Study in Singapore
Why Study in Singapore?
Today, Singapore is listed among the most sought-after study overseas destinations. International students from around the world have started acknowledging it as a viable destination as Asia starts its development as the next international education hub. The island country boldly boasts of housing best, cutting-edge standards for education. Having a direct focus on the research base and the objective of the Singaporean universities to motivate talent without discrimination makes it hard for most international students to resist the exceptionally stunning living standards accorded by the country.
The official currency of Singapore is the Singapore Dollar or the SGD (SGD 1= 50.91 INR). Moreover, the sturdy educational system and open job markets attract international students to pursue their education in Singapore, both of these are the top priorities of the government. So, if you’re planning to study in Singapore, get in touch with a professional study abroad counselor like Divine EAC to help you with the admission process.
Moreover, the journey is accessible for a prospective Indian student as the island country of Singapore has a massive student base of Indian students. Also, the English language is extensively spoken and is even one of the four major languages such that international students would not experience communication difficulties. Even though it’s pretty obvious, it must be said that Singapore’s climate, although warm all year round- is pleasant and beautiful. Thus, you must not be put off by the country’s size as the growth within its borders certainly makes up for it. For online consultancy for studying abroad, Divine EAC should be your top choice.
Popular Student Friendly Cities in Singapore
Kampong Glam
PasirRis
Jurong East
Bukit Batok
Popular Study Abroad universities in the Singapore!
Education system in Singapore
Today, Singapore is listed among the most sought-after study overseas destinations. International students from around the world have started acknowledging it as a viable destination as Asia starts its development as the next international education hub. The island country boldly boasts of housing best, cutting-edge standards for education. Having a direct focus on the research base and the objective of the Singaporean universities to motivate talent without discrimination makes it hard for most international students to resist the exceptionally stunning living standards accorded by the country.
The official currency of Singapore is the Singapore Dollar or the SGD (SGD 1= 61.33 INR). Moreover, the sturdy educational system and open job markets attract international students to pursue their education in Singapore, both of these are the top priorities of the government. So, if you’re planning to study in Singapore, get in touch with a professional study abroad counselor like Divine EAC to help you with the admission process.
Moreover, the journey is accessible for a prospective Indian student as the island country of Singapore has a massive student base of Indian students. Also, the English language is extensively spoken and is even one of the four major languages such that international students would not experience communication difficulties. Even though it’s pretty obvious, it must be said that Singapore’s climate, although warm all year round- is pleasant and beautiful. Thus, you must not be put off by the country’s size as the growth within its borders certainly makes up for it. For online consultancy for studying abroad, Divine EAC should be your top choice.
Study Abroad Programs in UK
Dominating the Asian countries in the education field, Singapore has appeared as one of the preferred countries among the international student community. Aspiring students flocking to the country are attracted by programmes such as management, finance, and law, which are some of the best courses to study in Singapore:
To pursue any of these top courses, ensure to get in touch with overseas consultants at Divine EAC for more relevant information.
Admission Requirements To Study Abroad in Singapore
If you’re wondering how to study abroad, you must consult an advisor from Divine EAC to guide you throughout the process. Admission to universities or colleges in Singapore is basically done through the individual universities’ websites as there is no single centralized admission portal. Moreover, some public universities in Singapore have two major intakes; one around August and the other in January. While private universities, on the contrary, have several intakes throughout the year.
In Singapore, educational institutions are categorized into six public institutions, five polytechnic institutions, around two art Universities and plenty of private Universities. All these institutions accept applications from local students and international students. For more detailed information, do attend a free study abroad counseling to make an informed decision.
Admission Process
Admission to Singapore university is based on the score obtained by the applicants in two categories:
- Language Proficiency Test
- Academic requirement
These two categories involve certain standard entrance tests, which are used as a tool for admitting the candidates from across the world, thereby maintaining a common ground for admission.
Not sure where to start?
Language Proficiency Tests Requirement
Language Proficiency in Singapore universities is subject to testing the knowledge of English language. IELTS, TOEFL and PTE are the exams which are mandatory for fulfilling the criteria.
