Study in Singapore - Top Universities, Courses, Cost and Scholarships

Kasturika Samanta

11 min read

Updated On Aug 05, 2024

Studying in Singapore provides top-tier education, career opportunities, & safety for international students. Key institutions like NUS and NTU rank highly and scholarships, reasonable living costs, & employment prospects make it a desirable destination.

Best Universities to Study in Singapore for Indian Students
Top Courses in Singapore
Cost of Studying in Singapore for Indian Students
Scholarships in Singapore for Indian Students
Employment Opportunities in Singapore for Foreigners
Useful Resources

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Study in Singapore ensures a bright future for international students from all over the globe. It is supported by the fact that Singapore ranks 15th in the QS Best Student Cities 2025 and highlights its attractiveness as a premier destination for higher education.

This guide covers the best universities, top courses in Singapore, the university cost in Singapore, and the numerous scholarships available to international students.

Best Universities to Study in Singapore for Indian Students

Singapore is home to several esteemed educational institutions, such as Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and the National University of Singapore (NUS), both of which are ranked in the top 20 worldwide universities by the QS World University Rankings 2025.

Let’s explore the Singapore university list with their global ranking, popular courses and acceptance rates.

Top Universities in Singapore	QS World University Ranking 2025	Popular Courses	Acceptance Rate
National University of Singapore	8	Computer Science Engineering Business Administration Medicine Law Social Sciences	5-7%
Nanyang Technological University	15	Engineering Business Computer Science Communication Studies Biological Sciences Environmental Studies	20-25%
Singapore University of Technology and Design	=440	Engineering Product Development (EPD) Engineering Systems and Design (ESD) Information Systems Technology and Design (ISTD) Architecture and Sustainable Design (ASD) Design and Artificial Intelligence (DAI)	8-10%
Singapore Management University	=585	Accountancy Business Management Economics Information Systems Law	49%

Other popular universities for Singapore study are:

Singapore Institute of Management
James Cook University, Singapore
INSEAD, Singapore
Curtin Singapore
SIM Global Education
PSB Academy

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Top Courses in Singapore

The country is renowned for offering high-quality educational programs that attract international students to study in Singapore.

Here are some of the top courses popular among international and local students, offered by the universities in Singapore:

Engineering & Science Courses to Study in Singapore

Singapore is equipped with state of art facilities that provide an opportunity to the students studying in Singapore to aim for innovation and technological advancement.

University Name	Popular Course	Minimum Eligibility
National University of Singapore	Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering) Bachelor of Science (Physics) Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering)	Year 12 or higher level pass in Mathematics A minimum of 60% aggregate marks each in SSC and HSSC OR equivalent exams (as per IBCC equivalence) TOEFL IBT: 85-94/ IELTS: 6.0-7.0
Nanyang Technological University	Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical and Electronic Engineering) Bachelor of Science (Mathematics and Economics) Bachelor of Engineering (Civil Engineering)	At least 12 years of general education (GCE A-levels) IB Diploma, or equivalent IELTS: 6.5
Singapore University of Technology and Design	Bachelor of Engineering (Engineering Product Development) Bachelor of Science (Architecture and Sustainable Design) Bachelor of Engineering (Information Systems Technology and Design)	At least 12 years of general education or Year 12 national/international examination in the year of application Students with strong competency in Mathematics and the Sciences, i.e. Physics or Chemistry IELTS - 6+/TOEFL - 85+
James Cook University Singapore	Bachelor of Science (Marine Biology)	12 years of schooling ATAR/Selection Rank: 70.00 IELTS- 6.0 Minimum GPA of 5.0 out of 7.0. Certificates or grade reports

Law Courses to Study in Singapore

Law courses in Singapore prepare students to practice in Singapore as well as globally as they provide comprehensive legal knowledge and skills.

University Name	Popular Course	Minimum Eligibility
National University of Singapore	Bachelor of Laws (LLB) Master of Laws (LLM Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Law	A university degree in any non-law discipline with at least a Cum Laude or Second Class Upper Honours degree or its equivalent IELTS - 7.5/TOEFL - 100 Shortlisted applicants must undergo an interview and a written test.
Singapore Management University	Bachelor of Laws (LLB) Juris Doctor (JD) Master of Laws (LLM)	Bachelor’s degree in law or related disciplines Good GRE result (aggregate - 320+) IELTS - 7.5/TOEFL - 100+
Singapore University of Social Sciences	Bachelor of Laws (LLB) Master of Taxation Graduate Diploma in Legal Studies	Bachelor's degree AND substantial work experience Demonstrate aptitude to practise law through taking the UK Law National Aptitude Test (LNAT) Full CV detailing their work experience IELTS - 6.5/TOEFL - 85

Computer Science & IT Courses to Study in Singapore

Computer science and IT courses are quite popular among international students who come to study in Singapore, just like the Engineering and Science courses. They offer cutting-edge curriculum and practical experience that makes them one of the best in the country.

