Why Study in Singapore: A Guide for Indian Parents & Students
India's student population may find that studying there offers both an interesting foreign lifestyle and an excellent education. You not only have the opportunity to forge a successful career but also to engage in a vibrant cultural scene. As per the Ministry of External Affairs, Singapore currently hosts over 10,000 Indian students pursuing higher education there.
There are several universities in Singapore that accept Indian students, whether you wish to study there for your PhD or after your 12th grade. This will make your time abroad an invaluable experience. The National University of Singapore and Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, rank among the top 10 universities in Asia and the top 50 globally as per the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2024.
Apart from that, also known as the Lion City, the country is renowned for its excellent quality of life and citizen-centric policies, particularly in education, healthcare and safety.
Singapore has emerged as a coveted destination for students seeking quality education in an international setting. Its reputation for academic excellence, cultural diversity, and promising career opportunities makes it an attractive choice, especially for Indian students and their parents navigating the higher education landscape.
Let’s explore why Indian students should consider studying in Singapore and the quality of education, cost of living, job prospects, and overall student experience.
Singapore as a Study Destination: Highlights
An outline of every detail an international student should be aware of when preparing to study abroad in Singapore is provided below:
|
Language of Instruction |
English |
|
Average Cost of Study |
SD$ 17,000 - SD$ 90,000/ year |
|
Average Cost of Living |
SD$ 1,000- SD$ 1,500/ month (excluding rent) |
|
Sources of Funding |
Loans, Scholarships, Aids and Part-time jobs |
|
Exams Required |
IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, GRE, GMAT, etc. |
|
Intakes |
August and February |
|
Type of Visa |
Student Pass |
|
Top Courses |
Marine Biology, Business Studies, Banking and Financing, Tourism and Hospitality, Architecture, Medicine, etc. |
|
Types of Degrees |
Diploma, Undergraduate Degree, Graduate Degree, Doctorate Degree |
Why Study in Singapore for Indian Students?
For Indian students, there are several benefits to studying in Singapore. Here are a few of them:
Diverse and Welcoming Community
Singapore's vibrant Indian immigrant and student community makes the city-state friendly and encourages a feeling of home away from home.Indians constitute 9% of Singapore’s population, and Tamil is one of the country’s four national languages.
Persons in Singapore are accepting of persons of diverse racial backgrounds, faiths, and cultural traditions. Singapore has four official languages: Chinese, Malay, Tamil, and English, which is the language spoken most often in the workplace and in schools.
Singapore has been able to draw foreign students from all over the world because of its variety. Singapore's multicultural atmosphere is conducive to the success of international students, who may still use English as their primary language of communication while interacting with people from other ethnic backgrounds.
The lifestyles of Singaporeans and those from other countries are fairly similar, to the point that getting used to daily living should be rather easy. Nevertheless, foreign students could still discover something distinctively Singaporean around every turn.
English-Medium Education
Because of their common Commonwealth status, most degree programs—including the option to do a PhD in Singapore—are taught in English. Language compatibility simplifies the academic experience for Indian students.
Simplified Visa Process
Indian students wishing to study in Singapore may easily start the visa application process by visiting the university website. Obtaining a student pass, used in the visa application, typically takes a few weeks if all documentation is in order.
Job Opportunities
Indians have a variety of work options in Singapore, where there are now 99,600 open positions, according to the Ministry of Manpower, Singapore. Part-time work during studies and full-time work during holidays contribute to financial sustainability.
After gaining independence in 1965, Singapore has prospered and developed into a major economic force. It is now a major hub for the manufacturing of precision engineering, information technology, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, aerospace, the creative sector, and professional services.
Singapore is home to several multinational corporations' global research and development centres as well as their Asian headquarters. Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and, more lately, Dyson and Tencent are a few prominent examples.
Singapore is a major commercial hub in Asia due to its impact and interconnectedness throughout the region, its ability to blend eastern and western cultures, and its openness to international investment.
By using this, NUS students may have access to global networks and businesses and communicate through a variety of channels with top business executives. Numerous NUS courses provide students with real-world industrial projects or internship possibilities, creating even more stimulating career options.
The university has established advanced research laboratories, innovation incubation programmes, and the entrepreneurial hub known as BLOCK71 through collaborations and strategic partnerships with important industry players and government agencies. This is something that aspiring change leaders and entrepreneurs will find particularly valuable.
Financial Affordability
For Indian students, degree programmes in Singapore are less expensive than those in the US or the UK. On average, Singapore university fees for international students for a bachelor’s degree range from SGD 22,000 (~13 lakhs INR) to SGD 55,000 (~34 lakhs INR). For example, the annual tuition cost for a bachelor’s degree in engineering at leading universities such as NTU and NUS is approximately SGD 40,000.
