Singapore

Studying in Singapore, no doubt, will act as a platform to a brighter future. Driven by excellence, Institutions in Singapore offer a broad-based curriculum and global perspective to equip students with the relevant qualifications and training to succeed in a competitive environment. Hence educational institutions offer the latest and best in educational tools and technologies.

As learning is lifelong, Institutions in Singapore offer a comprehensive range of training and enrichment programmes for executives, professionals and homemakers who place value on equipping themselves to achieve their aspirations. There are many who have chosen Singapore for their education and are happy that they made that decision, we believe they subscribe to what we believe in.
Singapore is a compact island with tropical weather all year round. Singapore is a multi-cultural and multi-racial country; the four major languages are Malay, English, Mandarin and Tamil..

Education has always been key in the growth and development of Singapore society, particularly in the years following 1965 when it became an independent republic. Now in the 21st century, where the knowledge-based economy is the driver in the global community, education has become even more critical in shaping our country's future. At the same time, through education, every individual can realise his/her full potential to benefit the community, nation, and lead a personally fulfilling life.

Over the years, Singapore has evolved from its traditional British-based education system to one that endeavours to meet the needs of individuals and seeks to nurture talents.

The strength of Singapore's Education system lies in its bilingual policy (English with Malay/Mandarin/Tamil) and a broad-based curriculum where innovation and entrepreneurship command a premium. Individuals acquire the relevant skills and abilities to survive in competitive environments, equipped for a brighter future.

Singapore's public schools have a distinctive record of high standards in teaching and learning, illustrated by international comparative studies such as the Third International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) that showed the majority of students from Singapore schools outperforming the international average in Mathematics and Science. Our students have also excelled in competitions such as world debating championships (English) and International Olympiads (Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and Biology), ousting counterparts from other countries to clinch top prizes and distinctions.

Stable Economy
With a GDP of S$161 billion in 2003, the island state though small in size and population (4 million people) has become a reputable financial centre, a key regional trading centre, the world's busiest port, and a top location for investment. Often cited as a model for transparency, efficiency and political stability, Singapore has earned recognition from around the world.

Singapore has been rated third among 145 countries in terms of ease of doing business, in World Bank's Doing Business 2005 report. The Swiss-based World Economic Forum (WEF) also rated Singapore as the most competitive economy possessing great innovative ability and a solid macro economy in the world. Even in the recent global battle against SARS, Singapore's diligent and hands-on approach has won recognition from the World Health Organisation.

Infrastructure and Accessibility
Singapore is well connected via sea, air and telecommunications to all parts of the world. Singapore Changi Airport serves more than 60 airlines which fly to over 145 cities and has for many consecutive years been nominated as the best airport in the world. Singapore is also probably the most wired country in Asia, with an Internet penetration rate of 42%. Housing ownership is encouraged by the government to give citizens an asset in the country. About 85% of Singaporeans are living in government-built housing.

Seamless accessibility to all parts of the island is available in this country, often recognised for its quality and efficient land transport system. The introduction of an EZ-link card - a contactless stored value card where consumers need only flash the card in front of a card reader that automatically deducts the required travel fare, is an example of the continuous commitment by the government to make travel faster and easier.

A Multicultural Nation with a High Quality of Life :
The nation's rich multicultural heritage is highlighted through the various ethnic groups (Chinese, Malays, Indians, Eurasians) living together harmoniously who have gradually acquired a distinct identity as Singaporeans whilst still maintaining each race's traditional practices, customs and festivals. In addition, with more than 90,000 professional expatriates living and working in Singapore, they too bring their unique cultures and perspectives, adding colour and vibrancy to cosmopolitan Singapore.

Singapore's high standards of living is also something that students can be assured of. In a survey reported in The Economist in March 2002, Singapore's quality of life surpassed that of London or New York. Thirty-nine factors were considered, including political stability, personal freedom, air pollution and the quality of healthcare, schools, restaurants and theatres.

A Vibrant City Lifestyle
Singapore may seem like a small dot on the world map, but the island state bustles all over with attractions and activities. Dining and shopping are two of the top-rated activities of locals. Needless to say, this is reflected in the staggering range of foods and cuisine, as well as the proliferation of shops in the city and suburban centres.

