Study in Singapore

Understanding Education in Singapore

Every year, an interesting mix of students from all over the world make their way to Singapore to partake in world-class educational programs at all levels. School and tuition fees in Singapore are competitive. In addition, top American and European institutions with programs in Singapore offer Asian students the chance to gain a respected degree at a cost of living substantially lower than in America and Europe.

The type of institution you study at depends on your area of study and desired qualifications. Singapore's higher education institutions consist of Universities, Polytechnics, the Institute of Technical Education, and other independent educational institutions.

• Institute of Technical Education — Study areas include applied sciences, business, design and media, electronics & ICT, engineering and hospitality, via full-time, part-time or traineeship courses.
• Polytechnics — Practice-oriented training for specific workplace skills, available at diploma and degree levels, including continuing professional development.
• University — Publicly funded, private, national and foreign branch campuses offering undergraduate and postgraduate courses across most fields. Bachelor's: 3–4 years; Master's: 1–2 years; PhD: 2–5 years.

Life in Singapore

Singapore has repeatedly been ranked the world's most globalized country — a melting pot of cultures attracting talent from all over the world. With more than 85,000 global students from over 120 countries, you will have unparalleled opportunities to network with future thought leaders and industry stalwarts from all parts of the world.

The teaching style is systematic, application-oriented and draws on academic traditions from both East and West. Students are encouraged to understand the purpose behind what they learn, equipping them with real-world application of class content. University culture is generally competitive, with students often conducting independent research alongside coursework.

The Admissions Process in Singapore

You can apply directly to your chosen institution through an online application. There may be limits on how many courses you can apply for at any given institution — contact your AEC counsellor for specific details.

Eligibility Exams for Singapore

• Competitive Examination — Students seeking admission to Singapore universities may be required to take an entrance examination conducted and evaluated by the university.
• GMAT — Required for MBA, postgraduate and doctoral courses in management-related subjects. Register at mba.com.
• IELTS / TOEFL — Required for students who have not had English as a medium of education. Minimum scores vary by university. Register at ielts.org.

Work and Study in Singapore

Any international student wishing to pursue full-time studies in Singapore at an institution registered with the Ministry of Education (MOE) — or approved by the Commissioner, ICA, to accept international students — must apply for a Student's Pass. Student Pass holders are allowed to work a maximum of 16 hours a week. Part-time jobs can be held during vacation and term time.

If you intend to look for employment after graduation, ensure your Student Pass does not expire. You may apply for a social visit pass at Singapore Immigration & Registration approximately 2 weeks before your Student Pass expires.

Singapore Student Pass / Visa Information

All foreign students accepted into a full-time program at a Singapore Institute of Higher Learning must apply for a Student Pass online through the SOLAR+ system. Some students will also need a visa to enter the country. Once you complete the Student Pass forms online, your host institution lodges your application with the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA). If successful, you complete the formality of collecting your Student Pass in person at an ICA office.

• A valid passport and a photocopy of the passport photo page
• The Disembarkation/Embarkation card granted upon entry into Singapore
• One recent colour, passport-sized photograph taken against a white background
• A printout of the eForm 16 submitted through SOLAR, signed by you
• A photocopy of your IPA (In-Principle Approval)
• A medical report no older than three months, and relevant fees

Visa Procedure — Documents to Carry

When applying for a student visa, take the following documents with you:

• 2 copies each of Form 16, V103, Form V39S and Form V39Q, duly completed and signed by the applicant, local sponsor and school (first set original, second set may be photocopies)
• 2 recent passport-sized photographs (colour or black & white) pasted on the top right of Form 16
• The original and a photocopy of the applicant's official birth certificate
• A photocopy of the applicant's travel-document pages showing full particulars and expiry date (if not in Singapore)
• The local sponsor's identity card
• An original letter of acceptance from the school addressed to the ICA, issued no more than 1 month before applying for the Student Pass