If you would love nothing more than to receive a world-class education while living in a vibrant Asian city with diverse dining options, glitzy nightlife, and stunning natural attractions, then Singapore is the place for you.
This prosperous city-state, nestled among lush tropical foliage, has gone from strength to strength over the last few decades. So much so, that these days, Singapore is a regional centre for education and business, attracting students and workers from across the globe.
When it comes to your education choices, there are 6 universities receiving government funding in Singapore, as well as several branches of foreign universities that welcome a mixture of local and international students. This means that, whether you are keen to embark on an undergrad program or work on your doctorate, it shouldn’t be difficult to find a university and a course that suits your career goals.
But what is life like as a student in Singapore, and what are the requirements for moving there and enrolling in further education? Read on for helpful tips about studying abroad in Singapore.
The Top Tips for Studying Abroad in Singapore
- Getting Your Visa
- Scholarships And The Cost Of Tuition
- Finding Accommodation
Getting Your Visa
As you may expect, student visas are essential for all foreign students who hope to study in the island nation. Specifically, international students coming to Singapore will require a Student Pass, unless they have either a Dependent’s Pass or an Immigration Exemption Order.
While the exact nature of the requirements for your Student Pass may vary depending on which university you’re planning to study in, it is vital that you have been offered a place on a full-time course. Taking a part-time course will not be enough.
You can check further requirements and find out more about how to apply for your Pass by using the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority. Bear in mind that, if you decide to change your course and move to another institution when you have already been granted a Pass, you will have to go through the whole application process afresh.
Scholarships And The Cost Of Tuition
While the exact cost of your education will vary depending on which school or university you choose to enrol with, it is possible that the tuition fees may be higher than those in your own country.
How much you pay for your education can also vary depending on your nationality, as there are different categories of subsidised payments for Singaporean citizens, permanent residents, and foreign students.
If you are a postgrad student studying a government-subsidised course, you may wish to apply for the Service Obligation Scheme, which allows you to work in the country following your graduation to pay off your tuition.
Finding Accommodation
While Singapore has much to recommend it, the island city is also deemed to be one of the more expensive places to live in the region. As a result, if you plan to study there, you may wish to evaluate different aspects of your lifestyle and find as many ways as you can to cut costs. For example, when it comes to housing, will you choose to live on the university campus or will you share a flat with other students and save some money that way?
If you are eligible as a postgraduate student, you may wish to work in Singapore while studying, earning enough to pay off your fees and also to fund your lifestyle. In this case, you may want to rent or buy your own place, using an experienced company such as PropertyGuru to help you find the best housing loan in Singapore.
If your budget is tight, however, staying on campus is probably your best bet. Not only will you be provided with various amenities, such as – usually – furniture and bathroom facilities, but you will also be able to ask for assistance from your university’s student housing office if you encounter any problems.
What Singapore Has To Offer
Once you have been accepted onto a course and received your Student Pass, it’s time to start planning all of the exciting things you are going to do during your free time in Singapore.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of Singaporean life is undoubtedly the dining opportunities it affords. This cultural melting pot offers mouth-watering delicacies that combine the ingredients and delectable flavours of various regional cuisines, resulting in some truly addictive dishes you will want to order again and again. Some of the most famous meals you can savour during your time in Singapore include Chilli Crab and Hainanese Chicken Rice.
The Lion City also offers plenty to see and do when you are not studying – from relaxing in the verdant local parks, to admiring its manmade waterfalls, embarking on a thrilling Night Safari, or visiting the historic Botanic Gardens. You can also participate in the various colourful cultural festivals and events that are held throughout the year, which include the Singapore Food Festival, the Chingay Parade, Chinese New Year, and Deepavali. Check out the 5 best places to study abroad, visa requirements and job opportunities.