How Much Does It Cost to Study in Singapore in 2025?
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Did you know, every year, more than 65,000 international students choose Singapore, and many of them are from India. Why? Because the country offers top universities, modern facilities, and strong job opportunities after graduation. Plus, most courses are shorter, which means you can enter the workforce sooner. But here’s the big question, how much will it actually cost you?
This guide will show you the actual costs of studying in Singapore, including tuition, living expenses, financial aid, and housing. That way, you’ll know exactly what to expect before you apply.
What’s the Real Cost of a Bachelor’s Degree in Singapore for Foreign Students?
Bachelors in Singapore aren’t always four-year marathons. In fact, some can wrap up in just 2 to 3 years, especially at private universities. That alone can save you a chunk of tuition and living costs. But don’t get too excited yet; it still isn’t exactly “budget” living. If you’re aiming for big leagues like National University of Singapore (NUS) or Nanyang Technological University (NTU), expect to pay a bit more. And honestly? For the top 20 global rankings, it’s a fair game. Below is the cost of bachelor’s degree in Singapore for international students:
| University | Tuition Fees (Per Year) | Approx. INR |
| NUS | SGD 30,000 – 37,500 | ₹18 – ₹22.5 lakhs |
| NTU | SGD 30,000 – 35,000 | ₹18 – ₹21 lakhs |
| SUTD | SGD 30,650 | ₹19 lakhs |
| SMU | SGD 41,000 – 47,000 | ₹24 – ₹27.5 lakhs |
On the other hand, when it comes to private students, they are more budget-friendly but have less prestige. PSB Academy, MDIS, and SIM have a tuition fee of SGD 20,000 – 30,000/year. That is about ₹12 – ₹18 lakhs INR/year. Most of these courses are affiliated with global universities from the UK, Australia, or US.
How Much Will You Pay for a Master’s Degree in Singapore in 2025?
Master’s programs in Singapore come with a price, especially if you’re looking at MBAs or tech-heavy degrees. But here’s where it gets interesting. Most master’s courses are completed within 12–18 months. And when you put that against countries like the US or the UK, Singapore starts looking like a high-value, time-saving alternative. According to 2025 estimates:
- The average tuition fee for general master’s degrees in Singapore ranges from SGD 20,000 to 45,000/year. It translates to around ₹12 to ₹27 lakhs INR.
- If you’re eyeing a professional or niche program (think AI, Cybersecurity, Law, Business Analytics), be ready to spend between SGD 35,000 and 55,000 (~₹21 to ₹33 lakhs).
- And if it’s an MBA from NUS or SMU, buckle up for fees above SGD 60,000, reaching nearly ₹40–45 lakhs when you add living costs, visa, and extras.
That said, Singapore offers top-tier ROI, especially with average postgrad salaries starting around SGD 90,000 – 120,000/year, depending on your field. So, you’re not just paying for a degree. You’re investing in global career access.
| Program Type | University/Example | Tuition Fee (SGD) |
| General Master’s (MSc, MEng, MA) | NUS, NTU, SMU, JCU, SP Jain, SIM | SGD 20,000 – 45,000 |
| MSc in Management/Data Science/Engineering | SIM, JCU, MDIS, PSB Academy | SGD 28,000 – 38,000 |
| Master of Technology (MTech) | NUS Institute of Systems Science | SGD 44,925 |
| Master of Laws (LLM) | SMU Law School | SGD 37,450 |
| MSc in Business Analytics | NUS, NTU Business Schools | SGD 42,000 – 50,000 |
| MBA (Flagship Full-Time) | NUS Business School | SGD 62,000 |
| MBA | NTU Nanyang Business School | SGD 55,000 |
| MBA | SMU Lee Kong Chian School of Business | SGD 62,200 (excl. GST) |
Can Indian Students Get Scholarships to Study in Singapore?
As tuition fees in Singapore touch SGD 60,000+ and monthly living expenses easily cross SGD 1,500, many Indian students are understandably concerned about affordability. But here’s the good news. Scholarships, tuition grants, and external funding options are all available, and a significant chunk of Indian students are tapping into them.
