The National University of Singapore is a well-respected research college recognised by multiple university-ranking organisations as the best school in Asia.
Being the leading university in Asia, it is one of the most selective colleges in the world; hence, getting admitted into this renowned college is a dream for many, and admission is competitive.
To get into the University of Singapore, you need excellent grades, solid extracurricular activity involvement, and compelling essays to help you stand out from other applicants.
If you live in a country that offers Singapore-Cambridge Advanced Level exams, such as Singapore and the UK, you can apply to NUS using your A Levels, Singapore Polytechnic Diploma, NUS High School Diploma, and International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma certificate. If you are not from one of these regions, you must have completed high school with your certificate available and have at least 12 years of general education.
This guide will cover everything from what makes the University of Singapore unique, the difficulty of gaining admission into the prestigious school, the essential admission requirements, and strategies to increase your chances of acceptance.
What is the National University of Singapore Known For?
The University of Singapore is a leading global university centred in Asia. It is Singapore’s flagship university and offers a global approach to world-class education and research focusing on Asian perspectives and expertise.
The university began over a century ago as a modest medical school. On 8 August 1980, it became known as the National University of Singapore (NUS) through the merger of Nanyang University and the University of Singapore.
The University’s research activities are strategic and robust, and NUS is well-known as a leader in various fields, including engineering, life sciences, biomedicine, social sciences, and natural sciences.
Its transformative education and high-impact research aim to make a distinctive and positive impact on society.
The University’s 16 faculties and schools, spread across three campus locations in Singapore, provide a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs, underscored by multidisciplinary graduate courses and cross-faculty enrichment.
NUS is also known for its state-of-the-art facilities. A vibrant campus life complements the learning experience, and an extensive network of international partnerships with some of the world’s top universities offers students opportunities and challenges to realise their potential.
These partnerships offer students the opportunity to gain valuable cross-cultural experience and develop a strong appreciation of global issues alongside perspectives from Asia. They might have the chance to work on projects with students from other institutions or even study abroad for a semester or more.
Over 37,000 students from 100 nations enrich the community with diverse social and cultural perspectives. Students at NUS benefit from a dynamic learning environment that fosters innovation, critical thinking, and leadership.
The university has over 2,500 academics, including Nobel Laureate Konstantin Novoselov. Its list of alums boasts heads of state and other top politicians, including Lee Kuan Yew and Mahathir Mohammed.
How Hard is it to Get into the University of Singapore?
Being one of the top universities in Singapore and ranked number eight in QS World University Rankings 2025, the University of Singapore is difficult to get into.
What is the University of Singapore’s Acceptance Rate?
The University of Singapore’s acceptance rate is 23%, making it a highly competitive institution. This means that for every 100 applicants, only 23 students are admitted. Hence, students must have excellent academic records to boost their chances.
Although the school does not release the number of applications it receives, for the Class of 2026, NUS admitted 31,827 new undergraduates and 18,129 new graduates.
For the Class of 2026, NUS College (a unit of the National University of Singapore) received over 7,000 applications. Of these, only about 400 candidates secured an admission offer from the university.
Furthermore, concerning international students, the National University of Singapore is home to more than 40,000 students who represent more than 100 countries across the globe.
If your dream school is the University of Singapore and you are worried about whether you can get selected, worry not. Immerse education can help improve your chances with our Singapore Summer School Programme. Hosted at the National University of Singapore (NUS), students can choose to explore a wide range of subjects taught by leading academics.
What is the University of Singapore Looking For in Students?
NUS seeks students with good academic records. In addition to satisfying the prerequisites for the subjects to which they are applying, NUS also considers other factors such as the applicant’s interests, prior preparation, and aptitude for the chosen undergraduate programs.
This holistic approach reflects the University’s commitment to considering applicants’ broader qualities and experiences in the academic community.
What Grades Are Needed to Get into the University of Singapore?
The University of Singapore uses a holistic approach to assess admission applications, and prospective students are generally expected to have good grades.
The specific grades needed to enter the university depend on your background and qualifications. Here’s a breakdown based on applicant types:
Singapore-Cambridge GCE A Levels
- You’ll need good passes in H1/H2/H3 content subjects across four different areas, with at least one subject from a contrasting field.
- Additionally, you’ll need a General Paper or Knowledge Inquiry taken in the same sitting with the H2 content-based subjects.
- H1 Project work.
- Mother Tongue papers are also required.
Singapore Polytechnic Diploma
You will need to submit your final diploma results.
NUS High School Diploma
Regardless of nationality, this diploma fulfils the primary admission requirement for applicants from NUS High School. You’ll also need high marks on your Mother Tongue exam.
International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma
Applicants can apply using the actual IB Diploma Programme results.
Applicants who have retaken exam papers after graduation must re-authorise the release of their latest IB transcripts to NUS.
While applying, ensure you submit your SAT or ACT with Writing and SAT Subject Tests or AP Exams scores.