University Name	Popular Course	Minimum Eligibility
National University of Singapore	Bachelor of Computing (Computer Science) Bachelor of Computing (Information Systems) Bachelor of Computing (Business Analytics)	A bachelor's degree in computing; or. A bachelor's degree in a related discipline GRE score - 320/or GMAT score - 700 and above IELTS - 6.5/TOEFL - 90
Nanyang Technological University	Bachelor of Engineering (Computer Engineering) Bachelor of Science (Data Science and Artificial Intelligence) Bachelor of Science (Cybersecurity)	Pass in Senior High School Level Mathematics or Physics at Senior High School Level or UK CIE A Level Computer Science SAT: 1250/ACT: 30. IELTS - 6.5/TOEFL - 105
Singapore Management University	Bachelor of Science (Information Systems) Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) Bachelor of Science (Computing and Law)	Bachelor's degree with good honors Substantial work experience in tech department of any business domain cGPA of 3.4/4.0 IELTS - 6.5/TOEFL - 90 Cover Letter Curriculum Vitae Copies of Degree Certificates and Transcripts Two Referee Reports
Singapore University of Technology and Design	Bachelor of Engineering (Information Systems Technology and Design)	12 years of general education or Year 12 national/international examination in the year of application Strong competency in Mathematics and the Sciences, i.e. Physics or Chemistry, are generally preferred SAT score - 1550 IELTS - 6+/TOEFL - 85+
Singapore Institute of Technology	Bachelor of Engineering (Software Engineering)	A-level / IB Diploma graduates, and holders of equivalent Year 12 qualifications Relevant professional or industrial certifications IELTS - 6.5+/TOEFL - 80+

Business Management Courses to Study in Singapore

Business management courses in Singapore enable aspiring students to develop a global perspective and analytical thinking and to become innovative leaders in the field of business.

University Name	Popular Course	Minimum Eligibility
National University of Singapore	Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Master of Business Administration (MBA) Executive MBA	Bachelor’s degree Minimum 2 years of post-bachelor’s full-time work experience GMAT - 670/GRE ((Verbal/Quant) - 155/165 IELTS -7/TOEFL - 100
Nanyang Technological University	Bachelor of Business (Business Administration) Master of Business Administration (MBA) Nanyang Fellows MBA	Bachelor's Degree Minimum of 2 years of work experience Competitive GMAT/GMAT Focus or GRE score. TOEFL IBT - >100/ IELTS - > 6.5
Singapore Management University	Bachelor of Business Management (BBM) Master of Business Administration (MBA) Executive MBA	A good Bachelor's degree in any undergraduate field from a reputable institution. A minimum post-degree work experience of 2 years upon application. A good GMAT or GRE score IELTS - 7/TOEFL - 93
INSEAD Asia Campus	Master of Business Administration (MBA) Executive MBA Master in Finance	Details/Certificates of previous studies Full-time work experience of at least two years IELTS - 7.5/TOEFL - 103
James Cook University Singapore	Bachelor of Business Master of Business Administration (MBA) Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)	Bachelor's Degree 4 years full-time equivalent professional work experience IELTS - 6.5/TOEFL - 86/PTE Academic - 58

Economics & Finance Courses to Study in Singapore

Students in Singapore can expect to gain extensive knowledge of economic theories, financial markets, and analytical skills through economics and finance courses, preparing them for careers in finance and economics.

University Name	Popular Course	Minimum Eligibility
National University of Singapore	Bachelor of Social Sciences (Economics) Master of Science (Finance) Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Economics	At least 12 years of general education ACT - 29 (Composite) SAT - 600-650 IELTS - 7/TOEFL - 100
Nanyang Technological University	Bachelor of Business (Banking and Finance) Master of Science (Finance) PhD in Finance	Completed High School national examinations SAT - 1250/ACT - 30 (Composite) Subject specific requirements IELTS - 6/TOEFL - 90
Singapore Management University	Bachelor of Business Management (Finance) Master of Science in Applied Finance PhD in Finance	Minimum 12 years of formal education SAT - 1350 Interview for shortlisted applicants only IELTS - 7+/TOEFL - 93+
Singapore University of Social Sciences	Bachelor of Science (Finance) Master of Finance Graduate Diploma in Financial Engineering	Minimum 12 years of formal education SAT - 1260 IELTS - 6.5/TOEFL - 85

Medicine Courses to Study in Singapore

In Singapore, medicine courses are tailored to develop competent and compassionate individuals in the healthcare field. These programs provide extensive medical education and research prospects.