In fact, according to data from the National University of Singapore, nearly 20% of international students receive some form of financial assistance annually. From government grants to university-funded awards and private foundations, Singapore offers multiple paths to reduce your study expenses. Following are the scholarships for Indian Students in Singapore:
| Scholarship / Grant | Key Benefits | Eligibility / Notes |
| MOE Tuition Grant Scheme (TGS) | Up to 50% fee reduction | 3-year work bond in Singapore post-study |
| SINGA – Singapore Int’l Graduate Award | Full tuition, SGD 2,200–2,700 monthly stipend, airfare | For science, tech & engineering research aspirants |
| NUS Global Merit Scholarship | Tuition + living allowance | High academic performance + leadership traits |
| NTU India Connect Internship | Stipend + return airfare | Short-term Indian UG research internships (8–12 weeks) |
| SMU ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship | Partial to full tuition | Indian citizens eligible as ASEAN members |
| SUTD Global Distinguished Scholarship | Full tuition + hostel + monthly stipend | Open to all non-Singaporean international students |
| Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarship | Tuition + partial living expenses | Indian passport holders under age 30 |
| SIA Youth Scholarship | Tuition, living expenses, hostel | For students completing Class 10 in India |
| A*STAR India Youth Scholarship | 4-year full sponsorship (pre-U to JC2) | High-performing Indian students in STEM subjects |
Is Student Housing in Singapore Budget-Friendly or Just Plain Pricey?
Housing in Singapore isn’t cheap, especially if you’re eyeing central locations or private apartments. But if you’re willing to compromise a little, you can find fairly affordable student options. On average, students in Singapore spend SGD 800 to 1,200 per month on accommodation. It is roughly ₹50,000 to ₹72,000 INR. But the actual figure can vary drastically based on location, type of housing, and whether you’re living solo or sharing. Here’s what recent data shows:
- Around 60% of international students opt for university-managed halls, especially in their first year
- The rest split between off-campus HDB flats, private student residences, and shared rentals
- Neighborhoods like Clementi, Bukit Timah, and Serangoon are popular for being MRT-accessible yet slightly more affordable than downtown areas like Orchard or Marina Bay
So, is it budget-friendly? It can be, if you plan smart and book early. Below are the key details of Student Housing Options in Singapore:
| Type of Housing | Monthly Rent (SGD) | What’s Included |
| On-Campus University Halls | SGD 325 – 605 | Bed, basic furnishings, shared kitchen/bathroom, Wi-Fi |
| HDB Flat – Shared Room | SGD 700 – 1,200 | Room in public housing, shared utilities, basic furniture |
| Private Condo – Shared Room | SGD 900 – 1,500 | Furnished room in condo with pool, gym, security |
| Private Condo – Studio | SGD 1,500 – 2,500 | Entire unit, kitchen, A/C, sometimes gym and laundry |
| Private Student Residences | SGD 750 – 1,500 | Fully furnished, Wi-Fi, laundry, 24/7 support |
| Boarding School Hostels | SGD 6,000 – 15,000/year | Meals, hostel services, security |
Conclusion
Studying in Singapore is not the cheapest option, but it gives you a lot of value. Here’s why:
- Many master’s programs finish in just 12 to 18 months, saving you time and money
- You can apply for MOE tuition grants and scholarships to cut down fees
- If you plan ahead, student housing can be affordable
- After graduating, students often earn SGD 90,000 or more per year in well-paying jobs
So yes, the cost may feel high at first, but with good planning, Singapore can be a smart investment for your future. Need help finding the right student accommodation in Singapore? University Living helps you discover, compare, and book verified student housing close to top universities like NUS, NTU, SMU, and more. Start your search today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does It Cost to Study in Singapore?
The total cost to study in Singapore depends on two main things: the type of university and the course you choose. Below is the cost of undergraduate and postgraduate courses:
1. Undergraduate Programs: INR 10 to 46 lakhs per year
2. Postgraduate Programs: INR 12 to 40 lakhs per year
These figures include tuition fees only, living expenses are separate.
Is Singapore Affordable for Indian Students?
Singapore is not exactly cheap, but manageable with planning.
Monthly Living Expenses: Around ₹95,000
This includes rent, food, travel, and daily needs.
Is Studying in Singapore Worth It?
Yes, studying in Singapore for many students, is definitely worth it because of the following reasons:
1. Singapore has top universities, modern campuses, and great global exposure.
2. It’s safe, clean, and career-focused.
Downsides? High cost of living and a competitive job market after graduation.
How Much Bank Balance Is Needed for a Singapore Student Visa?
You’ll need to show proof of funds for:
SGD 25,000 to SGD 35,000/year (≈ ₹16–22 lakhs)
This covers tuition + living costs
Tip: This isn’t an official ICA rule, but most universities and visa officers look for it.
Which Courses Are in Demand in Singapore?
Top courses for international students in Singapore in 2025:
1. Business & Management
2. IT & Computer Science
3. Engineering & Technology
4. Healthcare & Biomedical Sciences
5. Hospitality & Tourism
These align with Singapore’s strengths as a global tech and business hub.
Can International Students Work While Studying?
Yes! Here’s how it works:
1. Work up to 16 hours/week during classes
2. Work full-time during holidays
A work pass exemption is needed, but it’s easy to get if you have a valid Student Pass.
