www.singaporeedu.gov.sgFor International StudentsEducation Guide 2008/09Dimensions Education GroupDimensions Education Group is one of the largest private schools inSingapore. We are also one of the few private schools with full campusfacilities. At Dimensions, we have a community of more than 10 nationalitiesenrolled in different courses offered by us. We are also convenientlylocated near the Kovan MRT Station.Our Awards:1) SQC-PEO Award2) CaseTrust for Education3) ISO 9001:2000 Status4) China Embassy Certification in SingaporeDimensions offers:1) Placement to Singapore Government Primaryand Secondary Schools2) GCE O Level preparatory programs as a pathwayto the Polytechnics in Singapore and institutions ofhigher learning3) Hospitality Management Programs (from certificateto degree) for job opportunities in Singapore4) Degree and Diploma Programs in Business,Marketing, HRM, Finance & Accounting to keepabreast of the business world and jobopportunities.Our Facilities:Badminton courts, table-tennis, basketball courts, footballfield, chemistry & physics laboratories, library with freeInternet access, computer rooms, mock-up hotel room /front desk / restaurant / bar, green landscape, canteen andalumni office.Our Overseas Offices:1) China - Beijing / Nanjing / Shanghai2) Vietnam - Ho Chi Minh City3) Indonesia - Jakarta4) Philippines - ManilaAddress: Dimensions Education Campus(Kovan MRT Station)58 Lowland Road, Singapore 547453Tel: (65) 6334 0600 Fax: (65) 6334 6066Websites: English: www.dimensions.edu.sg /Chinese: www.sipbowei.comEmails: English: dimens@singnet.com.sg /Chinese: educate@singnet.com.sgWS SINGAPOREWORKFORCE SKILLSQUALIFICATIONSQUALITYMANAGEMENT063UKASISO 9001:2000Cert. No: CI/5542 for Private Education OrganisationsSET YOUR SIGHTSHIGHEducation bristles with lifein Singapore. A premierknowledge hub, itattracts a convergence ofprogressives and learninginstitutions, enriching itsdiverse learningpathways. Fostering avibrant exchange ofideas. Opening the mindsof the learner and thelearned to even widerperspectives. It is a citywhere the ideas of thefuture mingle with theways of tradition.Culturally inspiring.Intellectually enriching. Itis in a class of its own.Singapore, The Global Schoolhouse An Educational Experience Without Parallel Vibrant And Dynamic: New Education Options In Singapore Applications And Procedures: The Route To Studying In SingaporeFinancing Your Studies In Singapore Student Accommodation In Singapore Living, Playing And Working In Singapore GlossaryIndex of SchoolsSchool ListingLocation MapsIndex of CoursesCourse ListingCONTENTS671042545863708191209217227Learn more ofyour host countryand you will realisehow stimulatingand inspiring it is.EDU0708 DIV 1R SIS 7/1/08 10:12 AM Page 1 1 STUDYING IN SINGAPORESTUDYING IN SINGAPOREEDU0708 DIV 1L SIS 7/1/08 9:50 AM Page 1 STUDYING IN SINGAPOREStep into a worldof immense learningopportunities.SINGAPORE, THE GLOBAL SCHOOLHOUSEIn 2007, there were over 85,000 international students from more than 120 different countries studying in Singapore. Joint programmes with more than 16 leading Universities from Europe, USA and Asia are offered by Singapore Universities.Singapore provides a broad-based education system that nurtures global perspectives, from character-building activities for the young to a comprehensive range of training and enrichment programmes for students of all ages.International students in Singapore enjoy a wealth of options at every levelfrom pre-school to postgraduate programmeswhether they wish to opt for mainstream education or niche areas of study, Public or Private schools, local or foreign schools.School and tuition fees as well as the cost of living in Singapore are signicantly lower than that in many developed countries. Singapore is the premier education hub in Asia, offering a rich, diverse and distinctive mix of educational services in a safe, cosmopolitan and comfortable environment. The islands strong international reputation for quality education has drawn a legion of the worlds top institutions to Singapore.Every year, an interesting mix of students from all over the world make their way to Singaporea thriving, education hub that provides world-class educational programmes of all types and at all levels. In this environment of excellence, the students know that they will receive a fullling and stimulating learning experience. The ever increasing number of international students arriving in Singapore attests to the exceptional quality of education here. From 50,000 in 2002, the number has grown to over 85,000 in 2007. This gure is expected to reach 150,000 by 2015.AN EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE WITHOUT PARALLELThese are the key attributes that distinguish a Singapore education:A Truly Global Education The Singapore education system promises a global experience that draws from the latest and the best in knowledge from around the world. Educational institutions in Singapore are distinguished by programmes and pedagogy that fuse perspectives from both the east and west, buttressed by the international teaching faculty present here. They are also exceptional in their focus on providing students with global exposure through international exchange programmes and other immersion programmes. Even students from Primary and Secondary Schools are encouraged to spend some time abroad as part of their school curriculum to gain a global perspective. When they graduate, students would have acquired the relevant skills and abilities to survive in competitive environments, and be well-equipped for integration into the global community and workforce.Internationally Recognised, World-class Education Singapores Public Schools are recognised worldwide for their academic standards and quality of teaching. This is supported by the performance of Singapore students in international comparative studies such as the 2003 Trends In International Mathematics and Science Study, where Singapore students at the Grade 4 and Grade 8 levels were placed rst in the world in Mathematics and Science. I think one of the misconceptions is that because Singapore is a small island, a students development would be restricted. Hence, I was very pleasantly surprised to nd a learning environment that is so dynamic and exciting, much like other learning capitals in the world, such as Boston in the United States and London in the United Kingdom. There are many opportunities. You really have to come and see it for yourself.Catherine Huang Yan from China is a Master of Engineering student at Nanyang Technological University.07Singapore, The Global SchoolhouseThe three local Universities rank among Asias best and are among the leading Universities of the world. In the 2007 World University Rankings conducted by the Times Higher Education Supplement, the National University of Singapore and Nanyang Technological University were ranked 33 and 69 respectively out of the top 200 Universities worldwide. The Singapore Management University is modelled after the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and grooms outstanding business leaders and creative entrepreneurs. Seven of the worlds most eminent Universities in their eld of study have their campus in Singapore, and 11 premier Universities have a presence in Singapore through collaborations with the republics local Universities.Affordable Quality Education School and tuition fees in Singapore have remained competitive. In addition, the top American and European institutions that have programmes here offer Asian students the chance to gain a good degree at a cost of living substantially lower than that in North America and Europe. To make Singapore education more affordable, the government provides tuition grants of between 75 per cent and 85 per cent to international students who gain admission to the local Universities and Polytechnics respectively under the Tuition Grant Scheme. The Tuition Fee Grants are about S$22,400 for a lab-based programme and S$19,000 for a non lab-based programme at local Universities, and S$13,300 for a diploma programme in the Polytechnics. In return for the subsidised education, foreign students are required to serve a Tuition Grant bond by working with Singapore-registered companies for three years after graduation.Given the reasonable cost of living on the island, students are able to nd accommodation, meals and transport options that meet their budget. The Opportunity To Experience The World In One City Singapore is where the world comes to live and work in. Indeed, it has repeatedly been ranked the worlds most globalised country. The country is a melting pot of cultures and attracts talent from all over the world. The result is a lively, cosmopolitan place featuring a myriad of ethnicity, heritage, lifestyles, food and culture that allows you to experience the whole world in one country. Amidst this great diversity is a remarkable level of cultural and religious tolerance.Singapore has a unique mix of people, places, and activities. Everyone should be able to nd at least one place, person, or thing that they love here.23-year-old American Keymi G. Solano is enrolled in the Master of Management in Hospitality programme in the Cornell-Nanyang Institute of Hospitality Management.08Singapore is really a country where people are very open about other cultures. Its a very colourful life here.Siska Hendra Yani, 20, Indonesian. He is enrolled in the Diploma in Hotel Management programme at SHATEC. The great diversity of nationalities that make up the workforce allows interaction with people from diverse backgrounds. And with the many multinational companies operating here, you will also have the opportunity to gain valuable working experience through corporate internships. Unrivalled Scope To Connect With The World In the islands corporate world, you will nd yourself rubbing shoulders with the more than 100,000 professional expatriates from all over the world. With 26,000 international companies in Singapore, students can look forward to excellent professional networking opportunities as well as future job opportunities in one of the best business environments in Asia. With 85,000 international students from over 120 countries, you also have unparalleled opportunities to network with future thought-leaders, tomorrows captains of industry and up-and-coming world-shapers from all parts of the world. A Bilingual Learning Environment While English is the main medium of instruction, students can also learn a mother tongue, which may be Chinese, Malay, or Tamil. Students with the interest and ability can also take up languages such as French, German, and Japanese in the Public Schools. Many students in Singapore schools also pick up Korean, Bahasa Indonesia, Vietnamese and other Asian languages offered through enrichment programmes.Safe, Comfortable, Vibrant Lifestyle The island state bustles with attractions and activities. Besides world-class dining and shopping, there is a thriving arts scene as well as an exciting spectrum of recreational options. This makes Singapore an extremely pleasant city to live in.Industry-relevant Education Strong links between educational institutions and their respective industries ensure that courses stay industry-relevant and dynamic, with a curriculum that reects industry shifts and changes. The opportunities for industry attachments give students a headstart in their future careers.09Singapore, The Global SchoolhouseVIBRANT AND DYNAMIC: NEW EDUCATION OPTIONS IN SINGAPOREThe education scene here is further enriched by the rising demand for niche, specialty courses in Art, Design, New Media, Hospitality and Culinary Arts. As Asia grows and develops, so do opportunities for internationally-oriented specialty schools.The creative industries are pivotal to enhancing Singapores future economic competitiveness and fuelling a more vibrant arts, culture and entertainment scene. International art, new media and design schools will greatly benet the growing creative industries, both in Singapore and the region.Hospitality and culinary arts are other promising areas as Singapore and regional countries grow their lifestyle and tourism businesses. These competitive areas demand a sophisticated hospitality and culinary education infrastructure to support them.Singapore is a good eye-opener because it is cosmopolitan, well developed and safe. It is a good place to create an international network of friends if you know how to work it. The mix of different cultures here lets you learn a lot about different Asian cultures without having to move around too much. What I love most about this country is its ideal environment: Its safe and very easy to get around plus you get to meet a lot of students from other parts of the world.Raphael Dela Pena Cruz, 20, Filipino. She is enrolled in the Diploma in Hotel Management programme at SHATEC. 