Financial viability is aided by scholarships for Indian students studying in Singapore and a cheaper cost of living (in comparison to the USA and the UK).
Salary and Economic Landscape
In Singapore, Indian professionals typically make about SGD 8,500 (about INR 517,000) a month. For Indian students, entry-level jobs in Singapore start at about SGD 2,140, while those with a master's or PhD there have the potential to make up to SGD 37,700.
Pathway to Citizenship
Students may be able to apply for citizenship after being in Singapore for at least three years, with at least one of those years spent under a residency permit. For individuals who want to develop a more permanent life in Singapore, this offers a long-term potential.
Safe and Vibrant Environment
Singapore fosters a dynamic and diversified community while offering a secure environment for employment and education. The environment is welcoming to coworkers, instructors, and students alike.
In the 2019 Safe City Index, the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) named Singapore as the second safest city globally. Singapore's status as one of the safest countries in the world and its extremely low crime rate may be attributed to the stringent enforcement of the country's laws.
There's no denying that many overseas students find this appealing. International students and their families often worry about living away from home, which is why NUS has a dedicated security staff that keeps an eye on its campuses around-the-clock, 365 days a year.
of general, the political and social climate of Singapore is very stable. Both commercial and government organisations in Singapore are often methodical and efficient, and the typical Singaporean person is knowledgeable about technology and tech-savvy.
Singapore is seen as a role model for other nations to follow since it has controlled the spread and quantity of illnesses even during the coronavirus epidemic.
Geographical and Financial Convenience
For Indian students, Singapore is a more affordable and quicker flying option than the US or the UK. For Indian students looking to study abroad, Singapore is a desirable option because of its general accessibility and cost.
Academic Excellence and Global Recognition
Singapore prides itself on its world-class education system. The country is home to several prestigious universities and institutions consistently ranked among the best globally. Institutes like the National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), and Singapore Management University (SMU) offer a wide range of programs across various disciplines.
The quality of education, emphasis on research, and international recognition of degrees make studying in Singapore an appealing prospect for Indian students seeking a reputable and globally accepted qualification.
Not only does Singapore have a stellar academic reputation in Asia, but globally as well. The country's academic talent is highly advanced and competitive, and its education system is regarded as being on par with the best in the world.
Singapore has consistently been the top-performing country in the world on the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) exam, which is administered by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Additionally, it is home to institutions that have gained acclaim across the world for their cutting-edge research facilities and elite faculty. For instance, NUS was ranked as the best institution in Asia and the tenth best university worldwide in the QS World institution Rankings® 2021.
It should come as no surprise that a large number of well-known academics and researchers from throughout the world have chosen to teach and research here. Regardless of the students' origins, their time spent studying in Singapore will fortify their aptitudes and capabilities while audaciously broadening their outlooks.
Multicultural Environment and Safety
Singapore's multicultural society provides a conducive environment for international students, including those from India. The city-state embraces diversity, creating a welcoming atmosphere where different cultures coexist harmoniously. This blend of cultures not only enriches the overall experience but also helps Indian students feel at home while studying abroad.
Moreover, Singapore's reputation as one of the safest cities in the world adds to its appeal. For Indian parents concerned about their child's safety while studying overseas, Singapore's stringent safety measures and low crime rates offer a sense of security and peace of mind.
Strategic Location and Global Opportunities
Singapore's strategic location as a hub for business and innovation in Asia presents unparalleled opportunities for Indian students. The country's strong ties with global industries, especially in sectors like technology, finance, and healthcare, offer promising prospects for internships, research collaborations, and future career placements.
Furthermore, Singapore's robust economy and status as a global financial center provide students with a platform to network and connect with industry leaders, enhancing their career prospects upon graduation.
Quality of Life and Well-Developed Infrastructure
Singapore's high standard of living, efficient public transport, modern infrastructure, and cosmopolitan lifestyle contribute to a comfortable and enriching experience for students. The city's cleanliness, well-planned urban spaces, and numerous recreational activities ensure a balanced and enjoyable life outside academics.
In its 2019 Urban Life Quality Survey, Mercer—the biggest human resource management consulting firm in the world—ranked Singapore as the city in Asia with the best quality of life.
People from all walks of life may study in Singapore because of its well-developed economy, optimum location, easy access to transit, pleasant temperature, tolerant and welcoming social milieu, and efficient city planning.
Along with its rich cultural heritage in art, history, architecture, cuisine, outdoor recreation, and celebrations, Singapore is a popular destination for tourists from across the world each year.
