How to Study in Singapore for Free – A Complete Guide for International Students
Singapore is an excellent destination for international students due to its world-class universities, strong job market, and global recognition as a financial and technological hub in Asia. The good news is that you can study in Singapore for free through government scholarships, university scholarships, and tuition grants. This guide covers everything you need to know to pursue higher education in Singapore without worrying about tuition fees.
1. Why Study in Singapore?
Singapore offers a unique blend of high-quality education, cutting-edge research, and a multicultural environment. Here’s why students choose Singapore:
- Top-Ranked Universities – Home to National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU), both ranked among the top universities in the world.
- Tuition-Free Education Opportunities – Government grants, scholarships, and funding programs make studying in Singapore affordable.
- Global Career Opportunities – Singapore is a hub for finance, technology, and business, providing excellent job prospects.
- Safe & Modern City – One of the safest and cleanest cities in the world with a vibrant student life.
2. Fully Funded Scholarships in Singapore
a) Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)
- Eligibility: International students pursuing a PhD in science or engineering.
- Covers: Full tuition fees, monthly stipend (~S$2,200), airfare, and settlement allowance.
- Application Link: SINGA Official Website
b) ASEAN Scholarships (For ASEAN Country Students)
- Eligibility: High school and undergraduate students from ASEAN countries.
- Covers: Full tuition, accommodation, and annual allowances.
- Application Link: MOE ASEAN Scholarship
c) Commonwealth Scholarships
- Eligibility: Students from Commonwealth countries applying for Master’s and PhD programs.
- Covers: Tuition fees, living expenses, and travel allowance.
- Application Link: Commonwealth Scholarship
d) Fulbright Program (For U.S. Students)
- Eligibility: U.S. students pursuing postgraduate studies in Singapore.
- Covers: Tuition, research grants, and travel allowance.
3. University Scholarships in Singapore
National University of Singapore (NUS) Scholarships
- Science and Technology Undergraduate Scholarship – Covers full tuition, accommodation, and annual stipend.
- NUS Research Scholarship – Fully funds Master’s and PhD students.
Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Scholarships
- Nanyang Global Scholarships – Covers full tuition, accommodation, and monthly allowance.
- NTU Research Scholarship – For postgraduate students with full tuition coverage and stipend.
Singapore Management University (SMU) Scholarships
- Lee Kong Chian Scholarship – Covers full tuition, annual allowance, and travel grant.
4. Singapore Government Tuition Grants
The Ministry of Education (MOE) Tuition Grant Scheme allows international students to receive a tuition fee subsidy of up to 75% at public universities in Singapore. However, recipients must work in Singapore for 3 years after graduation.
- Who is eligible? International students admitted to NUS, NTU, SMU, and SUTD.
- How to apply? Submit a tuition grant agreement to MOE after admission.
- More details: MOE Tuition Grant
5. Work-Study Opportunities to Cover Living Costs
Even if your tuition is covered, living expenses in Singapore can be high. International students can work part-time while studying:
- Part-time work: Up to 16-20 hours per week.
- Internships: Many universities offer paid internships in finance, tech, and business sectors.
- Postgraduate Research Assistantships: Available for Master’s and PhD students.
6. Visa Process for International Students
If you receive a scholarship or tuition grant, you will need a Student Pass to study in Singapore.
Steps to Apply for a Singapore Student Pass:
- Receive Admission Offer from a recognized university.
- Apply through SOLAR System (Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority website).
- Submit Required Documents:
- Passport copy
- University acceptance letter
- Proof of financial ability (if applicable)
- Pay the processing fee (~S$30 – S$60).
- Wait for Approval (Takes 2-4 weeks).
7. Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting a Scholarship
- Apply Early – Scholarship deadlines are often months before university admissions.
- Maintain High Academic Performance – Scholarships are awarded based on merit.
- Write a Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Showcase leadership, achievements, and future goals.
- Get Strong Recommendation Letters – From professors, mentors, or employers.
- Engage in Extracurricular Activities – Leadership roles, volunteering, and research projects can strengthen your application.
Final Thoughts
Studying in Singapore for free is possible through scholarships, tuition grants, and work-study opportunities. If you are a high-achieving student, you can take advantage of the many funding options available. Apply early, maintain excellent academic records, and explore all financial aid opportunities to make your study-abroad dream a reality!
FAQs on Studying in Singapore for Free
1. Can I study in Singapore without paying tuition fees?
Yes, through fully funded scholarships and the MOE Tuition Grant Scheme, many students study tuition-free.
2. What are the top universities in Singapore for international students?
The top universities are National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore Management University (SMU), and Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD).
3. Can international students work while studying in Singapore?
Yes, part-time work is allowed for up to 16-20 hours per week.
4. How can I apply for a scholarship in Singapore?
Visit university and government scholarship websites, check eligibility, and submit applications before deadlines.
5. Is it easy to get a job in Singapore after graduation?
Yes! With Singapore’s strong economy, job prospects are excellent, especially in finance, technology, and business sectors.