10UniversitiesCertificates/DiplomasflInstitute oTechnicaEducationPolytechnicsJunior Colleges andCentralised InstituteGCE O Level ExamSecondary SchoolsSecondary 5 NGCE N Level Exam1Normal (Academic)/Normal (Technical) CourseSecondary to Secondary 41Special/Express CourseSecondary to Secondary 4Specialised Independent SchoolIntegrated Programme SchoolPrimary School Leaving Examination (PSLE)Primary SchoolsFoundation StagePrimary 1 to Primary 4Orientation StagePrimary 5 to Primary 6r GCE A Level Exam oOther QualificationsUndergraduate/Postgraduate Degrees International/ForeignSystem Schools Private Education OrganisationsPrimary LevelSecondary Level(GCE O LEVEL, IGCSE, IB) International/ForeignSystem Schools MOE Privately Funded Schools Private Education OrganisationsTertiary Level(Certificate/Diploma/Undergraduate/Postgraduate) Private Education OrganisationsNote: Students taking courses in the privateeducation stream may choose to articulateinto the public education stream, subjectto acceptance by the respective institutions.THE SINGAPORE EDUCATION SYSTEM AT A GLANCE N O I T A C U D E E T A V I R P N O I T A C U D E C I L B U P11Singapore, The Global SchoolhouseSINGAPORE PRE-SCHOOLSChildren aged between three and six can receive quality pre-school education at a Kindergarten, Childcare Centre or Foreign System School in Singapore.Kindergartens are private education institutions. There are 492 Kindergartens in Singapore offering pre-school education for children aged three to six.Most Kindergartens offer a structured three-year programme. With the exception of Foreign System Schools, all Kindergartens are bilingual and conduct their programmes in English and in Chinese, Malay or Tamil as a Mother Tongue Language.PAP Community Foundation Kindergartens charge fees of between S$60 and S$140 a month. Childcare Centres are run by commercial organisations. The 745 Childcare Centres cater to children aged two to six.Childcare Centres charge an average of S$650 a month for a full-day programme and S$465 for a half-day programme. Fees can vary widely. For example, the fees charged for full-day care range from S$400 to more than S$1,200 per month.There are also Foreign System Schools that offer Kindergarten programmes. The pre-school landscape in Singapore is richly diverse, with community and private organisations providing a wide variety of pre-school education programmes catering to children aged three to six. Over 1,200 Kindergartens and Childcare Centres all over the island provide pre-school education, with each designing their own programmes to meet distinctive needs and aspirations. The large number of pre-schools and their divergent offerings mean that parents enjoy a compendium of alternatives when choosing a pre-school for their child.Pre-school centres are conveniently located to shorten transportation time for both parent and child, and also to allow busy parents to send and pick up their children easily. Featuring a spectrum of enrichment programmes such as speech and drama classes,early childhood education in Singapore is focused on getting your child off to a great start in life. KINDERGARTENS Kindergartens are private schools where young minds are stimulated through a progressive programme of fun-lled learning. In Singapore, Kindergartens are operated by the private sector, including community foundations, religious bodies, and social and business organisations.All local Kindergartens are registered under the Singapore Ministry of Education and have been assessed to offer suitable programmes, satisfactory premises and qualied teachers. They usually operate ve days a week, with two sessions a day. Each session lasts from 2 hours to 4 hours.Kindergartens provide a structured three-year pre-school education programme: Nursery (for children aged four), Kindergarten One (for children aged ve) and Kindergarten Two (for children aged six). The Nursery year is usually the rst year of education for any child in Singapore. Singapore Kindergartens adopt a holistic approach to development and learning, seeking to achieve integrated, interactive learning through play. Another important role that pre-schools in Singapore play is to prepare young children for Primary School.Kindergartens conduct their student enrolment exercises as early as March each year for admission in the following year. For further information on admission, contact the individual Kindergarten directly.13Singapore Pre-schoolsCHILDCARE CENTRESChildcare Centres are education centres that take in children whose parents are unable to take care of them due to work commitments.In Singapore, Childcare Centres offer programmes aimed at helping a child develop physically, intellectually, emotionally and socially in a safe and conducive environment. Activities provide opportunities for play, discovery and imaginationthe building blocks of a childs school and career success. Childcare Centres are regulated by the Singapore Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) which sets training requisites, stipulates staff-child ratio for various age groups, and enforces space requirement for each child enrolled in a centre. In this way, MCYS assures the quality of Childcare Centres in Singapore.Childcare Centres provide full- and half-day care programmes to children aged two to six. Some centres also offer infant care services for children aged two to 18 months.Registration periods for Childcare Centres vary from centre to centre. Please contact the individual centre directly for more details.FOREIGN SYSTEM PRE-SCHOOLSThere are a number of Foreign System Schools in Singapore catering to the needs of expatriate pre-school children. These schools teach their national curriculum and, in general, conduct lessons in their own national language. They also often feature extensive extracurricular activities. Most of these schools are located close to expatriate enclaves.International schools in Singapore charge fees that are considerably higher than those charged by local Kindergartens and Childcare Centres. See pages xx and xxx for a list of Foreign System Schools offering pre-school classes. To secure a place in a Foreign System School, please contact the school directly.14SINGAPORE PRIMARY SCHOOLSPublic Primary Schools in Singapore offer six years of compulsory Primary Education, which culminates in the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE). At Primary 1 and Primary 2 level, the number of students per class is capped at 30 in order to ensure that each child enjoys individual attention.Singapore schoolchildren consistently emerge the best in the world in Mathematics and Science, in assessments of children aged between nine and 10 worldwide since 1995.The Singapore Public Primary School education is characterised by a forward-looking and innovation-oriented curriculum that fuses information technology, creative and critical thinking and problem-solving skills. In the rst four years, 32 per cent of curriculum time is spent on English Language, 26 per cent on the Mother Tongue, 20 per cent on Mathematics and the remaining time on other subjects. There are 132 government Primary Schools and 41 government-aided Primary Schools in Singapore. Government schools are schools funded by the government. Government-aided schools receive grant-in-aid towards the recurrent expenditure for the running of the schools.The tuition fee for Primary School education in a Public School is approximately S$1,500 a year. For Private and International Schools, the fee is about S$10,000 a year.I love the atmosphere around me in my school; it makes me feel as if school is my second home. And it is a good environment for studying. Eleven-year-old Alexandra Min Luo from Britain. She is studying at CHIJ St. Nicholas Girls School.Studying here is a unique experience. In Korea, most of the lessons are taught in Korean. But in Singapore, the teachers teach in English and the Mother Tongue (which I chose to be Chinese), so I can learn more languages. It is quite tough for me but my teachers and my friends have been helping me. They are very encouraging and caring. And I will not give up because I believe that my knowledge of English and Chinese will help me in the future.Cha Yoo Jin from Korea. She is studying at Tanjong Katong Primary School.The excellence of Singapore Primary Schools is heralded worldwide and afrmed by the nations top placing in Mathematics and Science in global assessments repeatedly.In the 2003 Trends In International Mathematics and Science Study, Singapore students emerged as the worlds best in Mathematics and Science. This international survey of student achievement is done every two years (although it was not conducted in 2005). The test is administered by the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement to children from 48 other countries and the 2007 ndings will be released in 2008.Singapores schoolchildren in this age group have topped the rankings in Mathematics since the survey was rst conducted in 1995. PUBLIC PRIMARY SCHOOLSIn Singapore, the government provides a Primary School education that is characterised by a forward-looking and innovation-oriented curriculum that fuses information technology, creative and critical thinking and problem-solving skills, to encourage knowledge generation and application. The quality of the education in Singapores public Primary Schools is afrmed by the fact that the overwhelming majority of Primary School-leavers (over 97 percent) go on to secondary education.Primary Schools in Singapore boasts cutting-edge infrastructure and facilities that often include swimming pools, gymnasiums, intelligent classrooms, performing theatres, computer laboratories, media resource libraries, and health and tness rooms. THE EDUCATION FRAMEWORKThe primary education system features a four-year foundation stage followed by a two-year orientation stage. At the foundation stage, students are given a rm foundation in English Language, a Mother Tongue Language (MTL) and Mathematics. Science is introduced from Primary 3 onwards. Project Work is conducted but is not an examination subject. 