Tuition and fees are considerably lower in Singapore than in other English-speaking destinations for overseas study. The government of Singapore strongly believes in making education an affordable option for all, and to that end offers generous grants and financial assistance to international students.

Tuition and Fees

Secondary Schools (High schools), Junior Colleges/Centralised Institutes and Independent Secondary/Junior Colleges

Current fees and estimated 2009 fees for ASEAN students are as follows*:

 *Source: Education Services Division, Singapore Tourism Board, 2006

In addition to school fees, international students accepted to study in Singapore are requested to make a donation of S$1,000 (US$ 660) to the Ministry of Education's Education Fund o­nce every two years. The donation is requested from international students enrolling in primary and secondary schools, junior colleges and centralised institutes.

Polytechnics, Institutes of Technical Education (ITEs) and Universities

Tuition fees are subject to change each year, so it is best to check with the individual higher education institute. The fees below are 2008 estimates for non-lab courses.

*Source: Education Services Division, Singapore Tourism Board, 2006

Financial Aid

It is possible for international students in Singapore to save a significant amount of money o­n their study costs. Financial aid options include grants, loans and scholarships from the Singapore government and educational institutions.

Tuition Fee Grant

The Ministry of Education’s Tuition Fee Grant for studies at a state university or polytechnic subsidizes up to 80% of tuition fees and is available to all students, including international o­nes. The grant is subject to the signing of an agreement with the Singapore government to undertake to work in a Singapore-registered company for three years upon completion of your program.

Bursaries

Bursaries are grants awarded o­n the basis of financial need. International students may apply for bursaries of up to S$1,500 (US$988) per year to pay for tuition fees and other expenses. Bursaries are usually administered by individual institutions; check with the institution of your choice for further information.

Study Loans

Different types of student loans are often available from individual institutions and are usually payable upon completion of the program, at favorable interest rates. Please check with your educational institution for the availability of such loans.

Scholarships

Scholarships are available from some educational institutions in Singapore, the Singapore government and other local and international sources.  Selection is usually based o­n academic excellence and leadership, or co-curricular track records. It is recommended that you ask your chosen institution about scholarship options.

Cost of Living

While individual spending varies according to the student’s study location, program and lifestyle, o­n average international students in Singapore spend between S$750 (US$494) and S$2,000 (US$1,318) a month o­n living expenses, including accommodation and food.

Accommodation costs vary according to the type of accommodation and its location. Average costs for typical accommodation options for international students are as follows: