Singapore has a high standard of living and can be an expensive place to live. The annual living costs for students are estimated to be around S$4,700 (Singapore Department of Statistics 2009). Rent is likely to be your biggest outgoing but there is a variety of options for students; some of them will offer better value for money. Food is relatively inexpensive if using University food outlets or if eating in. Local public transport is also cheap and a monthly transport pass will cost around S$90.

1.Halls of residence

On-campus graduate housing is generally available but demands greatly exceeds supply. Halls of residence are therefore reserved for full-time postgraduates with new students on research programmers often given priority. Some universities only provide on-campus accommodation for defined periods of time (one year) and this may not cover the entire duration of your course, particularly if you are a Ph.D. student. On-campus is offered on a self-catered basis (but university canteens and cafés are widely available). Universities generally do not offer accommodation to families and couples and recommend that students seek alternative in the private sector.

2. Privately shared flats

Privately owned apartment or house can be rented directly from the owner. This can be an expensive option, so sharing with fellow students will help reduce the cost. You can expect to pay around S$400 per person per month

3.Housing Development Board (HDB) flats

It is possible to rent a room in an HDB flat or the entire flat. This is a cheaper alternative to private housing. Prices for HDB properties range from S$250 (room only) to $1,000 (whole flat) per month.

4.Living in a flat of your own

This is the most expensive option and can cost anything from S$1000 upwards