16On the average, in the rst four years, 32 per cent of curriculum time is spent on English Language, 26 per cent on MTL, 20 per cent on Mathematics and the remaining 22 per cent on other subjects.All students advance to the orientation stage after Primary 4, where English Language, MTL and Mathematics are taught at the appropriate level according to the ability of the student. At the end of Primary 6, all students sit the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE), which assesses their abilities for placement in a Secondary School course that suits their learning pace and aptitude. If your child is intellectually gifted, you will nd his needs fully met by the Gifted Education Programme, offered at the Primary 4 to 6 levels by nine Primary Schools in Singapore. Numerous enrichment activities, camps, educational trips, out-of-school activities, Special Programmes and mentorship schemes are features of the programme. ADMISSION INTO A PUBLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL Your childs admission as an international student into a Public Primary School in Singapore is based on the availability of vacancies at that school. Your child may have to demonstrate his ability in Mathematics and English for admission into certain schools. Proof of your childs prociency in the two subjects can be obtained at The Principals Academy Inc (PAI), if the school accepts the Principals Academy Certication Test. This centralised admission test for international students administered by The Principals Academy Inc is recognised by more than 100 participating Public Schools. The test removes the need for your child to take multiple entrance exams for each school he is applying to.The cost of the certication test is S$200 and test results are valid for a year. For more information on test dates and the list of participating schools, call PAI at 6363 0330, email: info@pai.sg or visit http://www.academyofprincipals.edu.sg17Singapore Primary SchoolsINTERNATIONAL SCHOOLSThere are also International Schools that offer Primary School education in Singapore.One category of International Schools adheres to the national curriculum of a specic country. These schools generally conduct lessons in their own national language and cater primarily to children of expatriates. The medium of instruction can be English, a foreign language or bilingual. In Singapore, this category includes schools that offer the American, Australian, British, Canadian, Dutch, French, German, Indian, Indonesian, Japanese or Swiss system of education. A second category offers a universal education that is not based on the educational system of any country. These could include the International General Certicate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) or the International Baccalaureate (IB). The United World College of South East Asia, for example, provides a curriculum rigorous enough to meet the challenge of any national system while catering for a wide range of abilities. Another example is Bhavans Global Indian International School which offers a national curriculum as well as the latest international education system with local or Indian cultural values integrated into the system. The levels of education available vary from school to school and certain schools offer Primary School through High School education.International Schools in Singapore charge fees that are considerably higher than Public Schools. See pages xx and xxx for a list of International Schools offering Primary School education. To secure a place in an International School, please contact the school directly. PRIVATE EDUCATION ORGANISATIONS (PEOs)The Private Education Organisations, or private schools, that offer primary level education in Singapore provide either preparatory or enrichment programmes. Preparatory programmes prepare a foreign student for entry into a Public Primary School and largely focus on teaching the English or Chinese language. Enrichment programmes supplement the instruction that the child is receiving at school.Private schools conduct their own admissions exercises, which are usually publicised in their course brochures. To apply:Check that the courses offered, certication granted, school facilities and services meet your expectations. Check the course brochures or school website to see if you meet the course requirements. Check that the Private School has attained CaseTrust for Education status. Only schools that meet CaseTrust criteria are allowed to admit international students. For an updated list of schools with the CaseTrust for Education Trademark, you can visit the Singapore Education website at www.singaporeedu.gov.sg.Apply directly to the school with the relevant certication and documentation. You will be informed of your application status and sent a Letter of Offer upon acceptance.18SINGAPORE SECONDARY SCHOOLSThe secondary education system consists of a four-year course (the Express Stream), a four-year course with an option to go on to a fth year (the Normal Stream) at the end of which students sit their GCE O Level Examination, or a six-year course (the Integrated Programme that allows academically able students to go right from Secondary School to Pre-university). The courses offer different curricular emphases, with the course taken depending on students ability and special interests.At the end of the Express Stream, students sit the Singapore- Cambridge General Certicate of Education Ordinary Level Examination (GCE O Level). At the end of the Normal Stream, students sit the Singapore-Cambridge General Certicate of Education Normal Level Examination (GCE N Level). At the end of the Integrated Programme, students sit the Singapore-Cambridge General Certicate of Education Advanced Level Examination (GCE A level), International Baccalaureate (IB) or an equivalent examination.There are several types of schools at the Secondary level: Government Schools, Government-aided Schools, Autonomous Schools, Specialised Independent Schools, Independent Schools and Privately-funded Schools. At the secondary level, students can choose from 110 Government Schools, 20 Government-aided Schools, 21 Autonomous Schools and ve Independent Schools. Fees for Secondary School range from approximately S$2,100 a year for Government and Government-aided Schools to over S$10,000 a year for International and Private Schools. 019Singapores Secondary School curriculum is recognised worldwide for its ability to develop students with critical thinking and intellectual skills. Rigorous standards are set and every student is encouraged to aim high and maximise his potential.The success of this approach is demonstrated by the results of the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study, 2003. In this global test, Singapore students emerged as the best in the world in Mathematics and Science among children aged between 12 and 14. The system also grooms innovative learners with individual talents in diverse elds, from the artistic and creative disciplines to engineering and the pure sciences, and with different methods of thinking and nding innovative solutions. This is made possible by a exible and innovation-oriented curriculum, supported by state-of-the-art teaching infrastructure and learning facilities. Secondary School education takes four to ve years and the curriculum includes English, Mother Tongue Languages, Mathematics, Science, and the Humanities. A GREAT SPECTRUM OF CHOICES Students in Singapore choose their Secondary Schools after passing their Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE). Posting is based on merit and choice. Studying in Singapore is very exciting because I get a lot more opportunities in Singapore than I had when I was studying in China. Also there are many clubs in the school and many activities that you can join in. My Co-Curricular Activity, for example, is rugby.Wang Yi, from China. He is a student at Raffles Institution.20There are several types of schools at the Secondary level: Government Schools are fully funded by the government and follow a set curriculum. These schools development and administration are controlled by the Singapore MOE (Ministry of Education). Government-aided Schools were set up by churches, clans and other religious organisations. They receive 90 per cent funding from the government for their development costs. Their recurrent costs are also borne by the government. These schools teach the standard Singapore curriculum and employ teachers assigned by the MOE. Government and Government-aided Schools form the mainstream Secondary School education in Singapore. With more than 150 such institutions, you have a wide choice of schools that are able to meet your education goals.Autonomous Schools are Government or Government-aided Schools that offer the standard curriculum. However, they are given greater autonomy in the running of their schools and additional funding to enable them to have more facilities and a wider range of innovative and enrichment programmes. Autonomous Schools may charge additional miscellaneous fees. Independent Schools are managed by their own Board of Governors. They enjoy autonomy in setting their own scale of fees, in the admission of pupils, in the selection and appointment of staff as well as in curriculum matters. Specialised Independent Schools namely the Singapore Sports School, the National University of Singapore High School and the School of the Arts cater to students with specic talents and interests. These schools set their own curricula and programmes which run between four and six years.Privately-funded Schools provide additional choices that lead to recognised qualications that can be used to gain entry into post-secondary institutions and Universities. PUBLIC SCHOOLS AT THE SECONDARY LEVELStudents in a Singapore Public Secondary School undergo either a four- or a ve-year course of education with different curricular emphases; the course taken depends on their ability and special interests. Foreign students may seek admission to join Secondary One to Secondary Three. Students undergo a four-year Express Stream, or a four-year Normal Stream that offers the option to go on to a fth year at the end of which they sit the Singapore-Cambridge GCE O Level Examination. Students will sit the Singapore-Cambridge GCE O Level Examination or the Singapore-Cambridge GCE N Level Examination at the end of their Secondary School education.Most students are placed in the Express Stream while the rest enter the Normal (Academic) or Normal (Technical) Stream. Placement is based on their PSLE results. These courses are designed to match their learning ability and interests. The Express Stream leads to the GCE O Level Examination, where students typically offer either seven or eight subjects. Exceptionally able students may offer up to 10 subjects. Normal Stream students sit the GCE N Level Examination after four years of study. Students in the Normal (Academic) Stream offer academic subjects while those in the Normal (Technical) Stream follow a practical and technical curriculum. Students from the Normal (Academic) Stream offer six to eight subjects at the GCE N Level Examination. Those in the Normal (Technical) Stream offer ve to seven subjects at the GCE N Level Examination. Students may progress to the fth year of Secondary School education if they do well at the GCE N Level Examination. 