Programm Course Name
Master of Science in Accounting (Data & Analytics) (MSA)
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18
MONTHS DURATION (FULL-TIME) (with flexibility to complete in 12 months)
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24
MONTHS DURATION (PART-TIME)
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SGD 57,770 TUITION FEE (INCLUSIVE OF GST)
Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a tax collected on behalf of the Singapore Government and will be charged at the prevailing rate
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Application Closes
May 2025 (for August 2025 intake)
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PRE-REQUISITES
Good Bachelor's Degree
Sufficient background in Accounting/Finance/Statistics/Business
SMU Admissions Test / GMAT / GRE
TOEFL / IELTS (if your undergraduate studies were not conducted in English)
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Chat with our friendly MSA Ambassadors
About The Master of Science in Accounting (Data & Analytics)
Designed to be industry and profession centric, the SMU MSA aims to build our graduates into competent professionals. It combines the practical use of the latest analytics technology and data sets as well as real-world experience using actual company cases and innovative teaching pedagogy such as the SMU-X. This knowledge of how and where to apply technological expertise in authentic settings will enable you to perform the higher-level tasks that are increasingly expected of accountants.
Why pursue the MSA?
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1
First of Its Kind Programme in Asia
Be part of the first Master’s in Accounting degree programme in Asia that equips students with essential programming skills for critical business decision making. Armed with machine learning and data analytics skills, you will excel in using data to streamline processes, optimise resources and forecast future revenues.
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2
The SMU-X Experience
Learn through real-life industry projects, develop interdisciplinary problem-solving techniques, and receive active mentoring from faculty and industry partners.
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3
Internships & Global Immersion Programme
Enhance your skills through industrial internships and overseas study immersion programmes or exchanges that are an essential part of equipping you with the real-world and international perspectives you need in order to excel.
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4
Recognised by Industry Partners
Benefit from the various aspects of a pioneering MSA programme well-recognised by leading corporations in the finance and business world and guided by a dedicated data analytics advisory board.
Class Profile
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Age Range20s - 40s
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Average GMAT662
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International Students46%
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Nationalities8
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Average Years of Work Experience5
Testimonials
Austin Lai
Assistant Vice President (Financial Control), OCBC Bank
Class of 2020
Class of 2020
Ryan Guo
Senior Director, Finance Data and Process Excellence, Visa
Class of 2021
Class of 2021
Goh Shun Min
Data Analyst, Enterprise Data Strategy & Analytics team, UOB
Class of 2021
Class of 2021
Mr Richard Lowe
Managing Director & Group Chief Data Officer
United Overseas Bank
United Overseas Bank
Industries MSA Graduates Work In
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Audit / Accounting33%
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Business / Financial Services21%
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Technology12%
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Education10%
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Transportation / Logistics7%
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Others17%
Programme Details
Programme Calendar
The MSA is designed for professionals who are interested in developing expertise in applying data technology into their domain knowledge to solve business problems, especially in the finance and accounting sectors. The availability of massive amounts of data has created a high demand for skilled data analytics professionals who can analyse such data and obtain the insight needed for informed decision-making. This is extremely vital to accounting and financial services firms as they have been dealing with large amounts of information produced by their clients.
Full-time
Aug - Nov
5 Core Modules
Nov - Dec
1 Elective
Jan - Apr
4 Core Modules
1 Elective**
Apr - Aug
2 Core Modules +SMU-X
1 Elective**
Jul - Nov
Internship Elective
Professional Development Courses
Part-time
Aug - Nov
3 Core Modules
Nov - Dec
1 Elective
Jan - Apr
2 Core Modules
1 Elective**
Apr - Jul
1 Core Module
1 Elective**
Aug - Nov
2 Core Modules
Nov - Dec
1 Elective
Jan - Apr
2 Core Modules
1 Elective**
Apr - Aug
1 Core Module + SMU-X
1 Elective**
Professional Development Courses
Eligible students can take their Internship at any point during the course of study,
as long as the 10-week requirement is fulfilled.
as long as the 10-week requirement is fulfilled.
**Students are required to take either two electives or one elective and one internship to fulfil the graduation requirement.
Programme Information
Accounting and finance professionals are increasingly expected to use big data to facilitate daily business decision. The SMU MSA aims to build you into a competent and future-ready professional. The programme combines the practical use of the latest analytics technology and data sets, as well as real-world experience, using company cases with innovative teaching pedagogy such as the SMU-X for students to learn how to analyse large amount of data to uncover patterns and insights. This knowledge of how and where to apply technological expertise will enable you to perform at the higher level needed to give your firm a valuable competitive advantage.
