Dreaming of going abroad for an internship to boost your CV? Then you should seriously consider find an internship in Singapore. Every year, thousands of students and recent graduates from all over the world are drawn to this destination. Why? Because it offers a highly dynamic job market, a fascinating mix of cultures, and above all, a 100% English-speaking work environment.
But be careful,find an internship in Singapore isn’t just about sending your CV and waiting for a reply. Competition is tough, administrative procedures can quickly become overwhelming, and there’s also a whole set of cultural codes you’ll need to understand before you arrive.
1. Choosing the Right Visa
Before you even send out your first CV, you need to be clear about the visa, without it your project won’t take off. Unlike some countries, Singapore doesn’t have a “one-size-fits-all internship visa.” Here, everything depends on your profile and the duration of your internship.
Here are the main options:
- Training Employment Pass (TEP): For foreign students doing an internship directly related to their studies. Usuallyvalid for 3 to 6 months.
- Work Holiday Pass (WHP): For young people aged 18 to 25. Allows you to work in Singapore for up to 6 months, including internships.
- Training Work Permit: Suitable for internships in less skilled positions.
- Student Pass: Sometimes required if your internship is part of a local university program.
⚠️ In most cases, your host company will need to sponsor your application. Processing times range from 2 to 6 weeks, so plan ahead.
2. Working Conditions and Professional Culture
Doing an internship in Singapore means immersing yourself in a professional environment that is both demanding and rewarding. The work week generally ranges between 40 and 44 hours. Paid leave is limited, and most interns are not entitled to paid vacation. However, some employers do provide a small allowance, as well as coverage for meals or transportation costs.
The professional culture is characterized by punctuality and rigor. Your supervisors will expect productivity, proactivity, and the ability to learn quickly on the job. Local communication norms are based on respect for hierarchy and politeness.
What makes the experience unique is the blend of Asian and Western influences. You work in a modern, international setting, but with strong values of discipline and respect. For many foreign students, it’s their first immersion in a demanding yet highly rewarding global professional culture.
3. Prepare a Standout Application
The CV
In Singapore, your application needs to be solid if you want to stand out. It all starts with your CV: it should be in English, concise, and results-oriented. Forget long-winded blocks of text, recruiters want a clear, readable document that highlights what you’ve achieved, not just a list of your tasks. Generally, one page is enough.
The Cover Letter
Next comes the cover letter or accompanying email. No need to write a novel, two or three short paragraphs are more than enough. The goal is to show that you’ve done your research on the company and that you know what you can contribute. It should be: simple, effective, and personalized.
The LinkedIn Profile
Your LinkedIn profile also needs to be polished. In Singapore, it is always checked. Use a professional photo, a clear description, keywords related to your field, and, if possible, a few recommendations from professors or former supervisors. Finally, be prepared with academic or professional references, as some employers request them to finalize the hiring process.
4. Where and how to Look for an Internship in Singapore?
Online platforms
Online platforms remain the essential first step for find an internship in Singapore. The must-visit sites include:
- InternSG, JobStreet and JobsCentral for local job or internship.
- LinkedIn Jobs et Glassdoor for international listings and internships at large companies
Speculative applications
But don’t make the mistake of stopping at job listings. In Singapore, speculative applications work very well, especially with small companies or startups. Identify the companies you’re interested in and contact them directly with a personalized email, it can make all the difference.
Activate your network
Another often underestimated avenue is your university. Some schools have partnerships with local companies. Your academic or professional network (professors, former colleagues, alumni) can also open doors for you.
Networking
Finally, don’t forget about networking. Singapore is full of professional events: trade shows, conferences, and afterworks organized by chambers of commerce or expat associations. Many opportunities are never posted online… but can be found over a coffee or a drink.
5. Ace the Interview and Convince a Recruiter
Once your application is shortlisted, the interview is the stage that will set you apart from other candidates.
Recruiters will mainly assess your motivation, adaptability, and English proficiency. Be prepared to talk about your skills, goals, and what you expect from the internship.
