Thinking about studying in Singapore but unsure how much it will really cost? You’re not alone. Singapore has become one of Asia’s most sought-after study destinations, home to top-ranked institutions like the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU). While the country promises world-class education and exceptional career opportunities, the cost of studying in Singapore for Indian students is a key factor that can shape your decision.
The challenge lies in managing this investment wisely. Tuition fees are competitive compared to the US or UK, but Singapore’s premium standard of living means everyday expenses from accommodation to transport can add up quickly. Without a well-planned budget, what seems like a smart choice can turn into an unexpected financial strain.
This expert guide serves as your 2026 cost blueprint, breaking down every major expense in both SGD and INR. With over 5,000 Indian students enrolling annually (Source: MOE Singapore), it gives you verified insights to plan smarter, study better, and make the most of your education journey in Singapore.
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Singapore stands out as one of Asia’s most strategic higher education destinations, attracting thousands of international students every year. According to the Bureau of Immigration, it remains among the top 10 countries chosen by Indian students for higher studies in the past five years and for good reason.
1. Globally Ranked Universities
Singapore is home to global elite universities that consistently feature among the top institutions worldwide. The National University of Singapore (NUS) ranks 8th globally and 3rd in Asia, while Nanyang Technological University (NTU) is equally prestigious. These institutions are known for academic innovation, research excellence, and strong employer recognition.
2. Unmatched Employability
Singapore’s education system is designed around workforce readiness. With major global employers like Meta, Google, and JP Morgan headquartered in the city, graduates benefit from unmatched career mobility. NUS and NTU are ranked among the top 40 universities worldwide for graduate employability, giving students a strong launchpad for international careers.
3. English-Medium Education
For Indian students, adapting to Singapore’s education system is seamless. English serves as the primary language of instruction, eliminating language barriers and ensuring smooth academic and social integration.
4. Safe and Structured Environment
Ranked #5 globally on the Global Peace Index, Singapore offers one of the safest environments in the world. Its well-structured public systems, strict laws, and efficient governance make it an ideal place for focused academic growth.
5. Exceptional Quality of Life
Singapore ranks #6 globally for quality of life, offering a perfect balance of modern infrastructure, cultural inclusivity, and recreational opportunities. Students enjoy both academic excellence and a high standard of living an essential factor for long-term well-being. In short, Singapore combines academic prestige, employability, and lifestyle advantages like no other destination. Let’s now explore the top universities, their programs, and the tuition fees that shape the cost of studying in Singapore for Indian students.
Average Cost of Studying in Singapore for Indian Students (2026)
On average, Indian students can expect the total cost of studying in Singapore to range between SGD 30,000 – SGD 65,000 per year (₹20.4 – ₹44.3 lakhs). This includes tuition fees and living expenses.
| Expense Type | Average Annual Cost (SGD) | Average Annual Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | 25,000 – 55,000 | ₹17,03,750 – ₹37,48,250 |
| Accommodation | 10,000 – 18,000 | ₹6,81,500 – ₹12,26,700 |
| Food & Meals | 3,000 – 6,000 | ₹2,04,450 – ₹4,09,000 |
| Transportation | 800 – 1,200 | ₹54,520 – ₹81,780 |
| Miscellaneous (Books, Internet, Health Insurance, etc.) | 2,000 – 3,000 | ₹1,36,300 – ₹2,04,450 |
| Total Estimated Annual Cost | 40,800 – 83,200 | ₹27.8 – ₹56.8 lakhs |
The total Singapore study cost varies based on course type (engineering, business, medicine, etc.) and university. Government-funded institutions like NUS or NTU often offer subsidised tuition or scholarships that can significantly reduce expenses.
Tuition Fees in Singapore for International Students (2026)
Tuition fees depend on the university, program level, and whether it’s government-subsidised. Public universities are often cheaper than private ones due to Singapore’s Tuition Grant Scheme.
