When choosing a study destination, the first factor every student considers is the quality of education. Is the curriculum internationally recognized? Is your chosen field a strength of that country? These are critical factors shaping your future. Instead of distant Western countries, more and more Vietnamese students are choosing Singapore as their ideal destination. This small island nation is not only known for its advanced education system and prestigious degrees, but also offers the potential to expand into larger developed markets.
So, what makes Singapore such an attractive destination in the global quest for knowledge? Let's explore it together with IMMI Centre in the article below.
Advantages of Studying in Singapore
High-Quality Education System
All public and private schools in Singapore are strictly quality-assured by the Singapore Council for Private Education. In particular, private schools must obtain EduTrust certification, which ensures the quality of education and protects the rights of international students. This certification reassures parents that their children will be studying in an internationally standardized environment.
Moreover, Singapore is home to several universities ranked in the world's top 100, such as the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU). Additionally, many other prestigious universities have established research and educational centers here, providing international students with the opportunity to learn from world-renowned professors without having to travel far.
Flexible Education Programs
In addition to its renowned educational quality, Singapore is known for its highly flexible education system, allowing students to shorten their study time significantly compared to other countries. Undergraduate and diploma programs in Singapore can be completed in just 2-3 years, and postgraduate programs can be finished in 1-1.5 years. This is because Singaporean schools have three semesters per year instead of two, helping students save both time and money.
English-Language Learning Environment
As a melting pot of major ethnic groups such as Indian, Malay, Chinese, and Vietnamese, English has gradually become the main language of daily communication and education in Singapore. Interestingly, there is a unique variant called "Singlish," a blend of English and various local languages. Singlish not only makes the language more dynamic but also helps international students quickly adapt to Singapore's diverse culture. The "mixed" words and phrases will feel both familiar and strange, adding a touch of fun the first time you hear them.
Broad Career Opportunities After Graduation
Singapore has strict regulations on part-time work for international students, allowing them to focus more on their studies and personal skill development. As a result, many international graduates in Singapore acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to quickly integrate and succeed in an international work environment.
The Singaporean government also encourages international students to stay and contribute to the country. In fact, the government is willing to provide financial support and opportunities for students to continue studying at more prestigious universities. In return, students are required to work in Singapore for 3-5 years, with competitive salaries. Many international students secure stable employment within just six months of graduating.
No Financial Proof Required for Visa Application
One of the reasons why many international students choose Singapore is the simplicity of the visa application process, especially the fact that financial proof is not required. This is a significant barrier that students aiming for the U.S. or the U.K. often face. By eliminating the need for financial proof, international students save time and reduce the stress of preparing their application. Additionally, Singapore is an ideal stepping stone for students who wish to continue studying in countries like Australia, Canada, or the U.K., as transitioning is easier and smoother after studying here.
Convenient Geographic Location, Easy to Visit Family
Another advantage of studying in Singapore is its close geographic proximity, which makes it easier for Asian students, especially Vietnamese, to visit their families regularly. It only takes a few hours by plane, and airfare is reasonably priced, allowing students to return home during summer, winter, or mid-term breaks, or even for no special occasion at all.
This proximity provides comfort and helps maintain a strong connection with family without enduring long trips. With this advantage, Singapore becomes an ideal destination for Vietnamese students wanting to study abroad while still easily visiting home.
Courses and Fields of Study in Singapore
Primary Level
The program lasts for six years, including a foundational stage (grades 1-4) and an orientation stage (grades 5-6). Students study core subjects such as English, Mother Tongue, Science, Social Studies, Arts, and Physical Education. At the end of grade 6, students take the Primary School Leaving Exam (PSLE).
Secondary Level
Students study for 4-5 years under Special, Express, or Normal streams. They take the GCE ‘O’ Level (Ordinary Level) or GCE ‘N’ Level (Normal Level) exam. After that, they can proceed to junior college, continue with A-Level studies (pre-university), or choose a diploma program.
Pre-University
Students can study a pre-university program lasting 2-3 years to take the GCE-A Level (Advanced Level) exam, including subjects such as Advanced English and Mother Tongue.
University Level
Singapore has six public universities and over 300 private institutions offering various programs with international links. Key fields of study include Information Technology, Business and Management, Healthcare, Engineering, and Finance and Banking.
Master’s Programs
Lasting 1-2 years, with the option for students to work while studying.
Short-Term Study Programs
Most short-term courses focus on English language skills, particularly listening, speaking, and vocabulary, to build a solid foundation for the IELTS exam and open up study opportunities in major countries.
