Cost of Living in Singapore for Indian Students

So, you are an Indian student eyeing Singapore for your higher education? Great choice! But let’s address the elephant in the room – Singapore is known for being expensive. The cost of living in Singapore can be high, especially if you’re coming from India. The average living expenses in Singapore for Indian students is approximately INR 95,000 per month. But don’t let that deter you! With some smart planning and insider tips, you can make your Singapore dream a reality without breaking the bank.

In this guide, we’ll break down the average cost of living in Singapore for Indian students like you and show you how to navigate this exciting but expensive city-state.

Cost of Living in Singapore: Accommodation

Let’s start with the biggest chunk of your expenses – accommodation. The cost of living in Singapore can vary widely depending on where you live. The table below summarises the average rent in Singapore.

Source: Numbeo

Cost of Living in Singapore: Food and Groceries

Singapore relies on imports for more than 90% of its food. Hence, the cost of groceries in Singapore is relatively higher than in India. However, food can be surprisingly affordable in Singapore. Supermarkets like NTUC FairPrice and Sheng Siong offer a variety of affordable options. The table below summarises the prices of a few food items you would come across in Singapore.

Source: Numbeo

Monthly Cost of Living in Singapore for Utilities

Utilities are another crucial part of your monthly expenses. The table below summarises the average monthly expenditure in Singapore for utilities. Remember, if you’re staying in a hostel or shared apartment, these costs might be included in your rent or split among roommates.

Source: Numbeo

Cost of Living in Singapore: Transportation

Singapore’s public transportation system is top-notch and relatively affordable. The table below summarises the average monthly cost of transportation in Singapore.

Source: Numbeo

Cost of Living in Singapore: Healthcare and Insurance

Healthcare in Singapore is excellent but can be expensive. Most universities require international students to have health insurance. As an international student, you are required to have health insurance, which can cost around SGD 200 to SGD 500 per year, depending on the coverage. Out-of-pocket expenses for doctor visits range from SGD 50 to SGD 100, and emergency care can cost more. It’s vital to have comprehensive insurance to cover these costs.

Cost of Living in Singapore: Education Costs

Tuition fees vary widely depending on the university and course. Expect anywhere from SGD 20,000 to SGD 50,000 per year for most undergraduate programs. On average, students spend around SGD 200 to SGD 500 per semester on books. Most postgraduate programs cost between SGD 19,000 and SGD 35,000.

Note: These figures are estimates. They may vary from university to university.

Cost of Living in Singapore: Leisure and Entertainment

Balancing study and leisure is crucial, and Singapore offers plenty of options. For example, the Singapore Zoo costs SGD 20 for students. Here’s what you might spend on leisure and entertainment activities:

Source: Numbeo

How to Reduce the Cost of Living in Singapore

Now that you know what is the cost of living in Singapore, let’s talk about how to keep it manageable:

1. Accommodation

• Apply early for university hostels.
• Look for roommates to share costs.
• Consider staying a bit further from the city centre.

2. Groceries

• Shop at local wet markets for fresh produce.
• Buy in bulk when there are sales.
• Cook meals with friends to share the costs.

3. Transportation

• Get a student concession pass for public transport.
• Walk or cycle for short distances.
• Use ride-sharing apps and split costs with friends for occasional taxi rides.

4. Utilities

• Be mindful of your electricity and water usage.
• Use fans instead of air conditioning when possible.
• Share Wi-Fi costs with roommates.

5. Healthcare and Insurance

• Stick to university health services for minor issues.
• Compare insurance plans to find the best value.
• Stay healthy with regular exercise and a balanced diet.

6. Education

• Buy second-hand textbooks or use the library.
• Take advantage of online learning platforms and resources.

7. Leisure and Entertainment

• Take advantage of student discounts.
• Explore free attractions like parks and museums.
• Host potluck dinners instead of eating out.

Study at Singapore with The WorldGrad

Indian students planning to pursue their higher education in Singapore can study through The WorldGrad’s Global Online Accelerator and Global Year 1 Programs. These Smart Programs allow students to complete the first semester/year in India and then smoothly transition to the university campus in Singapore to complete the degree.

The WorldGrad Benefit for Students

• IELTS/TOEFL/PTE and SAT waivers are available.
• Avail exclusive scholarships worth INR 10 Crore*.
• Benefit from our 2X higher visa success rate.
• Get unlimited 1-1 academic support from highly qualified international teachers.

*T&C Apply

Conclusion

The cost of living in Singapore might seem daunting at first, but with some smart choices and budgeting, it’s manageable. Remember, many Indian students have made it work, and you can, too. Happy studying and living in Singapore!

Cost of Living in Singapore FAQs

Q1. Is it expensive to live in Singapore?
A1. Yes, the cost of living in Singapore is generally higher than in India. However, with careful budgeting and smart choices, it’s possible to manage expenses. The average cost of living in Singapore varies depending on lifestyle and location.

Q2. Is Singapore cheap for Indian students?
A2. Singapore isn’t cheap for Indian students, but it can be manageable. The average living expenses in Singapore for Indian students is approximately around INR 95,000 per month.

Q3. Is it worth to move to Singapore from India?
A3. Moving to Singapore from India can be worth it for many reasons. Singapore offers world-class education, excellent career opportunities, and a high standard of living. Despite the higher cost of living in Singapore, the experience and potential for personal and professional growth often outweigh the expenses.

Q4. Can Indian students get PR in Singapore?
A4. Yes, Indian students can apply for Permanent Residence (PR) in Singapore after completing their studies. However, PR is not guaranteed and depends on factors like academic performance, work experience, and Singapore’s current immigration policies.

Q5. How much does it cost to live in Singapore as a student per month?
A5. The average cost of living in Singapore for students should be approximately INR 95,000, excluding tuition fees per month. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, and other essential expenses.

Author: Stanley Lazarus Chelli

Stanley is our seasoned writer known for his deep knowledge of the ed-tech industry. He delivers insightful and impactful content that resonates with readers. Beyond his exceptional writing abilities, he is a die-hard petrolhead with a profound love for the automotive industry. Additionally, Stanley is a soon-to-be professional keyboardist.