Average Tuition Fee Range
| Program Type | Average Annual Fee (SGD) | Approx. Annual Fee (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Diploma Courses | 8,000 – 15,000 | ₹5.4 – ₹10.2 lakhs |
| Undergraduate Programs | 20,000 – 45,000 | ₹13.6 – ₹30.6 lakhs |
| Postgraduate Programs | 25,000 – 55,000 | ₹17.0 – ₹37.5 lakhs |
| MBA | 30,000 – 65,000 | ₹20.4 – ₹44.3 lakhs |
Expert Tip: Students opting for subsidised tuition through the Singapore Ministry of Education (MOE) Tuition Grant must commit to working in Singapore for at least 3 years post-graduation.
Top 10 Universities in Singapore and Their Fees (2026)
Below is an updated list of leading universities in Singapore along with their average annual tuition fees for Indian students.
| University | Average Annual Tuition Fees (SGD) | Average Annual Tuition Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| National University of Singapore (NUS) | SGD 50,000 | ₹34,07,500 |
| Nanyang Technological University (NTU) | SGD 47,000 | ₹32,03,050 |
| Singapore Management University (SMU) | SGD 46,000 | ₹31,34,900 |
| Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) | SGD 44,000 | ₹29,98,600 |
| James Cook University Singapore | SGD 38,000 | ₹25,89,700 |
| SIM Global Education | SGD 35,000 | ₹23,85,250 |
| LASALLE College of the Arts | SGD 33,000 | ₹22,49,000 |
| Ngee Ann Polytechnic | SGD 25,000 | ₹17,03,750 |
| Kaplan Higher Education Academy | SGD 28,000 | ₹19,08,200 |
| Curtin University Singapore | SGD 30,000 | ₹20,44,500 |
Note: The National University of Singapore fees (NUS fees for Indian students) vary depending on the course engineering and business programs are typically higher than arts or social sciences.
Living Costs in Singapore for Indian Students
Singapore’s cost of living is considered high compared to most Asian countries but remains lower than in the UK or Australia when compared with the overall quality of education and safety.
Average Monthly Living Expenses
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (SGD) | Approx. Monthly Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| On-campus Housing | 600 – 1,200 | ₹40,890 – ₹81,780 |
| Off-campus Apartment | 800 – 2,000 | ₹54,520 – ₹1,36,300 |
| Meals (University Canteen or Eating Out) | 250 – 500 | ₹17,038 – ₹34,075 |
| Transportation (MRT, Bus Passes) | 50 – 100 | ₹3,408 – ₹6,815 |
| Internet & Utilities | 100 – 150 | ₹6,815 – ₹10,222 |
| Personal Expenses | 100 – 200 | ₹6,815 – ₹13,630 |
Students can manage expenses efficiently by sharing accommodation, using student concession cards for travel, and cooking meals at home.
Major Scholarships to Reduce the Cost of Studying In Singapore for Indian Students
You must have understood that studying in Singapore is slightly expensive, and funding your studies there might seem daunting, but there are ways to make it work! While the country is known for its high quality of life, the cost of living can be higher for international students.
The good news is that scholarships are available to help ease the burden. These scholarships can range from generous amounts up to SGD6000 (INR 4.09L) annually and can be used to cover tuition or living expenses.
This way, you can focus on your studies and have a stress-free experience abroad!
Here's a list of major scholarships to counter the expensive cost of university in Singapore.
| Scholarship | Offered By | Award |
|---|---|---|
| LKY School of Public Policy PhD Scholarship | National University of Singapore | SGD 2,200 (₹1.50 lakhs) per month for 4 years |
| George Lyndon Hicks Fellowship | George Lyndon Hicks Foundation | SGD 5,000 (₹3.41 lakhs) per month for 6 months |
| Science & Technology Undergraduate Scholarship | National University of Singapore | SGD 6,000 (₹4.09 lakhs) annual living allowance |
| Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) | Agency of Science, Technology and Research | SGD 2,700 – 3,200 (₹1.84 – ₹2.18 lakhs) per month for 4 years |
| INSEAD Syngenta Endowed Scholarship(s) for Emerging Country Leadership | INSEAD | €30,000 (₹26.4 lakhs) lump sum |
Applying for scholarships early, along with strong academic records and recommendation letters, increases selection chances significantly.
