Studying in Singapore is an exciting and rewarding experience. The country offers high-quality education at world-class institutions like NUS and NTU, all taught in English. The diverse and multicultural environment ensures you’ll meet people from all over the world. Singapore’s modern infrastructure, safe and clean surroundings, and a strong focus on innovation make it an ideal place for learning and personal growth. While the cost of living can be high, many students find it manageable with proper budgeting. There are plenty of cultural and recreational activities to enjoy, and good work opportunities both during and after your studies. The straightforward application and visa processes make settling in easier for international students.
In this blog, we will delve into the top universities in Singapore, along with the popular courses & expenses.
Which are the top universities in Singapore?
Singapore has six top-notch public universities:
National University of Singapore (NUS)
Nanyang Technological University (NTU)
Singapore Management University (SMU)
Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD)
Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT)
Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS).
Additionally, world-renowned institutions like MIT, Johns Hopkins University, Georgia Tech, University of Chicago Booth School of Business, INSEAD, and Wharton Business School have a significant presence in Singapore.
Which are the most popular courses in Singapore?
Here are some of the most popular courses to study in Singapore:
Information Technology: With the government’s push for digitization and e-governance, there are many job opportunities in IT. Singapore’s advanced tech infrastructure makes it ideal for IT studies.
MBA: Renowned faculties and the presence of top companies make Singapore a great place for MBA studies, offering excellent learning and earning opportunities.
Healthcare: The healthcare research community focuses on ethics, professionalism, and practical experience, providing robust training for students.
Banking: As a major finance hub, Singapore offers abundant job opportunities in banking and finance. Courses are available at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Law: Singapore boasts a comprehensive judicial system compatible with global standards, and its law schools are among the best and most respected.
Hospitality & Tourism: As a top tourist destination, Singapore offers diverse opportunities in hotels, cruises, restaurants, and travel agencies.
Computer Science: The government’s support for tech entrepreneurship and innovation creates many new opportunities in the market for computer science graduates.
Cost of Studying in Singapore
Education in Singapore is generally more affordable than in Europe, North America, and Oceania, but many students may still find it expensive.
For a three-year course, the approximate cost ranges between SGD 25,000 to 40,000.
Public universities charge lower tuition fees compared to private universities.
Public universities: SGD 8,200 to 9,600 per year
Private universities: Up to SGD 46,000 per year, depending on the institute and course
Public universities offer subsidized rates for Singaporeans.
International students can apply for government-subsidized programs through the Service Obligation Scheme.
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Is It Possible To Obtain A Fully-Funded Scholarship For International Education?
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Several international universities offer free courses in various fields, such as business management, law, and public administration. This is a great opportunity for those who want to study abroad without any financial outlay.
However, studying abroad cannot be absolutely free of cost. While affordable universities don’t charge tuition fees, they do have small administrative fees. For example, in the UK, administrative fees for a Master’s range from £7,000 to £36,000 per year (INR 7 to 36 lakhs) & £9,250 (INR 980019) per year for an undergraduate degree. These fees cover services such as student support, registration, and use of university facilities.
Some countries offer full or partial tuition waivers, while others provide stipends for living expenses. Not all countries or universities offer 100% scholarships or tuition waivers, but they do make education more affordable.
Why do Universities Provide Free Education To International Students?
Universities provide affordable or free education for international students for several key reasons:
1. Diversity and Cultural Exchange: Hosting students from diverse backgrounds enriches the campus environment, fostering cultural exchange and broadening perspectives for all students and faculty.
2. Global Reputation: Offering affordable or free education enhances a university’s global reputation, attracting top-tier talent worldwide and elevating its international rankings.
3. Talent Acquisition: By admitting international students, universities can access a wider pool of talent, leading to innovative research and significant academic advancements.
4. Soft Power and Diplomacy: Countries and their universities may use affordable education as a form of soft power, fostering goodwill and strengthening diplomatic relations with other nations.
5. Economic Benefits: International students often contribute substantially to the local economy through living expenses, travel, and other expenditures, thereby providing an economic boost to the host country.
6. Funding and Grants: Some universities receive government funding or grants specifically earmarked for supporting international students, enabling them to offer reduced or waived tuition fees.
7. Academic Collaboration: Hosting international students can lead to increased academic collaboration and partnerships with institutions in other countries, benefiting research and educational initiatives.
Is It Possible To Obtain A Fully-Funded Scholarship?
Yes, it is possible to obtain a fully-funded scholarship, however you have to compete rigorously for it. We elaborated on this point.
