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Study in Singapore without IELTS 2024: Steps, Requirements, Universities

Study in Singapore without IELTS 2024: Steps, Requirements, Universities

Edited By Prabhjyot Kaur | Updated on May 30, 2024 12:20 PM IST

One of the English proficiency tests like IELTS is generally one of the mandatory entry requirement for higher studies worldwide. Still, some international students look to study abroad without IELTS. Singapore is one of the countries where study in Singapore without IELTS is possible. It offers world-class education with affordable tuition fees for courses.

Study in Singapore without IELTS 2024: Steps, Requirements, Universities
Study in Singapore without IELTS 2024: Steps, Requirements, Universities

To secure entry into a university in Singapore, it’s essential to be aware that your English test results and fulfilment of academic criteria are the key determinants of admission

English language proficiency exams are typically standardized assessments that are used globally to evaluate students for university admissions. Among the English proficiency tests is the IELTS, but did you know that you can study in Singapore without taking the IELTS? Read on to find out how this is possible.

Can I study in Singapore without IELTS

Yes, study in Singapore without IELTS is possible. Several Singapore universities IELTS free? It means some colleges in singapore offer the option for international students to be admitted without an IELTS score. If you possess a degree from an institution where English was the medium of instruction, you may not need to provide IELTS results.

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Notably, some prestigious Singaporean universities may waive the IELTS requirement if specific conditions are met, making it feasible and possible to pursue studies in Singapore without the IELTS.

However you must provide an English language proficiency certificate which can be in the form of an official certificate from your previous institution which should have details of the course you have completed in English to study in Singapore without IELTS. This certificate can act as an alternative to your IELTS certificate and can be used in your admission application.

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Universities in Singapore that do not require an IELTS score

The following is a list of Singapore universities that do not require IELTS Singapore admission requirements for admission.

  • National College of Singapore

  • Nanyang Technological University

  • Singapore Management University

  • Singapore University of Technology and Design

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Options to study without IELTS for students who do not have an English language certificate

International applicants lacking an IELTS score have the option to enroll in foundation or preparatory courses designed for non-native English speakers. These programs are offered in several categories, such as

Courses for those who have not completed the mandatory 13 years of education to study in Singapore and will have to complete an extra year before going for higher education. This acts like a foundation program for them. This course is available for study programs in the fields of IT, tourism and hospitality, and business administration. The duration of this course is between 8 to 11 months.

Some foundation programs contain seven modules suited for people who have completed ten years of education in Singapore and wish to continue studying here. Such students are exempt from submitting their IELTS scores. These preparatory courses are for a duration of six months and are of two levels- level 1 and level 2. Students can opt for the appropriate level. The choice is based on the university to which they are applying.

Some universities even hold entrance exams in the English language for student applicants who do not have English as their first language.

Read more about IELTS

Student Visa Singapore IELTS requirement

The application for the Singapore student visa does not necessarily require you to submit your IELTS scores, however, you should check the government guidelines for applying for a visa without IELTS scores. Before you check the IELTS requirement for the Singapore student visa, here is the list of documents you must submit with your visa application:

  • Passport that is valid for at least 3 months.

  • Completed visa application forms- ICA Form 16, and Form V36.

  • Offer letter from the university in Singapore where you have got admission.

  • Bank statement which shows that you have enough funds for living expenses and tuition fee which should amount to 8,400 Singapore dollars.

  • Transcripts of marksheets from your school or college.

  • Scorecard of qualifying exams required by the university such as GMAT, GRE.

  • Receipt as proof of payment of visa application fee which is 30 Singapore dollars.

  • Issuance fee payment receipt which comes to 60 Singapore dollars.

  • Proof of sufficient funds.

  • Birth certificate.

  • SOP, resume and three LORs.

  • Scores of international exams required by your college.

  • Copies of your marksheets.

  • Travel and health insurance.

Are Non-IELTS Singapore Universities Worth it?

Even though it might be possible to study in Singapore without taking the IELTS exam, you must remember that there are certain top universities in Singapore that require IELTS scores for application. In such cases the Singapore IELTS band requirement is a minimum of 6.5 bands.

If you do not give your IELTS exam, you may miss an opportunity to study at any of these reputed universities because you will not meet the Singapore IELTS requirement. Our advice would be to give your IELTS exam so that you improve your chances to study at a reputed university in Singapore.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

1. Is IELTS necessary to apply for a Singapore student visa?

IELTS or any other English proficiency test like the TOEFL or PTE will be required for the  Singapore Student Visa if the university requires it.

2. Can I study in Singapore without IELTS?

Around five universities in Singapore allow international students to study in Singapore without IELTS.

3. Which countries allow international students to study without an IELTS score?

The following countries allow international students to study without IELTS score:

Canada

Australia

Germany

Malaysia

Norway

Russia

4. Does Singapore need IELTS for study visa?

Even though Singapore does not require IELTS for a student visa, you must have the required documents to apply for a  visa.


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There are many colleges that accept students without the said exams but make sure you have your transcripts ready- LORs, projects/internships/Volunteering certificates, Statement of Purpose, Essays, Extra-curricular activities. These things are a must when trying to apply for colleges abroad.

Colleges in the US:

https://yocket.in/blog/universities-that-dont-require-sat-act-3527

There are 08 top Australian Universities which follow the above given criteria in order to exempt international students from submitting IELTS scores for admission. They are as follows:

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  • University of Adelaide
  • University of Queensland
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  • Macquarie University
  • University of South Australia
  • Swinburne University of Technology
  • Bond University

Most of the colleges in Australia require an IELTS test score but have been waived off only on a case by case basic which is entirely judged. Many a times they have also waived it off if the students have completed their education in english medium.

Colleges in Singapore:

  • Nanyang Technological College
  • National college of Singapore
  • Singapore Management University

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Colleges in Canada:

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