
Next Level College Application
Singapore
What’s Unique About Applying to the Singapore University System
​
1. Highly Competitive, Globally Ranked Universities
-
Singapore has a small number of top-tier public universities with strong global reputations:
-
National University of Singapore (NUS)
-
Nanyang Technological University (NTU)
-
Singapore Management University (SMU)
-
Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD)
-
-
These schools are research-intensive and highly selective—especially for international students.
2. University-Direct Applications
-
You apply directly to each university—there’s no centralized system like UCAS or the Common App.
-
Application deadlines are typically:
-
January–March for August intake
-
Some programs may have earlier deadlines (e.g., scholarships or interviews)
-
3. Program-Specific Applications
-
Like the UK and Australia, you apply to a specific course or major (e.g., Business, Engineering, Global Studies).
-
You’ll need to show a strong academic background in relevant subjects.
4. Admissions Based on Academics + Holistic Factors
-
For international applicants, schools consider:
-
Final transcripts (e.g., IB, A-Levels, APs, SATs, etc.)
-
Standardized tests are often required, depending on your curriculum:
-
IB Diploma, A-Levels, and some national curriculums are accepted directly
-
Students with a U.S. high school diploma may need SAT/ACT + SAT Subject Tests or AP exams
-
-
Essays, portfolios (for design programs), and interviews may be required for certain programs (e.g., at SMU or SUTD)
-
5. Language Requirements
-
Most undergraduate programs are taught in English, and English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) is required if English isn’t your first language.
6. Merit-Based Scholarships
-
Top students can apply for generous scholarships, including:
-
Tuition grants (which often come with a bond to work in Singapore for 3 years after graduation)
-
Full or partial scholarships that may cover tuition, housing, and living expenses
-
-
Scholarships are highly competitive and often require a separate application or early deadlines.
7. Global + Asian Perspective
-
Singapore’s universities focus on being a global education hub with a strong Asian context.
-
Programs often include exchange opportunities, industry internships, and multi-disciplinary learning (especially at NUS and SMU).
8. Cost and Visas
-
Tuition for international students ranges from SGD 20,000–50,000 per year, depending on the program.
-
Students can apply for the Tuition Grant, but this often comes with a service obligation to work in Singapore after graduation.
-
Student visa (Student Pass) is arranged after admission and is usually straightforward to obtain.