Singapore isn’t known for being cheap. But as an international student, you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy what the city has to offer. From food and transport to entertainment and essentials, here’s how ESSEC Asia-Pacific students make every dollar count.

1. Transport: Move smart for less

Singapore’s public transport is efficient and student-friendly. Once you’ve got your student concession card, your MRT and bus fares are significantly reduced.

But here’s a lesser-known hack:

• Use walking routes and park connectors for short distances. Apps like CityMapper and OneMap help you find scenic, walkable routes that save money and help you stay fit.
• For frequent commuters, Monthly Concession Passes offer unlimited travel at a flat rate.

2. Food: Eat well without spending much

Forget fine dining. Singapore’s hawker centres are where it’s at. Students swear by places like Chomp Chomp, Tiong Bahru Market, and Amoy Street Food Centre, where meals cost as little as SGD 3-5.

Pro tip:

• Look for stalls that offer student combos or lunch deals before 2 pm.
• Apps like Burpple, Chope, and Eatigo offer 1-for-1 deals or 30-50% discounts, especially during off-peak hours.

3. Groceries & essentials: Buy smart

Budget-conscious students avoid expensive supermarkets. Instead, they shop at:

• NTUC FairPrice, especially the FairPrice Xtra and Warehouse Club for bulk savings
• Wet markets for fresh produce (cheaper than supermarkets)
• Daiso and Valu$ for daily necessities, where everything starts at just SGD 2

Also, keep an eye on student promotions at Watsons, Guardian, and even Uniqlo, especially during back-to-school campaigns.

4. Entertainment: Free & discounted fun

You don’t need to spend time having fun in Singapore. Many museums, like the National Gallery and Asian Civilisations Museum, offer students free or $5 entry.

Other budget-friendly ideas:

• Free concerts at the Esplanade
• Outdoor movie nights at Marina Barrage or Gardens by the Bay
• Nature hikes at MacRitchie, Southern Ridges, or Pulau Ubin

Got a student card? Use it at Golden Village or The Projector for discounted movie tickets on weekdays.

5. Student discounts: Flash that student ID

Many brands offer student rates. You just need to ask.

Some lesser-known perks include:

• Spotify Premium Student: Half-price subscription
• Adobe Creative Cloud Student License: Up to 60% off
• Public libraries: Free access to e-books, online learning, and co-study spaces
• Local gyms and yoga studios: Offer student rates or trial classes for $10 or less

Living on a student budget in Singapore doesn’t mean missing out. ESSEC students have learned to stretch their dollars by being resourceful, planning ahead, and making small choices that add up.

So the next time you’re budgeting, remember: It’s not about spending less. It’s about spending smart.