
Study in Singapore
Capital
Singapore
Population
5.5 Million
Language
English, Malay
Currency
Singapore Dollar

Singapore attracts many Indian students due to the merger of its world-class education, strategic geographical location in Asia and also dynamic multicultural setting. Recognized for its quality of teaching and emphasis on innovation and research, Singapore has a wide variety of programs that address the needs of different academic fields. Combining this with the fact that English is the medium of instruction ensures it makes to study in Singapore a highly appealing proposition for Indians. Besides, the cosmopolitan and tolerant society of Singapore is a very safe place to seek quality education for the international students.
Why
study in Singapore
When the
question arises, why study in Singapore? So, Indian students, by studying in
Singapore, can enjoy the benefits of a perfect superlative education system
within a sophisticated and modern setting. Located at the centre of Asia,
Singapore has an advantageous location that makes it an ideal study destination
reaching from the borders of India. Its position as an educational centre par
excellence, with a steady economy and flourishing business sector – the banking
& service industries are especially doing well is undoubtedly ideal for
career development.
The
multicultural society in Singapore provides a perfect environment for the high
quality of life that is offered by the vibrant city lifestyle. Students from
abroad are attracted mainly by the safety with its low crime level and also
stable political situation. The country provides a rich cultural diversity that
includes the Indian community; therefore, belonging is created.
The most popular courses among the students are animation, design and game development, and music law combined with post-graduate management engineering. With many tech companies operating in Singapore and with numerous scholarships, including a 'work in Singapore' clause, this country is an irresistible destination for Indian students who want to combine a top-notch education with rewarding career prospects.
Is
it the right choice to Study in Singapore for Indian students
The decision to study in Singapore for Indian students is an excellent choice. This choice unites the power of an excellent education, a strong economy, and a shared culture. Singapore is known for the quality of its education, which makes it one of the best options for Indian students who are looking to pursue higher studies and, ultimately, a successful career. The relative size of the Indian community in such a multicultural country can lead to feeling very homely and comfortable. Further, the strategic location of Singapore as a business hub in Asia makes it even more attractive for students from India to study there.
Popular
courses to study in Singapore
- MBA and
Business Management
- Banking and Finance
- Engineering
- Computer Science and Information
Technology
- Law
- Hospitality and Tourism Management
- Life Sciences and Biotechnology
- Design and Creative Arts
- Medicine and Dentistry
- Architecture and Built Environment
The tuition fees for these courses in Singapore generally range from approximately SG$35,890 to SG$77,960 per year, depending on the program and institution. For detailed guidance on selecting the right course and managing these expenses, ACHIVIA offers expert counselling and support to help students navigate their educational journey in Singapore. Contact ACHIVIA for personalized assistance in making your study abroad dream a reality.
If you are searching for a best study abroad consultant in Bhubaneswar or best study abroad consultant in Gurgaon to start your career in the Ireland, book an appointment to get free counselling.
Visa
Requirements for Indian Students
For Indian
students planning to study in Singapore, here are the essential visa
requirements summarized in key points:
- Admission Letter: Have the university
in Singapore that you have applied to provide a letter of acceptance.
- Valid Passport: Make sure your
passport is valid for at least three months after the intended departure date
from Singapore.
- Financial Proof: Provide proof of
funds to pay for the tuition and accommodation charges, such as bank
statements, fixed deposit slips or student loans.
- Academic Transcripts and Certificates:
Applicants should submit copies of all the transcripts and certificates that
are important for the Singapore study visa.
- Medical Insurance: Valid medical
insurance is needed throughout your stay in Singapore.
- Passport-Size Photographs: Recent
passport-size photos which were taken not later than three months ago.
- Visa Application Forms: Submit all the
required application forms, such as ICA Form 16 and V36.
- Visa Fees: Pay the visa processing fee of S$60* (approximately ₹3,725) and an application charge of $.
- Interview and Biometrics: Be also ready to attend an interview at the Singaporean consulate/embassy and provide biometric data.
Cost of Studying in Singapore
The academic environment in Singapore is represented as very diversified compared to other places. In comparison to the cost of studying in Singapore for Indian students as a reference, it should be noted that Singapore's expenditures include tuition and accommodation costs. Such costs differ depending on many factors such as the university selected, course type, lifestyle preferences and also accommodation. On the other hand, this can be minimized by the scholarships and financial aid available for international students.
Why
do you want to study in Singapore?