21Singapore Secondary SchoolsAt the end of this fth year, they will sit their GCE O Level Examination. If their GCE N Level Examination results do not qualify them for the fth year, they may opt for a technical and vocational education at an Institute of Technical Education (ITE). Students from the Normal (Academic) Stream who do well enough can choose to do higher level ITE courses instead of the GCE O Level Examination.Express and Normal Stream students who have completed their Secondary School education progress to Junior Colleges, the Centralised Institute, Polytechnics, ITEs or Private Schools based on their interests and GCE O Level Examination results.OTHER PROGRAMMES IN SECONDARY SCHOOLSIntegrated Programmes (IPs)These provide a seamless education where Secondary School students can proceed to Junior College without taking the GCE O Level Examination.They are for students who can benet from a more exible and less structured programme and engage in broader learning experiences.Some IPs may offer alternative curricula and examinations, e.g. the International Baccalaureate (IB), instead of the GCE A Level.Government schools that offer IPs include Dunman High School, National Junior College, River Valley High School, Temasek Junior College and Victoria Junior College.Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) specially selects high-ability students to participate in a new comprehensive six- or four-year IP leading to direct entrance into university. The overall programme consists of two components: a specially designed four- or two-year preparatory course (Pre-IB Programme) and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme.Other Independent Schools offering IPs are Hwa Chong Institution, Nanyang Girls High School, NUS High School of Mathematics and Science, Rafes Girls School, Rafes Institution and Rafes Junior College.22Bicultural Studies Programme (Chinese) (BSP(C)) and Special Assistance Plan (SAP) ScholarshipIt is a four-year programme from Secondary 3 to Pre-University 2. It aims to nurture a core group of students with a deep understanding and appreciation of two cultures, so that they can interact effectively with China as well as relate to the West.In addition to Higher Chinese, students may offer electives such as Chinese history and Chinese philosophy.SAP scholarships are available for highly able students in the BSP(C). They provide a scholarship allowance of S$1,000, funding for overseas immersion programmes and a waiver of school fees.Elective Programme in Malay Language for Secondary Schools (EMAS)It is offered to students who take up Higher Malay. It aims to nurture the language ability of students who have an aptitude for the Malay language, so that they can reach a higher level of prociency and a better understanding of Malay language, literature and culture.Malay (Special Programme) and Chinese (Special Programme) (M(SP) and C(SP))It allows students to study a non-native Mother Tongue Language (Malay or Chinese) as a third language.It was previously open only to students in the top 30% of the PSLE cohort who meet certain language criteria.From 2007, this requirement has been lifted. Secondary 1 students are allowed to offer another Mother Tongue Language in addition to their native Mother Tongue, as long as they have the interest and inclination to do so.Foreign Language ProgrammeForeign languages available are French, German and Japanese. It is offered to students who are ranked among the top 10% of the PSLE cohort and who have a natural ability to learn a foreign language, in addition to English and Mother Tongue Languages.Art Elective Programme (AEP)It is a four-year course that prepares students for the GCE O Level Art Examination.It places equal emphasis on both the practical and theoretical aspects of Art and Design, and on visual and cultural studies.Music Elective Programme (MEP)It is a four-year course that prepares students for the GCE O Level Music Examination.It develops students musical perception skills. The course provides exposure to classical Western and traditional non-Western music.SPECIALISED INDEPENDENT SCHOOLSSINGAPORE SPORTS SCHOOL (SSS)The SSS provides a conducive academic and training environment for talented young athletes. Located in a S$75 million complex in Woodlands, the school combines sports and education and offers a modular curriculum that enables students to balance their studies and the demands of training and competition. Students live ve days a week on the seven-hectare campus and take a four- or ve-year course, at the end of which they sit the GCE O Level Examination. 23Singapore Secondary SchoolsFor more information on the SSS, download their FAQ from http://www.sportsschool.edu.sg/sssweb/sss/SssMgrServlet?pTask=FaqNATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF SINGAPORE HIGH SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE (NUS HIGH SCHOOL)The NUS High School is a specialised, six-year programme that emphasises critical thinking, independent learning, problem-solving, writing, and research and excellence in science and technology. The schools broad-based curriculum uses innovative teaching methods in the technology-rich classrooms to prepare students for higher education. Leveraging on the pool of lecturers and specialists in the NUS, the school provides extensive coaching for gifted and motivated students who are encouraged to tap on the Universitys extensive resources. For more information, visit their website http:// www.highsch.nus.edu.sgSCHOOL OF THE ARTSTo be launched in 2008, the government-run School of the Arts is for students between 13 years of age and 18 years of age who show an early talent in the arts. The school provides a dynamic learning environment where the students artistic and academic potential can both best be realised. The school adopts a six-year connected arts and academic curriculum and offers the IB diploma as the graduating qualication. For more information, please visit its website, http://www.moe.sota.sg/ADMISSION INTO A PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLAdmission as an international student into a Public Secondary School in Singapore is based on the availability of vacancies at that school. Foreign students who have not taken the PSLE should apply directly to the school of their choice. Students may be required to sit a placement test. You may have to demonstrate your ability in Mathematics and English for admission into certain schools. If the school accepts the Principals Academy Certication Test as proof of ability in Mathematics and English, certication of your prociency in the two subjects can be obtained at The Principals Academy Inc, which administers the test. The Principals Academy Certication Test is a centralised admission test for international students. Recognised by more than 100 participating Public Schools, the test eliminates the need to take multiple entrance exams administered at each of the schools you are applying to. The cost of the certication test is S$250 for Secondary School admission. To check if the school you are applying to accepts the Principals Academy Certication Test for admission, please visit http://www.pact.sg. Test results are valid for a year. For more information on test dates and the list of participating schools, call PAI at 6363 0330, email: info@pai.sg or log on to www.academyofprincipals.edu.sg.24INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLSInternational Schools at the Secondary level include subsidiaries of local premier schools as well as schools that teach the curriculum of a specic foreign country.The three schools in the rst categoryHwa Chong International School, Anglo-Chinese School (International) and St. Josephs Institution Internationaloffer alternative curricula, qualications and programmes to those of the Public School System. Singaporeans and Permanent Residents (PRs) form at least 50 per cent of the enrolment at these three schools.Hwa Chong International School is an afliated school of Hwa Chong Institution. The school offers a six-year programme from Grade 7 (for 11-year-olds to 13-year-olds) to Grade 12 that culminates in the GCE A Level Examination. In the interim years, students sit the International General Certicate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) and the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT). A unique feature at the school is the emphasis on decision-making and career-management skills. These skills are infused across all the disciplines and subject domains. Applicants to the school will have to take an entrance exam and undergo an interview. The annual school fee is S$15,408.Anglo-Chinese School (International) offers a comprehensive two-level Secondary educationthe rst level leading to the IGCSE and the second level to the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. Students sit the IGCSE in the fourth year and the IB in the sixth year. The combination of IGCSE and IB makes the school unique as no other national school currently offers such a programme. Public speaking, deportment and time management skills are emphasised to develop leadership skills in young adults, gearing them up to be future leaders. The school charges a fee of S$18,000 per annum.25Singapore Secondary SchoolsSt. Josephs Institution International is co-educational and offers a curriculum based on the IGCSE and the IB programmes. Students take the IGCSE Examination at Grade 10 and the IB at Grade 12. The curriculum seeks to nurture the T-shaped student, that is, a student who has not only breadth, but depth in one area of his passions. Annual fees are S$18,190 for grades 7 to 10 and S$21,400 for grades 11 and 12.Singapore has also a wide choice of International Schools that offer a curriculum based on that of a foreign country. These schools cater to the educational needs of the children of expatriates based here as well as the educational aspirations of foreign students and Singapore PRs. Registered with the MOE, these schools follow guidelines and a curriculum identical to those in their home country. Some International Schools impose minimum requirements for admission, such as language prociency or nationality. The criteria vary with each school, as do the school fees and structure of the school year. OTHER PRIVATE EDUCATION ORGANISATIONSThere is yet another category of private education organisations in Singapore that offer Secondary School education leading to the GCE O Level Examination. In this category are schools like San Yu Adventist School, St Francis Methodist School, SSTC Education Centre and YMCA Education Centre. Hwa Chong