IELTS
IELTS is the globally accepted English proficiency exam for enrolling in undergraduate and graduate programmes. For this, you need to have an average score of minimum 6 – 6.5 if you want a good university.
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
Though TOEFL is a test whose score is mainly accepted in North America, many Singapore Universities too use it as a benchmark for testing your language proficiency. The minimum score required for this internet-based test is 100 or more with a validity of 2 years.
PTE (Pearson Test of English) Academic
In lieu of IELTS and TOEFL language proficiency exams an applicant can also give PTE Academic exam. This is a computer-based test used for studying in a foreign university with an average score of 68, required for admission.
PTE is accepted by the following 10 universities in Singapore:
- National University of Singapore
- Nanyang Technological University
- PSB Academy
- INSEAD
- East Asia Institute of Management
- Dimensions International College
- Leadership and Management Institute
- Curtin University
- London School of Business and Finance, Singapore
- Heartpower Tesol and Teacher Training Centre
Academic Requirement
Undergraduate
SAT (Scholarship Aptitude Test)
It is a standardized exam given by a high school applicant wanting to take admission in an undergraduate program. It tests the reading, writing and Mathematics finesse of them. Three areas are judged in SAT exam:
- Reading, Writing and Mathematics
- SAT subject tests
- SAT Essay (optional)
ACT (American College Testing)
ACT too is an academic entrance exam, required for taking admission in the undergraduate program. ACT tests the below-stated subject areas:
- English, Reading and Mathematics
- Science
- ACT Essay (Optional)
You can select either giving SAT or ACT as your undergraduate Entrance Test based on the requirement of the university where you want to study.
Postgraduation
GRE
It is a standardized test given to take admission in post- graduate courses with its availability in 2 formats – paper-based and computer-based. The score will be valid for 5 years with the minimum average score being 320 for verbal and quantitative aptitude sections and 3.5 in analytical section.
GMAT
This 4-sections, computer-based test is the most preferred entrance test for admission in MBA schools. It requires for an applicant to have secured an average of 650 marks.
Entrance Examination
For admission to Singapore university, in addition to above exams, there are quite a few universities which take their own entrance tests. For instance, NUS conducts University Entrance Examination (UEE) for selecting candidates under its UG courses. First, the candidate will be shortlisted based on the minimum qualification and then those shortlisted applicants will have to sit for UEE. Likewise, many other universities have their own admission entrance exams over the basic requirement for selection.
Foundation Programs – What is this course?
These are the pre-university programs that have been created by the universities to provide an entry point to those university aspirants who want to study a certain program but are short of certain qualifications required for studying in that particular course. In other words, it bridges the gap or you can say, it is a pathway to fill the deviation between the required qualification for that course and your existing qualification.
Under this foundation course, a variety of core subjects will be taught to build their general understanding and knowledge, along with elective courses to specialize in the field of the course which will be undertaken by the student.
Duration of the programme – Between 8 to 12 months, different for different universities
Without IELTS? Take English Language Proficiency Programme
A few universities also offer English pathway courses for those students whose English qualification is not upto the mark, as required, but want to study in Singapore university. For instance, James Cook University requires you to have a 5.5 score in IELTS. If you don’t have that, then you will have to do JCU Singapore English Language Preparatory Program (ELPP) level 2.
Similarly, Singapore University of Social Sciences requires its applicants to have given Language Proficiency Exam like IELTS, TOEFL, CAP, etc. before enrolling for the course. If not, then they will have to pass University’s English exam, failing which, they have to go through 4 Language Enhancement Courses (LECs) per term of the course they are doing.
Tip
If you are planning to study in Singapore, you MUST sit for Language Proficiency Tests such as IELTS and TOEFL as many good universities make it mandatory for its applicants to have passed these English proficiency exams. So, giving these tests will increase your chances of getting into good universities.