Singapore's international students may expect a distinctive and engaging living experience. Here, education is not limited to the classroom but rather extends far beyond it into the wider world.
Scholarships for Indian Students to study in Singapore
Government Scholarships
- Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA): For PhD in Singapore for students in science and engineering at leading universities.
- Singapore Government Scholarship: For students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programmes in Singaporean universities.
- Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship: For outstanding undergraduate students accepted in NUS or NUT.
Non-Government Scholarships
- National University of Singapore (NUS) – Global Merit Scholarship: Covers tuition fees, basic living allowances, and other related expenses.
- Singapore Management University (SMU) – The Lee Kong Chian Scholars Programme is intended for prospective undergraduate students at SMU.
- INSEAD Business School – INSEAD Scholarship for Emerging Markets: Students with socio-economic disadvantages and interested in pursuing MBA programs at INSEAD.
TOP UNIVERSITIES IN SINGAPORE
6 of Singapore's 34 colleges and universities are public, and the others offer a variety of courses in different subject areas to overseas students. The top 500 QS World University Rankings for 2019 include three universities in Singapore. The highest-ranked is the National University of Singapore (NUS), which is placed at 11th. Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU), which is rated 12th, is the next highest ranking institution.
Singapore is home to three prestigious institutions that excel in every area and support students' entire growth. Let's examine some of Singapore's top universities:
|
University |
QS World Ranking 2022 |
Tuition Fees/ Year |
|
National University of Singapore |
11 |
SD$15,000 - SD$58,000 |
|
Nanyang Technological University |
12 |
SD$14,000 - SD$34,000 |
|
Singapore Management University |
511-520 |
SD$24,000 - SD$47,000 |
|
Singapore University Of Technology and Design |
- |
SD$14,350 - SD$60,000 |
|
PSB Academy |
- |
SD$20,000 onwards |
|
James Cook University - Singapore |
- |
SD$12,000 - SD$60,000 |
|
Singapore Institute of Management |
- |
SD$20,000 - SD$50,000 |
|
London School of Business and Finance |
- |
SD$13,000 - SD$43,000 |
TOP COURSES IN SINGAPORE
Universities in Singapore offer every student a variety of courses and programs as per their area of interest. There are several possibilities available to students, regardless of whether they choose to join an undergraduate or graduate programme. Because Singapore is a worldwide leader in business, its institutions are also thought to offer the best business education.
In Singapore, there are many courses in which you may succeed. Some of the top courses in Singapore for students from India and other countries are listed below:
- Marine Biology
- Business and Management
- Banking and finance
- IT and Computing
- Engineering
- Tourism and Hospitality
- Architecture
- Medicine
- Law
The most sought-after degree programmes in Singapore among students are:
|
Program |
Duration |
Average Tuition Fees/ year |
|
MBA |
12 - 17 months |
SD$ 40,000 - SD$65,000 |
|
MSc Maritime Technology and Management |
1 year |
SD$ 25,000 - SD$35,000 |
|
MSc Computer Science |
1-2 years |
SD$ 20,000 - SD$40,000 |
|
LLB |
3-4 years |
SD$ 25,000 - SD$ 50,000 |
|
BBA |
3-4 years |
SD$26,000 - SD$28,000 |
|
MBBS |
5 years |
SD$28,000 - SD$42,000 |
|
MSc International Tourism Management |
1-2 years |
SD$20,000 - SD$35,000 |
|
MSc in Electrical Engineering |
2 years |
SD$25,000 - SD$45,000 |
Admission Process
Indian students, along with other international students, can apply to Singapore online. Here's how to go about it:
- Choose the course of study you wish to take and search for the top institutions in Singapore that offer it.
- After shortlisting the universities, check out their official university admission websites to gather more information about the university requirements and its eligibility criteria.
- Fill out the application form found on the university's official website and submit it with the necessary certifications and documentation to start the application process. There may also be an offline application mechanism available at some (mainly private) colleges.
- Complete the process by paying the required application fees.