For those who wish to apply for NUS Medicine, submit the following documents and test scores by the admissions application deadline:
Predicted IB Diploma results (endorsed by applicant’s high school) and one of the following:
UCAT (UK or ANZ) or
- BMAT (Only accepted until 2024 applications) or
- SAT/ACT with Writing and SAT Subject Tests/AP Exams
While a Mother Tongue requirement isn’t mandatory initially, admitted students must fulfil it before graduation.
International applicants
NUS offers various admissions processes for international applicants outside the above categories, depending on your country. Generally, the international student must have finished or will be completing high school and have at least 12 years of general education by July of the year of application. Check the official website for acceptable high school qualifications and respective admissions requirements.
University of Singapore deadlines and requirements
Application closing date typically varies depending on the type of programme you are applying for. The application for undergraduate admissions usually opens around October to December and closes around February or March of the following year.
Most applicants can expect to receive admission outcomes online by the third week of May (specific dates may vary depending on your application category). IB applicants taking the May examination can expect to hear from the University in the second week of July.
After receiving an offer, applicants must accept the admission through the Joint Acceptance Portal (JAP). The University will not issue any acceptance status letter upon receiving your acceptance online. You may log in to the applicant portal to view your acceptance status after the JAP window.
Looking to apply in the future? You can use this information to plan for the next admissions cycle. Check the official NUS admission page for the latest deadlines and requirements specific to your situation.
Regarding requirements, every university and course of study has unique requirements, and so does the University of Singapore. Check the following to determine the prerequisites for your desired degree:
Singapore-Cambridge GCE A-Level Programme Prerequisites:
- Single Degree Programmes
- Double Degree (DDP), Concurrent Degree (CDP), Double Major, Minor, Specialisation and Special Programmes
Polytechnic Diploma From Singapore Programme Prerequisites:
- Nanyang Polytechnic
- Ngee Ann Polytechnic
- Republic Polytechnic
- Singapore Polytechnic
- Temasek Polytechnic
- BCA Academy
- Institute of Technical Education (Work-Study Diploma)
- LASALLE College of the Arts
- Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA)
NUS High School Diploma Programme Prerequisites:
- Single Degree Programmes
- Double Degree (DDP), Concurrent Degree (CDP), Double Major, Minor, Specialisation and Special Programmes
International Baccalaureate (Ib) Diploma Programme Prerequisite:
- Single Degree Programme
- Double Degree (DDP), Concurrent Degree (CDP), Double Major, Minor, Specialisation and Special Programmes
Concerning Singapore citizens/Singapore permanent residents with international qualifications, find the details of the requirements here.
All other international qualifications:
- Single Degree Programmes
- Double Degree (DDP), Concurrent Degree (CDP), Double Major, Minor, Specialisations and Special Programmes
Note that prerequisites are subject to changes yearly. Hence, you should visit the school website regularly for updates. Also, ensure that all information you submit is true and accurate. Any error may result in the retraction of offers issued.
Can you apply to the University of Singapore early?
Only one application window is available for each application category per year. So stay updated and start, complete, and submit your online application based on your qualifications before the application window closes.
Steps for applying to the University of Singapore
Below are the steps to follow to start your NUS application.
Step 1: Choose a specialisation and programme
The first step is carefully researching and choosing a specialisation or programme that aligns with your interests and career aspirations.
The University of Singapore offers a wide range of multi-disciplinary curricula, including over 70 joint, concurrent, and double degree programmes established with the world’s leading universities.
If you know exactly what career path you want to take, that’s excellent!
If you are still deciding what to specialise in, for example, whether to study computer science or computer engineering, read our article, What Degree Should I Study At University?
Step 2: Know the requirement
After selecting your desired course of study, understanding the requirements of your chosen programme is critical. Do you have the right background for the desired course of study? Your background matters.
To improve your odds, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria for your selected programme, including academic qualifications and standardised test requirements.
Step 3: Prepare documents for application for admission
The standard package of documents for admission includes high school examination result slips, academic transcripts, documents with full name and date of birth, letters of recommendation from teachers and/or employers, medical reports, and criminal records, if applicable. The original copies of supporting documents must be submitted when the school term starts.
Step 4: Take the TOEFL or IELTS test in English
If your previous education was not in English, you must take the test and prove sufficient knowledge of English.
Step 5: Take the SAT test for the baccalaureate degree
For admission to the bachelor programs at the University of Singapore, you must take the SAT/ACT with Writing and SAT Subject Tests/AP Exams.
For SAT subject tests, three tests are required:
- Mathematics Level 2 (compulsory for almost all programs)
- Two other subjects of your choice (excluding Math Level 1)
- All sections of the SAT have to be taken in one sitting
- Minimum score for each subject test: 650
While mathematics is compulsory for some specific programmes, you can choose the second and third subjects you want to take in the test based on the prerequisites of the programmes you are applying for at NUS.
For example, if you are applying to study Chemical Engineering, you must choose Physics and Chemistry as your second and third subjects. If, however, you are applying for Business Administration, you may choose any subject except Mathematics Level 1.
These tests are one of the most important criteria by which the members of the Selection Committee evaluate applicants; their results are also considered when allocating scholarships.
Step 6: Prepare a portfolio to improve your chances of admission
For admission to some of the specialties, you must prepare a portfolio or pass additional tests/ exams. For example, you will need a creative portfolio if you are applying for design and architecture, a “live” exam in acting, music, and similar professions, and a relevant examination for health professions, pharmacy, and nursing.
