Singapore stands out as a premier destination for international students, offering a blend of high-quality education, multicultural exposure, and a gateway to global career opportunities. Known for its rigorous educational standards and vibrant cosmopolitan lifestyle, Singapore is ideal for students seeking a dynamic learning environment.

Benefits of Studying in Singapore

World-Class Universities:

Singapore is home to several top-ranked universities which are renowned for their strong research outputs, innovative teaching methodologies, and high employability rates of graduates.

Strategic Hub for Commerce and Trade:

Often labeled as the gateway to Asia, Singapore’s strategic location and status as a global business hub provide students with unparalleled opportunities for networking and career advancement. The presence of numerous multinational corporations offers a plethora of internships and employment opportunities post-graduation.

Diverse Educational Offerings:

• Universities: Singapore’s universities are competitive and cutting-edge, with strong focuses on research, technology, and entrepreneurship. Admission to these universities is highly competitive, reflecting their prestige and the quality of education they offer.
• Polytechnics and Technical Institutes: These institutions provide practical and industry-relevant education that prepares students for professional careers in various sectors such as information technology, engineering, and media.
• Private Colleges: In addition to public institutions, Singapore has a number of private colleges that offer flexible study options, including part-time degrees and diplomas, catering to students who require different modes of learning.

Simplified Visa Requirements:

Singapore offers a straightforward visa application process for international students, which simplifies the logistics of studying abroad and makes Singapore an accessible destination for many.

Scholarships

The Singapore government offers a range of scholarships for international students who wish to study in Singapore. Here are some of the most well-known government-funded Singapore scholarships for international students are: 

• Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) 

• ASTAR Research Attachment Programme (ARAP) 

• ASEAN Scholarship 

• Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship 

• Singapore International Pre-Graduate Award (SIPGA) 

• Singapore Government Scholarship 

Note that the eligibility criteria, application procedures, and benefits for these scholarships may vary, so it is recommended that interested students visit the respective scholarship websites for more information. 

Non-governmental Singapore scholarships for international students 

There are several non-governmental scholarships available for Indian students who wish to study in Singapore. Here are a few options: 

• Nanyang Technological University (NTU) – Nanyang Scholarship 

• National University of Singapore (NUS) – Global Merit Scholarship 

• Singapore Management University (SMU) – Lee Kong Chian Scholars’ Programme 

• Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) – SUTD Global Excellence Scholarship 

• INSEAD Business School – INSEAD Scholarship for Emerging Markets 

It’s important to note that scholarship availability and eligibility criteria may change from year to year, so it’s always a good idea to check with the individual universities for the most up-to-date information. International students may also be eligible for other university-specific scholarships offered by the universities or external organisations.  More information can be found at the office of admissions websites of the respective universities. 

Timelines for Admission

Singapore’s universities typically have two main intakes for most academic programs, aligning with the academic calendar. Here are the general intake timelines: 

August Intake (Primary Intake) 

• Application Deadlines: Applications for the August intake usually close between December and March of the preceding academic year. However, specific deadlines can vary depending on the university and program. 

• Semester Start: The academic year typically begins in August and runs through to December for the first semester. 

January Intake (Secondary Intake) 

• Application Deadlines: Applications for the January intake generally close between July and September of the preceding year. Again, specific deadlines can vary by university and program. 

• Semester Start: The second semester typically begins in January and runs through to May. 

The intake season for polytechnics is: April and September.