Master's & MBA in Singapore: A Guide

Taught vs research master's degrees

Postgraduate study in Singapore usually falls into two types. A taught (coursework) master's is structured around classes, projects and sometimes a capstone, and is often chosen for professional or career-focused goals. A research master's (by thesis) centres on an original research project under a supervisor and can be a step toward a PhD.

Some programmes blend the two, with coursework plus a dissertation. Which suits you depends on whether you want depth in research or breadth of applied skills.

Entry requirements, duration and funding differ between the two types, so read each programme's official page carefully before applying.

Where to study: the main options

The best-known postgraduate providers are the National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and Singapore Management University (SMU), along with the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) and others. Each has multiple graduate schools and specialisations.

For management specifically, Singapore is also home to the Asia campus of INSEAD, an international business school, alongside the business schools at NUS, NTU and SMU.

Programme availability, specialisations and entry rules vary widely, so shortlist by your field and confirm the details on each institution's official pages.

The MBA in Singapore

MBAs in Singapore are offered in full-time and part-time formats and typically target applicants with prior work experience. Common providers include NUS Business School, NTU's Nanyang Business School, SMU's Lee Kong Chian School of Business and INSEAD's Asia campus.

Most MBAs assess a mix of academic record, work experience, essays, references and interviews, and many ask for a GMAT or GRE score. Requirements and any waivers differ by school and intake.

Because formats, intakes and fees vary, compare programmes on their official admissions pages rather than assuming they are alike.

Admission requirements and tests

Typical requirements for a master's or MBA include a recognised bachelor's degree with a competitive academic record, relevant work experience for some programmes, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation and, where applicable, a GMAT or GRE score.

Applicants whose prior education was not in English usually need to show English proficiency through IELTS or TOEFL. Some programmes require additional documents, portfolios or interviews.

Always check the exact list, minimum scores and document formats on the programme's official admissions page, as these differ by school and change over time.

• Recognised bachelor's degree (competitive record)
• GMAT or GRE for many MBA and management programmes
• IELTS or TOEFL if prior study was not in English
• Statement of purpose + letters of recommendation
• Work experience for MBA and some master's programmes

Fees, funding and scholarships

Postgraduate fees vary widely by programme, university and format, and they change each year, so we do not list amounts. MBAs are generally self-funded professional degrees, while some research master's students may receive funding or a stipend tied to their research.

Scholarships and financial support exist but are competitive and programme-specific. Certain research postgraduate awards come with a service obligation to work in Singapore after graduation, so read the conditions before accepting.

Check current fees, scholarships and any bond or service conditions on the university's and MOE's official pages.

Timelines, applying and choosing well

Master's and MBA programmes often have specific intakes and application rounds, and popular programmes can close early. Plan your tests (GMAT/GRE, IELTS/TOEFL), references and documents several months ahead.

When choosing, look beyond a single ranking: weigh the curriculum, specialisations, format, location, cost and your own goals. A programme that fits your career direction usually matters more than a headline position.

Confirm application deadlines, intakes and requirements on each programme's official admissions page, and treat any date you see elsewhere as provisional until verified.