Last Updated on September 23, 2024
Want to study in Singapore? Get expert advice on top universities in Singapore, courses, costs, student visas, admission process, scholarships, and placements.
Study in Singapore: Singapore has become famous for international students, offering top-quality education and excellent job opportunities. Many students succeed after studying in Singapore and getting jobs in various fields. The country is safe and welcoming and keeps students satisfied with its education system. Known as the ‘Lion City,’ Singapore is also an economic powerhouse with a world-class education system recognized globally.
- Singapore is home to famous universities like the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU), ranked in the top 20 worldwide by the QS World University Rankings 2025. NUS is also the top university in Asia.
- Singapore is ranked 15th in the QS Best Student Cities for 2025, making it a great place to live and learn.
- English is the primary language used in schools, even though the country has four official languages: Malay, Mandarin, Tamil, and English. This makes it easier for international students to study.
- With more than 85,000 international students from over 100 countries choosing Singapore annually, it is quickly becoming a leading study destination in Asia.
- For those who love to travel and explore, Singapore is ideal. It has stunning parks, art galleries, museums, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In the following sections, we will explore what makes Study in Singapore for Indian Students an excellent choice for students and different opportunities that help students benefit from studying abroad.
Why Study in Singapore?
Singapore’s citizen-friendly rules and high standard of living make it an excellent place for students. The country’s peaceful and secure climate encourages them to visit new areas and participate in various refreshing activities. Other key reasons for attracting overseas students to study in Singapore are stated below:
- The country has attracted expats worldwide, each with nationality and faith. Principal ethnic groups like Malays, Eurasians, Chinese, and Indians coexist harmoniously with the rest of the population, resulting in a happy living environment. This is an excellent opportunity for newcomers to study in Singapore for Indian Students, where they can meet and connect with new people while learning about their traditions, practices, and perceptions.
- Students in Singapore enjoy a variety of options for commuting and exploring new destinations while they choose to Study in Singapore for Indian Students. Its public transportation is regarded as among the world’s best because of its low costs, practicality, availability, output, and so on. Buses and trains in Singapore run on time and adhere to rigorous schedules.
- The country has been named one of the safest cities in the world. A US-based firm called ‘The Swiftest’ classified it as the safest in the world for international travel. The country follows strict standards and has a zero-tolerance stance toward any form of violence, whether physical or mental. Overseas students feel completely protected on and off campus. Therefore, it is considered the best option when you choose to study in Singapore.
- Despite its small size on the globe map, the island nation provides several job prospects for international nationals. The country is considered a hub of global economic activity, with around 25,000 multinational organizations. Students enrolled in universities/colleges can easily find part-time work with a reputable company and earn money to cover their extra expenses.
Learn more about: why you should consider studying in Singapore.
Study in Singapore: Highlights
Highlights to study in Singapore are as follows:
| Higher Education Enrollment Rate | 93.13% |
| Population | 5,979,222 |
| Annual GDP | 7.61% |
| Official Name | Republic of Singapore |
| Region | Southeast Asia |
| Climate | Hot and Humid |
| Currency | SGD (Singapore Dollar) |
| Singapore $ to INR | 1 S$ = 62.40 INR (August 2024) |
| GDP Real Growth Rate (2023-24) | 1.1% |
Education System in Singapore
Singapore has a four-tier education system that includes primary schools, secondary schools, junior colleges of polytechnics, and university tertiary education. The first six years of schooling are spent at the primary level. Secondary education lasts four years. If a student reaches the age of 14 and is unable to complete primary school, they may quit the school and enroll in a two-year course administered by the Adult Education Board. Those who intend to extend their education at university must first finish a two-year supplementary A-level course in high school, which is considered part of the integrated curriculum.
The post-secondary education offers the following options to students for Study in Singapore:
- Junior Colleges: Before enrolling in a university to Study in Singapore, students can complete pre-university education at a junior college or centralized institute. This can help them earn a GCE A-Level exam certificate or an International Baccalaureate diploma certificate.
- Singapore School of Arts/Sports: Sports and art lovers can pursue specialized courses. This can help students get an International Baccalaureate diploma from both schools or a Diploma in Business Studies from the Singapore Sports School.
