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. Accommodation Budget

Singapore offers a variety of accommodation options for foreign students, from Government Housing (Housing Development Board HDB) flats to private apartments. Prices for room rental range from SGD700 to more than SGD1,500.

With so many different housing alternatives and subsequent diverse price ranges, it is very important that you make an informed decision and settle on housing within your means. This will reduce the hassle and stress resulting from the need to relocate frequently.

On top of the rental rates, please remember to cost in the monthly utilities bills when preparing your budget. The norm in Singapore is that a 1-month deposit is payable in advance. Therefore, once you have moved into the apartment, the first month rental plus a 1-month deposit is payable.

*SG Course Guide tip: If you are renting a single room, try to negotiate a deal which includes utilities bills

2. Convenience:

Singapore may be a small country with very convenient public transport network. But during peak hours, congestion will still be prevalent and it can be annoying when commuting during this period. Getting a room or apartment near your school would definitely be ideal.

Focus on your needs: what kind of environment do you want to live in? Ask yourself more questions, understand your wants better and come to an appropriate decision.

1. Do you like to cook? If so, you would have to find an owner that allows you to do that.
2. Singapore is a tropical country with temperatures averaging around 30 Degrees Celsius to 34 Degrees Celsius. An air-conditioned room is essential if you are not used to the hot and humid weather.
3. Do you prefer living in a place with other students or do you fancy staying with the landlords? Living with other students would definitely be more costly since you will need to pay your own bills….. but it will be a more memorable experience to stay with your peers.

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 practise environmentally-friendly lifestyle. Through the years, the significant results from this clean and green initiative transformed Singapore into 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.