Singapore, a popular tourist destination, is not just a favorite among leisure travellers but also a preferred destination for students. Boasting one of the most successful education systems in the world, Singapore offers a wide range of learning opportunities, including research and development, dual degrees, and exchange programs.
So, are you excited to study in Singapore?
Here is an insightful blog crafted by experts to help you understand everything about studying there, from the best universities to the cost of living and scholarships.
Study in Singapore: Highlights
Here are the key highlights about studying in Singapore that an aspiring student must know:
| Primary language of teaching | English |
| Average cost of study | S$ 17,000 – S$ 90,000/ year |
| Average cost of living | S$ 1,000 – S$ 1,500/ month (excluding rent) |
| Funding options | Scholarships, education loans and part-time jobs |
| Entrance exams required | GRE/GMAT and IELTS/PTE/TOEFL |
| Intakes | August and February |
| Top courses in Singapore | Business studies, tourism, hospitality, marine biology, medicine, architecture, banking and finance |
| Types of degrees | Diploma, Undergraduate Degree, Graduate Degree, Doctorate Degree |
Why is Singapore a Preferred Destination for Students?
Studying in Singapore can ensure a promising future. Here are some reasons why Singapore education is a preferred choice:
1. Singapore is a safe place to study: Its strict laws ensure a safe environment for students. The country has an extremely low crime rate, which allows students to live and explore their destination without worrying about their safety.
2. It is an English-speaking destination: Studying in Singapore is much more convenient than in the rest of the world, as English is a commonly spoken language. Students need not worry about language barriers or learning a new language here.
3. A diverse range of programs on offer: Top universities in Singapore are well known for excellent teaching standards across a wide range of programs.
Top universities in Singapore
| University | Programs offered | Tuition fees | QS World University Rankings (2025) |
| National University of Singapore (NUS) | Various disciplines | S$ 29,000 – S$ 60,000 |
8 |
| Nanyang Technological University (NTU) | Engineering, business, arts | S$ 28,000 – S$ 50,000 |
15 |
| Singapore Management University (SMU) | Business and management | S$ 42,000 – S$ 50,000 |
585 |
| Singapore University of Technology (SUTD) | Design and technology | S$ 30,000 – S$ 50,000 |
440 |
Please note: The tuition fee range mentioned above is for your reference only. The actual tuition fees will vary, depending on various critical factors.
Top Courses to Study in Singapore
There is no dearth of courses in which you can excel when you choose to study in Singapore. Here are some best courses, preferred by both Indian and international students:
- Business and Management
- Engineering
- Banking and Finance
- Marine Biology
- Law
- Medicine
- IT and Computing
- Tourism and Hospitality
- Architecture
Eligibility criteria to Study in Singapore
| Diploma courses |
|
| Bachelor’s degree |
|
| Master’s degree |
|
| Doctorate degree |
|
Study in Singapore: Tuition fee
The tuition fee to pursue education in Singapore is relatively lesser in comparison to the USA and European countries. Here is the average cost of education in Singapore for the popular degree programs:
| Bachelors degree | S$ 17,000 – S$ 64,000 |
| Masters degree | S$ 35,000 – S$ 90,000 |
Cost of living in Singapore
The cost of living can be a little higher in Singapore. Here is an average breakdown of living expenses. However, these are only for reference and original costs may vary.
| Category | Average monthly cost (SGD) |
| Accommodation | S$ 800 – S$ 2,500 |
| Food | S$ 300 – S$ 600 |
| Transportation | S$ 100 – S$ 150 |
| Cost of utilities | S$ 100 – S$ 200 |
| Miscellaneous expenses( Phone, WiFi, leisure) | S$ 150 – S$ 300 |
Studying in Singapore: Visa Requirements
Securing a student visa is an essential step to begin your education journey in Singapore. The process is efficient and student-friendly, ensuring minimal delays. With just a few documents and a quick turnaround time, you will be all set to embark on your academic adventure in no time!
Key information:
- Processing fee: INR 3700
- Processing time: 1 week
Scholarships in Singapore
| Scholarship | Application deadline | Offered by | Terms of award |
| George Lyndon Hicks Fellowship 2025 | May 31st, 2025 | National Library Board, Singapore | INR 4lakh/month |
| Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2024 | May 31st, 2025 | National Library Board, Singapore | INR 3lakh/month |
| National Library Digital Fellowship 2025 | June 14th, 2025 | National Library Board, Singapore | INR 3lakh/month |
| PSB Academy Merit Scholarship for Undergraduate Students 2025 | -January 31
-May 31 -September 30 -November 30 |
PSB Academy | Based on academic grades |
| ICAO Training Programme for Developing Countries 2025 | 12 weeks before the course begins | Singapore government | 330 fellowships
10 scholarships |
Job Opportunities in Singapore
Singapore is known to rank the highest in human capital development. The country is thriving with opportunities. The students can have job openings after graduation in the fields of engineering, finance, cyber security, design, law, and business development.
Here is a list of popular jobs in Singapore with average pay scales:
| Job roles | Average pay (Per year in SGD) |
| Software Engineer | 71K – 80K |
| Customer Service Representative | 39K to 48K |
| Digital Marketer | 151K to 160K |
| Financial Analyst | 1L to 1.1L |
| Business Development Manager | 95K to 1L |
| Data Engineer | 63K to 79K |
| Cyber Security Specialist | 1L to 1.11L |
| Full Stack Developer | 1L to 1.1L |
Conclusion
Singapore is home to some top-ranking universities of the world as well as well-known MNCs like Roche, Singlife and American Express. Pursuing a course of your liking can open doors to unique opportunities in the global market.
If you are planning to pursue education in Singapore, Applybuds offers an AI-based platform to help you choose a program best suited for your profile along with added support like essays etc. You can access the platform to streamline your application process and apply with ease and comfort. Good luck!
