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Nanyang Technological University Overview

By Sachin Pundir

Updated on Jul 11, 2025 | 1.56K+ views

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Latest Update

  • Application for undergraduate programmes for Academic Year 2026 will open at the end of October 2025 for students with international qualifications.

Nanyang Technological University (NTU) is Singapore’s second-oldest autonomous university, enrolling approximately 35,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students across disciplines such as Engineering, Business, Computing & Data Science, Medicine, and Humanities.

NTU is globally recognized for its sustainability, achieving 100% Green Mark Platinum certification for all eligible buildings. Consistently ranked among the world's top universities, Nanyang Technological University is currently 12th in the 2026 QS World University Rankings.

For those looking to study in Singapore, NTU is among the top universities in the country and is home to famous institutes such as the National Institute of Education and the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies. It is also a leader in AI, sustainability, and smart campus initiatives.  

Here is a comprehensive overview table highlighting the most critical and current details about Nanyang Technological University (NTU): 

Feature Details
Established Year 1991
Type of University Public Research University
Campuses
  • Main campus in Jurong West
  • Medical campus in Novena
Intakes Single annual intake in August.
Annual Tuition Fees

UG: S$32,600–S$38,950 per year (INR 10.98L-23.80L)

PG: S$19,600–S$51,000 per year (INR 11.95L-31.1L)

Duration of Courses

UG: 3–4 years

PG: 1–2 years

Rankings 

QS World University Ranking: #12

US News Ranking: #28

THE Ranking: #30

Top Programs
Student-Faculty Ratio 8:1
International Student Support Wing https://www.ntu.edu.sg/life-at-ntu/student-services/student-services-centre

Start your academic journey in Singapore, explore top-ranked programs, engage with diverse student communities, and access personalized guidance from expert advisors. Apply to the program that best matches your ambitions for a global career.

Seize your opportunity at Nanyang Technological University to get personalized guidance from expert advisors on programs, eligibility, tuition, and scholarships. Schedule your free 1:1 session with upGrad's expert advisors and take the first step toward your dream. 

After a detailed overview of Nanyang Technological University, let’s now take a closer look at the university's campus. 

Nanyang Technological University Campuses

Nanyang Technological University operates two distinct campuses in Singapore. The main Yunnan Garden campus is the largest university campus in the country and houses most academic colleges, 25 residence halls, and major research centers.

The Novena campus, dedicated to the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, is situated in Singapore’s healthcare district and supports advanced medical education and research.

Here’s a closer look at each campus:

1. Yunnan Garden (Main) Campus

  • Features the revitalized 9-hectare Yunnan Garden, with a 5.6-meter waterfall, themed mini gardens.
  • Integrated with the Chinese Heritage Centre and Nanyang Lake, forming a heritage precinct larger than 12 soccer fields.
  • Includes sustainable features like a stormwater management system, artificial wetlands, and over 1,000 new trees planted for biodiversity and environmental education.

2. NTU@one-north Campus

  • Specializes in professional, executive, and continuing education programs.
  • Hosts industry partnerships, innovation activities, and executive learning spaces.

3. Novena Campus (Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine)

  • Situated in Singapore's central healthcare district, close to major hospitals and research centres.
  • Dedicated to advanced medical education, clinical training, and translational research.
  • Supports collaborative programs with healthcare institutions for medical students and researchers.

Next, let's understand how the institution is recognized globally and nationally on ranking platforms. 

H2: Nanyang Technological University Ranking 2025/26

Nanyang Technological University (NTU) is consistently ranked among the top 30 universities worldwide by all major global ranking bodies. NTU achieved its highest-ever QS ranking at #12 for 2026.

Here is a detailed overview of NTU rankings from major ranking organizations:

Ranking Body 2024 2025 2026
QS World University #26 #15 #12
US News Global Ranking #30 #28 NA
THE Global Ranking #32 #30 NA

Next, let's look at the subject-wise ranking of NTU to understand its academic strength and industry relevance across disciplines.