There is often confusion among students regarding the distinction between full-ride and full-tuition scholarships, despite their apparent interchangeability. The primary disparity lies in their coverage: full-ride scholarships encompass not only tuition fees but also accommodation, insurance, airfare, and additional expenses necessary for attending university. Consequently, these scholarships incur higher costs and are typically awarded initially for one academic year, renewable contingent upon the student’s ongoing eligibility. They represent a minority share to ensure a financially unburdened and gratifying college experience.
On the other hand, full-tuition scholarships strictly cover the cost of tuition alone, excluding supplementary expenses such as accommodation, laboratory fees, and travel costs. These scholarships are comparatively more prevalent and generally extend their coverage throughout the entirety of the academic program.
Thus, while full-ride scholarships offer comprehensive financial support, full-tuition scholarships focus solely on covering the educational expenses directly associated with tuition fees.
If you want to know more about the full-ride scholarships contact Ixora Global at: contactus@ixorainternational.in or leave a WhatsApp message at +919091011101.
List of Fully-Funded Scholarships for International Education
Here are few of the fully-funded scholarships for your study abroad journey:
1. UNSW Scholarship:
– Funded by UNSW.
– For master’s or PhD programs at the University of New South Wales.
– Available for arts, business, engineering, law, medicine, and sciences.
– Covers full tuition fees and provides a living allowance of AUD 37,684 per year.
– Details are available on the HDR Scholarships page at UNSW.
2. Chevening Scholarship:
– Funded by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and partners.
– For one-year master’s courses in the UK.
– Covers full tuition fees and offers networking opportunities.
– More information on the Chevening Scholarship page for Indian applicants.
3. Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships:
– Includes full tuition fees.
– Provides NZD 531 per week, an establishment allowance of NZD 3000, and covers medical insurance, tutoring costs, and travel expenses.
– Details available for Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships.
4. Australia Awards Scholarships:
– Administered by Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
– For full-time undergraduate and postgraduate study in Australia.
– Covers tuition fees, airfare, living expenses, and more.
– Note: Indian students are ineligible; details for Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal, and Sri Lanka applicants are on the Australian government website.
5. Vantage One Excellence Awards:
– Offered by Vantage College, University of British Columbia.
– Covers full tuition fees and living expenses.
– Requires leadership skills and extracurricular achievements.
– Information is available on UBC’s International Scholars webpage.
6. Karsh International Scholars Program:
– Funded by Martha L. and Bruce A. Karsh.
– For Duke University applicants demonstrating financial need.
– Covers tuition, accommodation, and additional needs.
– More details on Duke University’s official website.
7. Rhodes Scholarship:
– For full-time postgraduate study at the University of Oxford.
– Covers course fees, an annual stipend, flights, visa fees, and health surcharge.
– Details at the Rhodes Trust website.
8. Lester B. Pearson International Student Scholarships:
– Offered by the University of Toronto.
– For exceptional undergraduate students showing leadership potential.
– Approximately 37 scholarships are awarded annually.
– More information on the Lester B. Pearson Scholarships webpage.
9. Gates Cambridge Scholarship:
– 80 scholarships for University of Cambridge students.
– Covers tuition, living allowance, visa, and travel costs.
– Focus on leadership and community impact.
– Visit the Gates Cambridge Scholarship website for details.
10. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters:
– Offers study opportunities across European universities.
– Full scholarship includes travel, visa expenses, and living allowance.
– Courses typically last 1 to 2 years.
– Details available for Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters.
For additional study abroad scholarships, explore options such as Commonwealth Scholarships, Royal Society Grants, Tata Scholarship at Cornell University, Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships, Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships, and various university-specific scholarships tailored for Indian international students. These scholarships provide partial to substantial support for your educational journey abroad.
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The GRE is a popular exam, similar to the GMAT, that evaluates a candidate’s readiness for graduate, master’s, and doctoral programs in various fields, such as business management, engineering, and law. Many colleges and universities globally, particularly in the USA, UK, Canada, Japan, Ireland, and Hong Kong, accept GRE scores as part of their admission criteria, alongside GPA, letters of recommendation, and other qualifications. In this blog, we will learn all about the GRE.
There are two types of GREs: the General Test and the Subject Test. In 2024, the GRE will be available both online and offline throughout the year.
Important Facts About GRE:
Here are some key facts about the GRE:
1. Two Types of Tests: The GRE offers the General Test, which measures writing, verbal, and math skills, and Subject Tests, which focus on specific subjects like biology, chemistry, and math.
