The country has a well developed educational system, providing numerous opportunities for international students. Education is a priority in Singapore and the nation is recognized as a ‘global schoolhouse’. A strong emphasis on education started when the British-based education system was introduced by Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles (founder of the Singapore Institution, now known as the Raffles Institution) in 1823. Today Singapore is one of the leaders in higher education both in Asia and Worldwide. Singapore is the perfect destination for international students looking for a unique and contemporary higher education experience. Singapore takes great pride in maintaining extremely high standards of teaching and learning. Singaporean universities also have a strong research focus. Many universities in Singapore have strong links with industry, meaning that you will be able to gain practical experience alongside your degree. This not only makes your time studying more interesting, but it can also mean that you will find employment more easily.

International students wishing to study in Singapore will need to obtain a student visa. When you get your letter of approval, you will also be issued a visa by your institution. Within two weeks of your acceptance, you will need to apply to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) for a Student Pass. This also needs to be no earlier than two months and no later than one month before the start to your course. This process will be done through the Student’s Pass Online Application and Registration System (SOLAR). You will be given registration details by your institution, which you will use to fill in and submit the required forms. You will then need to complete the process once you have arrived in the country. To do this, you will need to make an appointment with the ICA and take with you the disembarkation/embarkation card that you were granted on entry to Singapore. The official languages of Singapore are English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil. As well as these, there are many other languages you can expect to hear being spoken across the country.

On average, an International student should budget for around SGD 10,000 per year. You will be able to work up to 16 hours per week during term-time, and full time during the holidays. If you wish to get a job, you will first need to get approval from your institution. The Singaporean population benefit from the streamlined public transport, with punctual trains and wide roads. The country is heavily influenced by many cultures, including British, Chinese, Malaysian and Indian.