Singapore continues to be a top destination for international students, offering world-class education, diverse cultural experiences, and numerous fully funded scholarships. Many universities do not require IELTS, making higher education more accessible.
Why Study in Singapore Without IELTS?
Singapore’s universities provide excellent academic programs in a thriving hub of business and innovation. Students who meet alternative English proficiency requirements can pursue Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degrees without taking the IELTS test.
By choosing a university that waives IELTS, students can focus on learning in a dynamic international setting, connecting with professionals, and gaining valuable industry experience.
How to Apply Without IELTS
Applicants can study in Singapore through various alternative English proficiency pathways:
- English-Speaking Countries: Students from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand are typically exempt from IELTS.
- Previous Degree in English: Graduates from English-medium universities may provide a proficiency certificate instead of IELTS.
- English Proficiency Letter: Universities may accept an official language proficiency statement from previous institutions.
- IELTS Waiver Programs: Some universities offer special waiver programs for international students without an IELTS score.
Universities That Accept Students Without IELTS
Many prestigious universities in Singapore offer admission without IELTS, including:
- Nanyang Technological University (NTU)
- National University of Singapore (NUS)
- Singapore Management University (SMU)
- Singapore University of Technology and Design (STUD)
Fully Funded Scholarships in Singapore
There are several fully funded scholarships in Singapore that do not require IELTS, ensuring students receive financial support for tuition, living expenses, and travel.
1. National University of Singapore Scholarships
- Fully funded undergraduate scholarships across all disciplines
- Covers tuition fees, living allowances, and more
- More Information Here
2. Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)
- Funded by A*STAR, NTU, NUS, and SUTD
- Covers tuition fees, monthly stipend (SGD 2000-2500), travel grants, and settling-in allowance
- More Information Here
3. Singapore International Pre-Graduate Award (SIPGA)
- Supports research-based undergraduate and master’s students
- Provides a monthly stipend of SGD 1500 for biomedical, science, or engineering research
- More Information Here
4. Science & Technology Undergraduate Scholarship (NUS)
- Exclusive to ASEAN students in engineering, computing, and science
- Covers full tuition, flights, lodging, an annual stipend (SGD 6000), and settling-in fee
- More Information Here
5. President’s Graduate Fellowship (NUS)
- One-year PhD fellowship covering tuition, settling allowance, travel allowance, and a monthly stipend of SGD 3000
- More Information Here
6. INSEAD Scholarships
- Supports MBA students at INSEAD Business School
- Grants up to SGD 22,500, awarded based on academic excellence and leadership potential
- More Information Here
7. Goh Keng Swee Scholarship
- Administered by the Association of Banks in Singapore
- Offers full tuition, return flights, dormitory allowance, maintenance allowance (SGD 6500), and settling-in stipend
- More Information Here
Documents Required for Applications
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Completed application form for the chosen university/scholarship
- Resume or CV
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Statement of purpose or personal statement
- Two letters of recommendation
- Proof of English proficiency if applicable
- Valid passport or national ID
- Evidence of financial need (if required)
- Research proposal (for research-based programs)
Application Process
Interested candidates can apply directly through the official university scholarship portals. Deadlines vary, so applicants should check specific program requirements in advance.
Final Thoughts
Singapore remains an excellent study destination with fully funded scholarships and alternative IELTS exemptions, ensuring accessibility for international students worldwide.
If you want to pursue higher education in Singapore without IELTS, research the available universities and scholarship programs to secure funding and academic placement.
