Best Universities In Singapore: Eligibility, Application Process, Scholarships
Universities based in Singapore have been ranked among the top 10 universities in Asia for 2024 by the Times Higher Education. These universities are famous among international students for offering degrees, research and development opportunities, exchange programs, and other attractions. The best universities in Singapore for international students provide a variety of courses, including Engineering and Science, Law, Business, and Management, ensuring great job opportunities for students after graduation.
This blog will provide important information on studying in Singapore, such as tuition fees, financial aid, visa requirements, top universities for postgraduate studies, and other relevant information.
- Why Study in Singapore?
- Top Universities in Singapore For International Students
- Intakes in Singapore Universities
- Top Courses in Universities of Singapore
- Scholarships in Universities in Singapore
- Application Process for Studying In Singapore
- Eligibility Criteria
- Best Job Opportunities For Indians in Singapore
- Cost of Living in Singapore
- Student Visa to Study in Colleges and Universities in Singapore
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Why Study in Singapore?
Singapore is well-known for its outstanding education system, with its universities consistently being rated among the best globally. With the island city-state attracting students worldwide, it is unsurprising that selecting the appropriate university can be overwhelming. But before that, you might wonder why you should study in Singapore. Here are a few reasons to choose Singapore as your study-abroad destination:
- Safe Environment: In the Global Residence Index’s 2024 Safety Index, Singapore was ranked as the world’s 7th safest country, and its strict laws are the reason behind its low crime rate.
- Diversity in Language: Since English is the primary language for teaching, students who wish to enrol in popular courses in Singapore will not face any language barriers.
- Academic Excellence: Singapore’s education system is highly regarded and known for its outstanding academic reputation in Asia and globally. According to the most recent QS World University Rankings (WUR) 2024, the National University of Singapore (NUS) is ranked the eighth best globally and the top in Asia.
- Great Job Opportunities: Numerous multinational corporations such as Facebook, Twitter, and Tencent have set up their regional headquarters in Singapore, making Singapore a great place to find job opportunities.
Top Universities in Singapore For International Students
Singapore is where renowned universities are recognized globally for their high academic quality and modern research amenities.
The high-quality education system, diverse society, and focus on innovation and technology make Singapore a sought-after destination for international students. Below is a list of universities in Singapore:
| Universities | QS World University Rankings 2024 | Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|
| National University of Singapore | 8 | S$ 36,421-55,720 (INR 22.42 L - 34.3 L) |
| Nanyang Technological University | 26 | S$ 29,533- 59,034 (INR 18.18 L - 36.34 L) |
| Singapore Management University | 545 | S$ 31,775-3,24,900 (INR 19.56 L - 2.2 Cr) |
| Singapore University Of Technology and Design | 429 | S$ 51,984 (INR 32 L) |
| PSB Academy | - | S$ 21,118- 27,616 (INR 13 L - 17 L) |
| Singapore Institute of Management | - | S$ 37,363- 47,110 (INR 23 L- 29 L) |
| James Cook University - Singapore | - | S$67,362 ( INR 55 L) |
Intakes in Singapore Universities
Understanding university application deadlines is crucial when preparing to study in Singapore. NUS and NTU have two intake periods in August and January, while private universities like PSB Academy offer flexible intake schedules in February and August.
Fall Intake or August Intake: The main intake in Singapore, known as the Fall or August intake, starts in August or September. This is the most preferred time for enrolling in courses, with a wide range of programs available for selection. The period when applications are accepted for this intake typically begins in November and ends in January of the same year.
Spring Intake or January Intake: The January/February intake in Singapore, also known as the Spring intake, is the second intake starting in January/February. This intake is smaller than the August intake, with fewer programs and courses available. The application period for this intake typically begins in May and ends in July.