2. Widely Accepted: GRE scores are accepted by many graduate and business schools worldwide, including in the USA, UK, Canada, Japan, Ireland, and Hong Kong.
3. Flexible Formats: Although the GRE General Test is available online and on paper, the Subject Tests are usually paper-based.
4. Year-Round Availability: You can take the GRE General Test any time of the year, either at a test center or online at home.
5. Score Validity: GRE scores are valid for five years and you can use them for applications over a long period.
6. Registration and Prep: You can register for the GRE online and use various preparation materials, including practice tests and study guides from ETS, the test maker.
7. Test Length: The GRE General Test takes about 3 hours and 45 minutes, including breaks.
8. Scoring: The GRE General Test scores verbal and math sections on a scale of 130-170 and the writing section on a scale of 0-6. Subject Tests are scored between 200-990.
9. Retake Policy: You can retake the GRE General Test once every 21 days, up to five times in a year.
10. Score Reporting: With the ScoreSelect option, you can choose to send only your best scores to schools.
How to be eligible for the GRE?
There are no strict eligibility requirements for the GRE. However, you have to meet certain specific requirements for the courses and colleges you are interested in, and these are:
Age Limit: There is no age limit set by ETS.
Education: You need an undergraduate degree.
Identification: You must have a valid passport with a photo and signature and a government-approved ID like an Aadhaar card.
Changes to the GRE Pattern Starting September 22, 2023
The GRE General Test has been shortened. Instead of taking 4 hours, it now takes less than 2 hours. Despite the shorter duration, the total marks remain the same.
Key changes include:
Fewer Questions: You will answer fewer questions, so the time per question is roughly the same.
No Extra Sections or Breaks: Any additional sections and breaks have been removed.
Faster Results: You’ll receive your scores in 8–10 days, compared to the previous 10–15 days.
What Stays the Same in the New GRE Pattern?
The GRE General Test still focuses on the same core areas: language, math, critical thinking, and writing skills. It continues to reflect the thinking needed for challenging graduate school courses.
GRE Exam Pattern Overview
GRE Verbal Exam Pattern-
The GRE verbal exam format assesses your ability to:
Identify main points
Draw the line between major, minor, and irrelevant details
Summarize text
Understand the structure of a passage
Comprehend the meaning of words, sentences, and entire texts
Recognize connections between words and concepts
GRE Quantitative Exam Pattern
The GRE quantitative section evaluates your skills in:
Understanding, interpreting, and analyzing quantitative data
Solving problems using mathematical models
Applying basic arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis concepts
Section-Level Adaptation
Both Verbal and Quantitative sections are adaptive, meaning:
The difficulty of the second section depends on your performance in the first section
If you perform well in the first section, the next section will be more challenging
Your score is adjusted based on the number of correct answers and the difficulty of the questions
GRE Analytical Writing Exam Pattern
The analytical writing section requires you to:
Clearly explain complex ideas
Support your ideas with relevant reasons and examples
Maintain a clear and focused discussion
Use standard written English
GRE Analytical Writing is the first section of the GRE, followed by the Verbal and Quantitative sections. The “Analyze an Argument” question has been removed, leaving only the “Analyze an Issue” question.
GRE Exam Pattern and Scores
The number of questions and test time has been reduced, but the score scale and total marks remain unchanged.
Verbal and Quantitative sections are each scored out of 170.
Analytical Writing is scored out of 6.
The scoring process remains the same, so each question now contributes more to your final score.
GRE General Tests
The updated pattern after the 22nd of September 2023.
Section Names
No. of questions
Duration
Analytical Writing
1 Analyse an issue
30 Minutes
Verbal Reasoning – 2 sections
12 Questions in Section 115 Questions in Section 2
18 Minutes23 Minutes
Quantitative Reasoning – 2 sections
12 Questions in Section 115 Questions in Section 2
21 Minutes26 Minutes
The test lasts for 1 hour and 58 minutes, not counting breaks. After each section, you have a 1-minute break, and after the Analytical Writing (AW) section, there’s a 10-minute break. The test starts with the AW section, followed alternately by 4 sections of Verbal Reasoning (VR) and Quantitative Reasoning (QR). For instance, if the second section is VR, the third will be QR, continuing in this pattern.
GRE Subject Tests
GRE Subject Tests are additional exams that showcase your knowledge in specific academic fields. Currently, you can choose from Math, Psychology, and Physics tests. The Math test lasts 2 hours and 50 minutes, while the Physics and Psychology tests are 2 hours each. These tests are available online for two weeks each month in September, October, and April. You can take multiple subject tests, but only one per test date, and each test costs $150.
