Study in Singapore: A Guide for International Students
Jan 28, 2025
Why Study in Singapore? Top 10 Reasons for International Students.
World Class Education System.
Strategic Location and Global Connectivity.
Safety and Political Stability.
Multicultural and English Speaking Environment.
Innovation and Research Excellence.
Career and Post Graduation Employment Opportunities.
World-Class Scholarships and Financial Aid.
Thriving Startup and Entrepreneurial Ecosystem.
High Quality of Life and Excellent Infrastructure.
Global Networking and International Exposure.
With these 10 compelling reasons, Singapore stands out as one of the best study destinations in the world. In this article, we will explore in depth why the Singapore education system, career prospects, and student friendly environment make it an ideal place for international students.
Overview of Singapore.
Singapore has emerged as a global education powerhouse. It now attracts students from all over the world with its world class universities, cutting edge research, and multicultural learning environment.
Whether you are a student seeking a top ranked university, a professional looking for career enhancing courses, or a parent exploring international schooling options, Singapore presents a compelling case.
This article explores why studying in Singapore is a top choice for international students and how its education system provides unmatched academic and professional opportunities.
World Class Education System.
Singapore Education System.
The Singapore education system is globally recognised for its academic excellence and emphasis on innovation, research, and skills-based learning. The country consistently ranks among the top in international assessments such as:
PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) – Singaporean students frequently outperform their global peers in Math, Science, and Reading.
QS World University Rankings – Singaporean universities, particularly the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU), are ranked among the top 15 universities worldwide.
Higher Education in Singapore.
Singapore offers diverse higher education institutions tailored to different academic and career aspirations.
Public Universities.
Singapore is home to six autonomous universities:
National University of Singapore (NUS) – Ranked as the top university in Asia and Top 10 in the world, NUS offers world class research facilities and academic programmes in business, engineering, science, and medicine.
Nanyang Technological University (NTU) – Known for its strong engineering and technology programmes, NTU is consistently ranked among the world's best universities.
Singapore Management University (SMU) – Specialises in business, economics, and social sciences, offering an American style interactive pedagogy.
Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) – A leading STEM focused institution that emphasizes innovation, design thinking, and entrepreneurship.
Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) & Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) – These universities focus on applied learning and industry partnerships, preparing students for high-demand careers.
Polytechnics and Institutes of Technical Education (ITE).
Singapore also has 5 polytechnics that provide practical, industry focused diploma programmes:
Nanyang Polytechnic (NYP)
Ngee Ann Polytechnic (NP)
Republic Polytechnic (RP)
Singapore Polytechnic (SP)
Temasek Polytechnic (TP)
These schools offer hands on training in fields like engineering, information technology, and business, bridging the gap between academia and industry needs. They focussed on preparing students for direct employment or university pathways.
Strategic Location and Connectivity.
Singapore’s geographical location at the heart of Asia makes it an ideal education hub for international students. The country is well connected to major global cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Tokyo, Sydney, London, and New York, allowing students and professionals to access global opportunities with ease.
Singapore Changi Airport is one of the world’s busiest and most highly awarded airports, providing seamless international travel.
Located at the heart of Asia, Singapore provides seamless access to emerging markets in China, India, and ASEAN nations. This makes the Lion City an ideal gateway for international education and career opportunities.
High Quality Living Standards and Safety.
One of the Safest Countries in the World.
Renowned for its low crime rates and strict law enforcement, Singapore ranks consistently among the safest countries in the world. Students and parents can have peace of mind knowing that Singapore provides a secure environment for education.
Multicultural and Cosmopolitan Environment.
Singapore’s rich cultural diversity includes Chinese, Malays, Indians, and a thriving expatriate community.This multi culture setting makes it an attractive study destination, fostering global perspectives and inclusivity.
English as the Primary Language.
English is the medium of instruction in schools and universities, making Singapore an accessible destination for international students.
The country follows a bilingual policy, where students also learn a second language (Chinese, Malay, or Tamil), enhancing their global employability.