- Wait for the universities to revert. You will need to apply for a Singapore student visa after being chosen.
|
The application procedure may prove to be a difficult and lengthy undertaking. Therefore, to make the process easier for you, get in contact with our career counsellors at Reviewadda.com. |
Singapore University Requirements for International Students
Find out what is required to be admitted to which Singaporean courses. Before applying, make sure you look at the following essentials:
|
Degree |
Requirements |
|
Diploma |
|
|
Bachelor’s Degree |
|
|
Master’s Degree |
|
|
Doctorate Degree |
|
Cost of living in Singapore as an Indian student
After college tuition, accommodations are the next major expenditure. A student from India has a variety of options, including government housing, homestays, rentals, and hostels. The lodging alternatives and associated costs are shown below.
|
University hostels |
$200 – $700 |
Approx INR 11,200 INR 39,050 |
|
Rental apartments |
$800 – $2,000 |
Approx INR 44,600 – INR 1,11,500 |
|
Off-campus hostels |
$400 |
Approx INR 22,300 |
|
Housing & Development Board (HDB) Flats |
$200 – $1,000 |
Approx INR 11,200 – INR 55,800 |
|
Home stay |
$900 – $2000 |
Approx INR 50,200 – INR 1,11,500 |
Transportation – Singapore is well connected by an efficient public transport system. An Indian student in Singapore would need $100 to $250 as monthly conveyance.
Best student cities
In Singapore, some of the top cities for studying are:
- Kampong Glam
- Jurong East
- Bukit Batok
- Pasir Ris
Singapore offers a plethora of outdoor activities, parks and natural areas, cultural attractions, and more. A few well-known locations you may choose to visit include Marina Bay, Chinatown, Clarke Quay, Gardens by the Bay, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Cloud Forest, and Universal Studios, among others.
Visa
In Singapore, universities are referred to as Institutes of Higher Learning, or IHLs. International students must have a student pass in order to enrol in any of these universities. International students who wish to study in Singapore for more than 30 days are granted a student pass.
International students can get student passes using Singapore's Student Pass Online Application and Registration system, or SOLAR system. How to request a student pass:
- Verify that the SOLAR system includes your particular IHL.
- Obtain an acceptance letter from the IHL you were admitted to. Your Institute of Higher Learning will alert the SOLAR system and input your personal information.
- Additionally, an IHL reference number will be sent to you so that you may access your SOLAR student pass account.
- Register and send in a fully completed Form V36 and Form F-16.
- You will have to complete all the fields and attach the relevant files, which include copies of your passport, your statement of finances, your admission letters, etc.
- The $30 application fee must be paid.
- It may be necessary to pay an extra fee of SD$ 60 and SD$ 30 for insurance and several visits.
- Once everything is finished, wait for your student pass to board the aircraft.
Student visas for Singapore are typically granted in 15–30 days. Nonetheless, you should apply two months prior to the start of your course to be safe. Rarely, you may need to go to a visa interview; if so, your wait time for your visa may increase.
Singapore Study Visa Requirements:
- Valid passport that is currently valid and readable for at least three months.
- Original proof of payment for the visa application cost
- A letter of invitation from the IHL in Singapore
- Bank statements to demonstrate financial stability
- If the ICA requests it, the bank loan sanction letter (if you're asking for a student loan) and evidence of your investments
- Degree transcripts
- GMAT, TOEFL, GRE, PTE, and other test results.
Campus Life and Extracurricular Activities for Indians
Vibrant Campus Life
Singaporean campuses have a lively atmosphere with a wide range of student organisations focusing on sports, the arts, and other interests. A variety of options, including political organisations and cultural crews, serve a range of interests.
Engagement in Campus Activities
By supporting causes, joining groups, and taking part in activities, students may actively participate in campus life. There is something for everyone because to the abundance of possibilities.
Top-Notch Academic Environment
Singapore's academic scene is of the highest calibre and offers first-rate conditions for studying.
Singaporean degree programmes combine academic rigour with extracurricular activities.
Exciting Events and Festivals
Students can increase their entire campus experience by participating in a variety of activities, festivals, and festivities while seeking education.
State-of-the-Art Sports Facilities
Modern sports facilities and fitness centres may be found on the majority of Singaporean campuses. Accessible amenities make it simple to keep an active and healthy lifestyle.
Singaporean Culture and Entertainment
Singapore has a plethora of cultural and leisure options beyond university life. In the energetic city, students may socialise with a variety of communities, make connections across the world, and lead active lifestyles.
Holistic Experience
Studying abroad in Singapore is certain to be comprehensive and enjoyable due to the mix of vibrant campus life, excellent academics, and Singapore's diverse cultural offerings.
Alumni Network and Career Services
The career assistance offered by their institutions and a strong alumni network are available to Indian students studying in Singapore. These tools provide help for professional development whether pursuing a PhD in Singapore or post-primary education elsewhere.
Work Opportunities
It's not as easy as you may expect to get a part-time job in Singapore, unlike in many western nations. International students are permitted by law to work part-time employment in Singapore as long as they provide:
- You possess a current, Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA)-approved student pass.
- Your approved university must let you to work a part-time job in addition to your studies.
