Study at a favorite university is the dream of many Indonesian students. Singapore is one such option. There are a number of well-known and reputable universities there. Not surprisingly, study in Singapore is the goal of many students in Indonesia. They compete to find information about tuition fees, favorite campuses, admission requirements, and estimated living costs in the Lion City.

Why is Singapore a Popular Study Destination?

There is no doubt about the quality of education in Singapore. The country is famous for its excellent education. The National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) are among the best universities in the world. These campuses implement international curriculum standards, have modern research facilities, and are strongly connected to global industries.

In addition to its academic reputation, Singapore is also known for being safe, clean, having highly efficient public transportation, and modern infrastructure. Moreover, the language of instruction there is English, making it very easy for students from Indonesia to adjust.

The major and campus greatly affect the cost of tuition in Singapore. The following is an estimate of the annual tuition fees based on our research for international students at these public universities.

National University of Singapore (NUS)

• Faculty of Business: SGD 21,050–22,100 (subsidised) – SGD 33,050 (non-subsidised) per year.
• Engineering: SGD 17,950–20,000 (subsidised) – SGD 39,200 (non-subsidised) per year.
• Arts and Social Sciences: SGD 17,950–20,000 (subsidised) – SGD 34,900 (non-subsidised) per year.
• Science: SGD 17,950–23,350 (subsidised) – SGD 39,500 (non-subsidised) per year.
• Medicine/Pharmacy/Nursing: SGD 19,800–83,950 (subsidised) – SGD 181,150 (non-subsidised) per year, depending on the program.

Nanyang Technological University (NTU)

• International undergraduate programs: SGD 8,250–17,950 (subsidised) – SGD 36,250 (non-subsidised) per year, depending on the major (non-lab/lab-based).
• Engineering/Technology: SGD 9,450–20,600 (subsidised) – SGD 45,500 (non-subsidised) per year.
• Business/Management programs: SGD 20,100–32,000 (subsidised) – SGD 80,850 (non-subsidised) per year.

Singapore Management University (SMU)

Tuition fees for international undergraduate students generally range from SGD 25,100–26,100 (subsidised) – SGD 47,700 (non-subsidised) per year, depending on the program. Business, Accountancy, and Information Systems programs are in the standard range; Law is SGD 27,650–29,300 (subsidised) – SGD 52,800 (non-subsidised). Tuition is charged per term, with annual miscellaneous fees of ~SGD 290 (add ~SGD 4,770–5,280 per special term course for non-subsidised).

Note: Tuition fees for international undergraduate students may be subsidised via the MOE Tuition Grant (requiring a 3-year work bond in Singapore post-graduation) or non-subsidised (no bond). Fees are annual, inclusive of 9% GST where noted, and fixed for the cohort (e.g., AY2025/2026). ASEAN students often pay lower subsidised rates than non-ASEAN. Always check official sites for personalised details. Tuition fees are estimates and may vary depending on the academic year, program structure, and whether students receive government subsidies such as the Tuition Grant.

London School of Business & Finance (LSBF) Singapore

In addition to public universities, Singapore is also home to reputable private institutions such as London School of Business & Finance (LSBF) Singapore. LSBF is well known for its strong focus on business, finance, management, and professional qualifications. Located in the heart of Singapore, LSBF offers internationally recognized programs in collaboration with universities from the UK and Europe. The institution emphasizes practical learning, industry relevance, and career readiness, making it an attractive option for Indonesian students who want a faster, career-oriented education pathway with flexible study options. LSBF’s multicultural environment and strong industry connections also help students build global networks while studying in Singapore.

Cost of Living

In addition to tuition fees, Indonesian students who are interested in continuing their studies in Singapore must also take into account the cost of living. The estimated cost of living per month is as follows.

• Accommodation: Campus dormitory: SGD 500 – 800 per month and apartment: SGD 1,000 – 1,400 per month, depending on location
• Food: Eating at local food courts costs around SGD 300 – 450 per month.
• Transportation: The average cost of MRT and bus fares is around SGD 60 – 90 per month.
• Academic and personal needs: The cost of books, stationery, and study supplies is around SGD 40 – 100 per month.

The total cost of living in Singapore can reach SGD 900 – SGD 1,500 per month. Your lifestyle and type of lodging will determine how much this is.

Preparations and Requirements Prior to Studying
Indonesian students must prepare the following paperwork in order to get admitted to a Singaporean university:

• Academic: Transcript and high school report card grades.
• English proficiency: TOEFL or IELTS exam.
• Motivation letter: primary justifications for selecting the Singaporean university and major.
• Portfolio: suitable for majors in architecture, design, or art.
• Student Pass/Visa: to be processed after official acceptance into the university.

To reduce the financial burden of studying in Singapore, Indonesian students can search for scholarships there. Numerous aid programs and scholarship offer are available. For instance, the Global Merit Scholarship is one of the merit-based scholarships offered by NUS. By utilizing the Singaporean government’s Tuition Grant program, ASEAN students can receive tuition savings.

Scholarships

Indonesian students can also seek scholarships from within the country to continue their studies abroad, one of which is LPDP. With scholarships, students can minimize their financial burden and allocate their budget for daily living expenses.

Study in Singapore is not only about preparing yourself to attend lectures and take exams, but also about adapting to global cultural diversity. Students usually take advantage of a number of communities available on campus to get to know each other, such as art communities, research organizations, and sports clubs.

To feel the pulse of Singaporean society, students can use their free time to explore city parks, shopping centers, art galleries, and tourist attractions. Convenient public transportation makes it very easy and inexpensive to explore every corner of the city.

Job Prospects

Graduates from Singaporean universities have great opportunities to work in a number of global companies. Many giant global companies have opened offices there. In addition, Singapore has become a business and technology hub in Southeast Asia. During their studies, students can take advantage of internship opportunities at these companies. These internships carry significant weight. Your work portfolio will also strengthen and increase your competitiveness in the job market.

Before deciding to continue your studies there, you need to ask yourself once again, “Are you ready to make a significant investment to gain international experience? Can you manage the high cost of living and tuition?”

If yes, Singapore could be the perfect stage for you to grow. But if you are not sure, you should think about your long-term objectives. “Is education merely an experience or a route to a global career?”

There is more to study in Singapore than merely earning a degree. It serves as a conduit for expanding your worldwide professional prospects, fortifying your perspective, and fostering international relationships.