University Name	Popular Course	Minimum Eligibility
National University of Singapore	Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) Doctor of Medicine (MD) Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Medical Sciences	Year 12 or higher level pass in Chemistry and Biology or Physics ACT - 29 (Composite) SAT - 600-650 IELTS - 7/TOEFL - 100
Duke-NUS Medical School	Doctor of Medicine (MD) PhD in Integrated Biology and Medicine MD-PhD Track	Bachelor or honours degree Graduate Medical School Admissions Test (GAMSAT) or Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) results. 3 – 5 references IELTS - 7/TOEFL - 85
Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine (a partnership between NTU and Imperial College London)	Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) PhD in Medicine Doctor of Medicine (MD)	Good score on the NEET At least a 50 percent average in physics, chemistry, and biology to pass the 10+2 requirement IELTS - 7/TOEFL - 100

Hospitality & Tourism Courses to Study in Singapore

The hospitality and tourism courses in the top Singapore university list equip students with skills required to handle the demands of this field and thrive in their respective career.

University Name	Popular Course	Minimum Eligibility
Singapore Institute of Technology	Bachelor of Hospitality Business Bachelor of Science in Hotel Administration Master of Science in Hospitality Business	‘A’ Level/ Year 12 examination results (Entry Qualification) ‘O’ Level/ Year 10 examination results IELTS - 6/PTE - 42 Course specific requirements
Nanyang Technological University	Bachelor of Science (Hospitality and Tourism Management) Bachelor of Business (Tourism) Master of Science (Tourism and Hospitality)	2x GCE A Level or formal Year-12 education or IB Diploma; or Polytechnic diploma in relevant areas of Tourism and Hospitality IELTS - 5.5 or equivalent At least 17 years of age at the time of application. Applicants who do not meet the minimum English Language proficiency requirements are required to sit and pass the NIM English Proficiency Test
Singapore Management University	Bachelor of Business Management (Hospitality) Master of Science in Hospitality Leadership Graduate Certificate in Tourism Management	Bachelor’s degree in law or related disciplines SAT - 1350/ACT - 29 (composite) IELTS - 7/TOEFL - 93
James Cook University Singapore	Bachelor of Business (Tourism, Hospitality and Events) Master of Tourism and Hospitality Management PhD in Tourism	12 years of schooling or equivalent Attendance Requirements IELTS - 6/TOEFL - 74
PSB Academy	Bachelor of Business in Hotel Management Diploma in Tourism and Hospitality Management Master of International Tourism and Hotel Management	Higher Secondary School Certificates or equivalent/GCE A-Level (three subjects grade B or higher)/International Baccalaureate (IB)European Baccalaureate (EB) Course specific requirements IELTS - 6.5

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Cost of Studying in Singapore for Indian Students

Studying in Singapore can be a significant investment, but the quality of education and global exposure make it a popular destination for international students, including those from India.

Here’s a table summarizing the university of Singapore fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs:

University	Annual Undergraduate Tuition Fees (SGD)	Annual Postgraduate Tuition Fees (SGD)
National University of Singapore	29,000 - 55,000	25,000 - 55,000
Nanyang Technological University	20,000 - 50,000	25,000 - 55,000
Singapore Management University	20,000 - 30,000	25,000 - 40,000
Singapore University of Technology and Design	30,000 - 35,000	30,000 - 40,000
Singapore Institute of Technology	22,000 - 30,000	25,000 - 35,000
Singapore University of Social Sciences	30,000 - 33,000	30,000 - 40,000
James Cook University Singapore	18,000 - 24,000	25,000 - 35,000

Living Expenses for Indian Students in Singapore

Apart from the university cost in Singapore, a student's monthly living expenses in Singapore usually fall within the range of ₹92,500 to ₹1,54,100. This estimate covers everyday necessities such as food, lodging, and transportation.

However, here is a general breakdown of the costs that Indian students might incur while studying in Singapore.

Expense Type	Annual Cost Range (SGD)	Annual Cost Range (INR)
Accommodation	2,400 - 30,000	1,47,840 - 1,846,800
Food	3,600 - 7,200	2,21,016 - 4,43,712
Transportation	1,200 - 1,800	73,872 - 1,10,808
Utilities	1,200 - 2,400	73,872 - 1,47,744
Mobile and Internet	600 - 1,200	36,936 - 73,872
Books and Study Materials	500 - 1,000	30,780 - 61,560
Health Insurance	300 - 500	18,468 - 30,780

Scholarships in Singapore for Indian Students

Scholarships, grants as well as other financial aids cut the costs for deserving students, who cannot study in Singapore despite having high test scores.

The table below summaries some scholarships in Singapore for Indian students, including stipend amounts and eligibility criteria.

