Do you wish you could study in Singapore? Located in maritime Southeast Asia, Singapore, officially the Republic of Singapore, is a city-state and island country. It is one of the world’s most densely populated countries. Students considering Singapore can explore its universities and education system before deciding where to apply.
In addition to its academic options, Singapore can be convenient for students who use English. English is one of the country’s four official languages and its working language. It is also widely used in education; for example, the National University of Singapore states that English is its medium of instruction unless otherwise specified. Singapore remains multilingual, with Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil also serving as official languages.
Now, let’s discuss the language requirements for admission to universities in Singapore.
Language Proficiency Tests Needed in Singapore
International students are not subject to one nationwide language-testing rule. Requirements depend on the university, program, academic qualification, and language of instruction. Applicants whose previous education was not conducted in English may need to submit an approved English-language test score. Programs taught in another language may have separate proficiency requirements. Always consult the official admissions page for the program to which you are applying.
English Language Tests for International Students
English-language test requirements vary among Singaporean universities because each institution has its own admissions procedures and standards. The following are some of the English-language proficiency tests that may be accepted by institutions in Singapore.
1. IELTS – International English Language Testing System
If you are an international applicant, you may already be familiar with IELTS. IELTS Academic is among the tests listed in the current undergraduate admissions requirements of the Singapore Institute of Technology, Singapore Management University, and Singapore University of Social Sciences.
IELTS evaluates reading, writing, speaking, and listening. There is no single IELTS band requirement for universities in Singapore. For example, applicants who are required to demonstrate English proficiency at Nanyang Technological University generally need an overall IELTS score of at least 6.0, with scores of at least 6.0 in writing and speaking. Relevant full-time undergraduate applicants to the Singapore University of Social Sciences need at least 6.5. Singapore Management University requires an overall score of 7.0, with at least 7.0 in reading and 6.5 in writing, for non-law programs. Its law program requires an overall score of 7.5, with at least 7.0 in reading and writing. Requirements may vary by qualification and program, and meeting the minimum score does not guarantee admission.
2. TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language
TOEFL is another English-proficiency test accepted by institutions in Singapore. At Nanyang Technological University, the English-language test requirement applies only to certain applicants, such as those whose high school education was not conducted in English or who studied English as a second or additional language. For tests taken before the 2026 scoring change, NTU lists a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 90, with at least 25 in speaking. For tests using the new 1-to-6 scale introduced on January 21, 2026, NTU lists a minimum overall score of 4.5 and a speaking score of 4.5. Applicants must independently meet the university’s published TOEFL requirement; a TOEFL score is not automatically acceptable merely because an IELTS score falls below the required minimum.
3. DET – Duolingo English Test
The Duolingo English Test is accepted by some institutions in Singapore, but acceptance is institution- and program-specific. LASALLE College of the Arts lists DET for certain bachelor’s degree admissions, while the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts lists it for certain foundation and diploma pathways. By contrast, Singapore Management University’s JD and LLM admissions pages explicitly state that DET is not accepted. Check the official entry requirements for your chosen program before relying on a DET score.
Singapore offers several English-medium study options for international applicants. However, English-language test requirements vary significantly by institution, qualification, and program. Review the latest official admissions page to confirm which tests are accepted and the scores you must obtain.
We hope this article has provided the information you are looking for. To learn more about studying abroad, visit our Study in Singapore and Available Programs for International Students!