Research and Innovation Excellence.
Singapore is a global leader in research and technological advancements, offering students access to state of the art labs, innovation centres, and research grants. With strong government support for R&D, top research institutions, and university-industry collaborations, students benefit from hands on experience in cutting edge fields like AI, biotech, and sustainable energy.
Singapore’s Global Innovation Standing.
With substantial government investment in R&D, Singapore fosters a thriving innovation ecosystem, ranking #4 in the Global Innovation Index (WIPO 2023) and #7 in the Global Smart City Index (IMD 2023). As Asia’s Silicon Valley, it offers students an ideal platform to contribute to global technological advancements.
By choosing Singapore, students gain access to a world class research environment, cutting edge technology, and strong industry networks. This positions them at the fore front of innovation and career opportunities.
Government Investment in R&D.
Singapore heavily invests in research, innovation, and enterprise, with the RIE2025 Plan allocating S$25 billion to key sectors like manufacturing, health, sustainability, and AI. With over 1.9% of its GDP spent on R&D, the country fosters a thriving innovation ecosystem that supports both academia and industry.
Leading Research Institutions.
Singapore hosts world-class research hubs such as A*STAR, Biopolis, and Fusionopolis, specialising in biomedical sciences, AI, and engineering. The Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE) also partners with MIT, ETH Zurich, and Cambridge to drive high impact innovation.
University-Industry Collaborations.
Top universities like NUS, NTU, and SUTD collaborate with industry leaders such as Google, Microsoft, Tesla, and Rolls-Royce on projects in autonomous systems, fintech, nano tech, and smart manufacturing, ensuring students gain practical, industry relevant skills.
Student Research and Innovation Opportunities.
Students can engage in undergraduate research programs, internships, and innovation labs through initiatives like SINGA (Singapore International Graduate Award), AI Singapore, and SGInnovate, helping them commercialise their research or launch tech startups.
Industry Linkages and Career Prospects.
Singapore’s strong economy and business-friendly environment offer international students a wealth of career opportunities.
Leading Financial and Business Hub.
Singapore hosts over 7,000 multinational companies (MNCs), including Google, Amazon, Goldman Sachs, and Facebook.
The country is a major financial centre, providing lucrative opportunities in banking, fintech, and corporate sectors.
Thriving Startup Ecosystem.
Singapore is one of the world’s top startup hubs, fostering innovation through incubators, accelerators, and government support.
Post Graduation Employment Opportunities.
Graduates benefit from high employability rates, particularly in tech, finance, healthcare, and engineering.
International graduates can remain in Singapore through schemes like the Employment Pass (EP) and the S Pass.
Scholarships and Financial Aid for International Students.
Singapore offers a variety of scholarships, including government funded, university specific, and merit based awards, making quality education accessible to top international students.
Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) – Fully funded PhD scholarships.
ASEAN Scholarships – For high achieving students from ASEAN countries.
University Specific Scholarships – Offered by NUS, NTU, and SMU based on merit and leadership.
Singapore’s SM (Singapore-MOE) Scholarship Programmes are prestigious scholarships offered to outstanding students from China to study in Singapore. These scholarships: SM1, SM2, and SM3, are designed for different academic levels, ranging from secondary school to university education. They provide full financial support and open doors to world class education and career opportunities in Singapore.
SM1 Scholarship.
The SM1 Scholarship is targeted at outstanding Chinese students from underprivileged backgrounds and offers them the opportunity to pursue their secondary school education (Secondary 1 - 4) in Singapore. It is open to Grade 6 graduates from rural provinces in China.
SM2 Scholarship.
The SM2 Scholarship is designed for high performing students from China who have completed Grade 10. This program allows them to pursue A Levels in Junior Colleges or a Polytechnic Diploma, followed by university education in Singapore. It is open to students from selected top tier high schools in China (mainly key cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chongqing).
SM3 Scholarship.
The SM3 Scholarship is the most advanced of the three programs and is targeted at Grade 12 (final year high school) students from China who wish to pursue direct undergraduate studies at Singapore’s top universities. It is open to students from prestigious high schools in China who are in their final year (Grade 12).
