If you are passionate about healthcare, biology or medical research and want to study in one of the most advanced healthcare systems in the world, Singapore is an excellent choice. With modern hospitals, top-ranked medical schools and a strong focus on research and innovation, Singapore offers international students a high-quality pathway into healthcare careers.
Why Study Health & Medical Sciences in Singapore?
- Singapore is known for having one of the best healthcare systems in the world
- NUS and NTU both rank in the Top 50 globally for clinical and life sciences
- Strong emphasis on practical clinical training, often in partnership with major hospitals
- English is the language of instruction
- Attractive post-study work opportunities through employment passes and healthcare staffing shortages
Top Universities for Health & Medical Sciences in Singapore
| University | Popular Programmes |
| National University of Singapore (NUS) | Medicine, Public Health, Nursing, Biomedical Science |
| Nanyang Technological University (Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine) | Medicine, Biomedical Research, Medical Science |
| Duke-NUS Medical School | Graduate-Entry Medicine (MD), Medical Research |
| Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) | Physiotherapy, Diagnostic Radiography, Nursing |
| Singapore Management University (SMU) | Health Economics & Management (interdisciplinary) |
Tuition Fees
| Programme | Average International Fee (per year) |
| MBBS / MD | SGD $55,000 – $75,000 |
| Biomedical Sciences / Nursing (Bachelor’s) | SGD $32,000 – $48,000 |
| Master’s in Public Health / Biomedical Science | SGD $35,000 – $50,000 |
👉 Note: Medicine in Singapore is highly competitive and most medical programmes only accept a limited number of international students each year.
Cost of Living
| Expense | Monthly Estimate |
| Accommodation | SGD $700 – $1,200 |
| Food & Groceries | SGD $300 – $450 |
| Transport | SGD $80 – $120 |
| Miscellaneous | SGD $150 – $250 |
💡 Many students choose on-campus hostels or shared apartments to save on accommodation and stay close to hospitals and labs.
Scholarships & Funding
- ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship (NUS / NTU)
- Lee Kong Chian Graduate Scholarship (Medicine)
- MOE Tuition Grant Scheme (bonded – requires 3 years of work in Singapore post-graduation)
- NUS/NTU Graduate Scholarships
- Duke-NUS Merit Scholarships
Career Opportunities & Salary Outlook
Healthcare professionals in Singapore are in very high demand, both in hospitals and the growing bio-medical sector.
| Job Role | Average Salary (per year) |
| Medical Doctor (House Officer) | SGD $70,000 – $90,000 |
| Registered Nurse | SGD $50,000 – $75,000 |
| Pharmacist | SGD $60,000 – $90,000 |
| Physiotherapist | SGD $55,000 – $80,000 |
| Public Health Specialist | SGD $70,000 – $110,000 |
| Biomedical Scientist | SGD $65,000 – $95,000 |
Post-study work permits like the Employment Pass and S Pass make it easier for graduates to stay and work in Singapore after finishing their degree.
Entry Requirements Checklist
- Academic transcripts (Biology & Chemistry required)
- English test (IELTS 6.5+ / TOEFL 90+)
- Personal Statement
- Letters of Recommendation
- Medical College Admission Test (e.g. UCAT / BMAT / MCAT) – depending on the programme
- Interview (mandatory for Medicine programmes)
Final Thoughts
If you’re serious about a career in healthcare and want both excellent education and real-world clinical exposure, Singapore is an outstanding study destination. You’ll learn within a world-class healthcare system, gain access to cutting-edge research, and graduate with strong employment prospects across Asia and beyond.
