Pursuing higher education in Singapore has increasingly become a popular choice among students due to the prestige and quality of institutions like NUS, NTU, and SMU. However, before you dive headfirst into university life, it’s important to understand the financial implications involved in receiving higher education in this city-state.
For Singaporean citizens, the total tuition fees for a four-year undergraduate course at a local university typically cost between S$22,500 and S$54,000, with a rough average of S$38,250. Students without subsidies can expect to pay more, with fees ranging from S$121,324 to S$182,400 (a rough average of S$151,862), which is a striking 297% higher compared to what a Singaporean citizen pays.
As you navigate your academic journey in Singapore, keep in mind the various tuition fees and related expenses of each university. By having a clear understanding of the cost of university fees, you will be better prepared to plan for your financial future and make the most informed decision about where to pursue your studies.
An Overview of Singapore University Fees (2023)
For a clearer comparison of university course fees in Singapore, we’ve made some assumptions to simplify our findings. We’ve left out higher-priced courses like medicine and law. Given that most degrees in Singapore span three to four years, we’ve used a four-year duration for our estimates when specific course fee totals weren’t provided. This overview is based on the 2023 intake fees.
| School | Annual Course Fees | Total Estimated Fees for 3-Year Course | Total Estimated Fees for 4-Year Course | Average Course Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NUS | S$8,250 to S$9,650 | S$24,750 to S$28,950 | S$33,000 to S$38,600 | S$35,800 |
| NTU | S$8,250 to S$9,450 | S$24,750 to S$28,350 | S$33,000 to S$37,800 | S$35,400 |
| SMU | S$11,500 | S$34,500 | S$46,000 | S$46,000 |
| SUTD | S$13,500 | SUTD courses are generally 4 years | S$54,000 | S$54,000 |
| SIT | S$7,500 to S$9,300 (Fees are paid per trimester) | S$22,500 | S$22,500 to S$37,200 | S$29,850 |
| SUSS | S$7,500 to S$8,410 (Fees are charged per module, not per annum) | _ | S$30,000 to S$33,640 | S$31,820 |
| Overall | S$8,250 to S$13,500 |
| S$22,500 to S$54,000 | S$38,250 |
National University of Singapore (NUS)
The National University of Singapore (NUS) is a leading global institution, well-known for its high-quality education and cutting-edge research. Its diverse range of programs caters to students with various interests, from engineering and business to humanities and social sciences.
NUS has consistently been ranked among the top universities in the world, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a solid foundation for their careers. Your education at NUS will not only equip you with a strong theoretical understanding but also expose you to real-world experiences that can shape your professional development.
The tuition fees at NUS vary based on the program you choose to pursue. Here’s a table outlining the fee structure for different programs at NUS after MOE Tuition Grant (for Singapore Citizens):
| National University of Singapore AY23/24 | Per Annum | Total for 4 years |
|---|---|---|
| Business | S$9,650 | S$38,600 |
| Business (Real Estate) | S$8,250 | S$33,000 |
| Computing | S$8,250 | S$33,000 |
| Dentistry | S$30,200 | S$120,800 |
| Design and Engineering | S$8,250 | S$33,000 |
| Design and Engineering (Built Environment) | S$8,250 | S$33,000 |
| Design and Engineering (Architecture, Landscape Architecture) | S$8,900 | S$35,600 |
| Humanities & Sciences | S$8,250 | S$33,000 |
| Law | 12,700 | S$50,800 |
| Medicine (Nursing) | S$8,950 | S$35,800 |
| Medicine | S$30,200 | S$120,800 |
| Music | S$14,700 | S$58,800 |
| Science (Pharmacy) | S$9,100 | S$36,400 |
Please note that these fees are subject to change and may vary depending on factors such as your year of admission, nationality, and financial aid eligibility. It is essential to consult the NUS website for the most up-to-date information on tuition fees and other costs of attending the university.
Nanyang Technological University (NTU)
Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Business School is globally recognized as one of the premier business schools. Its reputation stands tall alongside many international institutions of higher learning, making it a coveted choice for aspiring business professionals.
When it comes to tuition, NTU’s undergraduate fees are competitive and are in the same ballpark as those of the National University of Singapore (NUS). Specifically, the annual tuition at NTU usually ranges between $8,250 and $9,450. That said, for a typical 3-year undergraduate course, students can anticipate an aggregate fee ranging from approximately $24,750 to $28,350.
