8 Best Public Universities in Singapore for International Students
Singapore is, without a doubt, among a few small countries you should consider if you want to study at a public university abroad. This less-than-730-square-kilometer city-state is the epitome of modernization, a fair justice system, and, of course, shopping and nightlife in Asia. But more importantly, the universities in Singapore are among the world's cream of the crop.
There are 30 universities you can find in Singapore, and 8 of them are public universities. Having these many choices makes Singapore a great place for international students.
In this article, you’ll find out the public universities in Singapore, with some added information on programs, tuition, and how many international students you’ll be studying with. Let’s get started!
| Rank | University | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | National University of Singapore | Singapore, Singapore |
| 2 | Nanyang Technological University | Singapore, Singapore |
| 3 | Singapore Management University | Singapore, Singapore |
| 4 | Singapore University of Technology and Design | Singapore, Singapore |
| 5 | Singapore University of Social Sciences | Singapore, Singapore |
| 6 | Singapore Institute of Technology | Singapore, Singapore |
| 7 | LASALLE College of the Arts | Singapore, Singapore |
| 8 | BCA Academy | Singapore, Singapore |
Public Universities in Singapore
1. National University of Singapore
The National University of Singapore is more than just Singapore’s oldest university. It represents the best of Asia, offering high-quality education sought by many worldwide. It is part of the elusive top 20 universities worldwide, placing 11th in the QS Top Universities World University Ranking. The university’s forte programs are incredibly diverse, including research, engineering, business, sciences, and more. As NUS focuses on impact and innovation, it promises to improve society and technology.
2. Nanyang Technological University
Although often second in age and prestige in Singapore, Nanyang Technological University’s quality of education and training is impeccable. As such, it has found its niche among the world’s elite, placing in the top 20 to 40 places in worldwide university rankings. Such excellence can be credited to its assembly of world-class faculties and institutes, including the National Institute of Education and the Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering. It’s commitment to research and innovation, evident through its application of sustainable practices and construction of the Smart Campus, is also a factor to its high quality education.
3. Singapore Management University
The Singapore Management University, or SMU, is an autonomous academic institution in Singapore. Founded in 2000, the university offers degree programs in business and computer fields and has been one of the top education providers in Asia. At present, the university is home to more than 12,600 students, with over 10% international enrollment.
4. Singapore University of Technology and Design
The role of arts and design in advancing technology and societal growth has long been underrated. They are just as significant as the more technical and scientific aspects, which the Singapore University of Technology and Design recognizes. This premier and specialized institution hone students’ artistic talents, skills, and intelligence toward developing technology and society. It efficiently intertwines the worlds of art and science to create the best applications and innovations.
5. Singapore University of Social Sciences
Universities specializing in the social sciences are quite a rarity, making the Singapore University of Social Sciences a refreshing institution. Nearly all of its undergraduate and graduate programs are concentrated on the humanities, human development, business, behavioral sciences, law, Chinese studies, and other similar courses. Besides the social sciences, SUSS also provides a limited number of science, technology, and engineering courses. This reflects the university’s brand of inclusivity. It offers disciplines beyond its specializations and educates students from all walks of life – whether young or old, working or not, Singaporean or not.
6. Singapore Institute of Technology
Singapore Institute of Technology is the place for students who want a fast track to employment. This specialized university of applied learning molds students to become the-cream-of-the-crop professionals and play significant roles in society’s innovation and economic progress. To achieve such, SIT only offers quality programs that are fine-tuned according to the industry’s demands. From engineering to business, these courses are a crucial need of society, and the institute does its best to satiate such necessity. Moreover, SIT has valuable partnerships with foreign universities, such as The Culinary Institute of America and Trinity College Dublin, to give students more opportunities and expand their horizons.
7. LASALLE College of the Arts
LASALLE College of the Arts is one of the premier schools for art and design in Asia. It aims to educate the next generation of artists, designers, and leaders in creative industries. It boasts a modern campus equipped with studios and spaces that inspire students to bring their creative visions to life.
8. BCA Academy
BCA Academy is a Singaporean university that offers Bachelor’s, Master’s, Diploma, and Certificate Degrees. These can be taken part-time or full-time, depending on the course. The vocational college has provided quality training and education since 1984. Its mission is to create leaders honed by the quality training, learning and research programs of the school.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can International Students Study in Public Universities in Singapore?
Absolutely! International students in public universities in Singapore can pursue different program levels, but the most popular ones are bachelor’s and master’s programs.
As for tuition fees, note that these vary across specific disciplines and program levels, with some charging significantly more than others. Specifically, public universities in Singapore charge up to 128,100 SGD for bachelor’s and 68,200 SGD for master’s studies.
I hope this article can help you in your search for public universities in Singapore. Feel free to check out the Available Programs for International Students to learn more about studying abroad.