Course Structure
The MSA programme consists of 15-course units (CU), including 11 CU discipline courses, 1CU Capstone course, 2CU either from Internship and/or Elective courses and 1CU Professional Development course taught over 24 months on a part-time basis or over 12-18 months on a full-time basis, commencing in August of each calendar year.
Full-time students with working experience less than three years will continue from August to January after Term 3 for an internship and/or global immersion programmes. Part-time students and students with three years of working experience or more will be exempt from the internship graduation requirement. Part-time students will be enrolled in the evening classes. All students will officially graduate around February and attend the graduation ceremony in July or August.
PILLAR
COURSE
Accounting
Booster
Booster
- Financial Reporting and Analysis
- Managing Sustainable Value Creation
Data
Analytics
Analytics
- Applied Statistic for Data Analysis
- Programming with Data
- Data Management
- Forecasting and Forensic Analytics
- Analytics for Value Investing
- Analytics for Financial Instrument
- Visual Analytics for Accounting
- Accounting Processes and Analysis
- Automation for Finance Transformation
Electives
- Blockchain and the New Economies
- Modern AI Applications in Business
- Data Governance and Quality
- Global Immersion Programme
- Relevant courses from other Postgraduate Programmes
Industry &
Professional
Professional
- Accounting Analytics Capstone (SMU-X)
- SMU Professional Development Courses
- Internship
Programme
Activities
Activities
- Industry Talks
- Masterclass
- Student Workshops
- Activities
- CSR Project
a. Financial Reporting and Analysis
Acquire an in-depth knowledge of the latest IFRSs as well as the standard-setting process and the conceptual framework behind the standards. Learn about recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of various elements of financial statements as well as its implications for financial analysis.
b. Managing Sustainable Value Creation
Gain understanding of the drivers of enterprise value, as well as examine how an enterprise can manage its overall operating performance and financial position to create and enhance value for stakeholders.
a. Programming with Data
Learn programming fundamental concepts and constructs, the building blocks of information systems, through Python, a widely-used, high-level, general-purpose and interactive programming language.
b. Data Management
Build a strong foundation in understanding fundamental data management concepts such as database design and implementation in current business information systems, some basic concepts related to unstructured data, and query a database using Structured Query Language (SQL).
c. Applied Statistics for Data Analysis
Acquire knowledge in applying statistical and machine learning algorithms for analysing data that is crucial to all four stages of analytics (descriptive, diagnostic, predictive and prescriptive) with the R programming language.
d. Visual Analytics for Accounting
This course will introduce students to principles and techniques for data visualization, which is an important means by which accountants can communicate insights obtained from data modelling to their intended recipients. Students will learn how to construct visualizations (bar charts, histograms, scatter plots, pie charts, etc) and develop dashboards and other interactive visualisations in a manner that supports decision-making in accounting. In particular, students will learn how to interpret data presented in the charts constructed to solve accounting problems.
e. Accounting Processes and Analysis
This course equips accounting professionals with essential skills to leverage data as a strategic asset in today's digital age. Students will gain a deep understanding of key information qualities and technologies that enhance decision-making and competitive edge. The course covers core accounting processes crucial for operational efficiency, a risk-centric approach to business process improvement, and essential organizational and IT governance concepts.
f. Forecasting and Forensic Analytics
Use statistical learning algorithms to explore how financial data and non-financial metrics can interact to forecast events, detect financial discrepancies and frauds, predict corporate default, optimize operations, and determine business strategy.
g. Analytics for Financial Instruments
Learn how to analyse the various financial instruments in the capital markets. Explore valuation and impairment issues of financial instruments and how these instruments can be used for financial risk management and business decisions.
h. Analytics for Value Investing
Learn to develop statistical models and computerised algorithms to uncover securities to make evidence-based investing decisions. The skills taught in this course would be useful for students who wish to pursue a career in securities investing, asset management, investment analytics, or financial consulting.
i. Automation for Finance Transformation
This course is tailored to equip finance and accounting professionals with the expertise and skills required to automate and optimize financial processes using Python and Microsoft Power Automate. Participants will gain in-depth knowledge of Python RPA libraries, advanced web scraping methodologies, data manipulation techniques, and API integration strategies. The course also covers automation of email processing and explores the robust functionalities of Power Automate for both web and desktop automation. Through practical applications and tackling of real-world problems, the course aims to prepare participants to implement intelligent automation solutions to a successful finance transformation.
