Exams required for admission to Universities in Singapore

Singapore is quickly becoming a destination of choice for students from India. The proximity, consistent economic growth, value for money and good placement options have created a unique demand for Singapore Universities. There are many reasons to choose Singapore as a study abroad destination. So whether it be the scholarships available for Indian students or the cost of living in Singapore, the fact remains that Singapore as a study abroad destination has arrived. But how to get there? What are the exams required for getting admitted in the Universities at Singapore?

Singapore, like other favourite destination across the world for Study Abroad aspirants, is also an English speaking country and English is the official language for instruction. Hence, it gives merit to almost all the exams which are accepted widely in USA, UK and Australia. But before we go ahead and explore the various examinations accepted by Singapore Universities, it would be important to note that unlike the universities in USA, UK and Australia where excellence across varied fields is added to your application, Singapore is more aligned to scholastic excellence.

In other words, while they would politely nod that you were a school captain and won many awards in dance and drama, they would not necessarily be impressed. An exceptional high score or a good rank in JEE Mains/ Advanced on the other hand would make them sit up and notice. So, for Singapore Universities…remember, think high! This however may not be the case for International Universities with campuses in Singapore as they might still follow the international admission policies.

Language Proficiency Exams

As already mentioned, English is the official language for instruction in Singapore and proving competence in the language might be necessary. We say might because some of the top universities might not require you to take the language proficiency tests! But then again, that is not a general rule and depends from university to university as well as candidature to candidature. Also, while a university might not require the score, it might be a prerequisite for seeking a Student Visa for Singapore. So taking either of the following exams would be a good idea, both for undergraduate as well as graduate students.

IELTS

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is conducted by the University of Cambridge – Local Examination Syndicate. Used widely in over 110 countries, the exam is generally accepted by the Universities in Singapore as well.

As a proficiency test for English language, the exam is divided into four parts names, listening, reading, speaking and writing and scores you on a band that ranges from good to bad. Overall score for IELTS is then calculated by combining scores across all sections and vary from 1 – 9. Usually an accepted average for Singapore Universities for overall IELTS score is 6.5.

TOEFL

Singapore Universities also accept Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL) which is conducted by Educational Testing Services (ETS), USA. The aim of the test is to check the ability of a person to understand and communicate in standard North American English. The tests, like IELTS, tests you on spoken, written and listening skills and is also widely accepted.

Both written and internet versions of the test is available. While many universities would accept TOEFL, some might specifically ask for other exams and hence it would be better to check the tests accepted by the universities you are applying to.

There are other tests like PTE (Pearson Tests of English) which are also widely accepted. While Universities often accept the scores interchangeably, some universities might ask for a specific course. For the same, it is always advisable to check the University for the Tests required.

Aptitude Tests for Singapore

Singapore, as already mentioned, gives importance to academic and scholastic aptitude. Here’s a look at the various tests accepted by different universities in Singapore for undergraduate as well as postgraduate courses.

Aptitude Tests for Undergraduate courses

SAT

Scholastic Aptitude Tests or SAT is a standardized exam developed by the College Board. The test evaluates the students on their aptitude in written, verbal as well as quantitative skills. It is for admission to undergraduate courses and is widely accepted across various countries.

SAT Subject Tests might be required by some universities for specific courses in universities of Singapore. Subject tests are offered in areas like Literature, History, Mathematics, Sciences and Foreign Languages.

It is important to note that some of the top universities of Singapore would not require a SAT score from you if you have appeared in and have a good score in CBSE or ISCE boards in India. However, state board students might be asked for the same. Also, these very universities might ask all students to appear for SAT Subject Tests for specific courses. The ground rule is to always check with the universities you are applying to.

Aptitude Tests for Postgraduate courses

GRE

GRE or the Graduate Record Examination is conducted by Educational Testing Services (ETS) and is a measure of a student’s aptitude for postgraduate courses across many countries. The test scores are valid and acceptable at most of the Top Singapore Universities. It is important to note that while universities accept the tests, they might require you to take a subject test as well.

GMAT

GMAT or Graduate Management Aptitude Test is widely accepted across Singapore for post graduate courses in management/ business/ finance. Conducted by GMAC, GMAT is an accepted measure of aptitude of a candidate for management courses. It is important to note that some universities might require a GRE instead of a GMAT for the MBA programs as well.