International School is awesome. The people here are very friendly. The teachers always help us and look out for us. The school does not focus only on academic studies but encourages us to take part in various activities to broaden our experience. I, for one, never thought I would learn so much about leadership through the Student Council.Ardashir Uddin Ahmed from Bangladesh is a Grade 11 student at Hwa Chong International School and President of HCIS 2nd and 3rd Student Council.26SINGAPORE POST-SECONDARY INSTITUTESTo prepare for University, students in Singapore undergo a two-year programme at a Junior College or a three-year programme at the Centralised Institute. The annual tuition fee for international students is approximately S$3,360.The Singapore government subsidises tuition fees up to 80 per cent for all students, regardless of nationality, for studies at a local Polytechnic. The ve Polytechnics offer a three-year (full-time) diploma course. The annual fee for international students who accept the Tuition Grant is about S$3,200.Another option is pursuing a certicate or diploma course at the government-run Institute of Technical Education (ITE). An array of specialised private institutes in Singapore develop and hone talents and abilities in elds such as the arts, business management, infocomm technology, culinary arts, tourism, new media and design. They include institutions like the LASALLE College of the Arts, Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA), Rafes Design Institute (RDI), Singapore Institute of Management, Management Development Institute of Singapore, The Tourism Academy @ Sentosa, SHATEC (The Singapore Hotel Association Training and Educational Centre) and atsunrice GlobalChef Academy. International students can choose from a wide spectrum of excellent post-secondary educational options in Singapore. They can pursue their pre-university education at a Junior College (which involves a two-year course), at the Centralised Institute (for a three-year course) or at an International School, which offers a six-year programme where the secondary and pre-university years are integrated. Another popular route is the three-year diploma course offered by Polytechnics. Students can also opt to undergo a certicate or diploma programme at the ITE, which has earned a rm reputation as a world-class technical education institution with an extensive training spectrum covering the engineering, technical, business and service sectors. Many international students also elect to pursue their particular interests at Specialised Institutions such as LASALLE College of the Arts, Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, Rafes Design Institute, Singapore Institute of Management and Management Development Institute of Singapore.Besides these institutions, hundreds of private institutions provide a range of post-secondary education running from pre-university to diploma and certicate programmes. These institutions offer training in areas such as commerce, information technology, language, ne arts and design. JUNIOR COLLEGES AND THE CENTRALISED INSTITUTEIf you possess good Singapore-Cambridge GCE O Level qualications, you may apply for entry to a public pre-university institution. Choose from the 17 Junior Colleges for a two-year pre-university course or Singapores only Centralised Institute, the Millennia Institute, for a three-year pre-university course. Singapores pre-university institutions are designed for high achieving students who wish to pursue a University degree. Generally the top 20 per cent to 25 per cent of each Singaporean cohort embark on a pre-university programme. You have the option of entering either the Science and Mathematics or the Arts and Humanities streams. In the nal year, you will sit the Singapore-Cambridge GCE A Level Examination. 28I dont think I am studying much harder in Singapore in terms of the curriculum content. However, classes here force us to think more critically about the issues we learn from textbooks. As a result, in school, application of knowledge has become a way of life. In addition, I get a lot more opportunities here and I have become involved in a number of school-based and external team activities. This has given me a chance to explore aspects of myself and stretch my potential further. Yes, there is pressure. But it is a feel-good pressure because there is a lot more teamwork and you feel that you belong and are committed to one goal which is to receive a good education.Tan Chang Yung from Malaysia. She is studying at Victoria Junior College.Whatever stream you choose, Singapores Junior Colleges and the Centralised Institute feature a broad and exible curriculum that will challenge you to think critically and creatively. It seeks to prepare students for the new innovation-driven age by fostering their ability to adapt to new situations, draw insights from various elds of work and think independently. The framework for the A level curriculum focuses on three aspects: life skills, knowledge skills and content-based knowledge.The Life Skills component cultivates initiative, leadership, social responsibility and strength of character. Programmes include Co-Curricular Activities, Character Development Programme and Career Guidance. Knowledge skills are developed through subjects like Project Work and Knowledge and Inquiry, which strengthen thinking and communication skills.Content-based subject disciplines provide students with the knowledge for their career success and help build a multi-disciplinary foundation. In addition, various special programmes are available to you if you have talent in a specic area. These programmes are: The Art Elective Programme, Music Elective Programme, Drama Elective Programme, Language Elective Programmes (Chinese/Malay/French/German/Japanese) and Humanities Programme.While admission is based on the GCE O Level Examination results, international students are accepted at Junior Colleges and the Centralised Institute subject to the availability of vacancies at that particular institution. Do apply directly to the institution of your choice. ALTERNATIVE POST-SECONDARY ROUTESThere are institutions in Singapore that offer attractive post-secondary alternatives to a pre-university route. These institutions include Polytechnics, the Institute of Education, and Private Schools offering diploma and certicate courses. These institutions generally offer internationally recognised qualications that allow you to further your studies after graduation, either in Singapore or overseas.POLYTECHNICSA Polytechnic education is a popular route in Singapore for students inclined towards practice-oriented studies at the diploma level. For those interested in this route, the institutes are Nanyang Polytechnic, Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Republic Polytechnic, Singapore Polytechnic and Temasek Polytechnic. 29Singapore Post-Secondary InstitutesAll ve Polytechnics are acclaimed for providing quality market-driven and practice-based courses at diploma level. Because of this, Polytechnic graduates are valued as practice-oriented and knowledgeable middle-level professionals and are much sought after by industry.The Polytechnics offer three-year (full-time) diploma courses that equip graduates with specialised industry knowledge in a wide range of elds, including engineering, business studies, accountancy, tourism and hospitality management, mass communication, digital media, design, marine engineering, nautical studies, nursing, optometry and biotechnology. Many Polytechnic graduates advance to local and overseas Universities to take up degree studies.The Singapore government subsidises about 85 per cent of the tuition fee for all international students studying in a local Polytechnic, under the Tuition Grant Scheme. In return for this subsidy on their Polytechnic education, international students are placed under a Tuition Grant bond, which entails three years of working with Singapore-registered companies after their graduation.For more information on:Nanyang Polytechnic, please visit www.nyp.edu.sgNgee Ann Polytechnic, please visit www.np.edu.sgRepublic Polytechnic, please visit www.rp.edu.sgSingapore Polytechnic, please visit www.sp.edu.sgTemasek Polytechnic, please visit www.tp.edu.sgINSTITUTES OF TECHNICAL EDUCATION (ITE)A statutory board under the Singapore MOE, the ITE is recognised locally and internationally for providing a unique brand of technical education, for pioneering new approaches in teaching and learning and for producing successful graduates.In 2007, ITEs cutting-edge programme was celebrated by Harvard University as a model programme for vocational and technical education. Harvard Universitys John F. Kennedy School of Government had named ITE the winner of the global IBM Innovations Award in Transforming Government. The institute was recognised for its measurable successes, collaborative and innovative practices, scope and potential global replication.ITE aims to equip its students with the technical skills and knowledge to meet the manpower needs of the manufacturing and services sectors. It provides full-time certicate and diploma programmes for school-leavers as well as Continuing Education and Training programmes for working adults. Fitted with modern facilities and amenities, ITE offers more choices to students and presents them with a greater degree of multidisciplinary learning. ITE graduates can proceed to the Polytechnics to advance their studies.More information on ITE can be found at www.ite.edu.sgPRIVATE INSTITUTIONSMany international students prefer to enrol in specialised Private Institutes in Singapore to develop and hone their talents and abilities in elds such as ne arts, business management, infocomm technology, culinary arts, hospitality, tourism, new media and design. LASALLE College of the Arts and Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) are private institutions providing post-secondary education in the arts. Both LASALLE College of the Arts and NAFA offer publicly-funded diploma programmes.30The Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) is the countrys premier management and human resource development organisation, while the Management Development Institute of Singapore (MDIS), founded in 1956, is its oldest not-for-prot professional institute for lifelong learning.Singapore also excels in courses in the service sector. The Tourism Academy @ Sentosa, Tourism Management Institute of Singapore (TMIS), SHATEC (The Singapore Hotel Association Training and Educational Centre) and atsunrice GlobalChef Academy together offer a great variety of diploma courses in professional tourism and hospitality, and culinary arts. At the same time, they provide work and study experiences at top hotels, restaurants and luxury homes.31Singapore Post-Secondary InstitutesUNDERGRADUATE AND POST-GRADUATE STUDIES IN SINGAPORE Singapore boasts three local Universities offering internationally recognised degree programmes as well as research and scholarship opportunities to postgraduate students in various disciplines.Ranked among the best in Asia, the three autonomous local Universities are also among the leading Universities of the world. Together, they enrol more