Also read – Masters in Singapore
Top Courses in Universities of Singapore
Multiple prestigious courses are offered for a master’s and bachelor’s degree at top universities in Singapore. Marine biology, business and management, banking and finance, medicine, law, and several other courses are highly recommended for Indian students. Below are some of the top courses offered in Singapore, along with their respective duration, that you may consider enrolling in for your higher education:
Bachelor’s Courses
In September 2023, NUS had 30,615 students attending full-time courses, establishing itself as one of the top universities in Singapore. Continue reading to discover some of the most popular and top courses offered by the universities of Singapore and the best colleges where you can enrol.
| Top Courses | Tuition Fees (Annual) | Best Universities |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine (Nursing) | INR 15 to INR 20L | Singapore Management University National University of Singapore |
| Humanities and Sciences | INR 15L to INR 20L | National University of Singapore Singapore Management University |
| Dentistry | INR 55L to INR 65L | James Cook University Singapore National University of Singapore |
| Design and Engineering | INR 15L to INR 20L | National University of Singapore Nanyang Technological University |
| Business & Management | INR 10L to INR 40L | Singapore Management University |
Master’s Courses
Do you know MBA programs in Singapore’s B-Schools are well-known for their quality? After obtaining an MBA from a prestigious institution such as NUS, you are expected to see a substantial rise in salary, sometimes reaching up to 170% more than what you were earning before the MBA. Here are some popular master’s programs which are opted for by students from top universities in Singapore:
| Top Courses | Tuition Fees (Annual) | Best Universities |
|---|---|---|
| Technology and Design | INR 30L to INR 50L | Singapore University of Technology and Design Nanyang Technological University |
| Business Management | INR 40L to INR 50L | Singapore University of Technology & -Design Singapore Management University |
| Law | INR 30L to INR 40L | NUS Law Singapore Management University |
| International Business | INR 20L to INR 30L | Curtin Singapore Singapore Institute of Management |
| MBA | INR 80L to INR 1Cr | SP Jain School of Global Management |
Also read – Masters Abroad Top Courses Universities
Scholarships in Universities in Singapore
Singapore provides a range of scholarships for Indian students at different educational levels, such as bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. programs. Below are a few noteworthy scholarships for international students in singapore universities:
| Scholarships | Grants |
|---|---|
| SIA Youth Scholarship | It covers tuition fees, exam fees, living expenses, medical benefits, and accident insurance. |
| ASEAN Foundation Scholarships | Tuition fees and any other academic fees to study at the Chulabhorn Graduate Institute (CGI), air-fare, VISA fees, relocation allowance, monthly allowance, study material allowance and health insurance |
| Commonwealth Scholarship for Integrated Science | It covers travel expenses, tuition fees, and other allowances. Also offers a monthly stipend. |
| SINGA - Singapore International Graduate Award | Monthly stipend of S$ 2,000-S$ 2,500. One-time airfare grant and a settling-in allowance (once) |
| ADB - Japan Scholarship Program | Costs include tuition fees, monthly stipends for living expenses, study materials, health insurance, and travel. Furthermore, an extra stipend is provided for research and thesis development. |
| Singapore Millennium Foundation Scholarships | Includes monthly stipend and travel allowance |
Application Process for Studying In Singapore
Having acquired extensive knowledge about the best colleges in Singapore, we will now provide a brief overview of the application process for universities in Singapore:
- Research: Find the universities and programs you like and review their admission criteria and deadlines.
- Application Submission: Fill out the online application form and upload necessary documents like transcripts, degree certificates, language proficiency test scores, personal statements, and letters of recommendation.
- Submit Payment for Application: Submit the application fee, the amount of which may differ depending on the university.
- Acceptance Notification: Expect to receive a university’s decision, which could require several weeks. If you get approved, you will be given an offer letter.
Note: Confirmation of acceptance must be made before the deadline specified in the offer letter, along with payment of any necessary deposit.
Eligibility Criteria
Every university has its eligibility criteria but here are some general criteria which are followed by all the universities to study in Singapore:
- Previous Bachelor’s degree in a related field with a minimum GPA of 6.5 or 60%.
- 2-3 Letters of Recommendation
- CV
- English Proficiency Test Score- IELTS: 6.5-7.0 or TOEFL-iBT: 90-100, PTE: 66 for reading and 56 for writing.
