Singapore is one of the leading financial hubs of Southeast Asia, and its competitive economy makes the country one of the most sought-after education destinations globally. World-class education, job opportunities, top-notch infrastructure, excellent healthcare, and international diversity attract students worldwide to pursue higher education in Singapore.
With some top-ranked business schools offering Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs, Singapore is one of the most preferred destinations for business administration aspirants. Singapore houses some of the top-tiered business schools, including the NUS (National University of Singapore), Asia’s best university, as per the 2021 QS World University Rankings.
A highly competitive and well-developed economy and abundant job opportunities are some reasons why many students from all across the globe apply for MBA in Singapore.
If you are looking at overseas options to study MBA, given below are some reasons why Singapore could be the right fit:
1. A launchpad for startups:
Singapore is ranked fifth on the Global Innovation Index. It offers a prime opportunity to those looking to start their ventures. The availability of specializations like innovation and entrepreneurship and programs that support new ideas makes the city-state a launchpad for startups.
2. Host to Multinational Companies:
Singapore hosts regional offices of several MNCs that, in turn, offer rich employment opportunities.
3. Unique Multicural Experience:
Singapore is one of the best Student Cities globally due to its high-quality education, affordability, and safety. Students from over 120 countries ensure a valuable intercultural experience.
4. World-Class Institutes:
MBA colleges in Singapore are known for providing top-notch curricula and excellent learning and employment opportunities.
5. Types of Management Programs in Singapore
MBA types in Singapore include Executive MBA, Double Master’s, Professional MBA, MSc in Accountancy, MSc in Analytics, MSc in Finance, MSc in Sustainable and Green Finance, MSc in Supply Chain Management, MSc in Communication Management, and others.
MBA in Singapore – Best Universities
Students usually apply for a full-time or executive MBA in Singapore. Many reputed universities offer MBA programs, although they have varying eligibility criteria and fee structures.
Here are university/college-wise eligibility criteria for applicants.
1. National University of Singapore (NUS)
QS World University Ranking by Subject 2022: #1 in Singapore and #13 Globally
Eligibility
Bachelor’s degree
At least two years of full-time work experience.
Good scores in GRE/GMAT. EA (Executive Assessment) is allowed for those with 7+ years of work experience
TOEFL (Minimum 100) or IELTS (Minimum 6.5) scores are needed if a student’s undergraduate course was not taught in English
2. SMU (Singapore Management University)
QS World University Ranking by Subject 2022: #3 in Singapore and #36 Globally
Eligibility
University degree
At least two years of full-time work experience
Admission test (SMU Admissions Test/GRE/GMAT) results
TOEFL scores are needed for students who did not study their undergraduate courses in English
Source: MiM Essay
3. Nanyang Technological University (NTU)
QS World University Ranking by Subject 2022: #2 in Singapore and #20 Globally
Eligibility
Bachelor’s degree
Minimum two years of working experience
GRE/GMAT scores
TOEFL (above 100) or IELTS (above 6.5) scores if the student did not study their undergraduate course in English
The pre-arrival cost for MBA in Singapore ranges from ₹90,000 to 1.5 lakh. This includes visa processing and issuance fees, standardized exam application charges, and one-way airfare.
This doesn’t include bank statements that you need to prove that you can fund your studies in Singapore. The statement must show that you have finds to manage your tuition fees and living expenses.
Executive MBA programs are for those at the senior level in their careers who wish to pursue MBA alongside their profession.
Let us look at the best Executive MBA programs in Singapore:
1. NUS EMBA
Duration: 15 months, with 6 two-week segments
Highlight: Offers immersion into seven APAC countries.
2. Lee Kong Chian School of Business EMBA (SMU)
Duration: 12 months
Highlight: Stresses on globalizing Asian businesses and Asianising international businesses.
3. Nanyang Executive MBA
Duration: 10 weeks
Highlight: Explores how technologies such as automation, AI, and robotics have disrupted businesses.
MBA in Singapore Deadlines
There are usually two intakes for MBA in Singapore:
July Intake: The applications generally open in November, and the admission process closes in May of the following year.
January Intake: The final applications close by October end.
Note that the NUS MBA starts every August, for which the applications open in October, and the admissions process closes in March of the following year.
MBA in Singapore for Indian Students – Eligibility Criteria
There are various eligibility criteria that students need to keep in mind. These include the following:
Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree from recognized institutions or universities with an excellent academic track record.
At least a 2.8 CGPA is needed at graduation.
Work experience of two years (minimum).
Many universities accept TOEFL, IELTS, Pearson PTE Academic, GMAT, and GRE scores. The language proficiency tests are for those who have not studied their undergraduate courses in English.
85-90 for the TOEFL online test, with 22-24 in the writing section.
Minimum scores of 580 and 237 in paper and computer-based tests, respectively.
IELTS scores of 6.5 and more are needed. 6.0 is required in all sections, namely writing, listening, reading, and speaking.
Some universities may ask for responses to essay questions. Guidelines with respect to them are given on the university’s official page.
Note that admission to top universities in Singapore is highly competitive and may require aspirants to meet additional requirements.
Documents Required for MBA in Singapore Applications
There are many documents that you will require for MBA applications in Singapore. You will have to initially send scanned copies and present the original documents at the time of admission.
Here is a list:
Receipt of application fee payment.
Student Pass (applicable for non-Singapore citizens).
Passport.
Previous academic records.
Tuition grant or financial aid application.
Documents for co-curricular activities, awards, and recognition.
Medical reports.
GMAT/GRE/TOEFL/IELTS scores, depending upon specific criteria.
