The National University of Singapore (NUS) is Asia’s top-ranked university and a global leader in education and research. Located in Singapore, NUS is known for its diverse academic programs, strong research output, and vibrant student community. While studying at NUS is more affordable compared to U.S. and UK universities, the cost is still significant, especially for international students. This blog explores fees and facilities, education sponsorships, and student loan opportunities at NUS.
Fees and Facilities at NUS
Tuition Fees
NUS offers a wide range of programs with different fee structures:
- Undergraduate programs: S$17,000 – S$30,000 per year (with government subsidies for Singapore citizens and permanent residents).
- International undergraduate students: Around S$30,000 – S$40,000 per year depending on the program.
- Graduate programs: Typically S$30,000 – S$45,000 annually, depending on the field of study.
Living Costs
Singapore is a modern city with relatively high living expenses:
- Accommodation: S$6,000 – S$12,000 annually (on-campus housing is more affordable).
- Food: S$3,000 – S$5,000 annually.
- Transport and personal expenses: S$3,000 – S$5,000 annually.
Total Estimated Annual Cost
For international students, the average cost of studying at NUS is approximately S$40,000 – S$55,000 per year (~USD $30,000–40,000).
Facilities at NUS
NUS offers a vibrant and well-resourced academic environment:
- Research Institutes: Cutting-edge facilities in engineering, medicine, data science, and sustainability.
- Libraries: A large network of libraries with advanced digital resources.
- Campus Life: Modern residential halls, sports complexes, and cultural clubs.
- Industry Links: Strong connections with global industries for internships and research projects.
Education Sponsorship at NUS
NUS provides several scholarship and sponsorship options to support students financially.
Undergraduate Scholarships
- NUS Global Merit Scholarship: Covers tuition and provides a living allowance.
- ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship: For students from ASEAN countries, covering full or partial tuition.
- Faculty-specific Scholarships: For high-achieving students in specific programs.
Graduate Scholarships
- NUS Research Scholarship: Covers tuition and provides a monthly stipend for graduate research students.
- Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA): For PhD students, covering full tuition and living expenses.
- President’s Graduate Fellowship: Prestigious award for outstanding PhD candidates.
External Sponsorships
- Singapore government and corporate sponsorships for talented international students.
- Global fellowships and foundation funding for specialized research programs.
Student Loan Opportunities
For Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents
- Eligible for Tuition Fee Loans (up to 90% of tuition fees).
- Access to CPF Education Scheme, where parents can use retirement savings to pay for children’s education.
For International Students
- Not eligible for government-backed loans but can:
- Apply for loans from banks in Singapore such as DBS, OCBC, or Maybank.
- Seek global student loan providers like Prodigy Finance.
Graduate Students
- Many graduate students rely on assistantships, scholarships, or stipends.
- Loans may supplement funding when partial scholarships are awarded.
Conclusion
The National University of Singapore (NUS) provides world-class education at a comparatively lower cost than many Western institutions. With total expenses around S$40,000–55,000 annually, NUS remains a more affordable yet prestigious option.
Generous scholarships, government sponsorships, and global fellowships ensure accessibility to talented students across Asia and the world. For those needing extra help, student loans—from Singaporean banks or international lenders—bridge the financial gap.
Ultimately, NUS offers not only an affordable pathway to a top-tier education but also the chance to thrive in Asia’s leading hub for innovation, research, and global networking.
✨ Next in this series: University College London (UCL) – Fees, Education Sponsorship, and Student Loan Opportunities.