H3: Top Course-wise Ranking 2025/26

NTU’s programs are globally recognized, with 43 subjects ranked in international tables and six in the world’s top 5 for 2025. NTU leads in Asia for Materials Science, Electrical & Electronic EngineeringCommunication & Media Studies, and Data Science & Artificial Intelligence, reflecting its academic strength and global competitiveness.

Here are NTU’s top course-wise rankings for 2025:

Course Ranking Body 2025 Rank
Materials Science QS World University #2
Library & Information Management QS World University #3
Communication & Media Studies QS World University #4
Artificial Intelligence US News Global Ranking #2
Computer Science US News Global Ranking #2
Chemistry US News Global Ranking #3
Business and Economics THE Ranking #36
Education Studies THE Ranking #18
Engineering THE Ranking #14
Medical and Health THE Ranking #85

NTU’s admissions process requires careful attention to eligibility, documentation, and deadlines; each step is critical for a successful application.

Nanyang Technological University Admissions 

NTU’s admissions are highly competitive, with undergraduate acceptance rates typically between 20–25% and postgraduate rates between 15–20% based on academic qualifications, language proficiency, and supporting documents.

Leading into the details, here’s what you need to know about the requirements:

Admission Requirements

You must meet NTU’s minimum academic standards, submit all required documents, and demonstrate English proficiency if your prior education was not in English. Requirements differ for undergraduate and postgraduate applicants, and some programs may require interviews or additional assessments.

Let’s break down the academic qualification documentation: 

Academic Qualification

For undergraduate admission, NTU requires your final high school diploma (such as India Standard 12, A-levels, or IB), official transcripts for all years, and English proficiency test scores if your prior education was not in English. 

For postgraduate admission, you must provide your bachelors degree certificate from a recognized university, and additional documents like a CV, statement of purpose, and recommendation letters.

Below is a table with detailed academic qualification requirements:

Criteria Details
Degree Certificate UG: High school diploma/Standard 12 certificate (for India), A-levels, IB, or equivalent
  PG: Bachelor’s degree certificate from a recognized university.
Academic Transcripts Full academic transcripts for all tertiary studies
Additional Documents

Note: Requirements vary by course. Please check the official website for more details

Language Proficiency

NTU requires proof of English language proficiency from applicants whose previous education was not conducted in the English language. Accepted tests include IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE Academic, with minimum scores set for each.  

However, only official, valid test scores taken within the last two years are accepted.

Below are the accepted language proficiency tests and their required scores:

Test Average Score Required
IELTS 6.5
TOEFL 90
PTE Academic 55

Note: Test requirements can vary by department or program; always check individual program pages for the most current standards.

Competitive Exams

NTU requires competitive exam scores for specific programs, especially at the postgraduate level and for international undergraduate applicants. GRE or GATE is mandatory for most overseas postgraduate applicants, while SAT or ACT is required for many undergraduate international candidates.

Here are the detailed standardized exam requirements: 

Test Average Score Required
SAT 1250
ACT 30
GRE 319
GMAT 600+
GATE 90 percentile

Visa Requirements 

NTU requires all full-time international students to obtain a student visa for Singapore before starting their studies. 

The application is processed via the SOLAR system after receiving your NTU admission offer, and you must not enter Singapore without the official In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter.

Here are more student visa details: 

Requirement Details
Valid Passport Must be valid for at least three months beyond the intended stay.
NTU Offer Letter Required for visa application.
Student’s Pass Application (SOLAR) Submit online via ICA’s SOLAR system after NTU registers your details.
Visa Application Forms ICA Form 16 & V36
Financial Proof Bank statements or loan sanction letter showing funds for tuition and living expenses.
Medical Report Required for ICA approval.
Application & Issuance Fees S$30/ INR 2K (application), S$60/INR 4K (issuance)
IPA Letter Must be presented on arrival in Singapore

Before preparing your application for NTU application, it’s critical to align your documents and plans with the university’s strict intake periods and deadlines.

Admission Dates and Deadlines

NTU offers a single major intake each academic year, with undergraduate applications typically open from early November to mid-March and graduate deadlines varying by program. For 2025, the undergraduate application deadline is March 19, 2025

Graduate program deadlines depend on the course, with most closing between December and March for August intake.