The dress code remains formal, especially if you are targeting finance, law, or a large company. Arrive early, use respectful body language, and answer concisely.
Tip: Prepare a few questions to ask at the end of the interview. It shows that you are genuinely interested and serious about the opportunity.
6. Finding Housing in Singapore
Before settling in Singapore, it’s best to have a clear idea of the housing options and their costs. Indeed, rent is one of the realities you need to consider whenplanning to find an internship in Singapore and live here comfortably.
| Type of Housing | City Center | Suburbs |
| Studio | 3 000 SGD (≈ 2190 $) | 2 000 SGD (≈ 1 460 $) |
| Shared Apartment | 1 500 SGD (≈ 1095 $) | 1 000 SGD (≈ 730 $) |
| 1 bedroom apartment (T2) | 3 600 SGD (≈ 2630 $) | 2 600 SGD (≈ 1900 $) |
| 2 bedroom apartment (T3) | 5 000 SGD (≈ 3650 $) | 3 500 SGD (≈ 2 555 $) |
7. Cost of Living
The city often ranks among the most expensive in the world, and your budget will mostly depend on housing: expect between S$1,000 and 1,500 (~US$770–1,150) for a shared room, and over S$3,000 (~US$2,300) for a studio in the city center.
Good news: public transport is still affordable (S$100–150/month for the MRT), and when it comes to food, hawker centres let you eat for S$4–7 (~US$3–5) per dish. But if you eat too often at trendy restaurants, it can get pricey quickly.
For leisure, budget around S$15 (~US$11) for a cinema ticket, S$10 (~US$7.70) for a beer, and up to S$100 (~US$77) for a night out at a club. On average, an intern spends S$1,800–2,500 per month (~US$1,380–1,900), rent included. This budget is a key factor to plan if you want to find an internship in Singapore without financial stress.
Another point to anticipate is managing your money abroad. Bank fees can pile up if you withdraw or transfer from your European account. To avoid this, you can use Wise, an app that allows you to open a multi-currency account and spend directly in Singapore dollars with a card that has no hidden fees. Exchange rates are transparent and much better than those of traditional banks.
8. Why you can’t travel without health insurance
When preparing your plan to find an internship in Singapore, people often think about the visa, housing, or cost of living… but health is often overlooked. Yet, Singapore has an excellent medical system, albeit extremely expensive. You’ll find more practical advice in our article on how to manage your health in Singapore.
That’s why it’s essential to take out international health insurance before you leave. For an internship, the most suitable plan is Cap Student by Chapka Assurances. Designed for students and interns, it covers 100% of medical and hospital expenses abroad, with no limits. You also benefit from:
- Repatriation assistance in case of a serious problem,
- Baggage coverage up to 2,200$
- And even a specific guarantee for equipment entrusted to you during your internship.
Whatever your situation, Chapka offers a clear and effective insurance solution so you can enjoy your internship in Singapore peace of mind, without worrying about unexpected medical expenses.
Conclusion
Looking for an internship in Singapore is no walk in the park: between visas, paperwork, the search itself, and adapting once you arrive, it requires planning and a lot of energy. But it’s definitely worth it. Doing an internship in such a dynamic and international city is a sure way to boost your resume, expand your network, and gain a unique personal experience.
So, if you’re ready to step out of your comfort zone, start preparing your plan now.
What types of visas exist for doing an internship in Singapore?
There are several options depending on your profile: Training Employment Pass (TEP), Work Holiday Pass (WHP), Training Work Permit, or Student Pass.
Is it easy for an international student to find an internship in Singapore?
Yes, but competition is strong. You need a concise, results-oriented CV in English and a good network.
What is the average cost of living for an intern in Singapore?
An intern typically spends 1,800–2,500$ per month (1,380–1,900$), including housing. Housing represents the largest part of the budget.
Are interns paid in Singapore?
Remuneration depends on the company. Some internships are paid (around 800–1,000$/month, 615–770$), while others only offer benefits (meals, transport).