How to achieve high scores on GRE Subject Tests?
GRE Subject Tests are scored based on the number of correct answers, converted to a scale from 200 to 990 in 10-point increments. It’s important to note that scores cannot be directly compared across different subject tests; a score of 660 on the Psychology test does not equate to a 660 on the Math test. There are no penalties for incorrect answers, so it’s advisable to answer every question. Some tests also provide subscores for specific topics within the curriculum. Similar to the general GRE, you can choose which scores to send to institutions using the ETS ScoreSelect® option. Scores can be canceled after the test, but this is rarely necessary due to ScoreSelect® flexibility. GRE Subject Test scores remain valid for 5 years from the test date.
How to prepare for the GRE?
Go over your college courses that are related to the subject. Quickly look through old textbooks and notes to refresh your memory on the material. Also, take a practice GRE Subject Test, which you can access for each test through ETS. This will help you get used to the kinds of questions you’ll encounter on the actual GRE Subject Test.
Top Universities that accept GRE
Here are some top universities that accept the GRE:
Harvard University
University of Pennsylvania
Yale University
New York University
Northwestern University
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
University of California, Berkeley
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James Cook University is one of the top 2% of universities worldwide (2023 THE World University Rankings, 2022 Shanghai Academic Ranking) and produces research of excellence and high impact, particularly on issues of importance to the Tropics.
JCU is well-known for its excellent academic programs, strong student support, and significant societal contributions.
In this blog, Ixora will highlight JCU’s standing in education and its positive impact on students, faculty, and the community.
Some Important Facts About the James Cook University
Global Ranking: JCU ranks within the top 2% of universities worldwide.
Education and Research: The university offers specialized courses aimed at preparing graduates with skills essential for the global job market. JCU is recognized for its leading research capabilities.
History and Growth: Established in 1961 in Townsville, JCU has developed into a prominent research-oriented institution. It boasts an enrollment of over 20,000 students from 111 countries and employs approximately 4,000 staff members.
Campuses: JCU operates campuses in Townsville and Cairns, Northern Queensland, as well as metropolitan campuses in Singapore and Brisbane. It is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and provides exceptional student support services.
Learning Opportunities: JCU offers diverse programs that encompass the Australian Outback and include UNESCO World-Heritage sites such as the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics rainforest.
Research Excellence: JCU students engage in impactful research, particularly focusing on tropical issues, establishing the university as world-class in 38 research disciplines. It ranks No. 40 globally in ecology and is among the top 100 globally for mining and mineral engineering.
Research Centers:
Key research centers at JCU include:
Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine
ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies
The Cairns Institute
JCU specializes in fields such as ecology and environment, plant and animal science, geosciences, coral reef science, tropical health and medicine, and tourism.
Admission Ethos
As the foremost higher education institution in North Queensland, JCU embraces its pivotal and unique role in providing exceptional educational opportunities and advancing the research potential of its graduates. JCU is dedicated to fostering a brighter future for tropical regions worldwide, driven by the achievements of its graduates and innovative discoveries.
Highlighted Courses to Explore
For Masters:
– Master of Information Technology / MBA (Joint) – Duration: 16 months
– MBA – Duration: 1 year or 16 months
– Master of Information Technology – Duration: 1 year
For Bachelors:
– Bachelor of Business – Duration: 26 months
– Bachelor of Tourism, Hospitality, and Events – Duration: 26 months
Benefits of studying at the JCU
Topnotch Facilities
Renowned globally, James Cook University offers state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated academic staff, ensuring students a strong foundation for their careers or new professional directions.
Courses crafted for achievement
JCU’s career-focused courses are highly valued by employers, offering practical, hands-on training and real-life scenarios that extend beyond the classroom.
Pioneer in research excellence
JCU excels in research, particularly on tropical issues, with world-class ratings in 38 research areas (Excellence in Research Australia 2018). Its research centers, including the ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, the Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, and the Cairns Institute, are internationally recognized for their work in plant and animal science, ecology, coral reef science, geosciences, tropical health, and tourism.
Excellence in Student Support
Awarded five stars for student support by the Good Universities Guide, JCU provides extensive support services, with dedicated staff assisting international students before arrival, during orientation, and throughout their studies.
Opportunities to gain practical experience
JCU’s courses offer numerous practical experiences, preparing students thoroughly for their careers.