Take a look at the subsidized fees for a 4-year course at NTU:
| Nanyang Technological University AY23/24 | Singapore Citizens | Permanent Residents | Foreigners / International Students |
|---|---|---|---|
| All programmes (except those listed below) | $33,000 | $46,200 | $71,200 |
| Accountancy | $37,800 | $53,000 | $81,600 |
| Medicine | $140,000 | $201,000 | $310,400 |
| Renaissance Engineering Programme | $71,800 | $100,600 | $155,000 |
Please note that the fees mentioned in the table are estimates to give you an idea of the costs involved in pursuing a degree at NTU. It’s essential to check the university’s official website for the most up-to-date tuition fee information.
Singapore Management University (SMU)
Singapore Management University (SMU) has established a unique identity among Singapore’s universities. Known for producing articulate graduates poised for management roles, the university adopts a distinct pedagogical approach. Nestled in the heart of the city, SMU boasts a location that’s second to none. This strategic positioning offers students a plethora of amenities and networking opportunities.
While SMU is a local university, its fee structure is a tad higher than its counterparts, NUS and NTU. For most undergraduate programs at SMU, students can expect to pay $11,500 annually. This translates to $34,500 for a standard 3-year course and $46,000 if the program spans four years.
|
| Total Subsidised Tuition Fees for 4 Years | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Singapore Management University AY23/24 | Singapore Citizens | Permanent Residents | Foreigners / International Students (inclusive of GST) |
| Bachelor of Accountancy Bachelor of Integrative Studies (Individualised Major) | $46,000 | $64,200 | $99,400 |
| Bachelor of Laws | $50,800 | $71,000 | $109,600 |
Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD)
The Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) is a renowned institution in Singapore that focuses on technology and design disciplines. SUTD stands out due to its unique approach to learning, incorporating interdisciplinary education and research with an emphasis on design thinking. As a result, the university has quickly gained a strong reputation in the region.
This university has a standardized tuition fee for its courses. Annually, students can expect to pay $13,500 for their studies at SUTD. Given that the typical duration of SUTD courses spans 8 terms, equivalent to 4 years, the cumulative cost for a complete program amounts to $54,000 for the entire 4-year duration.
| Tuition Fees | Total Subsidised Tuition Fee for 4 Years | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Singapore Citizens | Singapore Permanent Residents (SPR) | International Students | |
| Per academic year | S$54,000 | S$77,400 | S$119,600 |
| Per term | S$6,750 | S$9,675 | S$14,950 |
The cost of university tuition fees in Singapore can get more expensive for non-subsidised students and students from other countries. Definitely check out the university’s official website for updated tuition fee information.
Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT)
The Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) is one of the well-established universities in Singapore, offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs. It stands out with its specialized courses in sectors like aircraft systems, infrastructure, aerospace, and other engineering niches. Additionally, they offer unique degrees such as naval architecture and mechatronics, catering to the evolving demands of the industry.
SIT aims to provide an affordable education to its students, with various tuition loans and financial schemes available, ensuring a high-quality education accessible to all students. For most of their programs, the total cost ranges between $22,500 and $43,320 for the entire duration of the course.
Degrees in ICT (Information and Communication Technology), pharmaceutical engineering, and healthcare tend to be on the pricier side, costing between $30,000 and $37,200 for the complete course.