a. Blockchain and the New Economies
Learn about the blockchain ecosystem, from concept to evolution, from technologies to applications. Learn about the defining characteristics of blockchain technologies and learn to design, develop, and evaluate the application of blockchain technologies in various settings for problem-solving.
b. Modern AI Applications in Business
This course covers some of the advanced methods in the field, with hands-on application so students will be ready to embrace the future of analytical practice using machine learning, deep learning and large language models algorithms.
c. Data Governance and Quality
Learn how data governance is integral to the strategic direction of the business, how data is governed through its entire lifecycle, the benefits of various components of strong data management, and how it may be best leveraged to drive business outcomes.
a. Accounting Analytics Capstone (SMU-X)
Experience a real-life learning opportunity that allows you to translate classroom knowledge and theory into practical solutions for real organisations. Through this student consultancy project, you will learn to solve complex business problems with guidance from faculty and project sponsor mentors, from problem definition to final client presentation in real-world settings.
b. SMU Professional Development Courses
Our holistic postgraduate experience delivers learning opportunities that support students in gaining multi-dimensional skills, insight and knowledge, with preparedness to chart a path to success for themselves, their organisation and industry. Considered an integral part of the learning experience is our Postgraduate Professional Development Series (PDS). This series, delivered by SMU faculty who are leaders in their fields and supported by trained industry experts, complements classroom-based learning with provocative, interactive workshops that are key to sustained personal and professional growth.
You will be able to select and self-register for the workshops you qualify for during designated dates throughout the year, completing the PDS as part of your graduation requirements. You’ll find the topics engaging and diverse, ranging from interpersonal effectiveness and communication, critical/creative thinking skills and negotiation to leadership, organisational behaviour, data analytics, spreadsheet modelling, innovation and business sustainability.
c. Internship
An internship is part of the graduation requirement for the programme for students with less than two years of work experience. Our Office of Career Services invites firms on-campus for career talks and networking sessions. They also provide assistance to students who are interested to locate an internship during their course of studies. Students gain firsthand experience working in the accounting industry.
Events
How to Apply
Application Period
The online application for the August 2025 intake starts 1 September 2024 with the following admissions phases:
Phase 1 - 30 November 2024
Phase 2 - 31 January 2025
Phase 3 - 31 March 2025
Phase 4 - 31 May 2025
All supporting documents including GMAT/ TOEFL/ IELTS scores must reach us by the stipulated deadlines above.
Please get ready contact details of two referrals for uploading and read the Applicant's Guide to Admission before submitting your application online.
How to Submit Your Application
The first step is to complete the online application form and attach copies of the required documents as instructed. Keep a copy of your submission for your records. Your application will only be processed when we have received all the required documents and payment.
Documents to submit
- Updated Resume
- Undergraduate Degree Scroll
- Undergraduate Degree Transcript
- Any other supporting documents
- SMU Admissions Test/GMAT/GRE
- IELTS/TOEFL if undergraduate degree was not taught in English
- Passport
- Two References: please provide the name, email and contact number of two referees (they can be from your colleagues, superiors or friends). Referees will be notified to complete their referral forms online.
Eligible candidates will be shortlisted for an interview with the Admissions Panel.
Other Information You Should Note:
- Correspondences will be sent mainly by email, please ensure that you check your email regularly.
- Interviews will be conducted between October to June for shortlisted applicants.
- Successful applicants will be informed within 1-2 weeks after the interview.
- Our FAQs cover important information useful to you during your application phase, please refer to them and contact our office for assistance should the nature of your enquiry fall outside of our FAQs.
Once you have submitted your application and have received the application number confirmation email, you can use the Applicant Self Service functions to check your application status or update your contact information.
Please refer to the Applicant's Self Service Guide, please click here.
The application criteria for the MSA programme are as follows:
- Applicants must demonstrate good prior academic performance in an undergraduate degree from a recognised institution of higher learning.
- Applicants must have sufficient background in Mathematics/Calculus.
- Applicants have the option to take SMU Admissions Test (SMUAT) or GMAT or GRE as an admission test for application to the programme.
- Applicants with relevant working experience will have an added advantage.
- Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an online interview by members of the MSA Admissions Panel.
- Applicants must show proficiency in the English language. A TOEFL (min. score of 90) or IELTS (min. score of 6.5) test is required if the applicant's undergraduate degree was not conducted in English.
