The actual cost of studying overseas

Introduction 

Have you ever wondered if studying abroad was the right choice for you? If so, you’re in the right place. In this blog, we will be exploring the pros and cons of studying overseas, going into a deep dive of the different sectors and what they have to offer both in Singapore and across the globe.Whether you’re curious about the academic, cultural, or career advantages of studying abroad, or weighing them against the challenges, this discussion will help you make a more informed decision about your future.

The actual cost of studying overseas 

Studying overseas, as great as it seems, isn't always smooth sailing. While you reap its benefits, you also reap its costs. Overseas tuition is many times much more costly for everyone, since we do not have the privilege of subsidised education overseas, as well as the fact that you’d have to take on the financial burden of finding a place to live, food to eat, and various other basic necessities. Excluding the more privileged individuals, it's important for one to find a job to sustain the lifestyle of an exchange student. And these are just the basic necessities. Transportation, bills, and even outings, dig into your stash of finances, slowly chipping away at it, until it slowly, but surely dwindles into pocket change. The list goes on and on about just how much you'd have to spend to study overseas, but surely, that's the end of the story. Right? Unfortunately, you'd be absolutely wrong. Money isn't your only concern.

The hidden costs of studying overseas 

Cost does not only refer to the thousands of dollars you pay, but it also encompasses the emotional and mental well-being that is traded off when you leave your homeland and step into a foreign nation. It is worth conceding that you will definitely grow as a more independent, self-sufficient individual . However, it is not a stand alone. It comes as a package, tightly tied with gloomy feelings of loneliness, homesickness, feeling out of place and in general, foreign to the cultures of the new society. While some are privileged enough to have their parents, family or even their friends to live with them, in contrast, oftentimes, that's not the case for the majority of the students travelling overseas to study. Having to deal with not only the new syllabus and the expectations of a student, but also with all the stresses of living alone. Yes, these experiences are the catalyst for self-growth, but we must acknowledge the tough journey, and ready ourselves to face it 

The hidden benefits of studying overseas 

However, let's set aside the negatives for a moment. Studying overseas comes with many hidden benefits that often go unnoticed. Studying abroad requires us to step outside our comfort zones, fostering independence, building new connections and embracing perspectives that were not present back in our hometowns.  Thus, this opportunity would give international students the ‘global edge’- when they return home, they not only bring back a degree but also cultural intelligence, international networks and often a new language or 2. Plus, the level of independence needed to live in a foreign country forces us to adapt quickly to unfamiliar systems, further building on their problem solving skills and developing our critical thinking. Ultimately, breaking away from our ‘normal’ lives gives us an opportunity not only to expand out knowledge in whatever course, but also experience profound personal growth. 

Evaluating different industries 

• Science Industries

 If you're a fellow science geek and you're thinking about studying in the science industries overseas, there’s a lot to be excited about—and a few things to keep in mind too. One of the biggest perks? Access to some seriously advanced research facilities. Imagine working in labs packed with cutting-edge AI, robotics, or nanotech equipment—stuff that you might not easily find back home in Singapore. Schools like MIT, ETH Zurich, and Imperial College London are known for this, and being in that kind of environment really pushes you to think bigger, explore more, and innovate beyond your comfort zone.

Another major plus is the opportunity to connect with people from all over the world. Science thrives on collaboration, and being in an international setting means exchanging ideas across cultures and disciplines—something that can spark truly original thinking. Of course, it's not always smooth sailing. Adapting to a new culture, dealing with language differences, and even wondering whether or not to return home after your studies (hello, brain drain dilemma) can be tough. But in my opinion, the benefits of growing both academically and personally in a global environment make it all worth it.

When it comes to science degrees, staying in Singapore isn’t the “boring” or “safe” option people think it is. Local universities like NUS and NTU consistently rank among the top in the world—NUS is even in the global top 10 for chemistry and life sciences. You’re not just getting solid academics; you’re stepping into research hubs like Biopolis, A*STAR, and Fusionopolis, right in your backyard. Tuition is way more affordable too, thanks to government subsidies. Instead of racking up student debt in USD or pounds, you can actually afford your kopi and still have savings left. Plus, internships and research opportunities here often lead directly to jobs—because local unis are deeply connected to industries in healthcare, biotech, and sustainability. You’re not just studying science; you’re quietly networking for your future. 

Sure, overseas schools can offer more flexible course structures or specialised labs. And yes, there’s the adventure of living abroad—four seasons, new cultures, and the thrill of doing your own laundry. But throw in high fees, cost of living, and tricky job prospects for international students, and it’s not always the dream it seems. If your long-term goal is to work in Singapore’s science sector, then studying locally isn’t a fallback—it’s a strategic, smart move that pays off in more ways than one.

• Humanities Industries 

In the arts and humanities, the real currency is perspective - and studying overseas grants a front-row seat to the global tapestry of rich cultures, histories, and human stories. Unlike STEM which is more vocational with structured pathways to higher-paying jobs, the decision to study overseas for humanities and social sciences (HUMSS) careers returns more exposure, networking and academic enrichment. HUMSS graduates rely on their ability to think critically, communicate effectively and engage with different cultural, societal, and human perspectives - skills sharpened through international education. 

The benefit of studying overseas for HUMSS careers then lies under access to renowned institutions, immersive cultural experiences and specialised mentorship. For example, an aspiring politics and international relations student interning at the UN in Geneva gets to attend conferences, engage with policy makers, and learn about human rights - learning about diplomacy in the very heart of where diplomacy happens. While STEM degrees build bridges and circuits, humanities degrees craft stories, shift paradigms, and speak truth to power - an alchemy of the mind that overseas studying can richly enhance. However, the high cost must be weighed against potentially lower entry-level salaries and competitive local job markets. Hence, the worth of an overseas education in the humanities industry is less about the “paycheque”, and more about the “passport” which opens doors to global opportunities and personal growth. 

Humssss…so what about the local scene? Let’s break down if studying locally makes more “cents” than going abroad. Local universities boast heavy subsidies, bringing down tuition costs at NUS, NTU or SMU to roughly S$8-12k a year. Singapore's government also accounts for mid-career upskilling and reskilling through SkillsFuture funds of over S$4.5k+ and 90% discounts for adults over 40. Compared to a mind-boggling $42-70k annual tuition fees in the States and S$27–54k in the UK, we start to see a drastic difference. Not to mention, living costs usually spike up an estimated 40% to 60% living overseas. 

In return, local grads receive ~S$3.8–4.3k/month with upwards projections to S$7–8 k mid‑career taking up higher responsibilities. Meanwhile overseas grads earn a 5% to 15% higher pay (~S$4.5–5 K). The headache worsens when we account for culture shock, unstable exchange rates, and global volatility. Sure, you get a sweet international network, shiny campus facilities, and stories about that one canal‑boat trip. But remember: Singapore employers value local degrees—and your internship and network here—just as much. Overall, perhaps it's not as much where you study, but how you study. Striving for the best, acquiring contemporary skills, and growing a tight-knit network is what truly matters.

Conclusion

In the end, studying overseas is not a one-size-fits-all decision. It depends heavily on personal goals, financial circumstances, career aspirations, and emotional readiness. While overseas education can offer unmatched global exposure, specialised opportunities, and personal growth, it also comes with significant financial and emotional costs. On the other hand, studying locally provides strong academic foundations, affordable tuition, and seamless industry integration, especially within the Singapore context. Ultimately, the value of your education is not determined solely by geography, but by the mindset you bring, the connections you build, and the purpose you pursue along the way.