| Singapore Institute of Technology AY23/24 | Singapore Citizens | Permanent Residents | International Students (inclusive of GST) | Fees payable if not in receipt of MOE Tuition Grant (Inclusive of GST) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accountancy | $27,900 | $53,100 | $72,900 | $110,906 |
| Hospitality Business | $27,900 | $53,100 | $72,900 | $110,906 |
| Air Transport Management | $27,900 | $53,100 | $72,900 | $110,906 |
| Digital Communications and Integrated Media | $22,500 | $47,160 | $64,170 | $97,784 |
| Aircraft Systems Engineering | $22,500 | $47,160 | $64,170 | $97,784 |
| Computer Engineering | $22,500 | $47,160 | $64,170 | $97,784 |
| Robotics Systems | $30,000 | $62,880 | $85,560 | $130,378 |
| Digital Supply Chain | $22,500 | $47,160 | $64,170 | $97,784 |
| Engineering Systems | $22,500 | $47,160 | $64,170 | $97,784 |
| Sustainable Built Environment | $22,500 | $47,160 | $64,170 | $97,784 |
| Mechatronics Systems | $43,320 | $84,000 | $114,360 | $160,575 |
| Electrical Power Engineering | $31,140 | $60,600 | $82,620 | $115,668 |
| Mechanical Design and Manufacturing Engineering | $31,140 | $60,600 | $82,620 | $115,668 |
| Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering | $31,140 | $60,600 | $82,620 | $115,668 |
| Civil Engineering | $31,140 | $60,600 | $82,620 | $115,668 |
| Mechanical Engineering | $31,140 | $60,600 | $82,620 | $115,668 |
| Aerospace Engineering | $31,140 | $60,600 | $82,620 | $115,668 |
| Electronics and Data Engineering | $41,520 | $80,800 | $110,160 | $154,224 |
| Pharmaceutical Engineering | $30,000 | $62,880 | $85,560 | $130,378 |
| Food Technology | $41,520 | $80,800 | $110,160 | $154,224 |
| Chemical Engineering | $41,520 | $80,800 | $110,160 | $154,224 |
| Diagnostic Radiography | $37,200 | $70,800 | $97,200 | $147,874 |
| Occupational Therapy | $37,200 | $70,800 | $97,200 | $147,874 |
| Radiation Therapy | $37,200 | $70,800 | $97,200 | $147,874 |
| Dietetics and Nutrition | $37,200 | $70,800 | $97,200 | $147,874 |
| Speech and Language Therapy | $37,200 | $70,800 | $97,200 | $147,874 |
| Physiotherapy | $37,200 | $70,800 | $97,200 | $147,874 |
| Nursing | $20,760 | $40,400 | $55,080 | $77,112 |
| Computer Engineering | $22,500 | $47,160 | $64,170 | $97,784 |
| Information and Communications Technology (Information Security) | $30,000 | $62,880 | $85,560 | $130,378 |
| Information and Communications Technology (Software Engineering) | $30,000 | $62,880 | $85,560 | $130,378 |
| Digital Supply Chain | $22,500 | $47,160 | $64,170 | $97,784 |
| Applied Artificial Intelligence | $22,500 | $47,160 | $64,170 | $97,784 |
| Applied Computing (Fintech) | $22,500 | $47,160 | $64,170 | $97,784 |
| Digital Art and Animation | $43,320 | $84,000 | $114,360 | $160,575 |
| User Experience and Game Design | $43,320 | $84,000 | $114,360 | $160,575 |
| Computing Science | $31,140 | $60,600 | $82,620 | $115,668 |
| Computer Science in Interactive Media and Game Development | $43,320 | $84,000 | $114,360 | $160,575 |
| Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation | $43,320 | $84,000 | $114,360 | $160,575 |
Please note that the fees listed above are approximate figures and are subject to change without prior notice. Visit SIT’s website and refer to the relevant tuition fee page for more accurate and up-to-date information on their fees and financial assistance programs.
Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS)
The Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) is a reputable institution that offers a wide range of full-time and part-time degree programmes to cater to your learning needs. SUSS has a focus on lifelong learning, providing versatile CET courses to help you make the future you want.
Instead of the conventional annual fee system prevalent in most institutions, SUSS charges based on modules. This means students pay fees according to the number of modules they enroll in each semester. The financial implications of this approach can be both advantageous and challenging. On one hand, students have the flexibility to control their expenses by managing their module intake. On the other hand, proper financial planning becomes crucial to avoid any surprises.
|
| Total Subsidised Fees for 4 Years | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Singapore University of Social Sciences AY23/24 | Singapore Citizens | Permanent Residents | Foreigners / International Students |
| Accountancy | $33,640 | $67,280 | $81,200 |
| Business Analytics | $30,000 | $62,880 | $76,000 |
| Early Childhood Education | $30,000 | $62,880 | $76,000 |
| Finance | $30,000 | $62,880 | $76,000 |
| Marketing | $30,000 | $62,880 | $76,000 |
| Public Safety and Security | $30,000 | $62,880 | Not applicable |
| Social Work | $30,000 | $62,880 | $76,000 |
| Supply Chain Management | $30,000 | $62,880 | $76,000 |
For a detailed breakdown of the fees you need to know for the academic year 2023, refer to official university sources.
Additional University Costs to Consider
Apart from tuition fees, there are other expenses you need to be aware of when planning for your university education in Singapore. In this section, we’ll discuss some additional costs that you should consider.
- Accommodation: If you plan to stay on campus, you will need to factor in the costs of university housing. These costs can vary depending on the type of accommodation you choose, the university, and its location.
