 2023 QS World University Rankings. The National University of Singapore (NUS) is the highest ranked, coming in at 11th place. Nanyang Technological University (NTU) is the second highest ranked, at 19th place.

Singapore is a small island nation and independent city-state with a population of over 5.6 million. It consists of one main island and 62 smaller islets. Singapore is known for its rapid transformation from a developing country to a developed country, a process led by its founder and former leader, Lee Kuan Yew. As a result of this rapid development, Singapore has become a global hub for education, entertainment, finance, healthcare, and many other sectors. Despite its high population density, Singapore is widely recognized as the safest country in the world. The city offers a wide range of professional and social opportunities.

The people of Singapore benefit from a well-organized public transportation system, featuring reliable trains and wide roads. The country is heavily influenced by various cultures, including British, Chinese, Malaysian, and Indian.

he cost of living in Singapore is measured in Singapore Dollars (SGD). Tuition fees for international students vary depending on the institution and level of study, but on average, you can expect to pay between SGD 14,000 and SGD 50,000 per year. There are many scholarship options available for international students, including those offered by the Singapore Ministry of Education and individual institutions. Public institutions generally have lower tuition fees than private institutions.

As an international student, it is important to also budget for living expenses, which are typically around SGD 10,000 per year. You are allowed to work up to 16 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during holidays. However, you will need approval from your institution to work while studying.

International students who want to study in Singapore must obtain a student visa. Upon receiving a letter of acceptance, your institution will issue you a visa. Within two weeks of accepting your offer, you must apply for a Student Pass through the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA). This application should be made no earlier than two months and no later than one month before the start of your course.

The student visa process is completed through the Students Pass Online Application and Registration System (SOLAR). Your institution will provide you with registration details, which you will use to fill out and submit the necessary forms. After arriving in the country, you will need to make an appointment with the ICA to finalize the process and bring your disembarkation/embarkation card, which was given to you upon entering Singapore.

Singapore has four official languages: English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil. In addition to these languages, you may also encounter a variety of other languages spoken throughout the country.

Many institutions in Singapore offer courses in English, but you may need to provide proof of your language proficiency if you choose to study in a non-native language. If your language skills do not meet the requirements, you may have the option of taking a language course to improve.

Even if you are able to study in English, living in Singapore is a great opportunity to learn additional languages. Interacting with locals and other students is a good way to practice your language skills. Being proficient in multiple languages is a valuable asset to have on your resume.

The Ministry of Manpower, Singapore, states that foreign students in Singapore with a Student Pass are permitted to work part-time jobs for up to 16 hours per week during the academic year and any number of hours they choose during breaks, provided that they:

Are enrolled full-time at one of the recognised schools.

Are in possession of an authorized Student Pass from the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA)

It is crucial to note that students who are enrolled in a university or other institution that is not on the list of approved institutions are not permitted to work either part- or full-time during the academic year or during breaks. So with the right planning you can easily work and study in Singapore and ensure that your higher education dream is a success.

• Curtin Singapore
• DUKE-NUS
• MAGES Institute of Excellence
• Nanyang Technological University
• National University of Singapore (NUS)
• National University of Singapore (NUS) Business School
• Raffles Campus Business School
• S. P. Jain Center of Management
• SIM Global Education
• Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD)
• SSTC Education Centre
• TLI - Asia Pacific
• United World College of SEA

 These are just a few of the many reputed universities and institutions in Singapore. Get in touch with GSC and our experts can help you find the best institution and program that will launch your future in the right path.