than 40,000 students.The three Universities offer undergraduate programmes of between three and four years. Tuition fees for undergraduate tuition grant. Tuition fees for postgraduate programmes range from S$4,790 to S$25,000 a year (for programmes offered in collaboration with leading international Universities). Tuition fees for MBA programmes cost S$12,000 a year. The Singapore government provides tuition grants of about 75 per cent to international students who can gain admission to the local Universities, under the Tuition Grant Scheme. In return for this subsidy on their University education, international students are placed under a Tuition Grant bond, which entails three years of working with Singapore-registered companies after their graduation.Seven of the worlds most eminent Universities in their eld of study also have their campus in Singapore.Eleven of the worlds premier Universities have a presence in Singapore through collaborations with the republics local Universities.programmes range from S$6,720 to S$8,330 a year, with a The University scene in Singapore is unique. Singapores own local Universities are magnets for international students and attract students from all over the world, with their reputation as not only one of the best Universities in Asia but also among the leading Universities of the world. Strong on academic rigour, innovation and research, Singapores University education aspires to prepare students not only for todays world but also for a world where there will be jobs that have yet to be invented and challenges not yet foreseen. Apart from its own highly rated local Universities, Singapore hosts 16 top Foreign Universities and some of the worlds leading Specialty Institutions.Singapore brings in only the top tertiary institutes from around the world in all kinds of elds, in order to provide complete diversity in educational experience and programmes. Private organisations on the island add to this vibrancy by offering the programmes of many other Foreign Universities. With a diverse mix of world-league institutions offering an assortment of pedagogy, curricula and University culture, Singapore stands out as a premier education hub. AUTONOMOUS SINGAPORE UNIVERSITIESThe National University of Singapore, Nanyang Technological University and Singapore Management University offer internationally recognised degree programmes as well as research and scholarship opportunities to postgraduate students in various disciplines. Together, they enrol more than 40,000 students.Being autonomous, these Universities can develop their own strategies, differentiate themselves and pursue new heights of excellence in education, research and service, while receiving substantial government funding. They offer innovative programmes and enter into special collaborations with foreign Universities and established inter-disciplinary centres to enhance the quality of education provided.Tuition fees for undergraduate programmes range from S$6,720 to S$8,330 a year while those for postgraduate programmes range from S$4,790 to S$25,000 a year (for programmes offered in collaboration with leading international universities). 33Undergraduate And Postgraduate Studies In SingaporeI came here when I was 18 and Singapore has shaped me into who I am today. The tutors here are very committed and very active in their research, and they make sure students really understand. In terms of environment, Singapore provides you with an ideal environment to do the things you want to do. There will not be any hurdles in terms of a lack of facilities or a lack of know-how. Singapore gives you all the opportunities.Naresh Kumar Agarwal from India. He is enrolled in a graduate programme at the National University of Singapores School of Computer. Tuition fees for MBA programmes cost S$12,000 a year.The Singapore government provides tuition grants of about 75 per cent to international students who gain admission to the local Universities, under the Tuition Grant Scheme. The grant is about S$22,400 for a lab-based undergraduate programme and S$19,000 for a non lab-based programme. In return for this subsidy, international students are placed under a Tuition Grant bond, which entails three years of working with Singapore-registered companies after graduation.The National University of Singapore (NUS) NUS is a University of global standing, with distinctive strengths in education and research, and an entrepreneurial dimension. It offers a comprehensive spectrum of disciplines ranging from architecture to medicine and music. The NUS student community is a cosmopolitan mix of over 32,000 students from 88 countries. NUS has also established ve Overseas Colleges in global entrepreneurial hubs such as Silicon Valley, Shanghai and Bangalore, where students are immersed in a dynamic environment, engaging in internships with start-up companies and taking entrepreneurship courses at the partner Universities.Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Nanyang Technological University is a research-intensive University with globally acknowledged strengths in science and engineering. Its student body includes top scholars and international Olympiad medallists from the region and beyond. The Universitys 2,500-strong teaching and research staff come from more than 40 countries, bringing dynamic international perspectives and years of solid industry experience.NTU has 12 schools organised under four colleges that provide a high-quality global education to more than 19,100 undergraduates and 8,600 graduate students.The College of Engineering ranks among the worlds top four in research output while the College of Science pushes the boundaries of Singapores life sciences initiatives. The Nanyang Business School (the College of Business) offers one of the worlds top 100 MBA programmes and its College of Humanities, Arts, & Social Sciences boasts Singapores rst professional art school offering degree courses in art, design and interactive digital media. NTU is also home to the internationally-acclaimed National Institute of Education, Singapores only teacher-training institute. 34Singapore Management University (SMU) Singapore Management University is Singapores rst privately-funded University offering degree programmes in business management, accountancy, economics, social sciences, and information systems management.Its educational and administrative practices are modelled after American institutions, in particular the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, which played a central role in the Universitys development.An outstanding faculty has been handpicked to deliver a world-class curriculum. Besides recruiting some of the best academics in their eld, the University also taps successful businessmen for their expertise and management skills to combine academic vigour with hands-on business savvy. Today, SMU has over 5,000 students and comprises six schools.PRIVATE SINGAPORE UNIVERSITYSIM UNIVERSITY (UniSIM)SIM University is Singapores rst private University dedicated to working professionals and adult learners. SIM University features exible and modular programmes that can be customised to meet demanding schedules. The University has a rich education legacy, having evolved out of the highly successful SIM Open University Centre that has graduated more than 5,000 students since 1991. Its foreign student intake currently stands at 1,151, largely made up of business and accountancy students from China, Indonesia and Vietnam. Its international partners include the University of London, Australias RMIT University and the US-based George Washington University.INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITIES IN SINGAPORESingapores vibrant education landscape has attracted an impressive constellation of leading international Universities. Many of the worlds premier foreign Universities have recently established their presence in Singapore by either setting up a physical campus or through joint collaborations with local Universities.With this, Singapores top-notch public Universities are complemented by the presence of leading international Universities such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, INSEAD, University of Pennsylvanias Wharton School of Business, Georgia Institute of Technology, Technical University of Eindhoven, Technical University of Munich, Shanghai Jiao Tong University and Stanford University.The University of Chicago Graduate School of Business, for instance, is the rst leading American business school to have a permanent campus in Asia. The University of Chicago Graduate School of Business is rated as one of the worlds top 10 business schools by the Financial Times in 2007.35Undergraduate And Postgraduate Studies In SingaporeThe leading international Universities with a campus in Singapore are: INSEAD Recognised as one of the most innovative and inuential business schools, INSEADs unique global perspective and multicultural diversity is reected in all aspects of its research and teaching. INSEADs Singapore campus offers a programme that is identical to that of its Paris campus. At present, it has enrolled close to 400 MBA students from over 70 countries. University of Chicago Graduate School of Business One of the worlds largest and oldest business schools, the University of Chicago Graduate School of Business is the pioneer of the Executive MBA programme; it created its Executive MBA programme in 1943. The University of Chicagos MBA programme topped the Economist Intelligence Units 2007 ranking of full-time MBA programmes.Duke University Duke University Medical Center and the National University of Singapore joined hands to establish the Duke-National University of Singapore Graduate Medical School, the Republics rst graduate medical school. Duke University Medical Center was ranked as the seventh top hospital in America by U.S. News in 2007. Duke University Medical Center is the rst medical school to offer a U.S. medical degree in Singapore. The school is based on Dukes medical school curriculum.SP Jain Center of Management SP Jain Center of Management is the international initiative of S P Jain Institute of Management & Research, Mumbai, which is ranked among the top ten Business Schools in Asia. S P Jain Center of Management offers an Executive MBA programme and an MBA programme conducted jointly from its campuses in Dubai and Singapore. Its global MBA programme attracts students from all over the world, including India, the Middle East, USA and Europe.Ecole Superieure Des Sciences Economiques Et Commerciales (ESSEC Business School)The ESSEC MBA is ranked as the seventh best MBA in the world by the Wall Street Journal, while its Specialised Masters in Strategy and Management of International Business is ranked the worlds fth best by the Financial Times. With a faculty renowned for high-quality research, ESSEC Business School fosters a spirit of excellence, innovation, and diversity. Its Singapore campus offers executive programmes, part of the MBA in conjunction with the Paris campus, and the Specialised Masters in International Business.University of Nevada, Las VegasWilliam F. Harrah College of Hotel AdministrationThe Harrah Hotel College of The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) offers one of the leading hospitality management programmes in the United States. Its University in Singapore, called UNLV Singapore, offers a fully accredited Bachelor of Science Degree in Hotel Administration and an Executive Masters Degree in Hospitality Administration.36INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATIONSAdding vibrancy to the education offering, Singapore Universities partner the worlds best Universities to create a slew of exciting programmes. These top Universities include:Cornell University The University, in collaboration with NTU, formed the Cornell-Nanyang Institute of Hospitality Management (CNI), which offers a Masters programme in hospitality management.Georgia Institute of Technology The Georgia Institute of Technology set up The Logistics Institute-Asia Pacic in partnership with NUS. The institute offers research and education programmes in global logistics. It is modelled after The Supply Chain and Logistics Institute (SCL) at The Georgia Institute of Technology, which is widely recognised as one of the best institutes for education and research in logistics.Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay The Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay joined hands with NUS to offer a joint doctoral programme in engineering. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) MIT partnered NUS and NTU to set up Singapore-MIT Alliance (SMA), which offers graduate programmes in four engineering disciplines and in one life science discipline. New York University (NYU) School of Law New York University School of Law and NUS launched a dual degree programme known as NYU@NUS. Courses are taught by NYU and NUS faculty.Shanghai Jiao Tong University One of the oldest and most inuential Universities in China, Shanghai Jiao Tong University partnered NTU to offer a bilingual Executive MBA Programme, the rst Singapore-produced MBA degree programme taught in Shanghai. It targets senior executives and industry leaders from China, Singapore and the region.My parents could have sent me to the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in Las Vegas, but Singapore and Asia is where the growth is; the tourism and hospitality industry in Singapore and Asia is poised to take off.Philip Seo, 22, from South Korea is enrolled in a hospitality management degree course at UNLV Singapore.37Undergraduate And Postgraduate Studies In SingaporeStanford University American Ivy League college Stanford University teamed up with NTU to form the Singapore Stanford Partnership, a Singapore-based premier graduate education and research programme in environmental science and engineering. Technische Universiteit Eindhoven Technische Universiteit Eindhoven, or the Eindhoven University of Technology, collaborated with NUS to form the Design Technology Institute. The institute offers a Master of Technological Design programme.Technische Universitt Mnchen One of the most innovative institutes of higher education in Germany, the Technische Universitt Mnchen partnered NUS and NTU to form The German Institute of Science and Technology. This rst ever German-Asian university partnership offers Master programmes in industrial chemistry, industrial ecology and integrated circuit design.Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School, the largest global business school, teamed up with SMU to create the Wharton SMU Research Centre. The Centre brings together faculty from SMU and Wharton School to carry out high quality joint research aimed at establishing a strong Wharton-SMU presence and visibility in the international research arena.Waseda University One of Japans best Universities, Waseda University collaborated with NUS and offers a double degree programme that provides opportunities for up to ve students from the NUS University Scholars Programme and Waseda Universitys School of International Liberal Studies to study at the partner institution.PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES AND SPECIALTY INSTITUTESPrivate Schools in Singapore offer various degree programmes. Through partnerships with international Universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia and other countries, these Private Schools offer students the opportunity to attain an international degree in a comfortable and affordable environment. Each Private School Singapore offers the best of education at a reasonable price in a world-class environment.Tejpal Singh from India is enrolled at The Logistics Institute - Asia Pacific.I like the fact that you get to spend half the time in Ithaca New York, and the other half here in Asia, where the hospitality industry is about to take off in a big way. You get to learn the Western principles of hotel management and yet have a good grounding in the hospitality industry and business of Asia Pacic.Ilse Wittens, 36, from Holland who is currently on the Master of Management In Hospitality Programme at Cornell-Nanyang Institute of Hospitality Management.38conducts its own admission/enrolment exercise. Do make your enquiries with the school directly.There are also foreign Specialised Institutes in Singapore that have either set up campuses here or have tie ups with the local Polytechnics to offer cutting-edge programmes in niche areas. Specialty Institutions such as the LASALLE College of the Arts, Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, and at-sunrice GlobalChef Academy allow students with a keen interest in niche disciplines to attain a degree from the worlds best schools in that eld. When choosing a Private School, you should ensure that the school meets your expectations in the following areas:Courses offered Recognition of the degree or certicate attained School facilities such as classroom and computer amenities International student services such as accommodation and visa facilitation, student orientation and student counselling.Private Schools must have in place good practices that include clear fee policies, well dened student redress practices and systems, disclosure of the schools commitment to quality and well-trained personnel.In Singapore, Private Schools are also required to meet all CaseTrust for Education requirements in order to be able to enrol foreign students. The CaseTrust for Education Scheme is a plank in Singapores Education Excellence framework, which was created to protect the interests of students and to build high quality education providers. The framework focuses on academic excellence, organisational excellence and excellence in student protection and welfare practices. The CaseTrust for Education Scheme gives international students the added assurance that a private school has proper systems and practices to look after their Undergraduate And Postgraduate Studies In Singapore39welfare and interests. The CaseTrust for Education Scheme also includes the Student Protection Scheme. There are currently two schemes under the Student Protection Scheme. They are the:Student Tuition Fee Account (Escrow) run by DBS Bank and HSBC Under the scheme, tuition fees paid to a Private School are left in the custody of DBS and HSBC. The banks will reimburse the tuition fees to the school when specic conditions for release are met. Disbursements will stop if the school is unable to continue operations due to insolvency and/or regulatory closure.Student Tuition Fee Insurance run by NTUC Income This indemnies the student against the loss of tuition fees paid in advance to a Private School should the school be unable to continue operations due to insolvency and/or regulatory closure, or upon the death or total disability of the student. To encourage academic excellence, the Singapore Higher Education Accreditation Council (SHEAC) accredits institutions for their capabilities to deliver quality programmes. Students of Private Schools with accreditation enjoy perks such as work privileges and fast-track visa processing.And there is the Singapore Quality Class for Private Education Organisations (SQC-PEO) to advance organisational excellence. The scheme sets fundamental benchmarks for academic and business excellence in international student recruitment, learning resource infrastructure, educational programmes, student evaluation, stafng, student support, grievance procedure and policies for transfers and fee. Private Schools that have attained a commendable level of performance and business excellence are rewarded with the SQC-PEO status, and benet from fast-track Students Pass processing and waiver of security deposit for international students. I chose Singapore because I was excited at the prospect of studying acting in South-east Asia, a region famed for richness and diversity in the traditional performing arts. I had also heard that the Singapore government is fostering the arts and, consequently, the arts scene here is developing and moving in dynamic new directions. The opportunity to study my chosen vocation in English, whilst being immersed in a lifestyle and culture so far removed from my own, was one I didnt want to miss. My research told me that the programmes in LASALLE are of a very high standard and that the lecturers are respected industry professionals. I believe that the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Acting programme at LASALLE College of the Arts will offer me a quality education and a promising future as an actor.Australian Belinda Ann Wylie is a student at LASALLE College of the Arts.40APPLICATIONS AND PROCEDURES: THE ROUTE TO STUDYING IN SINGAPOREYour admission as an international student to Government, Government-aided and Independent Schools depends on the vacancies available. Your admission as an international student to the Institute of Technical Education, local Universities and Polytechnics depends on your academic results and other merits including exceptional talent in sports and leadership abilities. A foreigner who has been accepted by an education institution to pursue full-time studies in Singapore is required to apply for a Students Pass.A local sponsor is required for the application of a Students Pass. The sponsor must be a Singapore Citizen/Singapore Permanent Resident above the age of 21 or the school at which the applicant intends to study.Where applicable, a security deposit may be required from the local sponsor upon approval of the application for a Students Pass.The general processing time for a new application is about four weeks from the date the Singapore Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) receives the duly completed application form. This is reduced to two weeks for Private Education Organisations (PEOs) that are awarded the Singapore Quality Class for Private Education (SQC-PEO) status. Students Pass ApplicationEligibilityAny foreigner wishing to pursue full-time studies in Singapore in a CaseTrusted institution that: Is registered with the Ministry of Education (MOE); or Is not required to be registered with MOE but has obtained permission from the Commissioner, Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) to submit Students Pass applications for international students intending to take up its courses; or Is licensed by the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) to operate