Singapore is a unique city-state where Western and Oriental cultures are mixed together, creating a diverse international community. With one of the fastest growing economies in the world, it’s one of the most popular destinations for tourism, study, and living.

Studying English in Singapore is a great way to explore this unusual country and have an unforgettable experience of learning abroad. LinguaTrip.com prepared this comprehensive guide to cover all aspects of choosing a language course in Singapore to prepare for your adventure.

• Why Study English in Singapore?

  English is the major language for educational institutions, international businesses and tourist sites in Singapore.

  Over 75% of the population speaks fluent English, and due to the colonial past, there is a massive influence of British culture in Singapore. So you may be sure you will have the opportunity to practise your language skills with native speakers.

  When you choose a language course in Singapore, you gain the opportunity to explore this incredible country, immerse yourself in its history and culture, and combine learning and traveling experiences at the same time.

• What types of English courses can you take in Singapore?

  Language schools in Singapore offer courses for both adults and children across all comprehension levels. You can choose a general English course, undertake an intensive program, or focus on a particular goal, like speaking practice, international exam preparation or academic English improvement.

  The general English courses are perfect for those students who want to boost all their language skills, such as reading, listening, speaking, and writing to apply the language in casual situations. The average class for such a course usually has up to 15 people, and the age can be quite diverse. For Singapore this is typically 16+. Before starting classes, you will be tested by the school to ensure you are placed in a suitable group to maximize the effectiveness of your studies.

• What length of language school class and how many classes to attend per week?

  These choices are up to you and depend only on your needs. Check GEOS Singapore to find out more about this type of courses.

  GEOS Singapore also offers Practical and Functional English courses, which develop specific skills, such as grammar or speaking, and help you to focus on the most relevant skills for your personal needs.

  Many students go abroad to study English for academic purposes and there is a range of suitable courses for this at EF Singapore. This school offers foreign students TOEFL.

  Preparation as well as Academic English long-term courses – for a term or for a year. You can select whether to go with a general academic course or work harder with an intensive course. The latter will help you to achieve a higher proficiency level in a shorter period of time.

  For teenagers aged 14 or more, there is summer language camp at EF Singapore. This course is designed especially for young students, covering youth-targeted topics of interest while combining traditional classroom-based learning with interactive games and creative projects. Moreover, children are always supervised by team leaders so you can be sure that they are safe and supporter in their language course.

• Which English programs can you take in Singapore?

  English programs help foreign students to gain all the necessary skills to pass international exams and gain entry to leading universities abroad. In Singapore, there are two types of such programs: Foundation Year and Certificate in English Proficiency programs.

  EF Singapore offers the University Foundation Year program, which is aimed at school graduates who would like to do their university degree abroad and need language preparation to do this. The program covers not only English but also basic academic skills such as essay writing, critical thinking, and teamwork. Impressively, 100% of this program’s participants passed entry exams to universities both in Singapore and in Europe.

  SAA Global Education Singapore provides a Certificate in English Proficiency (CEP) program for international students aged 16+. After participating in this program, students are able to read academic texts, write essays and reports, and participate in discussions, which are the major parts of any degree-level studies.

• What else to consider when studying abroad?

  Visas and documents. Before your trip, ensure that you get all the necessary documentation in order. Print out your accommodation and course confirmations to show them at customs with your passport and other travel documents. Make sure your visas and travel documents are up to date. If you need any support or advice with your Singapore visa application, contact our specialists at LinguaTrip.com.

  Money. When going abroad, you probably want not only to attend classes but also to go on excursions and to visit tourist attractions, museums, restaurants, and bars. That means you need to take some money for these purposes. In Singapore, the national currency is the Singapore dollar (SGD), which you can purchase at international currency exchange points. While it’s definitely not the cheapest place to go in Asia, the prices for food, transport, and entertainment.

  Local SIM-card. An internet connection is usually provided at schools and in some types of accommodation. However, if you do not have internet and need to stay connected for your entire journey, you can acquire a local SIM-card.

  Learning materials. Your language school in Singapore will provide you with a textbook and all necessary study materials for your classes. However, you should bring your own stationery and notepads. Having a dictionary or translation application on your smartphone also can be helpful. As you will be immersed in a language learning environment, you will be surrounded by speakers from other nationalities with little chance that any of your classmates or tutors will be able to understand your language.