Where to Find Student Housing in Singapore for Indian Students (2025 Edition)

So, you have set your sights on Singapore for your studies? Good choice. In 2025, more Indian students than ever are choosing this vibrant city-state for its globally ranked universities, career-focused programs, and safe, modern lifestyle. But once your university offer letter lands in your inbox, the next big question hits: Where will you live?

Student housing in Singapore can be a bit of a puzzle at first. There are on-campus halls, hostels, shared flats, and even homestays. And each has its own pros, price tag, and vibe. And let’s not forget how important location is. That’s why this guide is here. We’ll walk you through the best areas to live in, what types of accommodation are available, how much they cost, and how University Living makes the whole booking process easy, safe, and stress-free for Indian students.

Why Is Singapore a Popular Study Destination for Indian Students?

Singapore isn’t just a global business hub anymore. it’s fast becoming one of the top study destinations for Indian students. In fact, if you walk through the campuses of universities like NUS or NTU today, you’ll likely hear a mix of languages. There’s a reason for that. 

More and more students from India are packing their bags not for the UK or US. Why? Well, it’s a rare mix, excellent education, cultural comfort, career-ready courses, and proximity to home all wrapped into one safe and modern city. Let’s take a look at why students prefer Singapore for Indian students: 

1. Good Ranking Universities: Singapore is home to some of the top universities in the world. National University of Singapore (NUS) is ranked #8 globally (QS World University Rankings 2025). Nanyang Technological University (NTU) stands at #26, while Singapore Management University (SMU) is known for its strong business and law programs. 

2. Short Travel Distance from India: Singapore is just a 4–5 hour direct flight from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bangalore. That means students can fly home during breaks or emergencies without the rush of long travel. 

3. No Language Barrier: English is one of Singapore’s official languages and the primary medium of instruction at universities. Lectures, assignments, and even daily communication happen in English, making it easier for Indian students to adjust academically and socially. 

4. Internship Opportunities and PR Pathways: Singapore is known for being a business and tech powerhouse in Asia. And its universities are deeply connected to industries. Many programs include internships, co-op modules, or career workshops, giving students a real shot at building work experience. Plus, students graduating from local institutions may be eligible for post-study work visas and Permanent Residency (PR) pathways. 

What Are the Different Types of Student Housing in Singapore?

There’s no one perfect setup when it comes to student accommodation in Singapore. and that’s actually a good thing. Whether you’re someone who likes privacy, enjoys shared spaces, or needs something flexible on a tight budget, Singapore has options for every kind of Indian student. Following are the different types of student housing in Singapore: 

1. University-managed halls: They are a common starting point for many first-year international students. These on-campus accommodations are run by universities like NUS, NTU, or SMU. And usually offer single or twin-sharing rooms. They come with essential facilities like Wi-Fi, air conditioning, study areas, dining halls, and laundry services.  

2. Private student hostels: They are built specifically for students but managed by third-party providers. These are fully furnished and often come with extras like regular housekeeping, 24/7 security, communal kitchens, and social spaces. It is perfect for those new to the city. Prices are a bit higher than campus halls, with rooms starting from SGD 750/month.  

3. Shared apartments: For those who crave a little more independence, shared apartments. These are popular option, especially among postgrad students or those moving in with friends. Renting a room in an HDB apartment typically costs SGD 800–1,200/month, depending on location and furnishing. This setup is ideal for students who prefer to cook, manage their own space, and split rent with roommates. 

4. Homestay: Another lesser known but meaningful option is a homestay, where students live with a local Singaporean family. This setup is great for younger Indian students, especially those aged 17 and under. It is for those who are looking for structured support, home-cooked meals, and cultural integration. Homestays usually include utilities, food, and basic services. It has a monthly cost of around SGD 1,000–1,500.

While all housing types have their pros and cons, most Indian students in Singapore tend to go for either private student hostels or shared apartments, as these strike the right balance between affordability, comfort, and social life. These options also offer flexibility in lease durations and easier access to top universities and transit lines.

Which Areas in Singapore Are Best for Student Housing?

