Smart Financial Planning for Cost of Living in Singapore for International Students

12 September 2025

Singapore has stood out as a top educational destination in Asia, and annually thousands of international students are drawn to the nation. The nation presents immense opportunities for individuals who are in search of study abroad, and that is a result of the nation’s great universities, modern infrastructures, and strong job market. Nonetheless, appreciating and budgeting for living costs in Singapore is essential in making the most out of the school experience without experiencing financial pressure.

While Singapore is not the least expensive country to live in when compared to some of its neighboring countries, the cost of living is paid for by unparalleled security, an organized mass transit system, and a vibrant multicultural experience. Preparing a clear budget for accommodation in Singapore, food, transportation, and other daily needs will help you stay focused on your studies and enjoy your time abroad.

At BCES Admissions Abroad, we facilitate the students not just with admission assistance but also with hands-on counseling on how to manage finances while studying in their dream destination in Singapore.

Updated Costs for International Students Living in Singapore

Typically, international students would need to budget for approximately SGD 1,200–2,000 monthly for their required expenses. The prices mentioned above are those current in the marketplace and are meant to provide a pragmatic outlook on estimated expenses across the academic semester.

1. Accommodation in Singapore

Accommodation takes the largest shareof any student’s allowance:

University Hostels: Generally SGD 400–800 pm, an affordable and handy choice, though spots get taken fast.

Private Flats or Sharing Flats: The rent is between SGD 800–2,000 per month, and the price is facility and location based. The price near the universities would be higher.

Homestay Programmes: SGD 1,000–1,500 per month, normally inclusive of meals and utilities, a home away from home.

2. Groceries and Food

Singapore’s hawker centres make dinner cheap, and dinner costs between SGD 4–6. Eating out for a meal per day would be SGD 400–600 per month, and cooking at home may be cheaper. Grocery shopping for essentials would be around SGD 200–300 per month.

3. Transportation in Singapore

Singapore’s MRT and buses are efficient, cost-effective, and student-friendly. The transportation pass would cost around SGD 120 per month, making commuting simple. You may also save on money by walking or cycling if you are close to your university.

4. Utilities and Internet

For private rentals students, monthly Internet and utility bills would range between SGD 150–250, depending on consumption. Most hostels would package these in their rentals.

5. Healthcare and Insurance for Students

Basic Healthcare in Singapore is reliable but might be expensive without insurance. Overseas students are highly advised to have student health insurance, which normally costs SGD 200–500 per year.

6. Individual Expenditure

Entertainment, shopping, and socializing may add another SGD 200–400 monthly. Going to tourist spots in Singapore or having dinner at fine restaurants would thus increase expenses, thus plan ahead.

Pragmatic Ways of Reducing Cost of Living in Singapore

• Choose shared accommodation to reduce rent.
• Take advantage of student discounts on transportation, dining out, and recreational activities.
• Choose cheap meals at hawker food centres or cook at home.
• Purchase items in quantities at retail outlets such as FairPrice, Sheng Siong, or Giant.
• Make a monthly budget schedule to monitor your cost of living in Singapore and refrain from exceeding the budget.

Why Singapore is Worth the Investment

Although living costs in Singapore can be higher than that in other parts of Asia, benefits far outweigh costs. The country offers top-ranked universities, a safe environment, and exposure to worldwide career opportunities. The culturally diverse atmosphere ensures that students from diverse walks of life are accepted, nurtured, and empowered to do well.

Plan your budget and study with confidence with BCES Admissions Abroad. Contact us now for expert consultation on admissions, budget, and anything that you need to be a success while studying in Singapore.