- Polytechnics: Those who prefer to further their education more practically might enroll in full-time diploma programs offered by polytechnics.
Eligibility requirements for Study in Singapore include O-level or ITE Nitec and Higher Nitec qualifications. The Polytechnic Foundation Program also allows top-performing secondary 4 N(A) students to apply to Polytechnics. Polytechnic education has the advantage of providing students with experience in practice-based learning.
- Institute of Technical Education (ITE): ITE provides technical or vocational education through advanced Nitec programs, full-time Nitec, and traineeship courses. One must complete N- and O-level studies to study in Singapore and be admitted to ITE. Secondary 4 N(A) students who meet the qualifying requirements are considered for some courses.
Top Universities For Study in Singapore for Indian Students
We have a list of the Top Universities For Study in Singapore for Indian students available below with some other details:
| Universities in Singapore | QS Rank 2024 | Estimated Fees (per year) | NIRF Comparison |
| National University of Singapore (NUS) | #8 | SGD 17,000 – 60,000 | Comparable to IIT Bombay |
| Nanyang Technological University (NTU) | #26 | SGD 17,000 – 55,000 | Comparable to IIT Delhi |
| Singapore Management University (SMU) | #431 | SGD 20,000 – 50,000 | Comparable to IIM Bangalore |
| Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) | #383 | SGD 23,000 – 35,000 | Comparable to IISc Bangalore |
| INSEAD Asia Campus (Singapore) | N/A | SGD 200,000+ (MBA Program) | Comparable to ISB Hyderabad |
| James Cook University (Singapore) | N/A | SGD 18,000 – 28,000 | Comparable to the University of Hyderabad |
| SIM University (UniSIM) | N/A | SGD 10,000 – 20,000 | Comparable to Amity University |
| PSB Academy | N/A | SGD 15,000 – 25,000 | Comparable to Manipal University |
| LASALLE College of the Arts | N/A | SGD 22,000 – 45,000 | Comparable to NIFT |
| Curtin Singapore | N/A | SGD 20,000 – 30,000 | Comparable to SRM University |
Singapore Permanent Residence Permit
Study in Singapore: Foreigners who want to become permanent residents of Singapore can do so by obtaining an entry permit. One may be eligible to apply for a Permanent Residence Permit if they are:
- Aged parent of a Singapore citizen.
- Spouse of a Singapore citizen or permanent resident (SPR)
- Unmarried children under the age of 21 who are Singaporean or PR citizens
- studying in Singapore as a student
- Investors from an overseas location
- Employed or have an S pass.
Those who intend to apply must submit their application online using e-Service. Applicants can also download the application and finish it offline. They can then submit it online. However, this can also be obtained if you Study in Singapore.
Top Courses To Study in Singapore for Indian Students
Although overseas students enjoy pursuing various degrees at Singapore universities, a handful are more popular than others. The following courses are popular among international students who have chosen to study in Singapore institutions.
| Engineering & Science | Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Astronomy, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Road Vehicle Engineering, Telecommunications, Energy Engineering, Bioengineering, Environmental Engineering |
| Law | LLM International Business Law, International Labor Law, Human Rights in Asia, World Trade Law, Introduction to Indian Business Law, Master in Public Policy, Master in Public Administration, Civil Law |
| Economics & Finance | Applied Economics, International Economics, Financial Economics, International Political Economy |
| Business & Management | Enterprises, HRM, International Business Studies, Financial Services, Office Skills, Public Administration, Shorthand, Accounting, Management Planning & Control Systems |
| Computer Science & IT | Information and Communications Technology, Software Development, MSC in Computational Media, Mobile Application Development Using Java, Enterprise Computing Systems Management |
| Medicine | Nursing, Dental Services, Psychology, Paramedical Services, Health Studies, Community Work, Public Health, Nutrition, Ophthalmology, Physiotherapy |
Admission Requirements to Study at Singaporean Universities
The general qualifying requirements for admission to undergraduate courses For Study in Singapore are stated below:
- The applicant should have received an aggregate of 90-95% in both Class 10th and 12th to Study in Singapore.