Passport-sized photographs.
Study loan and other financial documents.
Essays/Statement of Purpose, Letters of Recommendation, and Resume as per university guidelines.
The application process may differ across universities. However, there are some general steps that you have to follow. These include:
Download the application form from the official website of your chosen college/university.
Fill up the form after noting all instructions.
Submit all necessary documents with the application.
Pay the application fees through credit/debit card and other payment methods.
After submission, interviews will take place either on-call or via digital platforms.
Get your student visa beforehand. Once you receive the admission letter, you can quickly join your course without any delays.
Singapore Visa Process for Students
Students can apply for their visas by following the below-given simple steps:
Institutes of Higher Learning (IHL) submit your visa application on Student’s Pass Online Application and Registration (SOLAR) website. IHL then gives you your reference number. You can take your application forward from there.
Access SOLAR to submit e-Form 16 and Form V36. Before logging in, you must have your passport number, its expiration date, SOLAR registration receipt, address and contact details in Singapore, email address, and a passport-sized photograph.
Review the form and pay the application processing fee of SGD 30.
Note that your student visa application for Singapore is usually processed within 10 days from the date of submission.
MBA in Singapore with Scholarships
While MBA in Singapore is decently affordable, living costs and other miscellaneous costs can make the program expensive. To reduce the cost significantly, applicants can explore the following scholarship options:
1. ADB – Japan Scholarship for Developing Countries
Students from developing countries pursuing postgraduate courses in business, management, economics, or technology can avail of the benefits of the grant. Tuition fees, monthly living allowance, study material, medical insurance, and travel expenses are all covered under it.
2. Narotam Sekhsaria Scholarship
The grant is offered to Indian nationals interested in pursuing a master’s from an international university. The program offers full and partial scholarships as interest-free loans to meritorious students.
3. INSEAD-Syngenta MBA Scholarships for Developing Country Leaders
MBA students at INSEAD of both France and Singapore campuses can benefit from the scholarship. An amount of €22,500 per year is granted under it.
Students can also apply for scholarships at specific business schools in Singapore to pursue the course.
MBA in Singapore Scope
Before we move to understand prospects after completing MBA in Singapore, let us get information on top hiring companies:
Google
Meta
Accenture
Apple
Capgemini
Uber
Gartner
IBM
PwC
EY
Cisco Systems
HP Inc.
Morgan Mckinley
Career prospects after pursuing the course from the best MBA Colleges in Singapore:
upGrad Abroad offers flexible study solutions to help aspirants achieve their foreign education dreams through collaborations with the top international universities. You can pursue courses with us and save one-fifth on your education cost while getting the same PSWP benefit and more. To know more, get in touch with our counsellors now. Here are some popular MBA courses offered by upGrad Abroad:
The 18-month-long course is offered part online and part on-campus at IU.
Some benefits of the program include
11 specializations to choose from – Artificial Intelligence, Big Data Management, Engineering Management, E-Sports Management, Finance & Accounting, Healthcare Management, Human Resource Management, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, and many more.
The course facilitated by upGrad Abroad is offered in collaboration with IMT Ghaziabad and University Canada West.
Some benefits of the program include
Certificate from IMT, Ghaziabad, and a Master’s Degree from UCW
Career Essential Soft Skills Program
IELTS Prep Provided by upGrad
Frequently Asked Questions About MBA in Singapore for Indian Students
Is it worth doing an MBA in Singapore?
You can expect an ROI of over 200% on study abroad costs. In that sense, it is safe to say that doing an MBA in Singapore is worth all the efforts. The presence of regional headquarters of MNCs like Google, Apple, Meta, and others help explore excellent employment opportunities as well.
How can I get an MBA in Singapore?
One needs a sound academic record, a work experience of at least two years, and a CGPA of 2.8 at the graduate level to get admitted into the best MBA colleges in Singapore. Some universities might also require GMAT/GRE/TOEFL/IELTS score for admission.
How much does it cost for an MBA in Singapore?
An MBA in Singapore may cost anywhere between ~₹ 20-38 lakh for a 12 to 18-month course. Some of the best business schools in Singapore include Nanyang Technological University, the National University of Singapore & others.
Is GMAT required for MBA in Singapore?
GMAT is not a non-negotiable requirement for MBA in Singapore. Some Singapore MBA colleges allow admission without a GMAT score. One should, however, go to the university’s website to check the exact admission requirements. If a GMAT score is required, a score of 650+ is considered safe.
Which MBA is the best in Singapore?
MBA programs from NUS, NTU, and SMU are considered the best in Singapore. Alongside a typical MBA degree, these universities also offer MSc in subjects like Finance, Accountancy, Supply Chain Management, and others. Executive MBA from these three universities is also considered the best.
What is the eligibility for pursuing MBA in Singapore?
A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university, English language proficiency scores, GRE/GMAT scores, a GPA of at least 2.8, and a work experience of at least two years, among others, are the minimum requirements to pursue MBA in Singapore.
What is the average salary after pursuing MBA in Singapore?
The annual average starting salary for graduates after MBA in Singapore is SGD 51,000. The salary increases with experience and profile.
Bulbul is a self-driven professional and an expert writer & editor. She has been a part of the ed-tech industry for the past 2 years now and is motivated to provide study abroad aspirants with factually correct and relevant information. Her knack for impactful writing makes her blogs worth a read!
GPA CALCULATOR
EXPENSE CALCULATOR
Ielts band calculator
Education Loan Calculator
University partner
ACCOMMODATION
experience-center
our offices
)