Choosing the right neighborhood in Singapore can make a big difference in your student life. Not just in terms of commuting, but also how much you spend. And how comfortable you feel. While Singapore has an excellent MRT system, rent and lifestyle can vary a lot depending on where you live. For Indian students, certain areas strike a great balance between affordability, safety, connectivity, and access to Indian food and culture. Here are some of the best student-friendly locations in Singapore to consider for 2025: 

1. Clementi: It is one of the top picks for Indian students, especially those studying at National University of Singapore (NUS) or Singapore Polytechnic. It’s well connected by both the MRT and bus routes. The average rent for a room in Clementi ranges from SGD 850 to 1,200/month, making it relatively affordable compared to more central areas. You’ll also find plenty of hawker centres, Indian grocery stores, and even vegetarian eateries.

2. Queenstown: This is a calm and clean residential neighbourhood. And is located close to NUS, INSEAD, and even the University Town area. It’s especially popular among postgraduate and exchange students looking for a quieter, more residential vibe. Rent here is slightly higher. Rooms usually go for SGD 1,000 to 1,500/month. But the area is known for its peaceful parks, wide sidewalks, and proximity to amenities like IKEA, Anchorpoint Mall, and Alexandra Central.

3. Buona Vista: It is known as Singapore’s “tech corridor”, due to its proximity to the One-North innovation hub, Fusionopolis, and Biopolis. It’s perfect for students involved in STEM or media-related courses. Especially at NTU’s satellite campuses or for those doing internships. While average rent is around SGD 1,200 to 1,800, the area offers condo living and modern apartments.

4. Tiong Bahru: It is slightly more central and leans toward the hipster side. Think boutique cafés, bookstores, art markets, and restored art deco flats. It’s not the cheapest as the rooms typically cost SGD 1,400 to 2,000/month. But it’s very popular among international students looking for a mix of urban energy and community charm.

5. Jurong East: It is the go-to for students at Nanyang Technological University (NTU). Especially for those looking for budget-friendly housing. It’s located on the green MRT line, which links directly to NTU’s campus via a short bus ride. Monthly rent here can be as low as SGD 700 to 1,100. Jurong is a vibrant commercial zone, home to JEM, Westgate, IMM Mall, and plenty of food courts.

How Much Does Student Accommodation in Singapore Cost in 2025?

Let’s be real, Singapore may not be the cheapest place to live in Asia. But when it comes to quality, safety, and access to top-ranked universities, it offers solid value. For Indian students planning to study here in 2025, understanding the real cost of accommodation is crucial for budgeting your stay. On average, international students in Singapore spend SGD 10,000 to 18,000 per year on housing, depending on the type of accommodation, location, and whether utilities are included. 

While it’s still more affordable than London or New York, prices in popular student areas like Clementi, Queenstown, and Buona Vista have seen a 5–10% increase in rental rates over the past year due to rising demand and limited availability. Here’s a general breakdown of what you’ll spend: 

How Can University Living Help Indian Students Find Housing in Singapore?

Finding student accommodation in Singapore while sitting thousands of kilometers away in India? It can be stressful. Especially with rising rental scams, language barriers, and endless listings that all start to look the same. That’s where University Living comes in. A trusted global platform created to make student housing easy, verified, and 100% stress-free for international students.  Here’s how University Living helps Indian students find housing in Singapore: 

1. Verified Listings Only: All properties listed are thoroughly verified. So you won’t fall for rental scams or fake pictures. 

2. Choice Across Budget Ranges: From shared hostels to premium studio apartments, University Living offers housing options near top universities like NUS, NTU, SMU, and more. 

3. Easy Online Booking: You can book your entire accommodation in just a few clicks, with virtual tours, rent calculators, and flexible lease durations. 

4. Indian Student Support Team: Need help in Hindi, Tamil, or even Punjabi? University Living has a dedicated team that supports Indian students with document prep, rent transfers, and visa-related queries. 

5. No Extra Stress: Worried about landing in Singapore without a room? Their Free Airport Pickup and Room Essential Kits are designed to help you settle in from Day 1. 

Conclusion 

Living in Singapore as a student can be exciting, eye-opening, and yes incredibly smooth, if you plan your housing right. But here’s the deal: rooms fill fast, especially near top universities. And with rising rental demand in 2025, booking early isn’t just smart. It’s necessary. The earlier you shortlist your housing, the better your chances of landing a safe, affordable, and well-located place to stay. 

And that’s where University Living steps in. We take the guesswork out of the process by offering 100% verified student accommodation. Looking for student housing in Singapore? Start your search with University Living,  your trusted platform for verified student stays near NUS, NTU, SMU, and beyond. 

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