Add on to this a thriving arts and cultural scene, especially with the opening of Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay, featuring top artistes from all over the world. Ethnic districts such as Little India, Chinatown, Malay Village give a flavour of the culture and history of Singapore. Lots of fun and funky events such as the Great Singapore Sale, Singapore Arts Festival, festive light-ups and many others make Singapore a most "happening" place to be in. Singapore is also strategically located at the heart of Asia and can be a hub to explore the Southeast Asian region.

Singapore Education

Singapore Education Is a multi-government agency initiative launched by the Singapore Government in 2003 to establish and promote Singapore as a premier education hub and help international students make an informed decision on studying in Singapore. This initiative is led by the Singapore Economic Development Board and supported by the Singapore Tourism Board, SPRING Singapore, International Enterprise Singapore and the Ministry of Education. The following describes the key roles that each agency plays in the arena of Singapore Education.
Singapore Tourism Board (STB) - Education Services Division Promote and market Singapore Education overseas
Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB)
Attract internationally renowned educational institutions to set up campuses in Singapore
International Enterprise Singapore (IE)
Aid quality schools in Singapore to develop their businesses and set up campuses overseas
SPRING Singapore
Administer quality accreditation for private education organisations in Singapore
Ministry of Education Singapore (MOE)
Oversee the public school system in Singapore

Roles and Responsibilities of Education Services Division
As the promotion agency for Singapore Education, the Singapore Tourism Board engages in a myriad of promotional activities undertaken by the Education Services Division. The focus is on basic education, higher learning, corporate education, and enrichment courses; the roles of the division include:
Organisation of Education Exhibitions
Education advice and counselling
Training of Education Counsellors
Advertising and publicity efforts.
The Education Services Division is made up of three departments focusing on their respective education services, namely:
1. Basic Education & Higher Learning (BEHL)
Preparatory education
Certificate/Diploma education
Tertiary education

BEHL's core duties involve promoting education, from preparatory to post-graduate studies. BEHL works closely with educational institutions and other education providers to understand the industry and develop the necessary channels to promote Singapore Education. Promotional efforts include participating in and organising overseas education roadshows to increase brand awareness and reach out to the target markets.
2. Enrichment & Corporate Training (ECT)
Overseas School Trips
Personal Development Courses
Executive Training

ECT works with travel agencies, tour operators and schools to develop and promote educational tour packages for international students interested for short-term exchange and exposure in Singapore. Through such interaction, ECT reaches out to the target markets and seeks to achieve the objective of establishing Singapore as a destination for education and enrichment-related visits. Another core responsibility of ECT is also to work with relevant industry partners to develop personal development courses, and executive training for working professionals.
3. Students Services (SSD)
Education counselling services
Orientation programmes for international students
Student feedback

SSD provides services for international students, ranging from orientation programmes for new students to help them assimilate into the new environment more easily, education counseling services for students who would like to learn more about available courses and also a facility for student feedback that would serve to enhance the educational experience for the international student community here. SSD manages the Singapore Education Services Centre, to provide a walk-in facility for international students looking for the services mentioned above.

Education Services Division is located in the Singapore Tourism Board headquarters.

Accommodation and Cost of Living

Singapore offers a wide variety of accomodation to suit different needs and budgets.There are home stays,flats,landed property

Homestay : Families in singapore open up their homes to students and welcome them as part of the family.
Boarding House : Good lodging service providing single or shared accomodation with room cleaning,meals,laundry and monthly outdoor activities.
Hotels or ServiceApartments : Depending on location and size,these residences are available at various costs.
Shared Accomodation/Independent Residences : Students can choose to live alone or share with other students . Lease terms are usually for 1Year or more.

Education Excellence Framework

The Case Trust for Education Scheme gives international students the added assurance that private education institutions have proper systems and practices to look after the welfare and interest of international students. The Student Protection Scheme (SPS), which protects the fees paid by international students is one such initiative. Without the SPS, private education institutions are not permitted to admit international students. For more information about Case Trust for Education Scheme and the Student Protection Scheme.

In addition, private education institutions which demonstrate organisational excellence are also awarded the 'Singapore Quality Class for Private Education Organisations (SQC-PEO)' trustmark - an assurance of the institution's best academic and business practices. For more information about the Singapore Quality Class for Private Education Organisations (SQC-PEO).

Singapore Visa

Singapore Immigration Service : Registered Immigration Agents help you with details on student visa applications and conditions.

Singapore Visa Requirements : Before leaving home you should always ensure that you have the appropriate Passports and Visas to enable a trouble- free entry into Singapore.

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