Top 5 High-Paying Jobs in Singapore
Studying in Singapore can be a wise investment in your future career. The country is a global hub for multinational companies across sectors like finance, technology, logistics, and healthcare. While studying in Singapore can be expensive, the return on investment is exceptional; the average annual salary in Singapore is around SGD 70,000 (₹47.7L), with graduates from leading universities such as NUS and NTU often earning even higher packages. A degree from a reputed Singaporean university not only enhances your global employability but also opens doors to dynamic, high-paying career opportunities.
We’re talking about roles like engineers, data analysts, and investment bankers, all offering competitive salaries. With an employment rate of 68.6%, Singapore provides strong career prospects. Students can also take up part-time jobs for up to 16 hours a week, helping them gain experience and manage living expenses making Singapore an ideal place to study and start a global career.
Here's a table of the top recruiters in Singapore and their popular job positions.
| Companies | Job Fields |
|---|---|
| Accenture | IT Services Consulting |
| KPMG | Finance Investment Banking Asset Management |
| Deloitte | Finance Investment Banking Asset Management |
| PwC | Finance Data Analysis Management |
| EY | Consulting Finance Asset Management |
Here's a list of top high-paying jobs to help you recover the cost of studying in Singapore.
| Job | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Doctor | INR 87.2 L (SGD 128 K) |
| Project Manager | INR 52.5 L (SGD 77 K) |
| Investment Banking Analyst | INR 41.6 L (SGD 61 K) |
| Full Stack Developer | INR 47.7 L (SGD 70 K) |
| Logistics Manager | INR 46.3 L (SGD 68 K) |
Conclusion
The cost of studying in Singapore in 2026 may range from ₹25 lakhs to ₹55 lakhs per year, depending on your course and lifestyle. However, when balanced with the quality of education, employability outcomes, and safety, Singapore stands out as a cost-effective and high-value study destination.
Before applying, connect with a LeapScholar counsellor to understand university-specific costs, scholarships, and application guidance tailored for your profile. Book your free counselling session with LeapScholar today and start your journey toward studying in Singapore with expert guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ’s)
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Q. What is the cost of studying in Singapore for Indian students?
Ans. The cost of studying in Singapore for Indian students includes both tuition fees and living expenses. Tuition fees can range from INR 10.9 L to INR 81.8 L (SGD 16 K to SGD 120 K) per year, depending on the university and program. Living expenses, covering rent, food, transportation, and other essentials, typically range from INR 1.36 L to INR 4.57 L (SGD 2 K to SGD 6.7 K) monthly. Scholarships and financial aid options are available to help manage these expenses, making education in Singapore a valuable long-term investment.
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Q. How safe is Singapore for Indian students?
Ans. According to the Global Peace Index, Singapore is ranked #5 in the world for safety. While the cost of studying in Singapore is expensive, the country is one of the safest places to study. The country's strict laws and low crime rates provide a secure environment, allowing you to focus on your studies without worrying about personal safety.
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Q. What are the top high-paying jobs in Singapore for graduates?
Ans. The strong economy and presence of multinational companies in Singapore provide ample opportunities for well-paying careers. High-paying jobs in Singapore include positions like:
Doctor: Around INR 87 L (SGD 128K) per year
Project Manager: Around INR 52 L (SGD 77K) per year
Full Stack Developer: Around INR 48 L (SGD 70K) per year -
Q. What is the Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)?
Ans. The Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) offers a monthly stipend of SGD 2.7K to SGD 3.2K (INR 1.84 L to INR 2.18 L) for four years. It is designed for international students pursuing graduate research degrees in Singapore. The scholarship supports outstanding talent and helps reduce the overall cost of studying in Singapore by covering key academic and living expenses.
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Q. What are Singapore university fees for international students?
Ans. Singapore university fees for international students can vary widely. For undergraduate programs, fees range from INR 10.9L to INR 81.8L (SGD16K to SGD120K) per year, depending on the university and the course. Graduate programs might have different fee structures, with some specialised courses being more expensive. Scholarships, grants, and financial aid options are available to help international students with the cost of studying in Singapore.
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