An introduction to studying in Singapore

Singapore’s top universities consistently rank among the best in Asia – and the East Asian city state is renowned for its cosmopolitan society and low crime rates

Tina Ma

Beijing International Bilingual School (Haidian Campus), China
4 Nov 2024
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Singapore cityscape
image credit: anahtiris/istock.

Guiding students through the application process for universities abroad is an essential part of our role as high school counsellors. Applying to universities in Singapore is becoming increasingly popular among students in our school.

Why choose Singapore for higher education?

Singapore has established itself as a global education hub, attracting students from around the world. Here are some reasons why:

World-class education: institutions such as the National University of Singapore and Nanyang Technological University consistently rank among the best in Asia and globally, offering a wide range of programmes taught by leading academics.

Multicultural environment: with a diverse population and a strong emphasis on English, Mandarin, Malay and Tamil, Singapore provides a rich multicultural experience, enhancing cross-cultural understanding and communication skills.

Safety and stability: Singapore is renowned for its low crime rates and political stability, making it a secure place for international students.

Career opportunities: the city state is a thriving business centre, offering students numerous internship and job prospects, especially in sectors such as finance, technology and engineering.

Quality of life: with its clean streets, efficient public transport and vibrant culture, Singapore offers a high standard of living.

Introduction to the top two universities in Singapore

1. National University of Singapore (NUS)

As of 2024, NUS ranks among the top universities in the THE World University Rankings, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence and research innovation.

Academic offerings: NUS boasts a comprehensive range of disciplines across its faculties and schools, including engineering, business, law, medicine, arts and social sciences.

Campus life: Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, including libraries, laboratories, sports complexes and cultural centres. NUS also hosts a variety of clubs and societies, fostering a dynamic extracurricular scene.

2. Nanyang Technological University (NTU)

NTU is recognised for its strong focus on science, technology and engineering.

Academic offerings: NTU is particularly noted for its engineering and technology programmes, as well as business, social sciences and humanities. The university is also home to the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, established in partnership with Imperial College London.

Campus life: the NTU campus is one of the most beautiful in the world, featuring green spaces and modern architecture. It supports a robust community of students engaged in various activities, from robotics competitions to cultural performances.

How to apply to university in Singapore

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help counsellors navigate the application process for universities in Singapore.

Application preparation

Guide students in preparing their application documents, including transcripts, standardised test scores (SAT, ACT, IELTS, TOEFL), CVs, and personal statements.

Emphasise the importance of tailoring each application to the specific university, highlighting how the student’s experiences, skills and aspirations match the chosen programme. Review essays and personal statements to ensure that they are compelling, well-written and free of errors.

Direct students to complete the online application form on the university’s website. Ensure all required fields are filled accurately and that supporting documents are uploaded correctly. Advise students to submit applications well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Visa guidance

Once admitted, students need to apply for a Student’s Pass, which is the student visa for Singapore.

Direct them to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority website for the latest information on visa application procedures and requirements. They will need a valid passport, proof of admission, financial documents and health insurance.

Follow up and support

Stay in touch with students during the application process and offer support as they transition into their new environment. Keep a record of successful applications and use this data to advise future cohorts of students.