Scholarship Benefits.
Full tuition fees entire duration of the programme.
Monthly stipend for personal expenses.
Hostel accommodation and meals are fully sponsored.
Medical and accident insurance coverage.
Airfare allowance for travel between Singapore and China for end of school year holiday.
Global Networking and Cultural Exposure.
Through global business summits, technology conferences, and international exchange programmes, students can build strong professional networks and gain valuable global exposure.
International Business Summits and Conferences.
Singapore hosts some of the world’s most prestigious conferences and business events. This provides students the chance to connect with global experts, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders. Events like the Singapore FinTech Festival (SFF), Asia Tech x Singapore (ATxSG), and the World Economic Forum attract top companies, investors, and policymakers. These events provide thought leadership and valuable insights into emerging trends in finance, AI, and global trade. Students can attend keynote speeches, networking sessions, and startup showcases. Through the process, they gain exposure to industry advancements and potential career opportunities.
Technology and Innovation Conferences.
For students in STEM and entrepreneurship, Singapore offers access to cutting edge technology events such as Slush Singapore (for startups), SWITCH (Singapore Week of Innovation and Technology), and the AI Summit Asia. These conferences provide a platform for tech enthusiasts, researchers, and startups to collaborate, pitch ideas, and explore the latest advancements in technology. Many universities also host innovation challenges and hackathons, allowing students to showcase their talents to industry leaders.
Student Exchange Programmes and Global Partnerships.
Singapore’s universities have strong academic exchange agreements with top institutions worldwide. They include Harvard, MIT, Oxford, Cambridge, and ETH Zurich. Through student exchange programmes, students can study abroad for a semester, enhancing their academic and cultural experiences. In addition, initiatives like ASEAN University Network (AUN) and NUS Overseas Colleges (NOC) allow students to work and study in global tech hubs like Silicon Valley, Beijing, and London. Through this work study arrangements, they gain firsthand experience in international business and entrepreneurship.
Multi Culture Environment and Expatriate Community.
With over 40% of its population being foreign born, Singapore is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world. Students are exposed to a rich blend of cultures, traditions, and global perspectives. This fosters an inclusive and international learning environment. The country’s bilingual education system and multi culture festivals (e.g., Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Hari Raya, and Christmas celebrations) further enhance the global experience. In addition, student clubs and associations provide networking platforms for international students to connect, collaborate, and integrate into Singapore’s vibrant society.
Strong Professional Networking and Career Growth.
Singapore’s status as a global business hub means students can build professional connections with industry leaders and multinational corporations (MNCs) early in their careers. Universities regularly host career fairs, alumni networking events, and mentorship programmes with companies like Google, JP Morgan, Siemens, and Alibaba, allowing students to explore internship and job opportunities. The strong presence of global organisations and regional headquarters in Singapore enhances the chances of securing a career in banking, consulting, tech, and research sectors.
Quality of Life and Leisure Activities.
Beyond academics, Singapore offers students a high standard of living, combining modern infrastructure, rich cultural experiences, and a vibrant entertainment scene. Singapore is one of the safest, cleanest, and most well planned cities in the world. This ensures that students can balance their studies with an exciting and fulfilling lifestyle. With world class attractions, diverse culinary scene and a highly efficient transport network, students can easily explore the city’s many leisure options.
Iconic Landmarks and Entertainment Hubs.
Singapore is home to some of the world’s most famous landmarks and tourist attractions, providing endless opportunities for relaxation and recreation:
Marina Bay Sands (MBS) – A globally recognised architectural icon, MBS offers a luxury hotel, rooftop infinity pool, casino, shopping mall, and ArtScience Museum. The SkyPark Observation Deck provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the city skyline.
Gardens by the Bay – A futuristic park featuring the stunning Supertree Grove, Cloud Forest, and Flower Dome, where students can enjoy nature in an urban setting.
