Singapore

What’s Unique About Applying to the Singapore University System

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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.