Commonly referred to as the “little red dot,” Singapore is a unique blend of the best of the East and the West. It is often described using a few key words: safe, convenient, clean, and efficient. As a major trade and travel hub, travelling to and from Singapore is a breeze.
Singapore is one of the most vibrant and liveable cities in the world, offering a high quality of life, easy regional access, low crime rates, political stability, and excellent infrastructure and healthcare, along with a cosmopolitan lifestyle. Students can enjoy a high-quality life and focus on their studies in a safe environment.
Singapore’s world-class public transportation system, which includes the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) and Light Rail Transit (LRT) networks, along with an extensive bus system, ensures convenient access to most areas of the island, while taxi fares remain relatively affordable.
To improve transportation services and facilitate quicker access to destinations, the Singapore government continually implements innovative measures. For instance, the introduction of the advanced electronic rechargeable card “EZ-Link Card” allows users to simply tap it on a reader when using public transportation, automatically deducting the fare.
Singapore’s education system is derived from the British traditional education system, emphasizing merit-based education and striving to cultivate elite talent.
The bilingual policy, which emphasizes the use of English and the mother tongue languages—Malay, Mandarin (Chinese), and Tamil—was implemented by the Singapore government.
Singapore boasts a rich multicultural heritage where various ethnic groups coexist harmoniously.
The population of Singapore mainly consists of four major ethnic groups: Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Eurasian, each with its own customs and cultural traditions. Additionally, over 90,000 expatriates live and work in Singapore, bringing unique cultural perspectives and contributing to Singapore’s vibrancy as an international metropolis.
With its rich multicultural background, Singapore offers a diverse dining scene and a vibrant tapestry of traditions and points of interest, making it perfect for broadening students’ horizons beyond the classes.
Singapore is a vibrant and colourful country. It is renowned as a food paradise and a shopping haven. Cultural districts like Little India, Chinatown, and Geylang Serai add diversity to Singapore’s cultural landscape.
Singapore also regularly hosts a variety of exciting events, such as the Great Singapore Sale, Singapore Arts Festival, and Festival of Lights, making the city a vibrant hub of activity.
Singapore’s climate is typically warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 31°C to 33°C during the day and 23°C to 25°C at night. In addition to Singapore’s occasional heavy rainfall, it is advisable to carry an umbrella.
In Singapore, everyday attire is primarily casual, and it is recommended to wear light and breathable clothing to adapt to the tropical climate. As Singapore is a multicultural society, certain occasions may have specific dress code requirements, such as formal events or visits to specific institutions. Therefore, students should understand and adhere to the relevant dress code to ensure their attire is appropriate and to avoid unnecessary embarrassment.
On average, international students in Singapore spend about S$1,600 monthly on living expenses. Below is a rough guide to the basic expenditures that an international student may encounter while residing in Singapore.
| Area of Cost | Estimated Monthly Cost (SGD) |
| Accommodation | $600 and above (depending on location and type of accommodation) |
| Utilities | $50 and above |
| Food | $450 – $900 (varies from hawker centres to dining at restaurants, and, plus grocery costs) |
| Transportation | $100 – $150 (public transport for travel) |
| Telecommunication | $35 and above (including mobile data plans) |
| Book and Stationary | Based on personal need |
| Personal Expenses and Leisure | $150 – $500 (varies with individual lifestyle) |
This estimation can vary based on individual lifestyle choices and preferences.
