Welcoming the Liao family from China: getting to know Singapore’s education and city, starting from the student residence | Singapore Global International

At noon on 10 October, Mr Liao and his family arrived in Singapore from China and moved into Singapore Global International’s student residence. Once settled, our director Mr Wu talked with Mr Liao and his wife about education and city life here: choosing a school, getting around, and pathways to university.

Education here is built on bilingualism: lessons in English, with the mother tongue (Chinese, Malay or Tamil) kept up. Schools range from government and government-aided to autonomous and international — different routes, all guided by teaching to the child’s ability. Beyond exams, co-curricular activities (CCA), teamwork and leadership count too. Results open the way to junior colleges, polytechnics or universities, and local universities rank highly internationally.

Public transport also impressed the Liao family. The MRT and LRT cover the island, bus routes are dense, and interchanges have clear signs and sheltered walkways. Rides can be paid with an EZ-Link card or by tapping a phone, and most trips from the residence to the city centre, schools or the airport take about an hour. Mr Wu suggested getting familiar with nearby bus stops and the MRT station first.

On higher education, Mr Wu introduced the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD). Founded with MIT, SUTD is known for cross-disciplinary training in design and technology, with master’s programmes such as the Master of Science in Technology and Design (MTD). Its IC Design, Failure Analysis and Reliability track is run with Wintech-Nano, and 2027 admissions are open with the interview schedule announced. Such programmes link coursework to industry practice, giving a clearer landing point either way.

Talent selection here is clear standards with multiple pathways: ability is identified at milestones such as the primary school leaving examination, O-Levels and A-Levels — but scores are not everything, since interviews, portfolios and co-curricular achievements all count, and scholarships help high achievers. For those working, schemes such as the Employment Pass and the ONE Pass bring in professionals, weighing qualifications, salary and real capability.

On accommodation, CEDAR STAY — our student residence brand — is in Choa Chu Kang and offers two options: a student apartment for those who want to live alongside fellow students, and homestay for younger children who benefit from faster immersion in the language environment. Both cover accommodation, meals and daily care, include study supervision, and keep regular contact with schools and parents; transport and holiday arrangements can be discussed as needed.

Below are photos of the student residence bedrooms: an individual bedroom with desk and wardrobe, bright windows, and everyday essentials within reach.

Over the coming days, Mr Wu will help the Liao family get familiar with transport and amenities nearby, and arrange admissions consultations based on the children’s grades and goals.