Study Abroad Singapore: The Ultimate Guide

Although Singapore is a lively and busy country, that doesn’t mean its natural landscapes go unnoticed. In fact, it’s quite the opposite – the country is known as the Garden City for its efforts in including green spaces throughout its cities.  

There are also a ton of cool natural sites to check out. We consider these attractions must-sees during a Singapore study abroad trip:  

• Singapore Botanic Gardens: A beautiful UNESCO World Heritage site 
• The Southern Ridges: Incredible trails through the jungles of the country 
• MacRitchie Reservoir: The oldest reservoir in Singapore, this stunning natural site has wildlife, hiking trails, and more  
• Cloud Forest: This indoor museum features waterfalls, tropical highlights, and a contemporary greenhouse 

And tons more! We’re just scratching the surface here, but with a Singapore study abroad trip, you’ll get to explore the country’s sublime landscapes.   

Reason #3: You’ll gain a better understanding of Singapore’s modern culture. 

Singapore’s modern culture and systems are quite interesting. For example, with a large cleaning workforce and strict laws on littering and vandalism, Singapore is one of the cleanest countries in the world.  

Note a few other cool things happening in Singapore:  

• Highly-regarded education systems – Singaporeans prioritize education  
• Innovative housing that allows for shared spaces and community – the country’s modern architecture is also astonishing 
• Shopping culture – you’ll find shoppers all over the country  
• 24-hour nightlife 
• The country has one of the fastest-growing economies in the world 

You’ll get to dive deep into Singapore’s many modern systems and values during your study abroad trip – we can’t wait for you to get started!   

Reason #4: Food in Singapore is out of this world.  

Singapore’s street food is not only inexpensive but also delicious! Known for its cleanliness and high-quality foods, the country’s “hawker centers,” or public spaces with a variety of food booths, are incredible!  

Here are some Singaporean dishes we consider must-tries during your study abroad trip: 

• Hainanese chicken rice: Just as it sounds, a delicious chicken and rice dish 
• Chili crab: Hard-shell crab in a tomato chili sauce  
• Laksa: Spicy, coconut curry soup with tons of protein like shrimp, fish, egg, and chicken 
• Char kway teow: Noodles with bean sprouts, fish cake, clams, and sausage  

And those are just some of our favorite dishes – your tastebuds are in for a treat during a Singapore study abroad program.  

Top Study Abroad Programs in Singapore 

Now that we’ve convinced you to study abroad in Singapore with its incredible people, natural beauty, innovative systems, and food, explore some of CIEE’s top study abroad programs in the country!  

Program #1: Arts + Sciences  

Including courses on almost all subjects, ranging from business and social sciences to STEM, you’ll have the chance to study at one of Asia’s top-ranked universities, Singapore Management University, while exploring this fascinating country with our Arts + Sciences program.  

Program details:  

• Length: 16 weeks 
• Credit: 15-16 semester hours/22.5-24 quarter hours  
• Eligibility: 3.0 Overall GPA 
• Featured Course: Intercultural Communication and Leadership  
• Excursion Highlight: Visit the night safari, regarded as one of the world’s best nighttime zoos 

Program #2: Open Campus Block  

Design your own study abroad adventure with our Open Campus Block program, where you can spend one, two, or up to three consecutive six-week blocks in Singapore. This program will have you diving deep into the country’s culture while taking interesting courses to gain some extra credit toward your degree!  

Program details:  

• Length: Starting at six weeks 
• Credit: 6-7 per Block semester hours/9-10.5 per Block quarter hours 
• Eligibility: 2.5 Overall GPA 
• Featured Course: The Making of Modern Singapore  
• Excursion Highlight: Explore the Pulau Ubin island on a bike 

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to CIEE Open Campus Block 

Program #3: Global Internship  

Different from a traditional study abroad program, our international internships allow you to work alongside professionals in an industry you’re passionate about. And with Singapore’s growing economy and innovative practices, this will be an experience like no other! Talk about a resume stand-out.  

Program details:  

• Length: 14 weeks 
• Credit: 12-18 semester hours / 18-27 quarter hours 
• Eligibility: 2.5 Overall GPA  
• Excursion Highlight: Attend an arts festival and learn more about Singapore’s performing arts and culture  

• Tuition 
• Housing 
• Pre-departure advising  
• Orientation  
• On-site staff and 24/7 emergency support 
• Culture and co-curricular activities 
• Travel protection  

We also offer millions in scholarships and grants each year to make study abroad dreams a reality, so make sure to see what type of financial aid you may be eligible for when you apply to your study abroad program!  

Read More: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad in 2023? 

How to Study Abroad in Singapore  

The steps to study abroad in Singapore are simple!  

• Step 1: Choose a Singapore study abroad program that sounds most interesting to you and one that aligns with your personal and academic goals  
• Step 2: Explore our many scholarship and grant options 
• Step 3: Start and complete your application  

We’re available if you have any extra questions, too!