Study in Singapore for International Students 2027

Planning to study in Singapore as an international student in 2027? You can compare Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD programs at universities that cover fields such as computing, business, engineering, design and the social sciences. Some institutions offer broad degree choices, while others focus on applied learning or a particular field. Start with the course you want, then check whether your qualifications meet its entry requirements. Tuition depends on your program and whether you receive a subsidy. Scholarships in Singapore are available for selected applicants, and some awards come with a service obligation. The language of instruction for degree / English test requirements for admission depend on the university and program. In this guide, we’ll look at which universities to shortlist, what to budget, where to look for funding, and how to apply for a Singapore Student’s Pass.

Study in Singapore at a Glance

• Degree levels - There are multiple degree level programs are available, such as Bachelor’s, coursework Master’s, research Master’s and PhD. You can compare the degree structure and duration on the course page before apply.
• Intakes - The applications are start in July or August for undergraduate and for Graduate intake dates vary by department and program.
• Teaching language - Many degree programs are taught in English. Each course page lists the teaching language and any English evidence it accepts.
• Study pass - Most international students need a Student’s Pass for approved full-time study. After admission, your school and the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) explain the next steps.

Universities in Singapore for International Students

Singapore has six autonomous universities, each with its own range of degree programs. Start by shortlisting the universities that offer the subject you want to study. Then compare what each program covers, what you need to apply, and how much tuition will cost for your chosen intake.

National University of Singapore (NUS)

The National University of Singapore (NUS) is one of Singapore’s six autonomous universities. It offers bachelor’s, master’s & PhD programs in fields such as computing, business, engineering, science and the humanities.

If you’re applying for a bachelor’s degree, check the NUS entry requirements for international qualifications. For master’s and PhD programs, you can find your program and see how to apply through NUS Graduate School admissions.

Nanyang Technological University (NTU)

Nanyang Technological University (NTU) offers undergraduate and graduate programs in engineering, computing, science and business. Prospective research students can start by looking for a department that matches their interests.

For a bachelor’s degree, check whether your school qualifications meet the entry requirements and whether your chosen program requires specific subjects. See the NTU undergraduate admissions guide. For a graduate research degree, find application details and funding options through NTU graduate admissions.

Singapore Management University (SMU)

Singapore Management University (SMU) offers international undergraduate degrees in business, accountancy, economics & law. Students can also pursue programs in computing and the social sciences.

If you’re applying with an international qualification, check whether SMU accepts it and whether you’ll need to take a test or attend an interview. See the SMU undergraduate admissions page for international applicants.

Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD)

SUTD offers multiple undergraduate programs in architecture and engineering. Students can also pursue degrees in design and artificial intelligence or information systems.

To see which qualifications SUTD accepts and how to apply with yours, visit the SUTD undergraduate admissions page.

Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT)

Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) focuses on applied degree programs that connect classroom learning with professional practice. SIT covers multiple undergraduate degree programs that covers fields such as engineering, computing and health sciences.

Entry requirements vary by program. To see what qualifications you need and whether you’ll be asked to attend an interview or complete an assessment, visit the SIT undergraduate admissions page.

Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS)

SUSS is an option for subjects such as social work and business analytics. Review its full-time undergraduate admission criteria and check the separate list of accepted international qualifications.

If you are considering a private institution, check the awarding university, total course fees and ICA’s Student’s Pass requirements for approved private institutions. ICA states that only EduTrust-certified private institutions can offer placements to foreign students under this route.

Cost of Studying in Singapore for International Students

When comparing tuition fee, note whether the price is per academic year or for the whole degree. A university may publish separate rates for ASEAN and other international students who receive the Ministry of Education (MOE) Tuition Grant. It also lists a higher rate for students who pay unsubsidized tuition.

Singapore Undergraduate Fees for International Students

For budgeting, the table uses published 2026/27 entry rates. Before committing, use the 2027 fee schedule or the figure in your offer.

See both the NUS undergraduate fee schedule and NTU’s 2026 cohort fees for exceptions, including professional programs.

Master’s and PhD Tuition Fees

Coursework Master’s fees can be quoted for the full program. For example, NUS lists S$69,215 in total tuition for its Master of Computing with Specializations from the August 2027 intake, including GST. Miscellaneous student fees are separate. Research Master’s and PhD applicants should check the annual tuition and whether their funding covers it.

Monthly Living Costs and Housing

The NUS Graduate School budget estimates S$1,200 to S$2,100 per month on campus and S$1,550 to S$3,400 off campus for one student. Accommodation, meals and public transport are included in these estimates. Tuition, flights and one-off costs are separate.

