Studying in Singapore
The Lion City is one of the most competitive countries in Asia and is renowned worldwide for its government transparency, first-rate infrastructure, excellent public facilities and quality education.
Its close proximity and relatively affordable cost of living and tuition fees mean that you can enjoy the pleasures of studying for a world-class postgraduate qualification overseas without being too far from home. The country is also home to a variety of local and foreign universities, colleges and polytechnics that offer local and international degrees in a wide range of field specialisations.
Visa Requirements
All foreign students who will be studying full-time in Singapore must obtain a visa and a student pass. To apply for a student pass, you will need to be offered a full-time course in a recognised institution. After that, you will need to submit your application to the Immigration & Checkpoint Authority (ICA), within two months before the commencement of your course.
For the visa, you will need a valid passport, three recent passport-sized photographs, the letter of acceptance from your institution, proof of sufficient funds and transcripts of previous studies, three copies of the completed visa application form and other documents as specified. For more information, visit the Singapore High Commission website.
Language of Instruction
English. In most cases, you will need to prove your proficiency by submitting scores of standardised English tests such as TOEFL or IELTS.
Work Options
International students who are enrolled in full-time study at an institution approved by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) are allowed to work for up to 16 hours a week without a work pass during the academic year.
Tuition Fees
The average annual tuition fee for international students is RM40,000 but it will vary depending on the course you choose and your selected institution.
Living in Singapore
Generally, you will need between RM3,000 to RM6,200 per month to cover accommodation and utilities, food, transport, and other expenses. The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), a highly reliable and extensive train network and public buses are available from 5.30am onwards until a little over midnight. Students from public institutions can also take advantage of the concession fares available for both modes of transport.
Airfare
The cost for a return ticket to Singapore is about RM350 inclusive of travel insurance and tax. A round trip by bus will set you back about RM45 to about RM100 on average, while the average cost by KTM train is about RM20 to RM150. Do take note that there will be significant differences in price for the KTM and bus if you are travelling from anywhere other than Kuala Lumpur.
Health Insurance
Most universities include health insurance in their miscellaneous fees. The amount varies according to the institution.
Scholarships
There are a number of scholarships for Malaysian students to pursue undergraduate studies in Singapore. Most of these scholarships are either specific to the country of origin or to the universities themselves. Alternatively, you can consider student loans, tuition grants or bursaries where you can study for your degree on a discounted price or for free, and in place, you just have to work in Singapore for a predetermined number of years (usually three). To find out more, visit Singapore's Ministry of Education website or the websites of the respective universities.
Local contact
Singapore High Commission
209, Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala Lumpur
