Studying in Singapore: key information to make the best out of your experience

The requirements for studying in Singapore as an international student can vary depending on whether you’re doing a full degree or just joining on exchange. While each university might have its own specific process, here are some of the usual requirements if you’re planning to study in Singapore on exchange:

• A valid passport with at least six months’ validity from the date you enter the country.
• A student visa (called a Student’s Pass) is a must. Usually, the university will help you apply for it once you've been accepted. Keep in mind: it must be sorted before arriving in Singapore, and once it expires, you’ll need to leave the country or switch to a visitor visa. Also, if you're on a Student’s Pass, you can’t work during your stay.
• If you're staying for more than six months, you’ll likely need to do a medical check-up, following the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) guidelines.
• Since most courses are taught in English (it's one of the official languages), universities normally ask for proof of your English level, like an IELTS or TOEFL certificate, especially if you come from a non-English-speaking country.
• You'll also need to submit an official academic transcript, sometimes translated into English, along with a list of courses you took in your most recent term.
• Health insurance is usually required. In some cases, the university can help you arrange it.

There are loads of reasons to choose Singapore as your exchange destination, but one of the biggest has to be the chance to experience its unique multicultural vibe. With Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences all blent together, the diversity here shows up in everything: from the food and festivals to the people you’ll meet and the way classes are taught. It’s a great place to study and live as an international student.

Do you want to improve your English while you’re abroad? Singapore’s an excellent option, as English is one of the official languages and the main one used at universities, so you’ll practise it every day without even trying. At the same time, you’ll hear languages like Mandarin, Malay and Tamil being spoken all around you, which is a cool way to get a feel for different cultures and maybe even pick up a few extra words.

Another reason to study in Singapore is its tropical climate, so it’s warm all year. That means you can enjoy the outdoors no matter the season, whether you’re hanging out in a park, relaxing at the beach or wandering around open spaces like Chinatown or Little India. Just be ready for the humidity and the odd rain shower!

We can’t forget about the food. One of the best parts of living in Singapore is eating at hawker centres: lively food courts packed with local stalls serving everything from “laksa” and “satay” to the famous chicken rice. It’s tasty, cheap, and a proper part of daily life here. Eating well without spending a fortune? That’s a win for any student!

Culturally, Singapore is a fascinating mix of modernity, tradition, and nature—all packed into one small but vibrant country. Even though it’s not divided into regions like other countries, every part of this city-state has its own unique vibe and offers something different.

The Central Area —including Marina Bay, Orchard Road, and the CBD— is the heart of finance and commerce. This is where you’ll find soaring skyscrapers, luxury shopping malls, the iconic Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and museums like the ArtScience Museum. It's modern, fast-paced, and full of life.

To discover Singapore’s more traditional side, you’ve got to explore cultural neighbourhoods like Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam. These areas are packed with temples, markets, quirky shops, and street food stalls. Each neighbourhood reflects the country’s rich mix of cultures and offers a totally different atmosphere, perfect for learning about local life and trying some amazing food.

Even though Singapore’s known as a super-modern city, it’s also full of green spaces and nature trails. You can walk through the tropical rainforest at MacRitchie Reservoir, cross the suspension bridges along the Southern Ridges, or hop on a bike and explore Pulau Ubin, a rustic island that feels a world away from the city. Don’t miss the stunning Botanic Gardens or the futuristic greenery at Gardens by the Bay either, two perfect spots to chill out surrounded by nature.

And here’s another major plus: Singapore’s location and top-notch international airport make it really easy (and surprisingly affordable) to travel around Southeast Asia. Fancy a weekend in Thailand, Vietnam, or Indonesia? No problem—it’s all just a short flight away, giving you the chance to add even more adventures to your study abroad experience.