Scholarship Name	Benefits	Eligibility Criteria
Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)	Full tuition fees coverage Monthly stipend - SGD 2,700	International students pursuing a PhD in science and engineering fields Excellent academic record, research ability, and leadership potential.
ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship (AUS)	Full coverage of subsidised tuition fees Accommodation allowance - SGD 3,000 per academic year Living allowance - SGD 5,800 yearly One off computer allowance of SGD 1,750	ASEAN nationals pursuing undergraduate studies at NUS, NTU, or SMU. Academic excellence, leadership qualities, and community involvement.
Nanyang Scholarship (NTU)	Monthly stipend - SGD 3,500 Book Allowance - SGD 500 annually IT Allowance - One time allowance of SGD 1,500	International students applying for undergraduate studies at NTU. Academic excellence, leadership potential, and strong co-curricular records.
NTU President's Graduate Scholarship	Covers tuition fees Monthly stipend - SGD 3,200	International students pursuing a PhD or master's by research at NTU. Excellent academic record and research potential.
Lee Kong Chian Graduate Scholarships	Monthly stipend - SGD 3,300 Annual book allowance - SGD 500 One-time laptop allowance - SGD 1,500 Travel allowance of two return tickets up to SGD 4,000	International students pursuing a PhD at NUS Academic excellence, research ability, and leadership potential Strong academic record and relevant research experience.

Employment Opportunities in Singapore for Foreigners

Employment opportunities in Singapore for foreign students, including starting salaries, can vary based on factors such as qualifications, experience, and industry.

Here's a general overview of some common employment sectors and their approximate starting salaries:

Industry	Roles	Starting Monthly Salary Range (SGD)
Information Technology	Software Engineer, IT Consultant	3,000 - 5,000
Finance and Banking	Financial Analyst, Investment Banking Analyst	3,500 - 6,000
Engineering	Mechanical Engineer, Electrical Engineer	3,000 - 5,000
Healthcare	Medical Technologist, Research Assistant	2,800 - 4,500
Education	Teaching Assistant, Research Assistant	2,500 - 4,000
Hospitality and Tourism	Hotel Management Trainee, Event Coordinator	2,000 - 3,500
Consulting	Management Consultant, Business Analyst	3,500 - 6,000

Singapore Study: Top Recruiters and Return of investment

According to Henley & Partners, Singapore has been ranked as the 4th richest country in the world, overtaking London, which is now at 5th position. As a result, with world-class educational institutions like NUS and NTU that have an eye for innovation and technological advancement, study in Singapore has become popular among international students.

Moreover, with lowest natural disaster risk, the second-lowest in health security risk, infrastructure security risk and digital security risk, the country is also ideal for students looking for a safe as well as modern destination to study that will not burn a hole in their pockets.

However, employment opportunities in Singapore for foreigners with top recruiters also play an important role when students decide to study in a foreign country. Here is a table of some of the top recruitment agencies in Singapore, along with their average base salaries:

Top Company	Popular Fields	Average Base Salary (SGD)
Randstad Manufacturing & Logistics	Manufacturing, Logistics, Engineering	70,000 - 90,000
Hays Companies	Technology, Finance, Life Sciences	92,400
Michael Page	Finance, Marketing, Sales	80,000 - 100,000
Robert Half	Accounting, Finance, IT	75,000 - 95,000
Adecco Staffing	Administrative, Industrial, IT	70,000 - 90,000
JAC Recruitment	Finance, Technology, Healthcare	80,000 - 100,000
Kelly Services	Science, Engineering, IT	70,000 - 90,000
Manpower	IT, Engineering, Administrative	75,000 - 95,000
BGC Group	Finance, Sales, IT	70,000 - 90,000
Morgan McKinley	Banking, Finance, IT	80,000 - 100,000
Trust Recruit	Engineering, Manufacturing, Logistics	70,000 - 90,000
JB Hired	Technology, Sales, Marketing	80,000 - 100,000

In conclusion, studying in Singapore offers Indian students a gateway to unparalleled educational standards, diverse career pathways, and a global network, positioning them for success in an increasingly interconnected world.

Useful Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to study in Singapore?

A three-year course in Singapore typically costs between SGD 25,000 and SGD 40,000. The cost of tuition at public institutions is less than that at private universities.

Is Singapore good for study?

Yes, Singapore is an excellent place to study for international students. It boasts world-class universities, emphasizes innovation and practical learning, preparing students with skills highly sought after in the global job market.

Can I go to Singapore after 12th?

Yes, you can go to Singapore after completing your 12th grade education. Singapore offers various pathways for international students at different educational levels.

Is Singapore accepting Indian students?

Yes, Singapore continues to welcome Indian students for higher education. Indian students are valued for their academic achievements, cultural diversity, and contributions to Singapore's vibrant academic community.

What is the Singapore visa fees in Indian rupees for students?

The Singapore study visa cost is SGD 120 which is approximately INR 7,385.