Sentosa Island – A resort island with beaches, adventure parks, and attractions like Adventure Cove Waterpark and S.E.A. Aquarium. It’s a great escape for students looking for relaxation or outdoor activities.
Universal Studios Singapore – Located on Sentosa, this world-class theme park features thrill rides, live shows, and movie-themed attractions, making it a perfect weekend getaway.
For students who enjoy arts and culture, Singapore’s National Gallery, Esplanade Theatres on the Bay, and Singapore Symphony Orchestra offer a wide range of performances, exhibitions, and cultural festivals throughout the year.
Diverse Culinary Experiences.
Singapore is a food paradise, offering everything from Michelin starred fine dining to affordable hawker centre delicacies. With its diverse ethnic communities, students can experience a variety of cuisines, including Chinese, Malay, Indian, Peranakan, Japanese, Korean, and Western fusion dishes.
Hawker Centres (Affordable Local Food) – Places like Lau Pa Sat, Maxwell Food Centre, and Old Airport Road Hawker Centre serve authentic Singaporean dishes such as chicken rice, laksa, satay, chilli crab, and roti prata at budget friendly prices.
Michelin Starred and Fine Dining – Singapore is home to world-renowned restaurants like Burnt Ends, Odette, and Hawker Chan (the world's first Michelin starred hawker stall).
Cafés and International Cuisine – Students can explore trendy cafés and a variety of international cuisine, from Japanese ramen to Middle Eastern kebabs and American style burgers.
Outdoor Activities and Sports.
Singapore’s green spaces, parks, and recreational facilities allow students to enjoy a healthy and active lifestyle.
East Coast Park and West Coast Park – Ideal for cycling, jogging, picnics, and water sports. Students can rent bicycles or rollerblades and enjoy the scenic coastal views.
MacRitchie Reservoir and Bukit Timah Nature Reserve – Great for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting, offering a refreshing break from city life.
Singapore Sports Hub and ActiveSG Facilities – Provides access to swimming pools, gymnasiums, futsal courts, and stadiums at affordable rates for students.
Pulau Ubin and Coney Island – Perfect for nature lovers who enjoy cycling through forests, exploring mangroves, and kayaking in open waters.
The government’s emphasis on sustainability and green spaces ensures that students have access to both modern urban areas and nature retreats.
Efficient Public Transport System.
Singapore’s well-connected public transport system makes it easy for students to travel across the city affordably and efficiently.
Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) – The MRT network covers the entire island, allowing students to commute quickly and comfortably to universities, workplaces, and leisure spots.
Public Buses – The extensive bus network connects even the most remote areas, making daily travel seamless.
Affordable Fares and Student Discounts – Students can benefit from concession cards and transport subsidies, keeping travel costs low.
Ride Hailing Services and Taxis – Apps like Grab and Gojek offer convenient options for late-night or urgent travel needs.
Singapore’s pedestrian friendly walkways and cycling paths also encourage eco friendly commuting, making daily travel more sustainable.
Thriving Startup and Entrepreneurial Ecosystem.
Ranked among the world's top startup ecosystems, Singapore provides young entrepreneurs with government grants, incubators, and accelerator programmes to transform ideas into successful ventures.
Government Support for Startups and Entrepreneurs.
The Singapore government actively promotes entrepreneurship through initiatives like Startup SG, Enterprise Singapore, and SGInnovate, offering grants, mentorship, and seed funding. Programmes such as the Startup SG Founder Grant (S$50,000) and SGInnovate deep-tech funding help early stage startups thrive, ensuring students have financial support and industry connections.
University Led Incubators and Entrepreneurship Programmes.
Universities like NUS, NTU, SMU, and SUTD foster innovation through incubators, accelerators, and startup competitions. Programmes like NUS Overseas Colleges (NOC) allow students to study and work in global startup hubs like Silicon Valley and Beijing. NTUitive and SMU IIE provide mentorship, networking, and funding for student startups.
Access to Venture Capital & Angel Investors.
