Why Singapore?
1. Safe and Clean Environment
If you are planning to study overseas, Singapore is definitely the ideal choice. Singapore is a green city and is one of the safest countries to live in. The clean and green initiative, started in the 1990, encourages Singaporeans to practice environmentally-friendly lifestyle. Through the years, the significant results from this clean and green initiative transformed Singapore to one of the cleanest cities in the world. A stable political environment and an efficient police force are also major pulling factors. The low crime rate in Singapore is an indication that you can be reassured of your safety. You can jog alone in the morning, walk alone at night and live everyday with a peace of mind because you can in Singapore.
2. Competitive Starting Salary / Attractive Job Market
Singapore fresh graduates command a very competitive salary as compared to regional peers. The starting salaries for fresh graduates average around SGD 3,000. However, the fresh graduate salary range is wide and depends on your career choice. Well known for her excellent infrastructure, Singapore had become an ideal service centre for many multi national companies. With increasing foreign investments in Singapore is a good indicator of an attractive job market. Overseas fresh graduates can look forward to grow a global career in Singapore.
Choosing a House In Singapore
An important factor to consider when studying in a foreign place is accommodation. After a hard day’s effort in school, knowing that you will be greatly rested in your comfortable crib gives one a peace of mind and keeps one revitalized for the next day’s challenge. For some, it will be an exciting and thrilling journey (experience) as an independent adult. Read on to realize how you can achieve (in that short stay in Singapore) a comfortable and secure living. This is an important factor that has to be plan carefully when studying in Singapore. You need to live comfortably in order to concentrate on your studies. For some, it will be exciting as you will be living independently, away from your family, in a foreign country. Life towards independence starts here.
1. Budget
From the Housing Development Board (HDB) flats to private apartments and condominiums, Singapore offers a variety of choices to stay. It is paramount that one lives within his/her means as surely we do not wish to create the hassle of relocating from time to time.
From Housing Development Board (HDB) flats to private apartment, it really depends on the type of house you intend to rent. The rental ranges from $700 per room per room.
On top of the rental rates, please take into consideration of the monthly PUB bills. One month deposit is also payable in advance. So, once you move into the apartment, you also need to pay the first month rental plus the one month deposit.
*SG Course Guide recommendation: If you are renting a single room, try to negotiate a deal which includes PUB bills
Click Here if you are looking for accommodation in Singapore
2. Convenience
Singapore may be a small country but, the traffic can get pretty congested during peak hours and I’m sure you do not wish to be late for lessons you have so dearly paid for. Getting a home near the school would definitely be ideal.
3. Needs
Focus on your needs: Do you like to cook? If so, you would have to find an owner that allows you to do that. Singapore is a tropical country with temperatures averaging around 30 Degrees Celsius to 34 Degrees Celsius. An air-condition room is essential if you are not used to the weather. Next ask yourself, do you prefer living in a place with other students or are you fine staying with the landlords? Living with other students would definitely be more costly since you will need to pay for your own bills…
Types of Housing In Singapore
Housing Development Board (HDB) Flats
More than 80 per cent of Singapore’s population lives in quality government-built apartments called HDB flats. You may rent a room or the entire flat from the owner. Check local newspapers or online property market websites for listings. Rental rates vary but costs an average of S$2,000 for an entire flat.
Private Apartments / Houses
You may also rent a room, apartment or house directly from the owners of private homes. Again tenants pay at least a month’s advance rent and a security deposit of one month’s rent. Your school’s International Student Service Centre can help you with contacts for housing agents. You can also look up the local newspapers for rental advertisements.
Serviced Apartment
If a family member is staying with you for more than a week, you may want to consider renting a serviced apartment. Serviced apartments not only provide the comforts of home but also, provide housekeeping services. You can also cook since kitchen utensils are usually provided.