You are required to take an Admission Test for admission to the MSA programme, regardless of your academic background or prior qualifications. You may choose to take the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) / GRE (Graduate Record Examinations General Test), or the SMUAT (Singapore Management University Admissions Test). If you have previously taken the GMAT or GRE, it must have been taken within five years of the date of your application submission.
You are strongly encouraged to take the SMUAT if you do not have a GMAT/GRE Score Report. Details of this test will be provided to you once your application has been submitted.
The following groups of candidates are exempted from GMAT/GRE/SMU Admissions Test:
- SMU Bachelor’s degree graduates with a minimum cGPA of 3.4/4.0 (within 5 years of graduation)
- SUTD/NUS/NTU/SUSS/SIT Bachelor’s degree graduates with a minimum cGPA of 3.6/5.0 (within 5 years of graduation)
However, meeting the cGPA academic input does not guarantee acceptance and candidates may still be asked to take the GMAT/GRE/SMU Admission Test.
If your undergraduate studies were not taught in English, you must take the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language). An IELTS (min. score of 6.5) or TOEFL (min. score of 90) report is required. Either test must be taken within the last two years of your application submission.
You will need to email the unofficial results of your test to the SMU Admissions Office and make a request at the relevant test centre to send your official score report to SMU.
We adopt a holistic approach in our selection process and the overall quality of the applicant determines his/her admission to the programme. This would include prior academic performance at university, work experience, referee reports, interview scores, etc.
Official score reports can be sent via the following Institution Codes:
TESTS INSTITUTION CODES
GMAT: F8D-3B-44
GRE: 2861 (Department Code: 4001 - Accounting)
TOEFL: 9014 (Department Name: Accounting)
SMUAT
The SMUAT is an online test comprising three components: verbal, numerical, and inductive reasoning. This Fact Sheet contains further information. To register for the SMUAT, you will be required to complete the MSA application first of S$100. After you have submitted the application, please log in to the Applicant Self Service portal to make an additional payment of S$125 for the test and send us the payment receipt via email: SOAMasters@smu.edu.sg. Once we have processed the payment, we will get in touch with you to send the test information over email.
More information about SMUAT is available here.
GMAT
More information about GMAT is available on the GMAT website. To enhance the competitiveness of your application, you should attain a GMAT score of 600 or higher, OR a GMAT Focus edition score of 555 or higher (try a GMAT mini quiz)
GRE
More information about GRE is available on the GRE website. To make your application more competitive, you should achieve a minimum GRE combined score of verbal and quantitative components of 312.
Programme Fees
Application
S$100 (inclusive of GST)
Application fee is non-refundable and applicable at the time of submissions.
Registration / Deposit
- S$5,400 for Singaporeans & PR
- S$5,500 for Foreigners
Registration and Deposits fee is non-refundable* and payable on acceptance to the programme. The registration fee of S$400 or S$500 covers matriculation, examination fees, orientation activities, library and computer account. The deposit fee of S$5,000 will contribute to first billing of the tuition fee.
Tuition Fee
S$57,770 (inclusive of GST)
Payment Schedule
First billing of fees in term 1 and second billing of fees in term 2 for full-time students
First billing of fees in term 1 and second billing of fees in term 4 for part-time students
Payment notice will be sent to students one month prior to term commencement.
- Tuition fees are locked in once the student enters the programme. Singapore Management University reserves the right to alter tuition fees for new incoming cohorts when required.
- For the avoidance of doubt, the deposit shall form part of the total tuition fees for the programme, however, SMU will not refund the deposit should a student withdraw from the programme at any time after accepting the offer.
- Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a tax collected on behalf of the Singapore Government and will be charged at the prevailing rate.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
The late Diana Koh Ming Ying was a highly talented and accomplished veteran in the accounting and advisory field in Singapore. Her professional success was built on her hard work and dedication, as well as being the very caring and compassionate person that she was. In line with her well-known generosity, a legacy to support deserving students at SMU has been established with a contribution from her estate.
The objective of the scholarship is to support and spur the students to achieve excellence in their studies and to accord appropriate recognition to the recipients for their accomplishments.