Apply early if you want university housing. Ask what the rent includes, whether you need to pay a deposit and how long the commute takes. Keep an off-campus option in your budget until the university confirms a room.

Admission Requirements and English Tests

Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD Requirements

• Bachelor’s - Submit a recognized school-leaving qualification and your subject results. NUS normally expects at least 12 years of general education by July in the application year. Some qualifications also require an additional test.
• Master’s - Start with the program’s requirements for a recognized Bachelor’s degree, academic results and subject background. Some courses ask for professional experience, a portfolio or a standardized test.
• PhD or research Master’s - Review the department’s academic requirements and research areas. Your department may expect you to identify a supervisor before applying. Prepare references, a research proposal or a writing sample if requested.

English Proficiency and Accepted Tests

Confirm which tests your course accepts before booking an exam. SMU lists options such as TOEFL and PTE Academic for eligible undergraduate routes. Contact the university if you plan to submit evidence of prior English-medium study.

“Comparing English test options? Our guide to studying in Singapore without IELTS explains the routes to check with your university.”

Scholarships in Singapore for International Students

Look for awards that match your degree level. Some awards use the admission application. Others require a separate form. Read the award terms for covered costs and any service commitment.

NUS International Undergraduate Scholarship

Eligible international freshmen are considered through their NUS admission application. The NUS award covers the remaining subsidized tuition after the MOE Tuition Grant and provides living, accommodation and computer allowances. Recipients must take up the Tuition Grant, so its service obligation applies.

NTU Research Scholarship

The NTU Research Scholarship supports selected full-time graduate research students, including international applicants. It covers annual tuition and provides a monthly stipend. Indicate your interest when you apply for admission. International recipients should also review the graduate assistantship duties.

Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)

SINGA is a route for international applicants seeking doctoral research funding through A*STAR and partner institutions. Taught Master’s applicants can check their program’s own scholarships. Review the A*STAR SINGA page for current projects, eligibility and the application cycle. For an example of the research it supports, see the NUS Faculty of Science profile of a SINGA recipient.

MOE Tuition Grant and the Service Obligation

The MOE Tuition Grant lowers tuition for eligible students on selected programs. International students who accept the grant generally commit to three years of full-time employment with a Singapore entity after graduation. Review the agreement and compare your subsidized and unsubsidized options before choosing.

“If your scholarship asks for a referee, share the award criteria with them and use our scholarship recommendation letter guide to explain what the reference should cover.”

How to Apply to Study in Singapore in 2027

1. Shortlist your courses. Record the institution, entry requirements, program duration and fee category for each course.
2. Find your deadline. Application dates depend on your qualification and intake. Put scholarship and test-score submission dates in the same calendar.
3. Prepare your documents. Gather your passport, certificates, transcripts and test results. Arrange official translations, references or a proposal if the university asks for them.
4. Apply through the university. You can apply university of your choice, need to read the complete application guide.The applicants should use the admissions page for their chosen university and degree. Follow the portal for fees, document requests and interviews.
5. Review your offer. Confirm tuition, any grant or service terms, the acceptance deadline and the instructions for your Student’s Pass.

“Use our scholarship application documents checklist to organize your files before applying for admission and funding.”

Singapore Admissions Deadlines for 2027

• NUS international qualifications (excluding IB) - December 16, 2026 to February 17, 2027, according to the NUS admissions calendar.
• NTU applicants in the “other international qualifications” category - October 15, 2026 to January 20, 2027, for the July/August intake. Check the NTU qualification schedule for your application window and any additional requirements.
• SMU international and other qualifications - November 16, 2026 to March 19, 2027, according to the SMU admissions calendar. Applicable standardized test scores are due by March 31, 2027.

Singapore Student’s Pass and Part-Time Work

After admission to an approved full-time course, follow your university’s registration instructions and apply through ICA. The ICA higher education route says to submit a new application two to three months before your course starts. ICA lists a S$45 processing fee and a S$60 issuance fee. A S$30 Multiple Journey Visa fee applies where required. If approved, follow the In-Principle Approval letter to complete the remaining steps.

Under the Ministry of Manpower rules, eligible full-time students at listed institutions who hold a Student’s Pass can work up to 16 hours per week during term without a separate work pass. A qualifying internship that counts toward graduation may follow a different rule. Before accepting a job, confirm that your institution and enrollment meet the conditions.

“Still comparing destinations? Our Study in Malta guide for international students covers university options, tuition and student visa rules for Malta.”