A Complete Overview of the Cost of Higher Education in Singapore
Jun 26, 2025
A dynamic Southeast Asian nation and a leading financial hub, Singapore is globally renowned for its higher education. This top Asian study destination offers world-class education, a multicultural environment, and promising job prospects. With prestigious national institutions topping the QS World University Rankings and several foreign university campuses, Singapore provides quality education at a relatively economical cost compared to other leading study destinations.
When planning to study abroad, the first concern is often the cost. Understanding Singapore’s financial aspects requires thorough research, covering both pre-arrival and post-arrival expenses. To save you time, here’s a detailed guide on the cost to study in Singapore, covering all essential financial aspects for international students.
Table of Content:
- Average Cost of Studying in Singapore
- Universities & College Application Fees
- Public vs Private Universities in Singapore: Tuition Fee Comparison
- Top Universities in Singapore and their Annual Tuition Fees
- Other Essential Costs
- Breakdown of Accommodation Costs in Singapore
- Pre-arrival & Post-arrival Cost
- Reduce Education Costs with Part-Time Work in Singapore
- Effective Ways to Reduce the Cost of Studying in Singapore
- Navigate Costs of Studying in Singapore with KC Overseas
- FAQs
Average Cost of Studying in Singapore
Pursuing higher education in Singapore offers a blend of quality and affordability. Here's a concise overview of the average Singapore university fees 2025:
1. Undergraduate Programs:
Tuition Fees: For international students, annual tuition fees typically range from SGD 17,000 to SGD 30,000, depending on the course and institution.
2. Postgraduate Programs:
Tuition Fees: The cost of postgraduate studies varies based on the program and university. On average, tuition fees range between SGD 20,000 to SGD 45,000, though specialised programs like MBAs may be higher.
It's important to note that these figures are approximate and can vary based on specific courses and universities. In addition to the tuition fees, studying in Singapore will require an international student to incur living and miscellaneous costs. This article further gives a detailed view of such costs.
Universities & College Application Fees
Applying to universities in Singapore comes with a non-refundable application fee, which varies based on the institution and program. On average, international students can expect to pay anywhere between SGD 75 to SGD 500 per application.
The exact amount depends on the level of study and the university’s policies. Some specialised programs may have higher application fees. It’s always best to check the official website of your chosen institution for the most up-to-date information. To save the hassle, just reach out to us, and we can handle everything from applications to arrival at your study destinations.
Public vs Private Universities in Singapore: Tuition Fee Comparison
Tuition fees in Singapore vary between public and private universities.
- Public Universities: The annual tuition for international students typically ranges from SGD 17,000 to SGD 30,000.
- Private Universities: Fees are generally higher, with programs costing around S$50,000 to S$60,000, depending on the course and level of study.
These figures represent an estimated average range and may vary based on the course and institution.
Top Universities in Singapore and their Annual Tuition Fees
There are several well-ranked universities in Singapore, let’s take a look at some of the best ones and the annual tuition fees to study there.
| University | Indicative Annual Tuition Fees in SGD |
| Technical University of Munich Singapore | SGD 17,985 to 26,705 |
| James Cook University Singapore | SGD 22,236 to 42,902 |
| Curtin Singapore | SGD 21,800 to 32,700 |
| Singapore University of Technology and Design | SGD 54,500 to 62,130 |
| National University of Singapore | SGD 38,186 to 69,400 |
Note: Tuition fees are approximate and may vary by program. Please check with the universities for the latest details.
Other Essential Costs
Other than the tuition fees, various other substantial costs like accommodation, transportation, etc need to be considered while gauging the cost of studying in Singapore.
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (Per Month) |
| Accommodation | SGD 400 – SGD 4000 |
| Food and Groceries | SGD 300 - SGD 600 |
| Public Transport | SGD 80 - SGD 120 |
| Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet) | SGD100 – SGD 200 |
| Health Insurance | SGD 500 – SGD 800 (Annually) |
| Personal Expenses | SGD 200 – SGD 400 |
| Student Pass Application Fee (Singapore student visa) | SGD 30 (One time) |
| Student Pass Issuance Fee | SGD 60 (One time) |
Breakdown of Accommodation Costs in Singapore
Accommodation is typically the biggest part of your living expenses. Let’s break down the costs to give you a better idea of what it might cost to live and study in Singapore.
| Accommodation Type | Estimated Cost (Per Month) |
| University Halls of Residence | SGD 400 – SGD 1,500 |
| Private Student Hostels | SGD 600 - SGD 2000 |
| Shared Rental Apartments | SGD 700 - SGD 2500 |
| Private Apartments and Condominiums | SGD 1500 - SGD 4000 |
Pre-arrival & Post-arrival Cost
The cost of education in Singapore can broadly be classified into two categories: Pre-arrival Costs and Post-arrival Costs. There are several components involved in these categories. Following is the detailed table that covers these costs.