The scholarship, which is valued at $20,000 (inclusive of GST), will offer financial support towards the recipient’s annual tuition costs and/or study-related expenses.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
To be eligible for this Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Open to students of Master of Professional Accounting and Master of Science in Accounting (Data & Analytics) programmes Singapore citizen or Singapore Permanent Resident
- Outstanding academic achievements
- Demonstrate active involvement in co-curricular activities and community service pursuits
- Demonstrate leadership potential and a good sense of citizenship within SOA or the broader SMU community
- Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0
- Demonstrate financial-neediness as per University’s metrics
- Interview session with the Donor
Application is not required for the Diana Koh Scholarship, which is awarded to students in the MSA Program after due consideration by the faculty based on the criteria listed above.
The SMU MASTERS ASEAN Scholarship is to incentivize good applicants from ASEAN countries to pursue SMU Master’s Degree programs and to increase the diversity and overall learning experience in the classroom. Recipients of the scholarship are expected to be good ambassadors of SMU in general and to participate actively in student development and outreach activities.
One scholarship valued at S$10,000 (inclusive of GST) will be awarded for each Academic Year.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
To be eligible for this Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizen of an ASEAN member country or observer nation (PNG and Timor-Leste)
- Applicants must matriculate into the SMU Postgraduate programme (no deferment)
- Excellent academic background
- Not a concurrent recipient of any other SMU-funded scholarships
Application is not required for the SMU MASTERS ASEAN Scholarship, which is awarded to students in the MSA Program after due consideration by the faculty based on the criteria listed above.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA:
1. Academic Excellence: Generally with a minimum GPA of 4.5 out of 5.0 or equivalent in undergraduate studies.
2. Leadership Potential: demonstrated leadership experience through extracurricular activities, work experience, or community service.
3. Global Perspective: Evidence of international experience, such as studying abroad, international internships, or multicultural engagement.
4. Personal Statement: A compelling personal statement outlining career goals and how the scholarship will help achieve them.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA:
1. Academic Performance: Generally with a minimum GPA of 4.0 out of 5.0 for the $10,000 level and 3.5 out of 5.0 for the $5,000 level.
2. Professional Achievements: Relevant work experience or internships in accounting or related areas.
3. Extracurricular Involvement: Active participation in relevant clubs, organisations, or community service.
4. Personal Statement: A well-written personal statement demonstrating the candidate’s commitment to accounting.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA:
1. Interest in Sustainability: Demonstrated coursework, projects, or volunteer work in sustainability.
2. Academic Achievement: Generally with a minimum GPA of 3.5 out of 5.0 or equivalent in undergraduate studies.
3. Project Proposal: A brief proposal outlining a sustainability-related project or initiative the candidate have done.
4. Personal Statement: A personal statement detailing the candidate’s passion for sustainability and future aspirations in the field.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA:
1. Entrepreneurial Experience: Demonstrated experience in starting or managing a business independently or within a family business.
2. Academic Achievement: Generally with a minimum GPA of 3.5 out of 5.0 or equivalent in undergraduate studies.
3. Business Proposal: The candidate must submit a business proposal outlining an entrepreneurial venture they are currently involved in or plan to develop, along with evidence of innovative thinking and the potential impact the business could have on the industry or community.
4. Personal Statement: A personal statement describing the candidate’s entrepreneurial journey, challenges, and future goals.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA:
1. Leadership Experience: Proven leadership experience in academic, professional, or community settings, with tangible examples of initiatives led and outcomes achieved.
2. Academic Achievement: Generally with a minimum GPA of 3.5 out of 5.0 or equivalent in undergraduate studies.
3. Proven Leadership: A strong recommendation letter from referees highlighting the candidate’s leadership qualities, skills, and impact in academic, professional, or community settings.
4. Extracurricular Activities: involvement in leadership roles in extracurricular activities or organisations.
The CIMB ASEAN Scholarship is committed towards helping young talent in need to realise their dreams. Going beyond financial support, the Scholarship programme provides exciting professional development and a mentor support system designed to empower the region's young talent to turn their lives around and make a difference for those around them. Recognizing the evolving nature of the banking industry, CIMB welcomes applicants from a wide variety of academic disciplines, such as those studying Computer Science, Data Science and Psychology, apart from degrees traditionally associated with a career in banking such as Accounting, Economics, and finance. To find out more, please visit here.
Established in 2024, the objective of the EY Excellence Scholarship is to motivate exceptional postgraduate students in Singapore Management University’s School of Accountancy, with the aim of spurring them to greater heights of academic excellence. One scholarship valued at S$15,000 (inclusive of GST) will be awarded for each Academic Year.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
- Singapore Citizen or Singapore Permanent Resident.
