Study abroad
Study in Singapore
Explore subjects, study options, costs, intakes, scholarships and student visa information.
About studying in Singapore
Singapore is a city-state in South-East Asia. As a small country, it has a limited number of higher-education institutions, mostly based in and around Singapore, so it is worth checking exactly which programmes and levels of study are offered locally.
Students interested in digital technology, finance and business services may find the local context especially relevant, and many also compare regional institutions or programmes delivered with partners abroad. Because English is an official language, many programmes are taught in English. The sections below explain subjects, intakes, costs, funding and visa steps.
Why study in Singapore?
There is no single reason to study in Singapore. For some students it is the programme itself; for others it is the setting in South-East Asia, the language or links to a particular industry. It is worth being clear about what matters most to you before comparing options.
- Industry context: Digital technology, finance and business services matter locally, which can make related courses and projects especially relevant.
- Academic choice: institutions offer programmes in areas such as Computing & Information Technology, Economics & Finance and Business & Management, with options differing between universities.
- A close community: study is centred on Singapore, and a small country can mean smaller classes and a close-knit student community.
- Culture and language: living in Singapore means everyday contact with English, Malay, Mandarin Chinese and Tamil and local traditions, which many students find valuable in itself.
Singapore combines its autonomous universities with polytechnics and private institutions, and English is the main language of instruction.
Compare the structure of each programme, how it is assessed and what support is available for international students before you decide.
Top subjects to study in Singapore
Choosing a subject is the first big decision. For Singapore, the areas below are a sensible place to begin; they reflect local strengths such as digital technology, finance and business services, not a league table.
- Computing & Information Technology
- Economics & Finance
- Business & Management
- Maritime & Shipping
- Biological & Life Sciences
- Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies
Courses connected to digital technology, finance and business services can be a good fit for students who want their studies to relate closely to the local economy. Each subject has its own page for Singapore on this site, with its specializations.
It helps to look at specializations within each area as well: two programmes with the same broad subject can lead in quite different directions.
Universities in Singapore
- National University of SingaporeSingapore, Singapore
- THE 2026 #17
- Nanyang Technological University, SingaporeSingapore, Singapore
- THE 2026 Joint #31
Scholarships to Study in Singapore
Scholarships for studying in Singapore are offered by different kinds of organisations, each with its own rules and deadlines.
- government programmes, including schemes run by your own country or by Singapore
- universities and colleges, through institutional awards or fee reductions
- foundations, charities and international organisations
- research funding or assistantships for postgraduate and doctoral students
Eligibility, the amount of support and deadlines vary, and competition can be strong. Apply to several suitable options and confirm what each award covers. Official scholarship providers and university funding pages are the most reliable sources.
Applications often ask for a personal statement, references and academic transcripts, so prepare these early and tailor them to each award.
Intakes to study in Singapore
Many programmes in Singapore start around August, which is the main entry point for most new students. Some institutions also admit students around January, although this second intake is usually available for fewer courses. Exact dates vary by institution and programme.
Application deadlines can fall many months before the course begins, especially for competitive programmes and for students who need a visa. Start by checking the deadline for your specific course, then work backwards to leave time for documents, language tests, applications for funding and the visa process.
Postgraduate research programmes may have more flexible start dates, agreed with a supervisor.
A simple planning checklist:
- shortlist courses and note each start date and deadline
- prepare transcripts, references and any language test results
- apply for scholarships alongside your course applications
- allow time for the visa and for arranging accommodation
Intake dates and deadlines vary by university and course. Always check them with the university.
Cost of studying in Singapore
Budgeting for a degree in Singapore starts with the tuition fee for your specific course, which depends on the institution, subject and level.
When you compare options, look beyond the tuition fee:
- application and registration fees
- course materials, equipment or laboratory costs for some subjects
- health insurance and any visa or permit costs
- accommodation, travel and living expenses for the whole programme
Check the latest fees on each institution’s website and confirm whether they can change during your course.
It is also worth asking how and when fees are paid, whether a deposit is required to secure your place, and how exchange rates could affect the amount you pay from home.
Fees change and differ by university, course and level. Check current fees with each university.
Student visa requirements to study in Singapore
Rules on studying in Singapore as a foreign national depend on your citizenship and course, so the first step is to find out which category applies to you.
Requirements can differ by nationality, programme and length of stay. Depending on the rules, you may be asked for:
- an offer or confirmation of enrolment from a recognised institution
- a valid passport and passport photos
- evidence that you can cover tuition and living costs
- health insurance and, in some cases, medical checks
- proof of language ability or previous qualifications
Visa rules and fees change, so always check the current requirements with official government sources before you apply. Official information: Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) (official government website).
Visa rules change. Always check the official government immigration website before you apply.
Cost of living in Singapore
Your everyday budget in Singapore will depend on your city, your accommodation and your lifestyle.
The main costs to plan for are:
- Accommodation: university housing, shared flats or private rentals, plus deposits
- Food: groceries, cooking at home and eating out
- Transport: local travel and occasional trips home
- Utilities and phone: energy, internet and mobile data
- Insurance and health: any required health cover
- Personal spending: study materials, clothing and social life
On islands and in remote areas, imported goods can raise everyday prices. Current cost estimates from your institution and official sources will help you build a realistic budget for the whole course.
Living costs depend on the city and your lifestyle, and they change over time.
FAQs about studying in Singapore
Is Singapore a good place to study?
It depends on your goals. Singapore offers a small, close-knit study environment, a location in South-East Asia and study in English, Malay, Mandarin Chinese and Tamil. Students interested in digital technology, finance and business services may find the local context especially relevant.
What subjects can I study in Singapore?
Institutions offer a wide range of subjects, including Computing & Information Technology, Economics & Finance, Business & Management and Maritime & Shipping. The subjects page for Singapore lists every subject available here with its specializations.
When do courses start in Singapore?
Many programmes start around August. Apply well ahead of the start date, especially if you need a visa, and check the deadline for each course on the institution’s website.
How much does it cost to study in Singapore?
Costs depend on the institution, programme, level of study and sometimes your nationality. Budget for tuition as well as application fees, insurance, accommodation and living costs, and use the current fees published by each institution.
Do international students need a visa to study in Singapore?
Most international students need a student visa or residence permit. Requirements depend on your nationality and programme, so check the current rules with official government sources, such as Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA).
Are scholarships available for international students in Singapore?
Some funding is available from governments, universities and other organisations, but awards are competitive and eligibility varies. Check official provider websites and apply early.
Which cities are popular with students in Singapore?
Most higher education is based in Singapore. Compare housing options and living costs there alongside your course choice.
Free counselling
Not sure where to begin?
Explore your study-abroad options with guidance.