- 1-2 Page Statement of Purpose/Essays
- Passport
- Minimum work experience, if required for the course
Best Job Opportunities For Indians in Singapore
In Singapore, the main sectors that stimulate employment growth are technology, tourism, and finance. A large number of high-paying jobs in Singapore are associated with these industries. This data will help you decide on your career path and select a program that aligns with your future objectives. Listed below are ten well-paid job opportunities in Singapore for individuals from India.
| Job Post | Salaries |
|---|---|
| Hotel & Tourism | 65,580 SGD (INR 40 Lacs) |
| Business & Management | 133,403 SGD (INR 82 Lacs) |
| Arts, Culture, Performance | 56,475 SGD (INR 34 Lacs) |
| Law | 117,173 SGD (INR 72 Lacs) |
| Healthcare & Medical | 101,867 SGD (INR 62 Lacs) |
| Engineers & Technicians | 69,143 SGD (INR 42 Lacs) |
| Insurance | 121,660 SGD (INR 75 Lacs) |
| Aviation & Shipping | 104,110 SGD (INR 64 Lacs) |
| IT and programming | 84,713 SGD (INR 52 Lacs) |
| Banking & Finance | 110,708 SGD (INR 68 Lacs) |
Cost of Living in Singapore
Living expenses for international students in Singapore are relatively high. This is why, if you decide to study at the best universities in Singapore, it is essential to plan and manage your finances carefully in advance. Overall, you should budget approximately SGD 1,542 or INR 94,920.21 per month. Here are the expense types and the cost of living in Singapore:
| Expense Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Internet | S$ 50 (INR 3,028) |
| Accommodation | S$ 940–S$ 2700 (INR 56944 - INR 1,63,563) |
| Transportation | S$ 128 (INR 7754.12) |
| Health | S$ 99 (INR 6,000) |
| Meals | S$ 90 to 120 (INR 5,545) |
Student Visa to Study in Colleges and Universities in Singapore
A student visa in Singapore is known as a ‘Student Pass’. You must acquire it to enrol in a Singapore Institute of Higher Learning (IHL) for over 30 days.
Candidates must send their applications to ICA online. Whether you intend to enrol at an Institute of Technical Education or an Institute of Higher Learning, the main requirements are outlined here for quick reference.
- Visa Processing fee: SGD 56.76 (INR 3500)
- Visa Processing Time: Around 1 week
- Exemptions: If you are a holder of a dependent pass, long-term visit pass or immigration exemption order.
- You must be accepted in a full-time course at a university in Singapore (part-time courses are not eligible).
- Test scores – GMAT, TOEFL, GRE, PTE etc.
- Original receipt of visa application fee payment
- Bank loan sanction letter (if applying for a student loan), along with proof of investments, if requested by the ICA
- Current and legible passport, valid for a minimum of three months.
- An invitation letter issued by the IHL in Singapore
- Transcripts of previous degrees
Conclusion
With its distinctive combination of art, culture, job prospects, and academic reputation, Singapore has firmly established itself as a prominent educational centre in Asia. The prestigious schools like the National University of Singapore and Nanyang Technological University provide excellent education in various fields such as MBA, Law, Engineering, and Design.
Moreover, the country is also a base for well-known global firms like American Express, Roche, and Singlife, offering numerous job prospects in sectors such as banking and finance. In conclusion, enrolling in your preferred program at a highly-ranked university in Singapore can give you a unique chance to acquire practical skills.
FAQs
How is the campus life in Singapore?
Many universities in Singapore offer a diverse selection of student organizations, clubs, and groups catering to different interests, such as academic and professional groups and social and cultural clubs. Numerous universities in Singapore offer outstanding sports and fitness amenities such as gyms, swimming pools, and sports fields.
Universities in Singapore frequently organise events like concerts, guest lectures, and cultural festivals. They also offer various academic support services to students, including tutoring, writing centres, and academic advising
Which cities in Singapore are most preferred by students?
Some student-friendly areas in Singapore are:
- Dover
- Tiong Bahru
- Sentosa
- Clementi
What are the requirements to study for a Bachelor’s in Singapore for Indian Students?
To enrol in a university in Singapore, students must have finished 12 years of general schooling by July. Furthermore, proficiency in the English language must be shown by scoring at least a 7 on the IELTS exam or submitting scores from alternative tests such as PTE Academic or TOEFL.
If you are an aspirant looking to study at your dream university, book an appointment with AdmitX today and start your applications early to avail yourself of all the benefits.
