Study in Singapore without IELTS
Singapore is a top study abroad destination for international students because it offers world-class education with affordable tuition fees for courses. There are top universities offering various courses, and the student life in Singapore is exciting. All these factors make it attractive for international students to study in Singapore.
In order to gain admission to a university in Singapore, you should know that admission is based on your score in the language proficiency test and how well you meet the academic requirements. The English language proficiency tests are often standardised tests that are used as a tool to admit students from all over the world. 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.
Study in Singapore without IELT
Some universities do not make it mandatory for international students to have an IELTS score in order to gain admission. You will not be required to submit IELTS scores if you have a degree from any English medium college or university. In fact, certain top universities in Singapore exempt you from submitting IELTS scores provided you meet the condition.
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. This certificate can act as an alternative to your IELTS certificate and can be used in your admission application.
Universities in Singapore that do not require an IELTS score
The following universities allow you to apply for admission without giving your IELTS exam:
National College of Singapore
Nanyang Technological University
Singapore Management University
Singapore University of Technology and Design
Options to study without IELTS for students who do not have the English language certificate
International student applicants who do not have an IELTS score can complete foundation or preparatory programs. This is for those who do not have English as their native language. The foundation programs are of various categories which include:
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 where 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
IELTS result - release date, how to check and download scorecard
IELTS exam eligibility criteria 2023
IELTS requirements for Singapore study visa
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. 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.
Even though it might be possible to study in Singapore without giving the IELTS exam, you must remember that there are certain top universities in Singapore that require IELTS scores for application. If you do not give your IELTS exam, you may miss an opportunity to study at any of these reputed universities. Our advice would be to give your IELTS exam so that you improve your chances to study at a reputed university in Singapore.
Also read
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Frequently Asked Question (FAQs) - Study in Singapore without IELTS
Question: Which countries allow international students to study without an IELTS score?
Answer:
The following countries allow international students to study without IELTS score:
Canada
Australia
Germany
Malaysia
Norway
Russia
Question: Can I study in Singapore without IELTS?
Answer:
Around five universities in Singapore allow international students to study in Singapore without IELTS.
Question: Is IELTS necessary to apply for a Singapore student visa?
Answer:
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.