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At a Glance
Singapore is a stable and highly developed country in the South East Asia. The country is renowned for its efficient government, first class infrastructures, as well as being a global melting pot of diverse cultures. The country’s orderly and, clean and green environment have attracted people from all over the World to visit, work and study. Singapore is one of the most cosmopolitan countries in Asia with various ethnic communities living together in harmony.
Due to Singapore’s strategic geographical location and free trade policy, the country is the business and financial hub of the region. The city state has enjoyed strong and stable economic growth since gaining independence in 1965. Over the last decade, Singapore has also developed a vibrant art and cultural scene.
The country is evolving at every moment which provides different experiences. Uniquely Singapore!
Geography
| Location |
Southeast Asia, islands between Malaysia and Indonesia |
| Area |
Approximately 683 sq km |
| Terrain |
Lowland; gently undulating central plateau contains water catchment area and nature preserve |
Climate
| Type |
quatorial; hot and humid climate
June to September are the hottest months
November and December are the wettest months due to Monsoon season |
| Temperature |
Ranges from 22°C to 34 °C (72°–93°F) |
| Weather Forecast |
Click here |
Time Zone
Singapore does not observe daylight saving time or a summer time zone change. The length of the day is nearly constant year round due to the country's location near the equator.
Demographics
| Population |
4.5 million |
| Ethnic Groups |
Chinese (77%), Malay (14%), Indian (8%), Eurasians & people of other descent (1%) |
| Main Religions |
Buddhist, Muslim, Christian, Hinduism, Sikhism, Taoist, Judaism |
| Language |
English (language of business & administration), Mandarin, Malay (national language), Tamil
Most Singaporeans are bilingual and speak English and their mother tongue |
| Literacy |
93% |
Currency
| Currency |
Singapore Dollar (S$/SGD) |
| Currency Converter |
Click here |
Electricity
| Voltage |
220 – 240 volts, 50 cycles per cycle |
| Power Plugs |
Three-pin, square-shaped type |
Food & Drinking Water
| Food |
Wide array of choices which range from hawker fare (average S$5), fast food (average S$6) to exquisite dining |
| Drinking Water |
Perfectly safe to drink water straight from the tap |
Suitable Clothing
Light and summer clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton is best for everyday wear.
Transportation
Public buses, taxis and the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) will conveniently bring you to most parts of the island.
It is recommended for commuters to purchase the Ez-link card, a “contactless” stored-value smartcard that may be purchased from any Transit Link Ticket Office, is used on buses and the MRT.
For more information on the MRT and public bus system, please go to www.smrt.com.sg and www.sbstransit.com.sg
Medical Facilities
| Type |
Public/private hospitals (24 hours)
Private clinics (24 hours/typically 0800hrs to 2100hrs)
Public polyclinics (0800hrs to 1630hrs)
Pharmacies (typically 0900hrs to 1800hrs) |
For more information, please go to www.moh.gov.sg
Standard of Living
When planning for your study in Singapore, you should need to cater to the following items
- Accommodation
- Utilities
- Telecommunications (such as mobile phones and internet services)
- Books & Stationery
- Medical/Hospitalization Insurance
- Transportation
- Personal expenses
On average, an international student will spend about S$600 to S$2,000 per month on living expenses. The amount will vary depending on individual lifestyles. The following table will give you a rough estimate of the basic expenditure an international student may incur.
Item |
Estimated cost per month (S$) |
Accommodation |
S$200 – S$2,000
(rental varies with geographical area, type of accommodation, facilities provided and the number of people sharing) |
Utilities |
S$50 – S$80 |
Telecommunications |
From S$30
(Varies with usage and promotional packages subscribed) |
Books & Stationery |
S$30 – S$50 |
Medical/Hospitalization Insurance |
S$5 – S$300
(depends on insurance policy) |
Transportation |
S$50 – S$100
(on public transportations, excluding taxi trips) |
Personal Expenses |
$100 – S$200
(varies with individual)
(e.g. clothes, toiletries, entertainment, haircut, etc) |
Above prices serve as a reference only.
Arts & Cultural Experience/Attractions
Please refer to Uniquely Singapore Official Website at www.visitsingapore.com
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