Studying in Singapore is a dream for many students, given the country’s global reputation for education, safety, and proximity to India. In this blog, we’ll explore insights shared by Armaan Dhanda, a second-year undergraduate student at NUS Singapore and a recipient of the prestigious Science and Technology (S&T) Scholarship worth ₹1.5 crore. Learn about admission requirements, scholarship details, and what makes Singapore a unique destination for higher education.
Why Choose Singapore for Higher Education?
Proximity to India: Singapore is just a 3.5–5.5-hour flight away, making it easier to visit family often.
Safety: Singapore is known for being safer than many countries, with strict regulations against drugs, alcohol, and smoking on campuses.
Quality Education: Institutions like NUS and NTU offer world-class infrastructure, flexible curriculums, and a focus on independent learning.
Career Opportunities: Graduates enjoy a high likelihood of employment, with top universities like NUS reporting a near 100% job placement rate within six months of graduation.
Differences: Indian and Singaporean Education
This table highlights key differences, helping students understand the unique advantages of studying in Singapore
| Aspect | Indian Education System | Singaporean Education System |
|---|---|---|
| Focus Area | Theoretical knowledge; exam-oriented | Practical learning; skill and innovation-oriented |
| Teaching Style | Lecture-based; teacher-centered | Interactive; student-centered |
| Curriculum | Fixed and standardized across boards | Flexible and multidisciplinary |
| Classroom Size | Large; ~40–50 students per class | Small; ~20–30 students per class |
| Use of Technology | Limited integration of technology | Extensive use of technology in education |
| Global Rankings | Few institutions in top global rankings | Home to globally ranked universities like NUS and NTU |
| Assessment | High emphasis on rote learning and board exams | Holistic assessment with focus on projects and critical thinking |
| Extracurricular Activities | Less prioritized; mainly academic-focused | Strong focus; part of holistic development |
| Cost of Education | Generally affordable; subsidized for locals | Higher tuition fees; scholarships widely available |
| Language of Instruction | Predominantly regional languages or English | Primarily English |
| Research Opportunities | Limited at undergraduate levels | Robust; strong emphasis on research and innovation |
| Skill Development | Lacks focus on industry readiness | Strong industry-academia collaboration |
| Cultural Diversity | Limited diversity in institutions | High cultural and international diversity |
| Job Market Alignment | Not always aligned with market needs | Strong alignment with industry demands |
How Armaan Secured Admission to NUS
Armaan’s journey began in seventh grade when a family trip to Singapore sparked his dream of studying there. His preparation included:
Strong Academic Performance: Focused on maintaining high grades throughout school, scoring 98.75% in his board exams.
Strategic Applications: Applied to multiple countries, including Canada, the UK, Hong Kong, and Singapore, but chose Singapore for its safety, affordability, and proximity.
Persistence: After not securing admission on his first attempt due to delays in board exam results, Armaan re-applied the following year and succeeded.
To learn about this from Armaan directly, watch the interview in the below video:
Scholarship to Study in Singapore for Free
The Science and Technology (S&T) Scholarship is a highly coveted opportunity for international students at NUS. Here’s what it offers:
Full Tuition Fee Waiver: Covers the entire cost of education.
Accommodation: Fully paid for four years.
Stipend: Monthly allowance of SGD 500 for living expenses.
Travel Costs: First and last flights between India and Singapore are covered.
Bond Agreement: Recipients must work in Singapore for six years after graduation.
Key Fact: Only about five students are awarded this scholarship annually, and candidates cannot apply directly. Instead, they are nominated by the university based on their academic excellence.
To learn more about this scholarship and also other shcolarships in Singapore, check out the video below:
Studying in Singapore offers unparalleled academic and personal growth opportunities. With its world-class education system, safety, and scholarships like the S&T, students can achieve their dreams without the financial burden.
Ready to take the next step? Start researching universities and scholarships, and let Singapore be the gateway to your global career! For one-on-one assistance for any queries related to Singapore, you can sign up for our program: Singapore Consultation.