as a Childcare Centre.ExemptionA foreigner is exempted from applying for a Students Pass if he/she is: a Dependants Pass holder studying in a Government / Government-Aided/ Independent School a Foreign System School a Kindergarten registered with MOE, or a Childcare Centre licensed by MCYS. an Immigration Exemption Order holder a visitor who has been granted a short-term Social Visit Pass at the Singapore Checkpoint and wishes to attend a short course that can be completed within the validity of the initial Social Visit Pass granted to him/her at the Singapore Checkpoint or 30 days, whichever is shorter. It must satisfy two other criteria, that are:i) The course must be a complete module and stand-alone module of its own. Courses with multiple programme modules are excluded from this Students Pass exemption scheme; andii) The course must not involve hands-on practical occupational training and/or industrial attachment which have interaction with walk-in customers or be conducted at premises that are also places of business, e.g. hair salons and beauty salons.Types of Applicationi) Approved Private Education Organisations/Kindergartens registered with MOE/Childcare Centres licensed by MCYSii) Foreign System Schoolsiii) Institute of Technical Educationiv) Government /Government-aided/Independent Schoolsv) Polytechnics and Universities a) For students accepted by one of these institutions: Approved Private Education Organisation Kindergarten registered with MOE Childcare Centre licensed by MCYS to conduct an approved full-time courseNote: From 1 September 2005, all private education organisations will need to be awarded with the CaseTrust for Education to offer school placement for international students. With effect from 1 September 2005, Students Pass applications will be accepted only if they are for foreign students who are enrolled in a CaseTrusted institution.Sponsor Requirements A local sponsor is required for the application of a Students Pass and the application must be submitted through the local sponsor. The nominated local sponsor must be a Singapore Citizen/Singapore Permanent Resident above the age of 21 years old or the educational institution where the applicant intends to study.Now that you have chosen Singapore as the destination for your education, you should put in your application for the institution of your choice. Once your place in the school is conrmed, you are required to apply for a Students Pass. All international students are required to apply for a Students Pass to pursue a course of study in Singapore unless they are holding a Dependants Pass or have an Immigration Exemption Order. The application procedure depends on the institution you are applying to. Below are ve types of educational institutions and their application procedures.43Applications And Procedures: The Route To Studying In SingaporeSubmisison of New ApplicationThe Students Pass application must be submitted at least two months and not more than six months from the course commencement date.The completed forms together with supporting documents can be submitted as follows:By hand at any Drop-in Boxes located at: Information/Queue Ticket CounterVisitor Services CentreImmigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA)4th Storey, ICA Building, 10 Kallang Road, Singapore 208718By post to: Visitor Services CentreImmigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA)4th Storey, ICA Building, 10 Kallang Road, Singapore 208718Attn: Students Pass II UnitProcedures for Peoples Republic of China (PRC) NationalsIf the applicant is a Peoples Republic of China (PRC) national who wishes to pursue a language, commercial, vocational or ne arts course at a private education organisation in Singapore, the new Students Pass application must be submitted through the Singapore Embassy in Beijing. Please note that applications will not be accepted at the Visitor Services Centre, ICA. Submit to:Embassy of the Republic of Singapore, Beijing No. 1 Xiu Shui Bei Jie, Jian Guo Men Wai, Chao Yang DistrictBeijing 100600, Peoples Republic of ChinaPRC Nationals must submit their Students Pass application directly to the Visitor Services Centre, ICA, if :They intend to study in Kindergartens registered with MOE or Childcare Centres licensed by MCYS;They intend to take up a full-time course at an approved private education organisation that is awarded Singapore Quality Class for Private Education Organisation (SQC-PEO) by SPRING, Singapore;They are 19 years old and below at the time of applying for a Students Pass to attend a full-time course at an approved private education organisation; orThey intend to take up a full-time University degree (Graduate/Post- Graduate) programme, except for the University of London (UOL) tuition programme, at an approved private education organisation.Processing TimeThe normal processing time for a new application is about 4 weeks (2 weeks for institutions with SQC(PEO) status). However, some applications may take a longer time to process. The local sponsor and education institution will be notied of the outcome of the application by post.Security DepositWhere applicable, a security deposit may be required from the local sponsor upon approval of the application. The security deposit is not required from the applicant, unless otherwise stated.CountryRate per person and form of security depositMalaysia and Brunei NilIndonesia, Philippines and ThailandS$1,000 in the form of a Bankers Guarantee from any established bank in Singapore or Cashiers Order or NETSPeoples Republic of China, India, Bangladesh, and MyanmarS$5,000 in the form of a Bankers Guarantee from any established bank in Singapore or Cashiers OrderOthers S$1,500 in the form of a Bankers Guarantee from any established bank in Singapore or Cashiers Order or NETS44Exemption from the security deposit requirement may be granted to:Malaysians and Brunei nationals Holders of valid Dependants Pass, long-term social visit pass, and work pass Children of Singapore citizens and Permanent Residents Foreign students who study in Kindergartens registered with MOE or Childcare Centres licensed by MCYSForeign students who attend a full-time course at an approved private education organisation that is awarded Singapore Quality Class for Private Education Organisation SQC(PEO) by SPRING, SingaporeForeign students who pursue a full-time University degree (graduate/ postgraduate) programme, except for the University of London (UOL) tuition programme, at an approved private education organizationRefund of Security DepositGenerally, it takes about 6 weeks to process the refund or release of the cash deposit or bankers guarantee upon the cancellation or expiry of the Students Pass and/or after the applicant has left Singapore.Submit application for renewal of the Students Pass about 2 weeks before the expiry of the current Students PassRenewal of Students PassSubmit application for renewal of the Students Pass about 2 weeks before the expiry of the current Students Pass.b) For students accepted by a Foreign System School to pursue an approved full-time courseSubmission of New ApplicationThe Students Pass application must be submitted at least 2 months before the course begins.The completed forms together with supporting documents are to be submitted at:Information/Queue Ticket CounterVisitor Services CentreImmigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA)4th Storey, ICA Building, 10 Kallang Road, Singapore 208718Processing TimeThe normal processing time is 3 full working days (excluding day of submission and day of collection) upon receipt of the application and required documents. Some applications may take a longer time to process. The school may be notied of the outcome of the application by post.Renewal of Students PassSubmit application for renewal of the Students Pass two weeks before the commencement of the course.c) For students accepted by an Institute of Technical Education to pursue an approved full-time courseSponsor RequirementsA local sponsor is required for the application for a Students Pass and the application must be submitted through the local sponsor.The nominated local sponsor must be a Singapore Citizen/Singapore Permanent Resident above the age of 21 years old or the educational institution where the applicant intends to study.Submission of New ApplicationThe Students Pass application must be submitted at least 2 months before the course begins.The completed forms together with supporting documents are to be submitted at:Information/Queue Ticket CounterVisitor Services CentreImmigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA)4th Storey, ICA Building, 10 Kallang Road, Singapore 20871845Applications And Procedures: The Route To Studying In SingaporeProcessing TimeThe normal processing time is 3 full working days (excluding day of submission and day of collection) upon receipt of the application and required documents. Some applications may take a longer time to process. The local sponsor and school may be notied of the outcome of the application by post.Renewal of Students PassSubmit application for renewal of the Students Pass 2 weeks before the commencement of the course. d) For students accepted by a Government/Government-aided/Independent SchoolSponsor RequirementsA local sponsor is required for the application for a Students Pass and the application must be submitted through the local sponsor.The nominated local sponsor must be a Singapore Citizen (SC) or Singapore Permanent Resident (SPR) above the age of 21 years old.Companies/organisations are not allowed to act as sponsors.If any of the applicants parents/ step-parents is a SC/ SPR, the Students Pass application must be sponsored by the SC/ SPR parent or step-parent.Security DepositThe applicant is exempted from the requirement of a security bond and security deposit.Submission of ApplicationThe Students Pass application must be submitted at least 1 month before the course begins.Applications can be submitted by post or to ICA directly at the following address:Visitor Services Centre (VSC)Immigration & Checkpoints AuthorityICA Building, 4th Storey, Students Pass Unit, 10 Kallang Road, Singapore 208718Processing TimeThe processing time is 3 full working days (excluding the day of application and collection) provided that the application forms are duly completed and all the required documents are submitted. Some cases may take a longer time to process. (Processing time may be extended during the peak periods.)Renewal of Students PassSubmit application for renewal of the Students Pass 2 weeks before the commencement of the course. e) For students accepted by Polytechnics and Universities (Institutes of Higher Learning).These include:NUS, NTU, SMU Singapore Polytechnic, Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Nanyang Polytechnic, Temasek Polytechnic, Republic PolytechnicINSEAD (Singapore), University of Chicago Graduate School of Business (Singapore), ESSEC Business School, S P Jain Center of Management Singapore, UNLV SingaporeSubmission of ApplicationThe Students Pass application is to be submitted electronically using the Students Pass Online Application and Registration (SOLAR) system at www.psi.gov.sg/NASApp/tmf / TMFServlet .The applicant should