From Singapore to the States: Demystifying US College Admissions
For students considering studying in the United States, it can be difficult to navigate the college admissions requirements–especially as an international student. Higher education in Singapore follows a different system than the US. As such, the application process is different. Understanding the differences between attending college in Singapore and the US can help you with the overall university admissions process.
This guide will help break down the application process for Singaporean students applying to US schools. We will cover:
- Differences between higher education in Singapore and the US
- University admissions process for US schools
- College admissions requirements for international students
- Paying for college in the United States
As you consider your options and weigh attending college in Singapore vs the United States, we hope the information in this guide will help you. To get started, let’s look at some quick facts comparing college in Singapore and the US.
College in the US vs Singapore: Quick Facts
Attending college in Singapore can be a very different experience compared to the United States. With different models of education, college in Singapore has a different history and approach than higher education in the US. According to Lily Kong, president of Singapore Management University, higher education in Singapore has mostly been modeled on other countries’ systems. Additionally, higher education in Singapore is relatively young, and does not have the historical context schools in the United States have.
However, that’s not to say there isn’t a high importance placed on education in Singapore. As such, many students want to compare all of their possible higher education options, including studying in the US. We’ve made a table detailing the main differences between attending college in Singapore and the United States:
| United States | Singapore | |
| Types of Colleges | – Private – Public – Two-year and Four-year | – Public – International private |
| Top Rated Colleges | According to U.S. News: – Princeton – MIT – Harvard | According to U.S News: – Nanyang Technological University – National University of Singapore – Singapore Management University |
| Types of Degrees | – Associate – Bachelor’s – Various professional and Graduate degrees | – Bachelor’s – Graduate |
| Academic Quality/Reputation | – High academic rigor – World-renowned education – Wide variety of academic experiences | – Highly ranked educational institutions – Global perspective |
| Curriculum/flexibility | – Liberal arts foundation – Rigid degree requirements | – Focus on technical education – Rigid paths to education |
| Career opportunities | Wide-ranging career opportunities and well-connected alumni | Global career opportunities, however, they may be more limited due to fewer schools |
US College Admissions & International Students
With the sharp rise of international applicants, US schools have had to adjust their university admissions processes. Indeed, many schools limit their number of international students to ensure adequate space for domestic students. With admissions often even more competitive for international applicants, it’s important to thoroughly research which US schools to apply to.
Some colleges in the US have highly competitive admissions rates for international students, while some colleges have higher percentages of international students than others. The school with the most international students, The New School in New York, has 33% of their student body composed of international students. Other schools with the most international students include NYU, Carnegie Mellon, and University of Rochester.
While some schools have higher percentages of international students, they still only have so many spots designated for international applicants. Researching the college admissions requirements is crucial as an international applicant. While understanding the admission rate at a particular school is helpful, it’s important to know that admission rates are for the entire applicant pool. Admission rates for international students may be even smaller at certain schools.
If you’re researching how to apply to US universities as an international student, you can start by looking into the schools that accept the most international students. It can also be helpful to look beyond the top US universities. You might be surprised to know that many US schools do accept most of the students who apply, according to the Pew Research Center.
Now, what’s it actually like to apply to US universities as a Singaporean? Let’s check out the process.
Applying to College in the US as a Singaporean
While attending college in Singapore offers students a wide range of opportunities and a strong educational foundation, many Singaporean students are interested in attending college in the U.S. Attending college in the US for Singaporeans can open up global opportunities and allow students the choice to study things they wouldn’t have been able to in their home country. Additionally, international applicants from Singapore help diversify the student body in US schools. Indeed, they give other students a global perspective that is greatly needed.
For Singaporeans researching how to apply to US universities, they will find that the university admissions process is mostly the same for international and domestic students. College admissions requirements generally include test scores, a college admissions essay, and teacher recommendations. International applicants from Singapore will use the same admissions platforms as domestic students, likely the Common Application or Coalition Application.