International benefits and opportunities
Students can enrich their education by completing part of their degree at one of JCU’s 60+ partner universities in over 20 countries, gaining valuable global perspectives.
Intakes at the JCU
JCU offers intakes in March, July, and November, providing students with multiple opportunities to begin their academic journey at different points in the year. Whether you prefer starting at the beginning of the year, mid-year, or during the fall semester, the University offers options to accommodate your schedule.
Certain research courses have an additional intake in January. Moreover, for programs like the Master of Philosophy, there is added flexibility with applications accepted throughout the year.
Eligibility to get admission at the JCU
English Language Proficiency Requirements
International students who do not speak English as their first language must demonstrate proficiency through an approved English language test such as TOEFL, Academic IELTS, or Pearson (PTE Academic). The university may consider other English language tests as well.
Students who do not meet the English language entry requirements but meet the academic criteria for JCU degrees may receive a ‘packaged offer.’ This offer includes a period of academic English language studies followed by admission into their chosen course at the university.
Scholarships and Financial Support
JCU offers a range of scholarships and grants to international students, including research scholarships for those starting research degrees at the master’s or doctoral level.
Cost Incurred at the JCU
Tuition Fees at JCU Singapore:
Masters Level: SGD 35,600 to SGD 41,529
Bachelors Level: SGD 29,890 to SGD 33,636
– For precise tuition fee details, please refer to JCU Singapore’s official website after selecting your desired course.
– Scholarships are available for international students to help alleviate the cost of studying at JCU Singapore.
Exciting Developments at JCU
James Cook University is opening the AUD 93.5 million Engineering and Innovation Place at its Townsville Campus. This new four-storeyed, 9,400m2 facility will be the heart of JCU’s innovation hub, bringing together engineering and IT students, industry partners, and researchers.
Designed to meet LEED Gold Environmental and Sustainability Standards and targeting a WELL rating, the building features modern learning spaces with advanced technology. It’s a significant addition to JCU’s commitment to providing a world-class study environment.
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Scholarships make international education more accessible by covering tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs. This financial support reduces the need for loans, easing financial burdens and allowing students to focus on their studies. By making education abroad affordable, scholarships help talented students achieve their academic goals.
In addition to financial help, scholarships promote diversity and inclusion by attracting students from various backgrounds. This creates a richer learning environment with different perspectives and experiences. Scholarships also support underrepresented groups, ensuring a more equal and inclusive academic community.
Most importantly, scholarships boost global engagement and academic excellence by encouraging international mobility and cultural exchange. Students can build global networks, fostering future collaborations and partnerships. These opportunities motivate high academic achievement and support research and innovation. International students contribute economically to their host countries and often return home as skilled professionals, promoting development and cooperation worldwide.
In order to provide ambitious students with several opportunities, Tetr College of Business is offering scholarships, the details of which are listed below.
Scholarship offered by The Tetr College of Business
The Tetr College of Business is offering scholarships worth Rs 2 crore each, empowering 15 Indian students to join the inaugural batch of its global undergraduate programme, ‘Bachelors in Management and Technology’. These scholarships make international education accessible by covering tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs, reducing financial barriers for talented students. By attracting students from diverse backgrounds, the scholarships promote diversity and inclusion within the academic community, enriching the learning environment with different perspectives and experiences.
This scholarship presents a unique opportunity for selected students to embark on a journey of learning and entrepreneurship spanning seven diverse countries, including the UAE, India, Singapore, Ghana, the US, Brazil, and Italy, over four enriching years.
As participants in the programme, chosen students will have the privilege of studying at esteemed institutions such as INSEAD in France, SDA Bocconi in Italy, as well as NUS Singapore and IIT, among other prestigious establishments.
Distinguished Educators Shaping Futures
Esteemed figures in global business, education, and technology, including
Daniel Garret Van Der Vliet (Executive Director, Cornell University),
Manoj Kohli (Former CEO, Bharti Airtel/Softbank),
Alexis Montesinos (Professor, MIT),
Thorsten Truijens (Professor, Kellogg School of Management),
Nitin Gaur (Advisory Board Member, Stanford University),
will impart their knowledge to these students over the course of eight semesters.
Global Scholarships for Trailblazing Undergraduates
Starting in September 2024, Tetr will provide full scholarships to 60 undergraduate students worldwide for its inaugural batch. Among them, 15 will hail from India. The school will also embrace top SAT scorers, ranking in the top 1 percentile, as well as individuals who have declined offers from renowned universities.
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