Singapore is
one of the best places to study abroad due to its quality, low-cost education
and cosmopolitan atmosphere. The city-state has a number of scholarships,
including the Singapore International Graduate Award and ADB—Japan Scholarship,
which relieve financial pressures. These scholarships usually include the
funding for tuition and other living expenses, thus making education affordable
to more people. Another attraction is the very lucrative job market in
Singapore that offers significant internships and also part-time work
opportunities during studies. When they have graduated, the excellent economy
provides plenty of outstanding career opportunities with job visas and even
permanent residency. The entire learning process is made richer by Singapore's
multicultural environment as well as exceptional global business connections
that allow the students to have a complete, enriching educational journey.
Hub for Educational Excellence - Singapore, a Global Schoolhouse
Over the years, Singapore has evolved from its traditional British-based education system to one that endeavours to meet the needs of individuals and seeks to nurture talents.
The strength of Singapore's Education system lies in its bilingual policy (English with Malay/Mandarin/Tamil) and a broad-based curriculum where innovation and entrepreneurship command a premium. Individuals acquire the relevant skills and abilities to survive in competitive environments, equipped for a brighter future.
At the tertiary level, in addition to boasting 3 locally grown universities, Singapore has attracted 10 world-class institutions with strong industry links to set up centres of excellence in education and research. Among them are respected names such as the leading French university - INSEAD, the renowned Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and leading US business schools such as University of Chicago Graduate School of Business.
Even after graduating into the workforce, there are numerous opportunities for further training. Professional and skills-based training are offered and popularly subscribed to. It is not uncommon to see the likes of seminars by management gurus like Michael Porter or lectures by visiting dignitaries.
The presence of such an international mix of institutions, a high quality and rigorous education system, and a nation that believes in investing in education, will together offer students here and all over the world, an enriching and fulfilling learning journey.
Private Institutes
Graduate Degrees: The Private Institutes offers degree in partnership with popular universities from countries such as United states, the United Kingdom and Australia. These universities confer the degree and certification. Hence, private institutes provide students with the opportunity to attain qualifications from these foreign universities whilst studying in Singapore’s affordable and comfortable environment. For Postgraduate studies in Private Institutes admission requirements vary from programme to programme. The duration for Master in private institutes may range from 12 months to 16 months. The GMAT, GRE Scores are optional for admission.
Bachelor’s Degree: The Private Institutes offer bachelor’s degree programmes in almost every subject. The duration of the bachelor’s course is 3 to 4 years. The admission requirements vary from programme to programme. The SAT, TOEFL and IELTS are not compulsory for admission. The students completed their 12th or 11th Std. or equivalent to Singapore A level can apply for the bachelor’s degree in Private institutes.
Public Universities
Graduate Degrees: There are three main types of challenging graduate programmes in the Public Universities: Doctoral (Ph.D.), Masters' and the Graduate diploma.
Doctoral: All doctoral programmes are primarily research based. Duration may range from 3 years to 5 years. Students can take admission for PhD course after completion of their master's degree. PhD students need to submit a research proposal. Students need to appear for GRE/GMAT & TOEFL/IELTS exams for admissions.
Masters: Master’s degree programmes are primarily designed to prepare students for practice of profession. The duration of graduate courses may range from one year to two years depending upon the university. The various Master’s degree are MA, MS, MBA, MFA etc. Generally, an applicant should have at least a good bachelor’s degree and two years of work experience.
Graduate Diploma: Is offered as a terminal qualification and provides limited professional training in a specific niche. The Graduate diploma is often favoured by those students who seek additional exposure to an area of interest. It is one-year full time course of study for graduates.
Government Polytechnics in Singapore
Polytechnics in Singapore provide three-years diploma courses and accept students based on their GCE O-level, GCE A-level or Institute of Technical Education (ITE) results. Most Polytechnic graduates will continue their bachelor's degree education with advanced standing options depending on the universities and courses they applied to with their Diploma. Students that have completed class 10 or 12 in India, are also eligible to apply for polytechnic courses.
A
Polytechnics education is a popular route in Singapore for student inclined
towards practice-oriented studies at the diploma level. They offer a wide range
of courses such as Engineering, Business Studies, Mass Communication, Design,
and Info-Communications. Specialized courses such as Optometry, Marine
Engineering, Nautical Studies, Nursing, Early Childhood Education and Film are
also available for those who wish to follow a specific career path.
Intakes
There are various intakes available at universities in Singapore. The popular universities like National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and Singapore Management University (SMU) have two intakes for postgraduates, i.e., August and January. However, undergraduate students have a single intake period, i.e., August.
Other private institutes and other foreign leading universities have intakes every quarter. This makes it easier for students to apply at those universities as they will not miss out any deadlines.
Some institutions in Singapore have intakes every month for specific programmes, such as Hospitality and Tourism.