Step 7: Pay the application fee
The University of Singapore currently charges a $10 application fee, but this and other requirements are subject to change. Always check their official website for the most up-to-date fees and requirements.
Step 8: Send the request and wait for a response from the University
Once you have prepared the application, defer sending it for a few days — if time permits – to carefully recheck everything. And please be patient. Most universities often respond within two or three months after sending the application.
Strategies to Increase Your Chances of Admission to the University of Singapore
The National University of Singapore is one of the most competitive universities in Asia and the world, so follow these tips to increase your chances.
1. Engage in extracurricular activities outside of school
While having excellent grades is important, gaining real-world work experience can significantly enhance your higher education prospects. NUS, known for its holistic admissions programme, values applicants with outstanding achievements and attributes beyond academics.
Hence, participating in valuable extracurricular activities, internships, or programmes during your breaks not only enhances your personal and professional development but also significantly strengthens your admission application.
After all, excelling at work requires critical thinking abilities, communication skills, and a positive attitude—all traits universities value.
To learn more, read: 11 Summer Activities That Will Boost Your College Application.
2. Apply early
The overall acceptance rate at NUS is low, which puts it on par with leading schools in the US and UK. NUS is highly competitive, meaning thousands of students apply with hopes of being selected.
Only one application window is available for each application category per year, which indicates that applying early increases your odds of completing and submitting your online application before the window closes.
3. Ensure you have all required information organised and prepared
Having all the required documents ready – including your identification, relevant certificates, co-curricular activity reports, and recommendation letters – decreases the chances of you messing up your application or missing the application window.
4. Write a high-quality essay
Writing a compelling essay may not guarantee admission, but it can be the difference between you and other competitive candidates. This becomes very important at highly selective schools like NUS, where most candidates have similar high stats.
This may be the first extended piece of writing you’ll be doing. Hence, learning how to craft essays is critical. To craft a strong essay, first, understand the tone of these essays by searching for and reading other admissions essays…
Need help crafting compelling essays? Read: How To Write a College Essay and Help Your Application Stand Out.
5. Obtain strong recommendation letters
Get a recommendation from teachers who know you well, who have seen your academic and personal growth in class, and who can talk about your character. Your Grade 11 teachers will be excellent options as they’ll have taught you for an entire year before your college applications, and their impression of you is recent.
Be sure to ask your teachers early so they can have enough time to prepare to write letters of recommendation.
You’ll also need a letter from your counsellor, department, or subject head.
This letter should explain your school system, grades, and relative standing among the cohort and mention your involvement in activities outside of the classroom. Let them know that you’ll be applying to the University of Singapore early so they can prepare your documents.
6. Build a strong application
Go beyond the minimum requirements. Highlight your achievements, awards, and any relevant experiences that showcase your passion for learning and potential to contribute to the NUS community.
7. Be well prepared for the interview
Most universities require shortlisted applicants to pass an interview before deciding whether to accept or reject their application. While these interviews can be challenging, remember that no one knows you better than yourself!
Whether or not you get called for an interview, ensure you’ve done proper research and spoken to students already attending the NUS to understand the interview process and possible questions you might be asked.
You can never know what the interviewer wants to know, but a common tip is to present yourself in a way that will enable the interviewer to get to know you more holistically.
It helps to focus your responses on your personality or interests outside the high school curriculum. After all, your good grades are already on paper, and the only way the interviewer can get to know you better is by hearing you talk about yourself.
For less personal questions, such as why you’ve decided to apply for this particular university, take the chance to present your answer confidently and show that you’ve done your research and made an informed decision.
You may also like: 8 Reasons to Study Abroad in Singapore.
You’ll likely be faced with some difficult questions – an aspiring biologist might be asked why humans have two eyes. Try to present your assumptions firmly and explain how you came to that conclusion. Your interviewer might be trying to evaluate your analytical abilities instead of grilling you for an answer he might not know.
8. Determine the tuition fee for your desired course
Generally, highly competitive schools often have high tuition fees. So, take the time to find out the fees at NUS so you can start planning for it.
Tuition fees can vary depending on your programme of study, nationality, and other factors. For the most accurate information, visit the official National University of Singapore website or contact the admissions office directly.
Takeaway: Utilise effective tips to gain admission into the University of Singapore
With an acceptance rate of 23%, getting into the University of Singapore is highly competitive, but that doesn’t mean it is impossible.
Academic excellence is crucial to being among the selected few. However, NUS seeks students with the potential to thrive in a rigorous academic environment.
By understanding the requirements, preparing thoroughly and early, and showcasing your unique strengths, you can enhance your chances of admission to this prestigious institution.
To ensure success, Immerse Education can be your partner on this journey. Our exceptional summer programmes, delivered by tutors from leading universities like Cambridge and Oxford, can equip you with the academic rigour, critical thinking skills, and subject-specific expertise to excel at NUS and beyond.
If you want to apply to the University of Singapore, register your interest in our Singapore Summer School and start your journey towards academic excellence.