Here’s a detailed overview of the key intake periods and deadlines:

Course Intake Application Deadline
Most Taught Master’s (MA/MSc) August  28 February 2025 (closed)
Research Master’s/PhD August 31 July 2025 (closed)
Nanyang MBA August

15 January 2025 (Round 2)

15 March 2025 (Round 3)

MBBS (Medicine) August 19 March 2025 (MMI in April)
Undergraduate (All Majors) August 19 March 2025  (closed)

Note: Always check your specific program's page for the most current deadline information, as some courses may have unique or earlier cut-offs.

Let's explore the range of academic options available at Nanyang Technological University.

Nanyang Technological University: Programs and Courses

Nanyang Technological University offers one of Asia’s most comprehensive academic portfolios, comprising 172 total courses for international students, with 102 at the undergraduate level and 70 at the graduate level, spanning engineering, business, sciences, humanities, arts, and interdisciplinary fields.

Below are some popular programs at NTU: 

  • Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence: Ranked #2 globally in AI, this MSc offers modern training in machine learning, deep learning, and data science for high-demand tech careers.
  • Double Major in Economics and Data Science: This interdisciplinary degree merges economics with advanced quantitative and computational skills, preparing graduates for roles in business and government.
  • Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering): Ranked #4 globally, this program focuses on advanced manufacturing, robotics, and design, preparing graduates for leadership in the engineering sector.
  • Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical & Electronic Engineering): Ranked #1 in Singapore and top 10 universities in the World, this degree covers power systems, electronics, and communications, with strong links to industry and research labs.
  • Bachelor of Business (Accountancy/Business Analytics): Ranked #85 in Economics & Business, this program develops analytical, leadership, and strategy skills for roles in finance, consulting, and analytics.
  • Bachelor of Computing in Computer Science: Ranked #2 globally, this degree emphasizes algorithms, software engineering, cybersecurity, and innovation, with strong job placement in Singapore’s tech sector.
  • Bachelor of Science (Biological Sciences): Ranked #109 in Biology & Biochemistry, this program provides research-driven training in biotechnology, biomedical science, and environmental biology.
  • Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS): Offered by the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, this degree combines clinical practice with biomedical research, producing future-ready doctors for Singapore and the region.

Carefully reviewing the tuition fees for your chosen NTU program will help you make informed financial decisions and avoid unexpected costs.

Program Fees at Nanyang Technological University

NTU’s annual tuition fees differ by program and level, with undergraduate courses typically ranging from S$17,950 (INR 12 L)to S$29,350  (INR 19.68 L)per year and postgraduate programs from S$21,000 (INR 14 L) to S$87,715 (INR 58.85 L) per year.

Below is a table of annual tuition fees for NTU's popular courses: 

Course Annual Fees (S$) Annual Fees (INR)
Master of Science (Business Analytics) S$43,700 INR 26.66L
Nanyang MBA S$87,715 INR 53.50L
Master of Science (Artificial Intelligence) S$32,000 INR 19.52L
M.S. International Health €13,320 INR 12.07L
Master of Engineering Management S$30,000 INR 18.30L
Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) S$17,950 INR 10.95L
Bachelor of Business S$20,100 INR 12.26L
Bachelor of Science (Biological Sciences) S$17,950 INR 10.95L

Note

  • Fees may vary depending on the specialization. Please check the official University website for the most up-to-date information.
  • The currency conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

Financial planning is important to understand the precise tuition costs for each program at NTU Singapore. Here's a clear breakdown to help you budget for your academic journey.

Cost of studying at Nanyang Technological University

NTU’s tuition fees vary by course and level, with international undergraduate programs typically ranging from S$17,950 to S$29,350 per year and postgraduate programs from S$21,000 to S$87,715 per year.