- Must matriculate into the SMU MSA Program (no deferment)
- Good academic achievements (minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0)
- While not a requirement, consideration will be given to postgraduates with demonstrated financial needs.
Synonymous with both prestige and a willingness to serve Singapore, the Lee Kuan Yew (LKY) Scholarship marks Singapore’s continuous effort to recognise outstanding individuals with the aptitude and inclination to contribute to our society.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Applicants, who must be Singapore citizens, will be assessed holistically. This includes their track record of leadership and achievement in their fields of pursuit or profession. Applicants should also have the potential to excel in their fields/professions, which will contribute to and benefit Singapore and our society.
Find out more about the scholarship here.
For more information, please contact psc@psd.gov.sg
The SG:D Scholarship (Postgraduate) is an industry scholarship that empowers individuals interested in pursuing ICM-related studies at the Masters or PhD level. Individuals pursuing postgraduate studies in specialised ICM-related areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Analytics, Immersive Media, and Digital Content Creation can chart their future with this scholarship.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Singapore citizen;
- A postgraduate program has to be ICM-related and offered by a local autonomous university, local arts institution or renowned overseas university;
- Current student taking his/her first postgraduate programme with minimally one academic year of study remaining from the point of scholarship award; or
- Candidate who has yet to enroll in any postgraduate programmes and will commence his/her first Masters or PhD within one year from the point of scholarship award;
- Online or Distance learning courses and part-time PhD programmes are not eligible.
- Not a recipient of, or hold any other scholarship or other award of a monetary nature (excluding bursary and financial aid); and
- Priority will be given to non-public officers. Public officers are encouraged to apply in-house schemes available in their organisations.
- Fresh graduates or professionals are welcome to apply.
The SG:D Scholarship is currently open for application and closes each year on 31 March.
For more information, please visit the IMDA website.
LPDP is committed to preparing Indonesian future leaders and professionals through scholarships and encouraging research innovation through research funding. LPDP continues to move towards an organisation with high competitiveness, not only on a local scale, but on a regional and even international scale.
We are proud to share that SMU has been recognised as an approved Masters/PhD destination for “all subject” under the LPDP 2023 programme.
Please visit LPDP for more information. Apply for the LPDP scholarship here.
The Financial Services Authority of Indonesia (Otoritas Jasa Keuangan) is an Indonesian government agency which regulates and supervises the financial sector. The OJK Sponsorship is offered to OJK employees who are keen to pursue a Master or Doctoral degree in SMU. OJK employees may contact their HR department to find out more about the sponsorship and eligibility criteria.
- The SkillsFuture Level-Up Programme offers Singaporeans aged 40 years and above the opportunity to receive the SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career) Top-up of S$4,000. This credit is intended to help offset out-of-pocket tuition fees, starting from the Academic Year 2024/2025 intake, commencing on or after 1 May 2024. Please visit https://www.skillsfuture.gov.sg/level-up-programme for further details.
- up to 90% course fee subsidies are not eligible for MSA programme. Please visit https://www.skillsfuture.gov.sg/initiatives/mid-career/enhancedsubsidy for further details.
- Singapore Citizens with eligible Post-Secondary Education Account (PSEA) may utilize balance funds for tuition fees. Click here for more details.
- Students seeking financing aid may approach their local bank(s) directly to enquire and apply for the various study loan packages.
|
SMU Discount Scheme |
Eligibility |
Amount |
Exemption Discount* |
|
SMU Alumni Discount |
SMU UG/PG alumni |
$8,000 |
Up to 4 CUs exemption at $3,000 each (for alumni of local AUs and PUs) |
|
SC/PR |
Singapore Citizens/ Permanent Residents |
$5,000 |
|
|
Partner Universities and Local AUs (SMU/NUS/NTU/SIT/SUSS/SUTD) |
Partner Universities and Local AUs |
$4,000 |
|
|
ASEAN |
ASEAN nationals |
$3,000 |
|
|
Corporate |
Corporate Partners |
$6,000 |
*Only for specifically identified exempted courses with prior studies at PU/SMU, typically requiring a satisfactory performance for recognition. Note that exemptions may result in ineligibility of professional accreditations.
Each student is only eligible for one discount. Should a student qualify for more than one discount, only the higher discount will be applicable.
The Singapore Management University reserves the right to amend the discount schemes for new incoming cohorts when required.
Terms & Conditions Apply.
For more information, please call 6333 7777.
