What do I need to know about studying in Singapore as an international student?
Updated: January 18, 20231. A completed visa application form with a passport-sized photo.
2. Your valid passport with at least 6 months of validity left.
3. Evidence of financial resources (e.g. bank statements, loan agreements, etc.).
4. Letter of acceptance from an educational institution in Singapore.
5. Evidence of travel and medical insurance coverage.
6. An original copy of your academic transcripts.
7. A letter from your employer (if applicable).
8. A letter from your parents (if you are a minor).
9. Letters of recommendation from your current or former teachers.
10. Evidence of English language proficiency (e.g. TOEFL or IELTS scores).
1. Meet the Eligibility Requirements: You must meet the eligibility requirements for a student visa in Singapore. These include having an acceptable passport, a valid student pass, and a valid student pass application.
2. Apply for the Visa: Once you have met the eligibility requirements, you can apply for the visa. You will need to complete and submit a Student Pass application form to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA).
3. Submit the Required Documents: Along with the application form, you will need to submit the following documents to the ICA:
• Passport-sized photograph
• A copy of your passport
• Your student pass application form
• Proof of financial capability
• Proof of health insurance coverage
• Proof of admission to your course of study
4. Pay the Fees: Once you have submitted the application form and all the required documents, you will need to pay the applicable fees. These fees include the application fee, the visa fee, the biometric fee, and the student pass fee.
5. Attend the Appointment: Once your application is approved, you will be required to attend an appointment at the ICA. At this appointment, you will need to present your passport and other documents.
6. Receive Your Student Pass: Upon successful completion of your appointment, you will receive your student pass. This student pass is valid for the duration of your course of study.
To study in Singapore, you must meet the eligibility criteria set by the Ministry of Education (MOE). Generally, you must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid passport or other travel document. You must also meet the minimum academic requirements for admission to the school, such as having a good academic record and English language proficiency. Depending on the school and your nationality, you may also need to provide additional documents and evidence of financial support.
Singapore offers a wide range of degrees. These include:
Advanced Diploma - An advanced diploma in Singapore is a post-secondary qualification granted to those who have completed a 3-year course of study at a polytechnic in Singapore. It is equivalent to a diploma, but is considered more advanced and specialized. The courses cover a wide range of disciplines, such as engineering, business, hospitality and tourism, and healthcare.
Bachelor’s Degree - A bachelor's degree in Singapore is an undergraduate academic degree awarded by a university or college upon completion of a course of study. It usually takes three to four years to complete and is the minimum level of qualification required to work in most professional fields.
Master’s Degree - A Master's Degree in Singapore is a postgraduate degree that can be earned after completing a bachelor's degree. It typically requires two to three years of full-time study, and is focused on a particular subject or field of study. A Master's Degree can often lead to higher-paying and more specialized positions in both the public and private sectors.
Postgraduate Diploma - A Postgraduate Diploma in Singapore is an advanced qualification that builds on existing knowledge and understanding of a particular subject or field. It’s a practical, professional qualification that helps individuals to gain specific knowledge, skills and experience in order to pursue a career or advance their existing career. It is usually offered at universities, polytechnics and other educational institutions in Singapore. It usually requires the completion of a specified number of units in a specific subject, along with coursework and a final project or dissertation.
Doctorate - A Doctorate in Singapore is the highest academic degree awarded by a university in the country. It is usually awarded after a student has completed a minimum of four years of study beyond a Bachelor's degree, and involves the completion of a dissertation or thesis. Doctorates in Singapore can be awarded in a variety of disciplines, including science, engineering, social sciences, medicine, and humanities.
1. National University of Singapore
2. Nanyang Technological University
3. Singapore Management University
4. Singapore Institute of Technology
5. SIT-Nanyang Technological University
6. Singapore University of Technology and Design
7. Singapore University of Social Sciences
8. SIM University
9. James Cook University Singapore
10. PSB Academy
The most popular degrees for international students in Singapore are:
1. Bachelor of Business Administration
2. Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
3. Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
4. Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Electronics Engineering
5. Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
6. Bachelor of Arts in Economics
7. Bachelor of Accountancy
8. Bachelor of Laws
9. Master of Business Administration
10. Master of Science in Computing
There are several types of universities in Singapore, including:
1. Autonomous Universities: These are fully-funded and self-governed institutions. Examples include the National University of Singapore and Nanyang Technological University.
2. Private Universities: These are privately funded and managed universities. Examples include SIM Global Education, Singapore Management University and James Cook University.
3. Universities of Applied Science: These are higher education institutions focused on applied learning in specific fields and professional qualifications. Examples include the Singapore Institute of Technology, Digital Arts & Technology Academy, and the Singapore University of Social Sciences.
4. International Universities: These are universities that are based outside of Singapore, but offer programs in the country. Examples include INSEAD, Duke-NUS Medical School, and the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.
The cost of studying in Singapore will depend on the type of program you are pursuing, your living arrangements, and other factors. Generally, you can expect to pay tuition fees of around S$6,000 (US$4,500) per year for a local undergraduate program, and S$10,000 (US$7,500) per year for an international undergraduate program. Living costs in Singapore are relatively high, and you should plan to budget around S$1,000 (US$750) per month for accommodation and other living expenses.
Yes, universities in Singapore offer financial aid to international students. Each university has its own financial aid packages and requirements, and some may offer more aid than others. Students should contact the financial aid office at their chosen university to inquire about the specific options available to them.
Some universities in Singapore offer scholarships to international students. Scholarship programs vary by institution, and may include merit-based awards, need-based awards, or other types of awards. It is recommended to contact the university directly for more information on available scholarship opportunities.
Singapore has four official languages: English, Malay, Mandarin Chinese, and Tamil. Singapore universities typically use English as the language of instruction, although some courses may be offered in other languages, such as Mandarin, Malay, or Tamil.