The table below details the cost of studying abroad for key NTU courses:

Course Annual Fees (S$) Annual Fees (INR)
MBBS (Medicine) S$74,900 INR 45.69L
MSc (Business Analytics, AI, Engineering) S$21,000 – S$43,700 INR 12.8L-26.66L
MBA S$65,000 – S$87,715 INR 39.65L-53.50L
PhD (Research) S$21,000 – S$28,000 INR 12.81 L-17.08L
B.Eng. (Mechanical, Electrical, etc.) S$17,950 – S$20,100 INR 10.95L-12.26L
B.Sc. (Biological Sciences, Chemistry) S$17,950 – S$20,100 INR 10.95L-12.26L
BBA (Business) S$20,100 – S$29,350 INR 12.26L-17.90L

Note: Salary conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

Careful budgeting for your daily needs is essential to stay at NTU. Here’s what you can expect to spend on living expenses as an international student in Singapore.

Cost of Living 

The average annual cost of living in Singapore at NTU ranges from S$12,000 to S$15,000 (INR 7.32L–9.15L), depending on your lifestyle and housing choice. This estimate includes accommodation, meals, transport, insurance, and personal expenses, all based on NTU’s official guidance for the 2025 academic year.

Here's a detailed breakdown of typical annual living costs:

Parameter Average Monthly Expenses (S$) Average Monthly Expenses (INR)
Accommodation (on-campus) S$4,500 – S$7,500 INR 2.75L – 4.58L
Meal Plan S$3,000 – S$4,500 INR 1.83L – 2.75L
Transport (local) S$800 – S$1,200 INR 49K – 73K
Personal Expenses S$2,000 – S$3,000 INR 1.22L – 1.83L
Health Insurance S$500 INR 30.5K

Note: Salary conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

NTU Singapore's extensive scholarship portfolio is designed to reward academic excellence and support outstanding students from diverse backgrounds.

Scholarships for Nanyang Technological University

NTU provides a comprehensive range of scholarships for both undergraduate and postgraduate students, including fully funded options that cover tuition fees, living allowances, accommodation, and additional academic expenses. 

Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership, and co-curricular achievements, with specific awards for research, industry engagement, and international mobility.

Here’s a breakdown of the list of top scholarships available at NTU:

Internal Scholarships

NTU’s internal scholarships are funded by the university and awarded to top-performing students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. These scholarships, such as the Nanayang scholarship and the NTU research scholarship, cover full tuition, generous living stipends, and additional allowances for travel and academic resources.

Here is a detailed table of NTU’s internal scholarships:

Scholarship Name Type of Scholarship Details
Nanyang Scholarship Merit-based UG

Benefits: Full subsidized tuition, S$6,500/yr (INR 4.36L) living, S$2,000/yr (INR 1.34L) accommodation, S$5,000 (INR 3.35L) travel, S$1,750 (INR 1.17L) laptop.

Eligibility: Outstanding academic results, leadership, and co-curricular excellence; open to all nationalities.

Nanyang President’s Graduate Scholarship (NPGS) PG (PhD)

Benefits: Full tuition, monthly stipend S$3,600 (INR 2.19L), conference, book, IT, and thesis allowances.

Eligibility: Final-year UG or recent grads; strong academic record; all nationalities.

NTU Research Scholarship PG (Master's/PhD)

Benefits: Full tuition, monthly stipend S$2,800–S$3,500 (INR 1.7L–2.13L)

Eligibility: Full-time research candidates; academic merit.

Nanyang Global Scholarship UG

Benefits: Full tuition, living allowance, and additional benefits (varies).

Eligibility: Freshmen with excellent academic and leadership records.

NTU also facilitates prestigious government and partner-funded scholarships for international students.

External Scholarships

External scholarships at NTU are funded by government agencies and industry partners, supporting both research and coursework students. These awards often provide full tuition, competitive stipends, and unique research or industry engagement opportunities.

Here's a complete detail about the key external fully-funded scholarships:

Scholarship Name Type of Scholarship Details
Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) PG (PhD)

Benefits: Full tuition, S$2,200–S$2,700/month stipend (INR 1.34L–1.64L), S$1,500 airfare, S$1,000 settling-in.

Eligibility: International students with a strong academic record, for a PhD in science/engineering.

A*STAR Graduate Scholarship PG (PhD)

Benefits: Full tuition, monthly stipend, research support (varies by project).

Eligibility: Outstanding international students in science/engineering.

Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship PG (Master's/PhD)

Benefits: Full tuition, living allowance (amount varies), leadership development.

Eligibility: Singapore citizens and international students with leadership potential.

Next, let's check out the NTUs' placement outcomes and professional opportunities.

Placement at Ludwig Maximilians University Munich

NTU has a 93% graduate employment rate within six months of graduation, with a median starting salary of S$4,500 (INR 3.01 L) per month for bachelor’s degree holders. 

The university’s Career & Attachment Office partners with over 3,000 employers, facilitating more than 6,000 internships annually across diverse sectors, and provides personalized career coaching and recruitment events for students.

Here are key internship and co-program opportunities:

  • Professional Internship Programme: Mandatory for most engineering and business students, offering 20–30 weeks of structured industry placements with leading companies such as Rolls-Royce, DBS, and P&G.
  • Undergraduate Research Experience on Campus (URECA): A year-long research attachment for undergraduates to work alongside NTU faculty on real-world projects, fostering innovation and research skills.
  • Overseas Internship Programme: Enables students to gain international work experience in over 30 countries, with placements in multinational corporations and research institutes.
  • Work-Study Degree Programmes: Integrates full-time study with paid industry attachments, allowing students to alternate between campus learning and professional work every semester.

Now, let's explore the companies that hire graduates from NTU.

Top Recruiters

NTU’s strong industry partnerships attract leading multinational and local employers, ensuring graduates secure top-paying jobs in Singapore's most competitive sectors. 

Each year, more than 3,000 companies recruit on campus, offering roles across technology, finance, engineering, consulting, and healthcare.

Here are some of the top recruiters and the job roles they offer:

  • DBS Bank: Management Associate, Data Analyst, Corporate Banking Analyst
  • Google Singapore: Software Engineer, Product Manager, Data Scientist
  • Accenture: Technology Analyst, Consulting Analyst, Digital Marketing Specialist
  • Micron Technology: Process Engineer, Equipment Engineer, R&D Engineer
  • Procter & Gamble (P&G): Brand Manager, Supply Chain Analyst, Sales Manager
  • Grab: Software Developer, Operations Associate, Business Analyst
  • Singapore Airlines: Management Trainee, Data Analyst, Revenue Management Executive
  • A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research): Research Officer, Lab Technologist, Data Scientist

NTU's student life is designed to promote personal growth, leadership, and global exposure. Let's have a look at it.

Student Life at Nanyang Technological University

NTU's Yunnan Garden campus houses over 24,000 students in 24 accommodation halls, featuring Singapore's largest on-campus housing capacity. The university supports 130+ student organizations, modern sports facilities, and a 24/7 North Spine Plaza for dining and socializing. 

Signature events include the NTU Fest, Freshmen Orientation, and the annual Global Youth Leaders' Summit, ensuring an intense and immersive student experience.

Here are the key facets of NTU student life:

  • Residential Halls: 24 halls accommodate over 14,000 students, offering options for single, double, and apartment-style living. Amenities include study rooms, gyms, and communal lounges.
  • Student Organizations: 130+ clubs and societies span academic, cultural, sports, and special interests, including the NTU Students’ Union, Chinese Society, and Robotics Club.
  • Sports & Recreation: The Sports & Recreation Centre offers an Olympic-sized pool, 10 sports halls, 25 tennis courts, and a 400-meter track; NTU’s sports teams compete in 36 inter-varsity leagues.
  • Campus Events: Major events include NTU Fest (an annual student carnival), Freshmen Orientation, and the Global Youth Leaders' Summit, which attract thousands of participants each year.
  • Dining & Social Spaces: The 24/7 North Spine Plaza features over 20 food outlets, retail shops, and event spaces, serving as the campus’s social hub.
  • Global Programmes: Over 2,000 students participate in semester exchanges, research attachments, and overseas internships annually through the Office of Global Education and Mobility.

No matter if you're interested in business, technology, the arts, or public service, NTU Singapore's alumni have made a significant impact across various industries.