For enquiry on this, please contact:
Selva Kumaran
Senior Executive
DID: (65) 6661 2157
Email: selva.subramaniam@cimb.com
For more information, please call 6333 0033 or visit https://www.posb.com.sg/personal/loans/education-loans/posb-further-study-assist
Email: personalloans@dbs.com
The application must be with a joint applicant who is a Singaporean or Singapore PR. More details are available at http://info.maybank2u.com.sg/personal/loans/personal-credit/mb-education-loan.aspx
Contact Person:
Mr Javier Chan
Personal Finance Executive
DID: (65) 6338 6543
Email: chan@maybank.com.sg
For more information please call 1 800 323 0100 or visit http://www.rhbbank.com.sg/personal/loans/education_loan.html.
Contact Person:
Cheryl Chan
DID: (65) 8139 9820
Email: cheryl.chan@rhbgroup.com
For more information please call 1 800 438 3333 or visit https://www.frankbyocbc.com/products/investments/edu-loan/
Indian nationals admitted to SMU are eligible to acquire study loan against security given by them from SBI in India. Visit www.sbising.com for more details or call 1 800 724 7464 / 6228 1116.
FAQ
FAQ
The Master of Science in Accounting (Data and Analytics) covers 12 courses. Each course consists of 12 class sessions of three-hour duration each. Students may complete the MSA over two years on a part-time basis or within 14 months if they do it full-time. Classes are held on weekday evenings and on Saturdays for both the part-time and full-time programmes.
There is only one admission intake per year in August.
Classes are conducted on weekday evenings from 7:00pm to 10:15pm and on some Saturdays 8:45am to 12:00pm and 1:00pm to 4:15pm. There will be no classes conducted during the daytime as the class is catered to both part-time and full-time students.
Each term will start approximately on the 3rd week of August. However, international students may be required to be in Singapore earlier to partake in Orientation and other activities which are required for the programme. Please contact us directly should you wish to find out the exact start date.
Assessment varies across courses but generally, it would comprise class participation, continuous assessment, group projects or cases, and a final examination.
Internship is part of the graduation requirement for the programme for students with less than two years of working experience. Our Office of Career Services invites firms on-campus for career talks and networking sessions. They also provide assistance to students interested to locate an internship during their course of studies. Students gain firsthand experience working in the accounting industry.
You will need to apply to a professional accounting body for membership. The rule for advancement to CPA or CA status may differ from one professional body to another. In general, you would need to complete a set of examinations (which you may be partially exempted from) and meet the practical experience requirements. Candidates are encouraged to contact the various professional accounting bodies directly regarding qualifying requirements.
- Applicants must demonstrate good prior academic performance in an undergraduate degree from a recognised institution of higher learning.
- Applicants must have sufficient background in Statistics/Accounting/Finance/Business.
- GMAT or SMU Admission Test* is a compulsory requirement for admission to this programme.
- Applicants with post-undergraduate working experience will have an added advantage.
- Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview by members of the MSA Admission Panel. For international students, telephone interviews will be conducted if they are not in Singapore.
- Applicants must show proficiency in the English language. A TOEFL or IELTS test is required if the applicant's undergraduate degree was not conducted in English.
*More information about SMU Admission Test is available here. Candidates may only take the SMU Admission Test after they have submitted the online application form. Please contact the administration office to take the SMU Admission Test.
As a number of our courses in the programme requires student to be able to apply data technology into their domain knowledge, a good background in statistics/accounting/finance/business is essential to enable you to progress through these courses. Some of the criteria that will be used in evaluating the applicant's background in statistics/accounting/finance/business include:
- GMAT score with a minimum score of at least 60 percentile for quantitative component; or
- Satisfactory completion of some mathematical courses at a university level; or
- Have completed at least two mathematical courses at polytechnic level with minimum B grade; or
- An acceptable foundation in mathematics at GCE A-level or O-level or its equivalent.
Though work experience is not a compulsory requirement, it provides students with a valuable dimension to the course and will be considered favourably by the MSA Admission Panel.
In general we regard sponsorship by current or future employers as an important additional piece of evidence of your value to the employer and future career potential, but the admissions panel will not place undue weight on this.
Our accreditation from the professional bodies specifically states that our applicants must have a bachelor's degree. Applicants without a bachelor's degree will not be eligible for the programme.
Foreigners are eligible to apply as long as they hold an employment or dependent pass. For more information, please visit https://www.ica.gov.sg
We require applicants to take the GMAT (Graduate Management Admissions Test). GMAT measures basic verbal, mathematical, and analytical writing skills that you have developed over a long period of time in your education and work. The score report gives separate scores for the quantitative and verbal sections of the test, as well as a total score. There is also a short analytical writing section. The GMAT is used to ensure fairness, objectivity and validity in selection and provides supplementary information to that contained in the application form.