- Foreign students may work up to 16 hours per week in an approved sector of employment if they have a valid student permit.
In Singapore, an accepted field of employment is one in which students are permitted to work on campus or in one of the few occupations that are specifically chosen to enhance their educational experience. Popular roles that students can play include:
|
Part-Time Jobs |
Average Salary Per Hour |
|
Retail Staff |
SD$ 8 |
|
Library Assistant |
SD$ 14 |
|
Sales Associate |
SD$ 10 |
|
Data Entry Staff |
SD$ 10 |
|
Business Operations |
SD$ 11 |
|
Waiting Staff |
SD$ 8 |
|
Receptionist |
SD$ 10 |
|
F&B Staff |
SD$ 8 |
Post Study Work Options For International Students In Singapore
The work market in Asia is expanding quickly. Professionals in IT, foreign language instruction, engineering, and other fields are in great demand in Singapore.
With your student pass, you are not allowed to remain in Singapore after completing your study. On the other hand, you can apply during your last semester for a long-term social visit pass if you choose to pursue a future in Singapore. You will be able to remain in Singapore and pursue your preferred career options if you do this.
In Singapore, professional salaries of at least S$ 5,000 per month are considered good. However, there are some practical job-related elements that affect your wage. Let's examine some of the most popular careers in Singapore together with their pay:
|
Area of Specialisation |
Average Annual Salary |
|
Software Engineering & IT |
SD$ 66,800 |
|
Finance |
SD$ 87,500 |
|
Teaching |
SD$ 91,000 |
|
Hospitality and Tourism |
SD$ 56,000 |
|
Data Science |
SD$ 92,000 |
Work Visa & PR in Singapore
As previously mentioned, in order to remain in Singapore after completing your study and get employment, you must obtain a long-term social visitation visa. The procedure to apply for a work visa in Singapore, should you locate or obtain employment, is as follows:
- Employment Pass:The most popular path taken by students from abroad is this one. Your company should be the one to sponsor your post-study employment visa to Singapore. These are positions held by managers in a reputable field or by specialist professionals in any subject. The professional seeking this post-study work visa must meet certain requirements, including having a reputable degree and a minimum monthly income of SD$ 4,500.
- S pass: Professionals with mid-level qualifications who are foreign nationals apply for this kind of work visa. The company sponsors it, and the monthly minimum wage required for this kind of visa is around SD$ 2,500.
- Entrepass: For professionals looking to start their own firm in Singapore, this is an entrepreneurial pass. One of the main prerequisites for an Entrepass is the proper registration and paperwork of the firm.
Foreign students must apply to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) in order to be considered for permanent residence. At the time of application, they had to be enrolled in the integrated programme, have completed at least one national test, and have lived in Singapore for at least two years.
All the information mentioned above covers every facet of Singapore that you should thoroughly research before deciding which nation to study further in. To obtain further clarification, speak with a Reviewadda.com specialist if you are still having problems. The answer to the question of whether or not Indian students may study in Singapore is simple: the best course of action is to apply for scholarships, choose highly sought-after courses, and enjoy the journey!
Conclusion
In conclusion, studying in Singapore presents an enticing opportunity for Indian students aspiring for a top-notch education, global exposure, and a safe, multicultural environment. The country's focus on academic excellence, coupled with its vibrant culture and vast opportunities, makes it a compelling choice for both students and their parents aiming for a bright and successful future. With its blend of academic rigor, global recognition, and a thriving environment, Singapore stands as an ideal destination for Indian students seeking a transformative educational experience abroad.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)
What benefits do students get if they study in Singapore?
You will experience a very dynamic and cosmopolitan atmosphere as a student studying in Singapore. Since Singapore is a commercial hub, there will be plenty of job options open to you once your study is completed. You can receive education from Singapore's excellent basic education system.
What intakes are offered in Singapore for admission?
The universities in Singapore have intakes in February and August. Conversely, the Polytechnics provide admissions in April or September. Finally, the private institutes offer intakes during various times of the year.
Which courses offered in institutes in Singapore are the most popular?
The popular courses that are offered in Singapore are listed below:
- Tourism and Hospitality
- Information Technology
- Banking
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Art
- Fashion & Design
- Law
Are international students allowed to work part-time in Singapore?
Students in Singapore are allowed to work part-time which is as per the guidelines by the government. They are allowed to work a max of 16 hours during their study times while they are free to work full time during their vacations.
Is accommodation available for students in Singapore?
There are various types of accommodation available in Singapore. An International Student Officer is available at most of the institutes to assist the students with the accommodation. Residence halls, private hostels, private or public apartments/houses, home stays, etc. are a few of the various lodging options.
