Singaporean weather is warm and humid throughout the year. Due to its geographical location as well as maritime exposure the climate is characterized by uniform temperature and pressure, high humidity and abundant rainfall. The average temperature is around 25 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius. It never snows in Singapore and the climate is seldom extreme in all parts of the country.
Undergraduate fees for international students during an academic year range from 17,550 to 60,800 Singaporean dollars while the postgraduate fees ranged from 18,950 to 52,750 SAD. Science, engineering and medical programmes usually fall at the higher end of these scales. Course costs vary widely depending on the level of study and what subject and institution you choose, so it is best to check with the university that you're applying to.
Government support available at Ministry of Education, Singapore is always worth researching about. Scholarships available generally depend on the country of your origin, for example, ASEAN scholarships are for students who are from a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. International students on many degree programmes (who have not been awarded a scholarship) are eligible to pay significantly reduced tuition fees. However, if you take up this offer you'll have to agree with the MOE to work in the country for at least three years after your course ends. Alternatively, repayable tuition fee loans are available to postgraduates who are not on a scholarship.
Ministry of Manpower, Singapore states that international students on a Student Pass in Singapore are eligible to work part-time for about 16 hours a week during term and for unlimited hours during vacation, provided that:
It is important to recognize that students studying in the university/ institution which are not on the list of approved institutions are not eligible to work part-time or full-time both during the term and/ or vacation.
Most scholarships are merit-based and look for candidates with exemplary records throughout their academic careers. These scholarships are provided to brilliant students from lower economic backgrounds or underdeveloped countries, to give them a chance at a better life.
The following are the most sought-after courses in Singapore in order of their appeal.
Education in Singapore is considered unique and superior because the classes are focused on teaching the students specific problem solving skills and topics/subjects. The classroom is highly scripted and the course curriculum is focused on teaching students practical skills that will help them solve problems in real life. Singaporean authorities are also constantly trying to re-evaluate and improve the education system in the country. Singapore has stopped listing the top-scoring student on the national exam in order to ease some of the pressure students may feel. Singapore has also incorporated a strategy called Teach Less, Learn More, which encourages teachers to focus on the quality of education, not the quantity.
Government Universities in Singapore normally have two intakes i.e. August and February while the private institutes offer multiple intakes such as January, February, July, August, September, and October.
Universities in Singapore generally test the English proficiency of a student on the basis of English Language Tests such as IELTS, TOEFL and PTE which are mandatory for fulfilling the criteria.
For Undergraduate courses, some universities require SAT (Scholarship Aptitude Test) or ACT (American College Testing).
For Postgraduate courses, some universities may require GRE or GMAT.
It is important to note that some universities in Singapore have their own entrance exams which the students need to appear for to secure admission in that university.
Students who have secured an offer from a university in Singapore and hold a student pass for an approved list of institutions managed by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) are eligible for an internship in Singapore. In order to carry out an internship in Singapore for other participants – a work permit is mandatory.
Valid passport – For at least 3 months beyond the stay period in Singapore
Completed Student Visa Application Forms – ICA form 16 & Form V36
The offer letter
Bank Statements - Funds to be shown = Tuition fee + 8400 SGD
Application fee payment receipt, as you are required to pay S$30.
Transcripts, diplomas, degrees, or certificates from schools you attended
GRE, GMAT IELTS or TOEFL scores
Two passport-sized photographs
Fixed Deposit Receipts (if necessary)
Bank loan sanction letter (if necessary)
Proof of finances
Singapore student visa unfortunately, doesn’t allow dependents such as a spouse or a child to accompany the student. They can only join the student once they start working after the completion of studies. In order to work, the student will also require an Employment Pass.
As an international student who has completed his/her graduation from a particular university in Singapore, you will be allowed to apply for a 'Long Term Visit Pass' which enables a student to stay in Singapore for a maximum period of 1 year even if they don't have a job.