Documents Necessary To Apply To Universities in Singapore
Professional abroad education consultants like Divine EAC will help you double-check the necessary documents when applying for an international university. Necessary documents might include:
Personal Contact Information
Academic Qualifications Reports
Certificates Showing Your Extracurricular & Co-Curricular Achievements
Relevant identification documents
Academic transcripts/statement of learning/record of achievement. Obtaining the latter usually takes time, particularly if the office of your institution is closed. Ensure to possess them—duly stamped by your previous University on their letterhead—well within time.
SOP
LOR
University Application Process To Study in Singapore:
You must know the correct study abroad application process for university starts much later than the preparation for it does.
Check out the following online application process:
- Visit the main website of the University and search for the ‘Apply’ tab.
- Login/sign-up details as mentioned.
- Fill up the form with authentic and accurate information
- Prepared the necessary documents in the prescribed format.
- Upload all the necessary documents.
The offline application process for universities in Singapore:
If you’re applying offline, you need to print out the application form and then deal with the hassle of couriering your documents with the application to the admission offices of your chosen university. More often than not the Singapore University would have a concerned office in India or consultant offices; where your offline applications would go to.
Most prefer the offline application process more though it’s better to choose the online application process when offered a choice as that’s basically error-free and can be allocated during one-sitting without leaving your comfort space.
University Application Fee
Surely, the application process is followed by a fee. Even though it may vary depending on different universities. For instance, the latest rates for applying to the National University of Singapore lies between SGD 10.45 to SGD 20.91 (532.27 INR to 1065.65 INR).
Once you’ve paid the fee, take a receipt if available and ensure to check the status of your application. It is easily available online on the university’s website you have applied to. Keep checking for deadlines as if you’re not attentive enough, you might miss out on your dream university.
Remember, your SOP, LOR, Admission Essay, CV, Singapore Student Visa and education loans are vital parts of your application procedure. Prepare for the same several times, check the examples of previously submitted SOPs, etc. to understand the entire process.
Cost Of Attendance To Study in Singapore
Certainly, Singapore is an expensive country to study overseas by anyone’s standards. Still, several international students strive to get admission into Singapore universities as they offer high-end facilities and practical syllabus.
In most cases, the overall cost of studying in Singapore is stated to be around SGD 25,000 and S$40,00 or approximately 20 lakh INR. The cost of studying includes; tuition fees, living expenses, other expenses, etc. would largely depend on the selected programme, the duration of your academic pursuits, the university you have enrolled in, and more.
Moreover, there are multiple other road open to Indian students for financial assistance, consult a study abroad counselor like Gateway International for more relevant information. Courses like Dentistry, Medicine, Business & Law would naturally demand a higher price for these courses for an academic year ranging from S$37,000 – S$154,000.
The government of Singapore has taken a commendable step towards the betterment of international students, which is considered as Tuition Grant Scheme or the TGS. For this scheme, you must have a contract to work in Singapore for about 3 years post-graduation. In exchange for this, you would be the beneficiary of a subsidized tuition fee.
The full cost of studying in Singapore would also majorly include the living expenses like food, accommodation, healthcare, and travel expenses. The secondary expenses would include luxury and entertainment expenses. Moreover, have full knowledge of study abroad scholarships as well as financial help.
VISA Process To Study Abroad in Singapore
Once you have taken admission on the basis of your preferred study abroad intakes, it’s time to handle the Visa application process. Following is the step-wise list with relevant information on the student visa applications for international students in Singaporean universities:
● Get the letter of acceptance from your chosen university.
● To study in Singapore, you need a student pass, the applications which should be submitted via the SOLAR + or the Student’s Pass Online Application & Registration + system. It is a must unless you possess an immigration exemption order, or have been the recipient of a short-term visit pass at a Singaporean checkpoint for attending a short course. Moreover, a student pass may hold different requirements.
● Visit the official website as the Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority for all the information. Go to the ‘I am a Pass Holder’ tab and click the ‘Student Pass’ button. All the details required to apply for a student’s pass will appear on your screen.
● Collect the following documents and then process to the application process:
● Passport with legitimacy extending post three months after your intended stay in Singapore.
● All the application forms meant for Student Visas, including Form V36 and ICA Form 16.