Documents
Required
- All relevant
academic mark sheets, transcripts, consolidated marksheet, provisional &
Degree
- English
proficiency test Score card- IELTS or TOEFL
- Statement of
purpose
- Two Letter
of Recommendations
- Updated CV
with Education years & marks
- Extra-curricular
certificates & language certification (German, French etc)
- Relevant
work experience
- Passport
copy
- Photograph
The cost of education in Singapore is linked to the level of study and varies depending on the courseware and the University. The average cost of study is as mentioned below.
- Diplomas (1-2 years) – Approximately S$ 8,000 – 15,000
- Bachelors (2-4 years) - Approximately S$ 24,000 – 40,000
- Masters (1-1.5 years) - Approximately S$ 18,000 – 30,000
An MBA programme at a private university in Singapore will cost nearly S$ 22,000–35,000 whereas the same programme at a government or any satellite campus (foreign leading university) may cost nearly about S$ 65,000–75,000.
Scholarships
A number of scholarships are open to international students. Selection is usually based on academic merit, leadership, and co-curricular records. Scholarships available to Indian students include the SIA-NOL Scholarship and Youth Scholarship.
The Ministry of Education (MOE) also provides tuition grants to student enrolled at local universities and polytechnics. International students who avail of the tuition grants are required to work for three years upon graduation, either in a Singapore-registered company or institute overseas.
Numerous
financial assistance schemes are also available to students.
Living & Other expenses
Singapore
offers a high, yet affordable, quality of life. The cost of living in Singapore
is significantly lower than that of developed countries such as Australia, UK,
and USA. An international student in Singapore spends on average about SGD 750
to SGD 2,000 a month on living expenses, including accommodation, utilities,
food, transport, clothing, telecommunications, books, medical and personal
expenses (These estimates serve as reference only).
Accommodation
There is a wide variety of accommodation in Singapore to suit different budgets and needs. Student should make arrangements before their arrival. Temporary accommodation can be arranged giving student more time to settle. Student can seek the help of the International Student Officer available at most institutes. Some of the housing option available include residence halls, private hostel, homestays, public and private apartments/ house.
- The cost for
Hostel students may vary from S$ 150 - 800, other living locations may go up to
S$ 1000 depending on the locality.
- Transport
cost will be approx. S$ 500 per, however it may cost low if you have a pass.
- Utilities
may cost up to S$ 40 - 100
- For an
Indian student living in Singapore, average living expenses inclusive of
accommodation, food, transport, entertainment etc. will be approx. $2000-12000 per month.
To apply for a Singapore student visa, you'll need to have an offer letter from a higher educational institution in Singapore. Students who have the offer or acceptance letter can apply for a student pass which is required to be eligible to stay in Singapore during their course duration.
You can get the Student Pass Application from the Immigration Checkpoint Authority (ICA) of the Government of Singapore. But to get an S pass, the university that you have chosen to study at must register you on the online portal Student Pass Online Application and Registration (SOLAR). The student pass is generally valid for the duration of the course and the university that the students choose to study in might sometimes apply on behalf of the student for his/her S pass.
Applicants are advised to submit their student pass applications at least 2 months before class start date. You may visit the Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website http://www.ica.gov.sg for more related information.
Documents
Required
- All academic
documents attested and notarized.
- Passport
copy of at least 6 months validity
- acceptance
form that comes with the COL
- Passport
size photograph (against a white background)
- Financial
documents (including Form 16, Form 36, IT Returns, Parents salary slip,
Employment Letter, etc)
- Financial
Documents as per the Immigration department’s requirement
- English
proficiency test scores
Applicants are not required to be present in Singapore while their applications are being considered. Hence, applicants are advised to apply for a Student’s Pass before arriving in Singapore as no extension of stay will be granted while the applications are under processing.
Applicants are advised to enter Singapore to complete the formalities for the issuance of a Student’s Pass only after their applications have been approved. They will be issued with Student’s Passes within one month from the course commencement date.
Please note Institutions that are not listed under SOLAR+ will intimidate the students about the immigration requirements once the students receive offer letters from them.
For more
information you can meet the Visa Counsellor at ACHIVIA.
Part-time work options are not available for students who are studying at private universities. But with government universities and polytechnics, 16 hours per week of part-time work options are available for international students. However, students willing to work part time while studying in Singapore must enquire with their universities for approval.
International students who graduate from Institutions in Singapore enjoy a choice of career options, with great demand for qualified individuals in talent-hungry Singapore.
In
Singapore, exciting jobs can be found in media, hospitality, hotel and
catering, information technology, design, banking, engineering, nursing,
telecommunications, marketing, healthcare and many more. Not surprisingly,
students can use their Singapore education as a springboard to a great career
both in and outside of Singapore.