Singapore has a robust venture capital ecosystem, with major investors such as Sequoia Capital, Temasek Holdings, and Vertex Ventures funding promising startups. Angel investor networks and startup accelerators like Antler and ACE provide student entrepreneurs with financial backing, helping them scale their businesses rapidly.
Business Friendly Regulations and Startup Infrastructure.
Ranked as one of the easiest places to start a business, Singapore offers fast company registration, low corporate tax rates (17%), and strong IP protection laws. Government policies such as Startup Tax Exemptions (SUTE) and simplified business incorporation (via ACRA) make it easy for young founders to launch and operate their businesses.
Co-Working Spaces and Innovation Hubs.
Singapore is home to startup hubs like BLOCK71, The Hangar (NUS), and LaunchPad @ one-north, where entrepreneurs can collaborate, receive mentorship, and access industry resources. International co-working spaces such as WeWork and JustCo provide flexible workspaces for startups and networking opportunities with global investors.
Global Networking and International Exposure.
Singapore’s strategic location, business friendly policies, and status as a global financial and innovation hub make it one of the best places for students to gain international exposure and build a strong professional network. The country hosts several multinational corporations (MNCs) and a highly diverse expat community. Students in Singapore benefit from cross border collaborations, global exchange programs, and research partnerships that enhance their career prospects.
Access to Multinational Corporations and Global Talent.
Singapore is home to over 7,000 MNCs, including tech giants like Google, Microsoft, IBM, and Amazon, as well as global financial institutions such as Goldman Sachs, Citibank, and DBS. Many of these companies host internships, leadership programmes, and networking events. This allows students to interact with global professionals, build industry connections, and gain work experience in an international environment. The city's highly diverse workforce also means students can network with business leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals from all over the world.
International Conferences, Summits, and Business Events.
Singapore regularly hosts world class conferences and summits, giving students exposure to global industry trends and thought leaders. Events like the Singapore FinTech Festival, Asia Tech x Singapore (ATxSG), and the World Economic Forum bring together top executives, policymakers, and investors. These conferences provide students with opportunities to attend keynote sessions, participate in panel discussions, and engage in networking sessions. These events can open doors to global career prospects.
Global Exchange Programmes and Research Collaborations.
Singaporean universities have strong partnerships with top international institutions, offering students study abroad programmes, research collaborations, and dual degree opportunities. Programmes like NUS Overseas Colleges (NOC) send students to Silicon Valley, New York, Beijing, and Stockholm for immersive entrepreneurial experiences. Exchange programmes with Harvard, Oxford, MIT, and ETH Zurich allow students to broaden their academic and cultural exposure. Research collaborations through A*STAR, CREATE, and international university alliances also provide access to cross-border innovation and interdisciplinary studies.
Conclusion and Final Words.
Singapore stands out as a top global education destination, offering an unparalleled combination of academic excellence, safety, career opportunities, and multi culture experiences. Whether you aim to pursue a degree in a world class university, experience cutting edge research, or build an international career, Singapore provides an ideal environment to achieve your goals.
With a growing international student community and strong government support, Singapore is undoubtedly one of the best places to study, live, and work in the 21st century.
Considering Studying in Singapore?
Considering studying in Singapore? Explore scholarship opportunities, university programmes, and visa requirements to kickstart your journey in one of the world’s top education hubs!
You have several options to explore and decide which is the best education pathway for your child. Singapore provides 2 different pathways: the Singapore MOE public schools or the international schools in Singapore. You can look at some factual information on the local Best Primary School Ranking, Best Secondary School Ranking and the Best International Schools in Singapore. These guides will provide you with a picture of what you can aim for.
Before you deep dive into the choice of a school, you might want to compare the Singapore Education System and explore the benefits of Singapore international schools.
While you at it, you should look at the various curricula available in Singapore. Whether it's the IB Diploma, A Levels, American Curriculum or the Australian HSC, there are plenty of choices for you. If you are more interested to enrol in the Singapore Education System, you should check out the AEIS exams for local school admission.
Or contact us and let our experience consultants help you in your academy journey!