Notable Alumni 

NTU’s alumni network is one of the largest and most diverse in Asia, with over 254,000 graduates representing 155 nationalities

Alumni have achieved distinction across government, business, technology, social entrepreneurship, sports, and the arts. The university annually honors outstanding alumni for their impact on society, with 37 recognized at the most recent alumni homecoming event.

Below are some of NTU’s most notable alumni and their contributions:

Name Field of Work Contribution
Stefanie Sun Music & Arts Award-winning singer-songwriter with over 30 million records sold in Asia
Dato' Sri Tahir Business & Philanthropy Founder, Mayapada Group; Presidential Advisory Council, Indonesia
Inderjit Singh Public Service Former Member of Parliament, Singapore
Vinod Kannan Aviation CEO, Vistara Airlines (now merged with Air India)
Quek Siu Rui Technology & Entrepreneurship Co-founder & CEO, Carousell
Y.B. Datuk Seri Ir Dr Wee Ka Siong Government President, Malaysian Chinese Association; Member, House of Representatives, Malaysia
Lim Chow Kiat Finance CEO, GIC (Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund)
Zaqy Mohamad Government Senior Minister of State, Singapore

If you’re considering top global institutions in Asia and Europe, here’s a direct comparison to help you make an informed decision.

Nanyang Technological University vs ETH Zurich Vs National University of Singapore: Which is Better?

NTU Singapore, ETH Zurich, and National University of Singapore are all ranked in the global top 15, with ETH Zurich at #7, NUS at #8, and NTU at #12 in the QS World University Rankings 2025. 

ETH Zurich stands out for its affordable fees and European research network, while NUS and NTU are Asia’s leading universities, known for industry ties and innovation.

Below is a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision:

Parameters Nanyang Technological University (NTU) ETH Zurich National University of Singapore (NUS)
QS Ranking 2026 #12 #7 #8
Tuition Fees (UG & PG) UG: S$17,950–S$29,350 (INR 10.9L-17.9L) UG: CHF 730 (INR 68K) per semester UG: S$17,550–S$28,650 (INR 10.74L-17.5L)
  PG: S$21,000–S$87,715 (INR 13.4L-56L) PG: CHF 1,460 (INR 1.36L) PG: S$25,000–S$50,000 (INR 15.25L-30.5L)
Number of Courses 50+ UG, 100+ PG 23 UG, 38 PG 60+ UG, 100+ PG
Popular Courses

UG: BEng in Mechanical, BEng in Electrical

BSc in Biological Sciences

Bachelor's in Business Administration

Bachelor's in Computer Science

UG: BSc in Biological Sciences

Bachelor's in Business Administration

Bachelor's in Computer Science

Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering

UG: Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering

Bachelor's in Computer Science

Bachelor's in Life Science

Bachelor's in Business Administration

 

PG: MSc Business Analytics

MSc Artificial Intelligence

MSc Biomedical Engineering

MBA

PG: MSc Physics

MSc Data Science

MSc Architecture

PG: MSc Computer Science

MSc Chemical Engineering

MBA

Placement Rate 93% 90% 94%
Post-study Work Visa Opportunity 1-year Long-Term Visit Pass for graduates Non-EU: 6 months job-seeking visa 1-year Long-Term Visit Pass for graduates
Scholarships

NTU Undergraduate/Graduate Scholarships

 

Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme NUS Undergraduate/Graduate Scholarships

NoteThe tuition fee is calculated as the average for top courses.

FAQs

Are there early application deadlines for specific programs at NTU?

Can I apply to multiple programs at NTU in the same cycle?

Are there application fee waivers for international students?

How do I submit digital portfolios or video interviews for NTU?

What is the process for applying for NTU scholarships?

Are there work-study or internship opportunities for NTU students?

How do I secure on-campus housing at NTU?

What health insurance options are available for international students?

Can I transfer credits from another university to NTU?

How does NTU support students with disabilities?

What are the options for double majors or interdisciplinary studies at NTU?

Sachin Pundir

University Admission Expert |154 articles published

With over10 years of experience in the ed-tech sector, Sachin holds expertise in operations management, ensuring the smooth functioning of study abroad programs. He has deep understanding of the globa...

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