● Paid-fee recipes for the issuance of the student’s pass amounting to approximately SGD 60 or about 3000 INR. An application fee to apply itself is around SGD 30 or 1540 INR. The fee is not refundable.
● Have your passport size photos prepared (not older than three-six months).
● Prepare your bank statement record as a proof of your ability to pay for your tuition and living expenses.
● Your fixed deposit (FD) receipts and bank loan sanction letter may also be needed, although they are not always required.
● Your school transcripts/degree/certificates, etc. or any other certification of excellence.
● Other test results like TOEFL, GRE, C1 Advanced, IELTS or GMAT may be required.
● Documentation showing proof of your academic or financial position.
Top Scholarships in Singapore
Here are some of the universities, government institutions, and third parties that provide genuine scholarships to international students aiming to pursue their studies abroad.
Work Opportunities in Singapore
Due to the ultramodern facilities and various opportunities in the island country, numerous students wish to be a part of the country’s population and workforce. Lucky for such aspiring dreamers, the hiring market is rapidly rising in the Asian country. Various industries are developing, Expatriates are growing the market to their preference, and various start-ups are surfacing too. Most importantly, international students have an excellent opportunity to get a job in Singapore as talent is accepted without any visible trace of discrimination. Thus, it makes Singaporeone of the best countries to study abroad.
Before engrossing in ideas, it’s essential to ensure whether you’re up for it or not. That is to say, you should know about your eligibility before applying for job opportunities in Singapore. Furthermore, it depends on the kind of permit you acquire, which are of certain different types and are according to your position qualifications. Who are the experts, specialists, or newbies that attain the most benefit from the Asian market in Singapore? Financial professionals are the ones who earn the most exposure in Singapore, be they associated with the audit, securities, or any other.
Apart from these opportunities, job seekers in the fields of digital marketing, information technology, tourism, technology & e-commerce, compliance specialism, hospitality, HR leadership, CS, etc., might also discover Singapore industries to be welcoming to their expertise and talents. Thus, get free counseling from professionals to make an informed decision for your career.
Next, you should hoard information related to things like the pay, the training that may or may not be necessary, the number of working days, what the contractor expects from you, if the leaves are paid or not, hours you’d be expected to work, and various other valid pointers. An online study abroad counselor will inform you about factors that give you a clear idea about the atmosphere in a foreign country and if it will be suitable for you based on your daily lifestyle.
What types of student jobs are available in the Singapore?
Summer jobs in Singapore
To earn money and decrease some expenses, you must search for summer job opportunities. As Singapore is a tourist hub, you can easily find jobs in restaurants, hotels, bars, and more.
Teaching jobs
The official language of education in Singapore is English, so students who are fluent in the language can search for teaching jobs. Moreover, a TEFL qualification is a must if you want to teach in a public school in Singapore. The eligibility criteria differ from company to company for teaching jobs, so ensure to go through all of them separately.
Singapore Work Holiday Programme
It is a reliable government platform, mainly meant for international students to explore job opportunities online. So, students running from 18 to 25 years of age are eligible to apply through this programme. To know more about this programme, get online consulting from trusted professionals beforehand.
Internships in Singapore
Students should be proactive and look for internships as they are a vital part of any student’s academic life. Various internship opportunities in Singapore are not promoted and are, at times, available offline. Hence, you must hunt for internships thoroughly to not miss any golden opportunity.
Frequently asked Questions
Yes, some universities do accept year gaps. Although if you have a year gap and relevant work experience, then you’ll be offered more priority compared to a year gap with no experience.
Singapore universities usually accept the test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Apart from this (IELTS) is also commonly accepted.
Yes, international students can working during vacation without a work pass only if:
● They are full-time registered students in one of the trusted institutions.
● They have a student pass issued by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA).
Singapore is listed among the one of the safest countries for international students. The country is known to have a low crime rate, excellent universities and flawless pavements. Still, some students can find it challenging to adjust to their culture.
There are several kinds of educational institutions in Singapore like Public Universities, Polytechnics, Foreign University Campuses and Private Education Institutes.
Please fill the Consultation form and get in touch with our experts at Divine EAC to clear all your doubts.