- If the candidate still needs to complete his secondary education when applying for undergraduate admission, they should present a Class 12 predictive score.
- Universities such as SIM, NUS, and Yale-NUS will demand applicants to submit advanced placement test results to Study in Singapore.
- The SAT scores should be excellent. Also, state-board applicants must provide their SAT results.
- If the applicants attended an English-medium school and scored more than 75% in English, they are not required to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. This is the basic eligibility for Studying in Singapore.
Scholarships to Study in Singapore for Indian Students
Financial help, such as scholarships, grants, and bursaries, relieves the economic burden of students who have achieved high scores and are eligible to study abroad but cannot do so due to financial restrictions. Although Study in Singapore, education in most Singaporean institutes is less expensive, the fees remain significant. This section will provide an overview of the most common and popular among international students.
The Singapore International Graduate Award is intended for PhD studies. It provides financial support for up to four years, including a monthly stipend, complete tuition expenses, a travel grant, and a settlement allowance.
Moreover, to Study in Singapore, a Lee Kong Chian Graduate Scholarship at NUS will include a monthly stipend of S$3,300, a yearly book allowance of S$500, and a one-time laptop payment of S$1,500. The student will also be given a travel allowance of two return tickets worth S$4,000.
Furthermore, another Study in Singapore scholarship is the INSEAD-Syngenta MBA Scholarships for Developing Country Leaders: Each class receives two scholarships of €22,500 per year. You can read more details about scholarships to study in Singapore on our website. Click here.
Education Loan for Studying in Singapore for Indian Students
Students wanting to receive an education loan should be familiar with the requirements and qualify before applying to their preferred money lending institution/bank. The eligibility criteria for education loans vary from bank to study in Singapore.
Most nationalized banks follow the guidelines listed below for loan applications for Study in Singapore for Indian Students:
- Indian students accepted into selected educational institutions for higher education in Singapore can apply for an education loan. Therefore, this is an opportunity avaible for students to Study in Singapore for Indian Students.
- Students can qualify for a loan with a minimum of SGD 20,000 and a maximum of 100% of their tuition fees.
- The moratorium lasts six months before students must repay the loan amount. They are not obligated to repay the sum during the course’s duration.
- Students have at least one year and a maximum of five years to repay the loan once the moratorium period expires. However, the loan term should be at least ten years.
- Every bank has a distinct student/education loan interest rate. So students can check the different banks for loans to study in Singapore.
Please take note that the guidelines mentioned above only apply to SBI.
Part-Time Work Options for Students in Singapore
Singapore does not allow pupils to pick up any assignments. Singapore universities provide internships relating to the courses that students intend to study. A student can only select these linked internships. Furthermore, most colleges have cooperated with industrial houses to give students part-time employment opportunities.
Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower considers overseas students on a Student Pass eligible for part-time work for around 16 hours per week during term and unlimited holidays.
Please keep in mind that students studying at universities/institutions that are not on the approved list are not permitted to work part-time or full-time during the term and vacation.
You can read about how to get jobs in Singapore.
Post-Study Work Permit in Singapore
Study in Singapore post-study work requirements: Students cannot stay in Singapore on their Student Pass or Study Visa to look for work, as they can in other European countries or the United States. This does not entail students returning to India once their studies are over. They have the option of remaining for one to three months. When a graduate student’s pass expires or is canceled, they are typically issued a short-term visit pass. This allows them to stay in Singapore for up to 90 days when they can look for available job possibilities. However, while on this visa, you cannot work and must look for job opportunities instead.
Final Insights!!
Singapore is a popular destination for international students seeking higher education and employment opportunities due to its high satisfaction rate and internationally recognized education system. The country has numerous famous institutes, including the National University of Singapore and the Nanyang Technological University of Singapore. It has been considered to be the best place for Indian students to study in Singapore.
Singapore’s citizen-friendly rules, high living standards, and peaceful climate make it an excellent country to study. The country offers job opportunities within about 25,000 multinational organizations. Study in Singapore Education system includes primary, secondary, and tertiary education. The chief eligibility criteria include an aged parent, spouse, unmarried child, investor, or employed candidate. The top courses include the fields of Engineering & Science, Law, Economics & Finance, Business & Management, Computer Science & IT, and Medicine.