In short, international applicants from Singapore can expect a similar application process as domestic students. But, the US application process differs greatly from applying to college in Singapore. Getting familiar with US college admissions requirements will be crucial when applying to US schools.
Considerations for International Applicants
Choosing to attend college in the US for Singaporeans is a major decision and one that students should think about deeply. Attending college in Singapore means picking from a handful of institutions. However, in the US, there are thousands of colleges to choose from. Understanding the differences between public and private, two- and four-year degrees, and the various programs offered is crucial.
While researching how to apply to US universities, make sure to research the programs you’re interested in as well as the cost of each institution. In general, public universities cost significantly less than private schools, but private schools may offer a more expansive list of programs. As you research, it may come as a surprise to find so many private schools in the United States. While attending college in Singapore likely means going to a public university, that’s certainly not the case in the US.
In addition to researching the specific school, think about the broader meaning of attending college in US for Singaporeans. Attending college away from home is hard for any student, but international applicants from Singapore will be a significant distance away from their families. Additionally, attending college in US for Singaporeans may be an isolating experience. With cultural differences and a small international student population, students from Singapore may take a while to acclimate. Before deciding to attend college in Singapore or the US, consider how you would handle a completely different environment so far away from home. It may not be the best situation for every student!
Requirements for Foreign Students Studying Abroad
While the application process for international students and domestic students is mostly the same, there are additional college admissions requirements for international students. These requirements differ greatly from the ones needed to attend college in Singapore, as the US university admissions process is unique. Attending college in US for Singaporeans means taking an additional test and submitting some extra documentation. We’ve outlined the additional university admissions requirements for international students here:
English Language Tests (TOEFL and IELTS)
One major difference between attending college in Singapore and the US is the need for English language tests. With the high importance of education in Singapore, many students may already speak English fluently. Even so, most international students are required to take at least one English language proficiency exam–either the TOEFL or the IELTS.
These exams ensure that international students are able to speak English proficiently. After all, in the US, your lectures, essays, speeches, and any other projects will all be in English. Make sure you’re studying for these exams well before your test date. It is even a good idea to have a goal score in mind.
Submitting documents/application materials in English
Applying to college in US for Singaporeans means submitting your application materials in English. This means writing your college admissions essay in English, as well as putting any college admission letter of recommendation in English. If you’re also applying to college in Singapore, or elsewhere, this may mean duplicating your university admissions materials in various languages.
Don’t rely on online translation services to write your college admissions essay in English, as these services are often incorrect. Be sure to write and edit your college admissions essay early, to ensure it’s the best version possible.
Application fees/fee waivers
Another major difference between college in Singapore and the US is the cost of application fees. With the high importance of education in Singapore, the application fees are typically minimal or non-existent. Alternatively, many US schools have application fees ranging from $50-75 USD.
Both international and domestic students are subject to application fees, however, many domestic students qualify for fee waivers. The criteria for fee waivers is often based on US-based policy, such as qualifying for free or reduced lunch price at a US school. As an international applicant, you can request a fee waiver from each school you’re applying to, however, it is not guaranteed that they will approve your request. As you plan your applications, make sure to consider the fees ahead of time.
Obtaining a student visa
The student visa process is the last crucial step in attending college in US for Singaporeans. The visa process will start after you are accepted to a US university, but it’s important to prepare for it well before you receive your college admission letter. The visa process includes an interview, various fees, and substantial documentation.
Obtaining a visa is not guaranteed, and you will need to be approved before traveling to the US. Preparing ahead of time by understanding the requisites and process will be crucial to making sure you’re all set before classes begin.
Understanding the Cost of College in US
A substantial difference between college in Singapore and the US is cost. Higher education in Singapore is generally less expensive than college in the US. With the high importance of education in Singapore, there is more investment in educational institutions. While the US also has a large investment in education, it’s no secret that attending college in the US can be extremely expensive.
