For Applicants

Cosmopolitan City

Singapore is the New Asia, a city incandescent with vibrant, multi-cultural and sophisticated modernity. What better place to get a total arts and design experience than in the cosmopolitan city of Singapore. The city is driven by Eastern and Western cultures. Rich tradition and cutting-edge modernity gel with perfect synchronicity. Opportunities are abundant in this metropolis also known as the leading financial, economic and cultural centres of Asia.

City Landscape

Singapore's financial district with its modern skyscrapers rivals those of major cities of the world such as New York City, London, Hongkong or Tokyo. Internationally renowned architects and designers work with local industries to create some of the most magnificent buildings in Singapore. The latest landmark on Singapore's map is the Esplanade, a S$600 million complex that has captured attention in Asia and the West for its outstanding architecture that houses theatres and concert halls for thousands of art lovers.

Visitors will also appreciate the visual appeal of elaborate temples, mosques, refurbished shophouses and quaint buildings in various pockets of Singapore. Design and architecture in Singapore is as varied and interesting as the multitude of cultural influences that inspire them.

Fashion & Lifestyle

International brands and products are as much of a staple in Singapore as clean air and water. Few countries in the world can match the range of fashion brands and lifestyle shops that fill the city's major shopping centres. From designer labels to cult brands, local designers to budding Asian creators, Singapore is a fashion capital that is up-to-the-minute with the latest trends. Kitsch items and local bargains are another great way to shop in the many suburban districts of Singapore.

Hip and chic restaurants and entertainment spots keep the pulse of the city beating to a sophisticated rhythm. Fantastically designed boutiques, shops, restaurants, discos and pubs make going out in Singapore an experience of fun and a lesson in the design culture.

The nightlife in Singapore is extremely progressive and the most notable is Zouk Club, which has been voted one of the top 10 clubs in the world.

Arts & Culture

Throughout the year, Singapore has many arts festivals that feature local and international acts. Some of these are the Singapore Arts Festival, Singapore Film Festival, Take Art!, for Arts Sake! that feature music, dance, film, theatre, visual arts and multimedia. World-renowned acts such as Cirque du Soleil's Alegria and Saltimbanco, Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables have made their way to sold-out concerts in Singapore. The arts scene is set to take off with the six-hectare Esplanade, which will be filled by thousands of performers and artists in the exciting line up of programmes. Other interesting events in Singapore include ARTSingapore, which is Asia's first and only contemporary Asian art fair and WOMAD (World of Music and Dance). Independent arts groups and theatres also form an important part of Singapore's arts scene. Student concession rates are offered at many arts events.

Life In Singapore

Soaking in the energy and vibe of the Singapore lifestyle will keep many students abreast of the latest developments in the fashion, design and entertainment industries. So much happens in this city.

English is the common language of business, education and government in Singapore. The Chinese, Malay and Indian communities also preserve their own languages, dialects and festive celebrations. This provides an interesting networking and cultural exchange experience for international students.

The climate here is warm and tropical all year round. There are rainy seasons, but temperature variation throughout the year is minimal. Clothing for a warm climate is most suitable although light jackets and sweaters come in handy as the air-conditioning in some buildings can be very cool.

Accommodation

Below are some guidelines for the various types of accommodation available to international students.

Hostel
All international students are encouraged to stay in the students' hostel when they first arrive in Singapore. The students' hostel is close and convenient to the school and the rental rates are reasonably priced.

Homestay
Some families in Singapore open up their homes to students and welcome them as part of the family. Depending on the individual cases, the cost for homestay ranges from S$500 to S$1,000 per month.

Boarding Houses
A good lodging service providing single or shared accommodation with room cleaning, meals, laundry and monthly outdoor activities that cost approximately S$1,200 and above a month.

Hotels or Service Apartments
Depending on location and size, cost for these residences range from S$5,000 to S$8,000 per month.

Shared Accommodation/Independent Residences
Three to four bedroom apartments are available from S$1,500 per month. Students can choose to live alone or share with other students. Lease terms are usually for 1 year or more.

Transportation

Singapore has a very efficient public transport system that is clean and easily accessible island wide.

Public Buses
There are many bus stops all over the city, which makes this a very convenient and affordable mode of transport. Many are air-conditioned and bus fares range from S$0.80 to S$2.00.

Mass Rapid Transit (MRT)
The underground trains connect to all the major parts of Singapore and are one of the most popular modes of transport. Train fares start from S$0.80 to S$2.00.

Taxis
There are many taxis on the road in Singapore and taxi stands are situated at every major building and shopping centre. The taxi meter starts at S$2.40 with surcharges during peak hours.