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Study in Singapore Without IELTS: Requirements & Universities

Updated on 04 March, 2024

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad abroad Editorial Team

study in singapore without ielts

Is IELTS required to study in Singapore? While it is necessary for applying at many universities and other educational institutions in Singapore, you can still find some institutions where it is not compulsory. You can readily study in Singapore without IELTS, although you have to do your homework on the institutions which do not mandate IELTS as one of their requirements. At the same time, you will have to carefully check the alternative eligibility criteria at the same and make sure you fit the bill accordingly. 

How to Study in Singapore Without IELTS 

If you possess a degree from any English medium college or university, you do not require IELTS scores for applying to several universities. The English proficiency certificate is a must for application. 

You can obtain your official declaration letter/English proficiency certificate from the last university. The letter should detail the completion of the educational programs in English by the candidate. You can use this as an alternative to IELTS certificates. You may have to go through video or online interviews at some universities before your application is accepted.

Top Universities in Singapore to Study Without IELTS

There are many institutions where you can study in Singapore without requiring IELTS to apply. They include: 

  • National College of Singapore
  • Nanyang Technological University
  • Singapore Management University
  • Singapore University of Technology and Design

Document Needed to Study in Singapore Without IELTS

Here are the documents that you will require for studying in Singapore. Check the official guidelines for a student visa in Singapore without IELTS. 

  • Two V36, V395 copies, and Form 16. 
  • Passport photocopy. 
  • Standardized test scores, including GRE/GMAT.
  • Attested Class X and XII, undergraduate degree certificate (if applicable), and mark sheets. 
  • Birth certificate. 
  • Two academic/professional references.
  • Updated CV/Resume.
  • SOP (Statement of Purpose). 
  • Application fee draft. 

Study in Singapore Without IELTS: Programs Offered

Singapore does not strictly mandate IELTS scores for international students at its universities. Many institutions offer foundation and preparatory programs for those not possessing IELTS scores. These are helpful for those who wish to complete studying in the island nation for a longer tenure. There are many preparatory programs for those who do not have English as their native language. 

Foundation Programs

There are foundation programs where students completing 13 years of education in Singapore have to finish an extra study year before higher education. This is the foundation program, helping the applicants study without submitting IELTS scores. It is mostly available in fields like Information and Technology, Business and Administration, Tourism and Hospitality. These courses range between 8-11 months. 

Foundation Certificates

There are foundation studies certificates that offer seven modules and are tailored for people completing ten years of learning in Singapore and planning to continue studying here. You may apply for the program without submitting your IELTS scores. 

Preparatory Programs

The preparatory programs for the English language enroll aspirants into 6-month courses without submitting IELTS scores. There are two levels, i.e., Level 1 and Level 2. You can study in the island nation by selecting any one of these programs. It also depends on the university chosen for any program. Many institutions also hold English entrance examinations for those who do not have English as a first language.

Important Resources to Read About IELTS:

IELTS Band Score ChartHow to get 8 band in IELTSTypes of IELTS Exam
Average IELTS ScoresIELTS Score for USAStudy in USA Without IELTS
Study in UK Without IELTSIELTS Reading Band ScoreIELTS Bar Graph
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Frequently Asked Questions

Is IELTS required for Singapore?

There are a few Singaporean universities where you can study without submitting IELTS scores. The Government also offers various scholarships for students in this regard. IELTS/TOEFL scores are recommended but not compulsory for studying in the island nation. SAT/GMAT/GRE may be necessary for some courses here. Those getting admitted into Singapore master's degrees should have undergraduate degrees with 55% or more minimum scores.

Can you get a study visa in Singapore without IELTS?

If you are planning to pursue studies in Singapore, IELTS may be a compulsory requirement at some universities. But you can get a study visa in Singapore without IELTS if you appear for other English language proficiency examinations like TOEFL. The Singapore visa applications are mostly processed quickly, and if you adhere to study visa guidelines, you may get the same within 15-30 days. 

Do you need TOEFL for Singapore?

The TOEFL or IELTS scores are highly recommended for studying in Singapore. However, it is not compulsory. If you have studied your earlier course in English, you can get a letter or certificate testifying to the same from your earlier institution. SAT/GMAT/GRE is also needed for some programs at Singapore-based universities. Students enrolling in master's programs should have bachelor's degrees with minimum marks of 55% or more.

How much is the IELTS exam in Singapore?

The IELTS General Training or Academic test fee is S$340 (U.P. S$378), which is approximately INR 20,900 (U.P. equals INR 23,300), while the cost for IELTS Academic (UKVI) is S$398 or INR 24,500. The charge is also the same for the IELTS General Training (UKVI). These are the current average charges for IELTS tests in Singapore.

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upGrad abroad Editorial Team

We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education process for all. Our diverse experience as journalists, content writers, editors, content strategists, and marketers helps create the most relevant and authentic blogs for our readers.

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The above tips are the Author's experiences. upGrad does not guarantee scores or admissions.