Higher education in Singapore will cost roughly $38,000 across all four years, while the average cost of college in US for Singaporeans can range from $27,000 – $37,000 per year. The costs will differ between private and public colleges, with public colleges typically being less expensive. Indeed, private colleges can be significantly more expensive, with some colleges costing between $70,000 – $80,000 per year.
As you research college costs, it’s important to know that the total cost won’t just be tuition and fees. You will need to account for housing, travel, books, and general costs of living. For some students, attending college in Singapore may be the best economic option.
Paying for College in the US
With the high cost difference between higher education in Singapore and the US, it’s important to build a plan to pay for college. Most students in the US use a combination of federal aid, loans, and scholarships to assist with the high price tag. Many students will also pay out of pocket. While attending college in Singapore may be less expensive, it’s not impossible to attend college in the US for a lower cost.
If you attend college in Singapore, your family may qualify for government subsidies. As an international student, you would not qualify for federal assistance from the US government. However, some schools allow international students to apply for institutional grants and scholarships. These schools will likely use the CSS Profile to determine if you qualify for financial aid.
Many schools will also consider international students for merit scholarships. Typically, merit aid is decided through the university admissions process, but some schools will have an additional application for merit scholarships. Be sure to research the aid options for international students at each school you’re considering.
Beyond applying for aid at each school, international students should also explore outside scholarships. Applying to outside scholarships can be overwhelming, so it’s important to start early and know your options. With such investments in higher education in Singapore, check to see if any sponsorship programs are available through your local government. You can also explore websites such as International Education Financial AID and Asian Cultural Council Fellowships and Grants.
Tips for Applying to College in US for Singaporean Students
As you decide between attending college in Singapore or the United States, it’s important to fully research both options. With higher education in Singapore operating so differently, having a deep understanding of the process will help you with your decision. We’ve compiled some tips that will help you decide if studying in the US is right for you:
Tips for Applying to American Universities
1. Research the student visa process in depth.
The student visa process is essential to studying in the United States. Become familiar with the different documentation needed and timeline for applying. For many students, attending college in Singapore has significantly less barriers, so it’s important to be prepared for the long, and sometimes difficult, visa process.
2. Build a balanced college list.
Decide what kind of US colleges you want to apply to. If you’re adamant about studying in the US, be sure to have a good mix of low-acceptance and high-acceptance colleges. Some students may only apply to reach schools in the US, and still apply to college in Singapore. To help create the best college list for you, use the College Scorecard search engine to find quick facts about each of your schools.
3. Prepare for the cost.
As US schools tend to be more expensive, make sure you have a plan for paying the balance. If your family will need financial support to make US schools a feasible option, be sure to seek out schools that offer financial aid opportunities to international students. This will include scholarship and grants. Most importantly, have a conversation with your family about what you can and can’t afford before applying so there are no surprises when you get your college admission letter!
4. Understand the climate regarding international students.
Attending a US school as an international student can be an isolating experience. Research each school’s resources to help international students acclimate to campus, and see what information you can learn about the international student experience. Finding a school with an active international student community could be a top priority for you. Remember that the college experience is more than simply attending classes.
5. Make a plan for after graduation.
Many students with an international student visa have a set period of time after they graduate before they have to leave the US. If you plan to stay in the US after graduation, you will need to develop a plan for applying to a different visa. Think beyond the college admission letter–where do you want to be long term?
US College Admissions vs. Singapore: Final Takeaways
Attending college in Singapore is a completely different experience than attending college in the US. While going to college in Singapore can provide students with a great education, many students are interested in US schools for a variety of reasons. And, with higher education in Singapore operating on a smaller scale, many students want to explore all their options before deciding where to go. Indeed, there is much more variety among universities in the US when compared to Singapore.
However, deciding to apply to school in the US is a big decision. If you’re still on the fence, you might consider getting help from an expert. Read our guide on college admissions consultants to decide if counseling might be a good option for you! And remember that CollegeAdvisor has plenty of expert counselors that have guided many international students through the US application process. Reach out for a consultation and see if it’s a fit!
This article was written by Jess Klein. Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.