FAQs for Study in Singapore for Indian Students
Which are the in-demand courses in Singapore that one should pursue?
Popular courses among Indian students to Study in Singapore include business management, engineering, information technology, hospitality, and biotechnology. Apart from this, Singapore is also famous for its MBA programs, which attract thousands of students across the globe.
Can I work part-time while pursuing my studies in Singapore?
Yes, international students in Singapore can work part-time, up to 16 hours per week, during term time if enrolled in a full-time degree course at a government-approved university. So, therefore, this is an opportunity while studying in Singapore.
Is the medium of instruction for study English?
This is true because most universities in Singapore teach English as their primary language of instruction. This makes it much more convenient for Indian students to blend in and thrive academically while studying in Singapore.
How do I apply to universities in Singapore for study?
However, the application processes to get to Singapore from school include an online application form accompanied by supporting documentation such as academic records, English proficiency test results, and a processing fee. Check specific requirements with the institutions.
What is the lifestyle like for Indian students in Singapore?
Singapore offers a modern lifestyle with excellent public transport, vibrant cultural experiences, and safe living conditions. Indian students find adapting to the multicultural environment comfortable while studying in Singapore. So, Study in Singapore can be the best experience for yourself as an individual.
How much does it cost to study in Singapore?
The cost to study in Singapore for Indian Students varies, with tuition fees ranging from INR 5 lakhs to INR 20 lakhs per year, depending on the course and university. Living expenses add an extra INR 4 to 8 lakhs annually.
Is Singapore good for Indian students?
Yes, Singapore is a popular choice for Indian students due to its high-quality education, cultural diversity, and proximity to India. Its global ranking and modern infrastructure make it a top destination to study in Singapore.
Can I go to Singapore after 12th?
Yes, students can go to Singapore after completing 12th grade. Many universities offer undergraduate programs in various fields, and admission depends on academic performance, making it a great option to study in Singapore.
Which exam is required for Singapore?
To study in Singapore, students may need to take exams like IELTS or TOEFL to improve their English proficiency. Some universities also require the SAT for undergraduate programs or the GMAT/GRE for postgraduate courses.
Is it easy to get admission in Singapore?
Yes, admission to Singapore universities is competitive, but reasonable academic performance, excellent English proficiency, and a round profile will increase your probability of landing a seat. Aprofoundp view of entry requirements will help you get into Singapore for further education.
Why choose Singapore?
Singapore offers world-class education, sound infrastructure, and an excellent global ranking, making it an ultimate destination for international students. Proximity to India, safety, and cultural diversification further enhance the options for studying in Singapore.
Are there Indian students who receive scholarships or other financial assistance opportunities in Singapore?
Many scholarships are available for Indian students looking to study in Singapore. The financial aid and scholarships from government bodies and other university institutions like NUS, NTU, and SMU range from merit-based to field-specific.
What kind of job prospects after studying in Singapore?
After graduation, the students can seek work in Singapore’s emerging finance, IT, and biotechnology industries. Another reason universities provide career development support is that many students want to get employed locally.
Do I need a student visa to study in Singapore?
Overseas students require a valid student visa, a “Student Pass,” to pursue higher studies in Singapore. In general, an online application is made, and the visa is issued after admission into a recognized institution.
How long does it take to achieve a graduate degree in Singapore?
The majority of undergraduate courses in Singapore take 3-4 years to complete, while postgraduate courses, like a master’s degree, would typically last between 1-2 years. However, it depends on the course and university that is pursued.
Kanishka Garg specializes in crafting informative content on study abroad education. Her passion lies in simplifying the journey for students through SEO-optimized articles and blogs. Kanishka’s commitment to clear communication and her deep understanding of international admissions processes make her blogs essential for students aiming to gain insights into top universities worldwide. With Kanishka’s blogs, students can confidently get solutions to the complexities of applying to their dream universities and achieve their academic aspirations abroad.