Summer Study Programs
These short-term study programs are an important stepping stone for students planning long-term study in Singapore. Summer programs allow students to explore and experience the beautiful country of Singapore while becoming familiar with its academic environment and gaining necessary skills and knowledge for future study.
Conditions for Studying in Singapore
Singapore has fairly straightforward admission requirements while ensuring the international quality of its degrees, with general conditions including:
No entrance exams are required for many programs; however, some programs like A-Level or pre-university might require an entrance test.
No financial proof is needed when applying for a visa.
Students can enroll immediately after completing grades 9, 10, or 11, depending on the program. However, for university or college levels, a high school diploma is required.
English proficiency certificates are not required for many programs, though IELTS or TOEFL might be needed for higher levels of study, or students may attend an English course before starting the main program.
Specific requirements for each educational level in Singapore include:
English Program: No certificate required, but there is a placement test to determine class level.
Pre-university: For students in grades 10-11, or those who have completed O-Level/GCSE.
O-Level: For students in grades 9-10, IELTS 4.5 required.
A-Level: For students in grade 11, IELTS 6.0 required.
College: High school diploma required, IELTS 5.5, or students can attend an English course in Singapore if they don’t have this qualification.
University: High school diploma required, IELTS 6.0, or students can attend an English course if they don’t meet the requirement.
Master's Degree: University degree required, IELTS 6.0-6.5, no work experience required.
Tuition Fees for Studying in Singapore
After choosing the educational level and major, students will select a school with tuition fees that match their family's financial condition, depending on the school and the study program. Examples include:
English Program: Around 4,500 – 7,500 SGD per course (6 months)
College – Advanced College: Around 9,000 – 13,000 SGD per course (9 months)
University: Around 13,000 – 25,000 SGD per year
Master’s Degree: Around 16,000 – 25,000 SGD per year.
Top Universities in Singapore
University Name | Type |
National University of Singapore (NUS) | Public |
Nanyang Technological University (NTU) | Public |
Singapore Management University (SMU) | Public |
James Cook University Singapore | Private (in partnership with Australia) |
Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) | Private |
Curtin Singapore | Private (in partnership with Australia) |
INSEAD Singapore | Private (in partnership with France) |
PSB Academy | Private |
Management Development Institute of Singapore (MDIS) | Private |
Kaplan Business School Singapore | Private (in partnership with Australia) |
TUM Asia (Technische Universität München Asia) | Public (in partnership with Germany) |
LaSalle College of the Arts | Private |
Raffles Design Institute | Private |
S P Jain School of Global Management | Private (in partnership with India, Australia, UAE) |
East Asia Institute of Management (EASB) | Private |
Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) | Public |
FAQ?
1. Can international students work part-time in Singapore?
Most schools in Singapore do not allow international students to work part-time, unless the school is on the list of institutions approved by the government. According to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) regulations, students studying at public schools or private schools on the approved list can work a maximum of 16 hours per week, usually only during long holidays.
2. How much are living expenses and accommodation costs in Singapore?
Living expenses for international students in Singapore typically range from 800 to 1,500 SGD per month, depending on lifestyle and living choices. This amount includes food, transportation, entertainment, and other personal expenses. For accommodation, rental costs can range from 500 to 1,500 SGD per month, depending on the type of accommodation (dormitory, apartment, or private house), as well as the location.
3. Are there many scholarship opportunities when studying in Singapore?
Singapore offers many attractive scholarship programs for international students, from government-level scholarships to those offered by top universities. Notable scholarships include the ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship, Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA), and Nanyang Scholarship. These scholarships cover full or partial tuition fees, along with living allowances for students attending eligible institutions.
Additionally, many universities in Singapore have their own scholarship policies to encourage and support international students with outstanding abilities. For more details and to choose the scholarship that best suits your level of study, please contact IMMI Centre for the best advice and assistance.
4. Why choose IMMI Centre when studying in Singapore?
Choosing IMMI Centre as your companion on the journey of studying in Singapore brings many outstanding benefits, making your study abroad experience easier and more effective:
Personalized roadmap consultation and detailed information on admission requirements, scholarships, and job opportunities after graduation in Singapore based on each student's specific profile.
Assistance with school applications, scholarship applications, and visa processing.
Comprehensive support throughout the study abroad process and guidance for students to choose the best path after graduation.
If you are interested and want to learn more about the right study abroad plan, please contact IMMI Centre for detailed advice and the best support on your study abroad journey!
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