FAQ

Studying at the Singapore Institute of Management opens global pathways for students and working adults. This FAQ answers common questions about our programmes, admissions, scholarships, and career support.

Learn about study options, entry requirements, tuition fees, financial aid, and how SIM helps you build employability through internships and lifelong learning. Find the information you need to plan your education journey with confidence.

Choice & Study Options

Junior Colleges prepare students for academic progression into local universities, while Polytechnics focus on applied learning and industry ready skills. At SIM Global Education, students benefit from the best of both worlds by gaining a globally recognised degree, practical exposure, and flexible learning pathways designed to support diverse career goals. For a deeper comparison, read SIM’s guide to JC vs Polytechnic vs Private Education pathways

SIM partners with established universities from the UK, US, Australia, Canada, and Europe, giving students access to internationally recognised degrees without the cost of studying abroad. This means you graduate with the same qualification as your overseas peers, while building your network and career opportunities locally. For a detailed comparison, read our guide to studying overseas versus pursuing an international degree in Singapore.

Yes. Degrees awarded through SIM Global Education are conferred directly by established overseas universities and follow the same academic standards as those offered on their home campuses. Many of SIM’s university partners are consistently ranked among the top universities globally. For example, universities such as the University of Alberta, RMIT University and University of Wollongong are placed within the top 100 to 200 globally. In addition, several university partners offering programmes at SIM, including the University at Buffalo and the University of Birmingham, have business schools accredited by AACSB, a distinction held by only a small percentage of business schools worldwide. These global rankings and accreditations ensure that a SIM degree is widely recognised, respected by employers, and valued both in Singapore and internationally.

Full time study provides an immersive campus experience with faster completion, ideal for students who want to focus on their studies. Part time study offers working professionals the flexibility to upgrade their qualifications while managing career commitments. Both pathways are designed to support your long term career progression. Click here to learn more about our application process. For a detailed comparison, read our guide on the difference between full-time and part-time studies.

Yes. Many programmes are delivered through on campus, online, or blended formats, giving students greater flexibility and accessibility while still benefiting from peer interaction and industry exposure. However, it may vary depending on the programme or university partner. For detailed comparsion, read our guide about online vs on-campus. 

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Studying overseas can cost more than $150,000 in total, while local universities offer subsidised options. SIM provides a cost effective alternative by delivering globally recognised degrees locally, allowing students to maximise return on investment without compromising on quality. Read our guide to see the true worth of education.

SIM offers a range of scholarships, including the SIM STARRR Award, SIM Award and SIM Sports and Artistic Talent Award. These scholarships recognise not only academic excellence, but also leadership, resilience, and diverse talents, reflecting SIM’s holistic approach to student development. Learn more about SIM scholarships, awards and financial support options.

Yes. SIM supports students from different financial backgrounds, ensuring that quality education remains accessible to those with the potential to succeed. SIM provides Enhanced Financial Aid (up to $13,500), Crisis Fund (up to $5,000), and community bursaries such as the Richard K M Eu-SIM Social Entrepreneurship Centre Fund (RESSEC). Learn more about financial aid and bursaries available to SIM students.

Eligible Singaporeans can utilise SkillsFuture Credits and subsidies for selected SIM Academy programmes. This provides additional support for lifelong learning and career upskilling, particularly for working adults. However, it is not applicable for SIM Global Education diploma to degree programmes.

Admission & Application

SIM offers multiple entry pathways, including GCE A Levels, Polytechnic Diplomas, IB Diploma, SIM Diplomas, and international qualifications. This flexibility allows students from different education backgrounds to access globally recognised degrees. Requirements vary by programme and partner university.

SIM accepts recognised qualifications such as GCE O Level English, IELTS, TOEFL, PTE and Duolingo. Students who apply to SIM foundation and diploma but do not meet these requirements  can take preparatory English programmes to ensure they are ready to succeed academically.

Applicants need to submit academic transcripts, certificates, proof of English proficiency, identification documents, and a passport sized photo to complete their application. Click here to find out more about application process. Learn more about the documents required for your SIM application.

Applications can be submitted through the online application portal. The process is designed to be straightforward, with digital verification options such as OpenCerts and remote verification available for convenience. Click here to find out more about the application process

Yes. Relevant diploma holders may receive exemptions of up to 1 to 1.5 academic years, enabling them to graduate faster and enter the workforce sooner. Terms and conditions apply. Learn how polytechnic graduates may receive credit exemptions for SIM degree programmes.

Career, Internship & Employability

SIM graduates are equipped with global perspectives and industry relevant skills, enabling them to pursue careers across sectors such as finance, technology, communications, and public service. Many graduates benefit from strong employer recognition of SIM’s university partners.

Through SIM Career Services, students gain access to career coaching, workshops, resume building support, employer networking events and job opportunities. This ensures students are well prepared for the transition from education to employment. Explore how SIM supports students from classroom to career.

Yes. SIM works with a network of industry partners, including MNCs and SMEs, to provide internship and work integrated learning opportunities that help students gain practical experience before graduation. Learn more about SIM internship pathways and work-integrated learning opportunities.

The SIM60 Work Integrated Learning and Leadership Award recognises students who demonstrate excellence during internships and showcase strong workplace readiness and leadership potential. Explore SIM’s work-integrated learning and internship excellence initiatives.

The CareerSense App is part of SIM’s career ecosystem, helping students identify career pathways, build resumes, and access job matching opportunities tailored to their skills and interests. Explore how SIM Career Connect and CareerSense support student employability.

SIM provides ongoing support through career services, alumni networks, and opportunities for further studies. Graduates automatically become part of the SIM alumni network, where they can access career resources, industry connections, and lifelong learning opportunities. They can also choose to join the SIM Society, a membership-based community that offers exclusive networking events, professional development programmes, and lifestyle benefits. Together, these platforms enable graduates to stay connected, continuously upskill, and grow both personally and professionally throughout their careers .Learn more about SIM alumni support, lifelong learning and career networking opportunities.