1. Pre-arrival Costs:
| Cost Category | Estimated Cost (SGD) | Description |
| Language Proficiency & Standardized Test Fees | Depend on the exam you take, which is determined by your university's admission requirements. | Fees for English proficiency and standardized tests required for admission. Additional coaching costs may apply. |
| University Application Fees | SGD 75 to SGD 500 | Varies by institution and program. |
| Initial Tuition Fee Deposit | Varies (Part of Annual Tuition) | A portion of tuition fees must be paid upfront to secure admission and apply for a student pass. |
| Student Pass (Visa) Application Fee | SGD 90 (Total: SGD 30 Application + SGD 60 Issuance Fee) | Required for international students to study in Singapore. |
| Travel Expenses to Singapore | SGD 200 – SGD 1,000 | Flight costs depend on the country of origin and airline. |
2. Post Arrival Costs
| Cost Category | Estimated Cost (SGD) | Description |
| Accommodation | SGD 400 – SGD 4000 per month | Cost varies based on type: on-campus, shared apartments, or private housing. |
| Food Expenses | SGD 300 - SGD 600 per month | Fluctuates as per grocery shopping, dining out, etc. |
| Daily Transportation | SGD 80 - SGD 120 per month | Public transport passes for students |
| Utility Bills | SGD100 – SGD 200 per month | Includes electricity, water, and internet bills. |
| Study Materials & Related Expenses | SGD 50 – SGD 150 per semester | Covers books, stationery, etc. |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | SGD 200 – SGD 500 per month | Personal expenses, entertainment, unexpected costs. |
Reduce Education Costs with Part-Time Work in Singapore
International students in Singapore have the opportunity to cut down their cost of education by working part-time during their studies. This allows them to gain valuable experience and supplement their finances. Here's what you need to know:
Working Hours Allowed for International Students –
Note: These work rights apply only to students enrolled in public universities in Singapore.
- During Academic Terms: Students can work up to 16 hours per week
- During Scheduled Vacations: Students are permitted to work full-time without any hourly restrictions.
Some of the best part-time jobs for international students in Singapore include the following –
- Research Assistant – Earn around SGD 20 per hour
- Tutor – Earn SGD 20 to SGD 40 per hour
- Office Assistant – Earn SGD 8 to SGD 12 per hour
- Event Staff – Earn SGD 7 to SGD 12 per hour
- Food Delivery Rider – Earn SGD 12 to SGD 25 per hour
Earnings may vary based on experience and employer.
Effective Ways to Reduce the Cost of Studying in Singapore
- Scholarships and Grants: Explore university scholarships and external grants.
- Part-Time Work: Permissible part-time jobs can contribute to your living expenses.
- Financial Planning: Create a detailed budget, track expenses meticulously and adhere to your budget.
- Use Student Discounts: Utilize student discounts for transport, entertainment, and other services.
- Economical Living Choices: Consider shared accommodations and budget-friendly lifestyle choices.
Navigate Costs of Studying in Singapore with KC Overseas
This is everything that you must know about the financial aspects of studying in Singapore. Understanding the financial intricacies of studying in Singapore demands meticulous planning and resourcefulness. Initially, the cost might seem daunting but strategic budgeting and utilising available opportunities can significantly ease the financial burden for international students seeking academic excellence in Singapore, one of the best Asian countries to study.
In the pursuit of your academic dreams in Singapore, KC Overseas Education can be your comprehensive support system. Our suite of services, encompassing counselling, university selection, application guidance, visa assistance, and pre-arrival support, ensures a smooth transition for students aspiring to study in Singapore. So, if you are planning to study in Singapore for the upcoming academic intake, then we recommend you to get started with your application process at the earliest to make the most of your higher education in the country. Connect with our team today!
FAQs
1. Is Singapore more affordable than other study-abroad destinations?
When considering costs, Singapore is more affordable than many Western study destinations. You'll find reasonable tuition, excellent public transportation, affordable hawker food, and good student housing options compared to places like the US, UK and Australia.
2. Which is the cheapest and most expensive course to study in Singapore?
The cheapest courses in Singapore are typically humanities and social sciences, with tuition starting around SGD 17,000 per year. In contrast, medical and MBA programs are the most expensive, costing up to SGD 100,000 or more, depending on the university.
3. Which are the top universities to study in Singapore?
The top universities in Singapore include the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU). These are some of the best, but there are more options depending on your course and preferences.
4. How can I reduce the cost of studying in Singapore?
You can reduce the cost of studying in Singapore by applying for scholarships, choosing affordable universities, staying in budget-friendly accommodations, using student discounts on transport and food, and working part-time jobs to cover living expenses.
5. Are educational loans available to study in Singapore?
Yes, educational loans are available for studying in Singapore. Many banks and financial institutions offer student loans with flexible repayment options. To explore the best loan options, reach out to Elan Loans and get expert assistance for your education financing.