- Living expenses: Living in Singapore can be costly, and as a university student, you’ll need to budget for expenses such as food, transportation, and personal items. On average, a student’s cost of living is estimated to be around $10,300 per year.
- Books and materials: Additional school fees, such as course materials, textbooks, and other academic resources may also add to your overall expenses. Some courses may require you to purchase specific equipment or software as well.
- Miscellaneous fees: Universities in Singapore may charge additional fees for services such as student clubs, orientation programs, health insurance, and laboratory or workshop facility access. Be sure to review the fee structure for your chosen program to account for these costs as well.
Funding Options
CPF Education Scheme
The CPF Education Scheme is a financial support offered by the Singapore government to help students manage their university fees. Under this scheme, you can use your Central Provident Fund (CPF) Ordinary Account (OA) savings to pay for your or your family member’s education, up to 100% of the government-subsidized tuition fees .
The scheme covers tuition fees for Singaporean citizens and Singapore Permanent Residents enrolled in local universities, including the National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), and Singapore Management University (SMU). It is important to note that the CPF Education Loan Scheme does not cover annual or miscellaneous fees.
To apply for the CPF Education Scheme, you can submit an application online at the CPF Board’s website. Repayment of the loan starts one year after you graduate or one year after you leave the program, whichever is earlier. The minimum repayment per month is $100 if the outstanding amount is up to $10,000. All repayments must be made in cash.
Scholarships & Bursaries
In Singapore, students can access various scholarships and bursaries for higher education to mitigate tuition and associated costs.
- Higher Education Bursary: Provided by institutions like NUS, it supports students with financial needs, requiring yearly re-application via the university’s financial aid platform.
- Higher Education Community Bursary: Offered by NTU for full-time undergraduates with financial needs, this was formerly the CDC/CCC Bursary. Application is through the university’s financial aid office.
- NTU Bursary: Exclusively for NTU students facing financial hardships. Similar to the Higher Education Bursary, the NTU Bursary requires you to apply through the university’s financial aid office or portal.
- Donated Bursaries: Funded by private entities, they’re awarded based on set criteria, including academic achievements or financial necessities. Check with your university’s financial aid office for application details.
Education Loans in Singapore
Education loans can cover a significant portion of your tuition fees and other related expenses, making it possible for you to attend university without the heavy financial burden.
Several institutions offer education loans in Singapore. Some popular options include:
- NUS Study Loan: This loan is available to undergraduate students under the MOE Tuition Grant Scheme. Eligible students can receive assistance for tuition fees and living expenses.
- Tuition Fee Loan: Offered by the Ministry of Education, this loan covers up to 75% of subsidized fees payable by polytechnic students and up to 90% of subsidized Singapore Citizen fees payable by university students.
- DBS Tuition Fee Loan: With this loan, you can borrow up to 90% of your subsidized tuition fees for university or NIE Singapore students, or 75% if you’re a polytechnic student. The loan is interest-free until graduation.
- SMU Education Loan: Full-time undergraduate students of any nationality enrolled in any degree program can apply for this loan, which offers up to $5,000 for one year.
The MOE Tuition Grant
The Ministry of Education (MOE) Tuition Grant is a helpful financial aid scheme that assists students with the costs of selected diploma and undergraduate studies in polytechnics, Institute of Technical Education, arts institutions, and autonomous universities in Singapore.
As a student planning to pursue full-time diploma or undergraduate courses at Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs), such as the National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University, and Singapore Management University, you may be eligible for the grant. To check your eligibility and learn more about the MOE Tuition Grant, visit the MOE website.
If you accept the MOE Tuition Grant, you will be required to work in Singapore for a specified period after completing your studies. The grant’s obligations contribute to the continuous growth and development of the local workforce.
Final Word
As a prospective student, it is essential to understand the range of tuition fees imposed by universities in Singapore. The fees vary depending on factors like your citizenship status and the type of programme you intend to pursue. Local university fees for Singapore citizens average around $22,500 to $54,000 for a four-year course.
Key Takeaways
- University fees in Singapore are highly subsidized by the government for Singapore citizens, reducing the burden on students.
- Fees are payable through a cohort-based fee system. This means that your fees will remain constant throughout your course of study. Familiarize yourself with the fee structure of the university that you’re targeting.
- Look into financial assistance options such as scholarships, grants, and financial aid if you require support to cover your tuition fees. This will enable you to pursue higher education without financial constraints.
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