More information is found in the GMAT website. The website provides information about preparing and registering for the GMAT test.
In Singapore, the computerised GMAT can be taken at
Pearson Professional Centers.
51 Cuppage Road, #05-02/03/04 , Singapore 229469
Tel: 6225 2027
NTUC Trade Union House
73 Bras Basah Road, Level 3, Room 3J, Singapore 189556
Tel: 68378356/57
Seat availability for taking the GMAT can be checked online here; tests are generally available in the morning at 9 am from Monday to Friday and the second Saturday of every month. Test takers are generally required to report half an hour earlier. The GMAT takes less than 4 hours, and can only be taken once every calendar month, for up to 5 times every 12 calendar months. Enquiries can be made at GMAT's Regional Registration Center:
Prometric
PO Box 12964
50794 Kuala Lumpur
MALAYSIA
Phone: +60-3-7628-3333 (also 02-03-7628-3333 if calling from Singapore)
Fax: +60-3-7628-3366
E-mail: searrc@prometric.com
We have not set a minimum GMAT score. We adopt a holistic approach in our selection process and the overall quality of the applicant determines the admission to the programme. This would include prior academic performance at university, work experience, referees reports, interview scores, etc. However, we consider score of 600 or higher, OR GMAT Focus edition score of 555 or higher to be competitive.
Yes, you can retake GMAT but retaking the test is only recommended if you believe you have under-performed significantly at the first attempt. Please be well prepared before you go for your GMAT test as GMAT can only be taken once a month. We will use your highest valid GMAT score.
If the rest of your application is completed, you can send it to us, even if you have not taken the GMAT. However, we will require your GMAT score to evaluate your application. You should email us your unofficial scores as soon as you receive them and arrange with the test centre for the official score report to be sent to SMU. SMU's GMAT institution code for MSA is F8D-3B-44.
No, every applicant is required to take GMAT, regardless of their academic background or prior qualifications. Our applicants come from very diverse backgrounds with different types of academic qualification. GMAT is a useful common benchmark to assess the applicants objectively and fairly.
GMAT scores are valid for 5 years after the test date. If your GMAT results are older than 5 years, you will need to re-sit your GMAT.
Minimum TOEFL (90) / IELTS (6.5) score is required, as each applicant is evaluated on all the credentials.
TOEFL scores are valid for 2 years after the test date.
There is only one admission intake in August each year. Applications start September the year before and closes on 31 May the following year, every year. Early application is encouraged as it is a rolling application cycle.
All applicants must complete an online application form. The application form requires details on educational background, professional training, employment and work experience, personal information, etc. Applicants must also provide a personal statement explaining why they want to take the programme and how it fits with their career aspiration. You will need to take the SMU Admission Test (SMUAT) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). Candidates may only take the SMUAT after they have submitted the online application form. Please contact the administration office to take the SMUAT. For GMAT, please arrange with the test center for the score report to be sent to SMU. Applicants are also required to provide contacts and details of two referees (an automated email upon submission of application will be sent to them to fill up the referral form) and to attend an admission interview by members of the MSA Admission Panel.
Yes, there is a non-refundable application fee of S$100 (inclusive of GST). You are encouraged to pay by credit card or cheque payable to Singapore Management University. For international applicants, please make an online payment or by a bank draft/cheque payable in Singapore dollars to Singapore Management University.
Please refer here for the prevailing tuition fee, payable in two installments. Fees will be collected before the start of Term 1 and Term 2 for full-time students, and before the start of Term 1 and Term 4 for part-time students. In addition, a non-refundable registration fee of S$400 (inclusive of GST) (Singaporean/PR); S$500 (inclusive of GST) (Foreigner) is payable upon acceptance into the MSA programme. Students are required to pay a deposit of $5000 (inclusive of GST) upon acceptance into the programme. This is collected together with the registration fee and the deposit will be used to offset the first tuition fee installment. Click here for more details on the fees.
No, the tuition fee is the same regardless of the number of exemptions granted.
Currently, scholarships are only available to citizens of ASEAN countries (including Singapore & PR). The award shall fund up to 2 scholarships each worth SGD$5,000 (inclusive of GST) and will be used to offset tuition fees. There are some banks in Singapore that provide study loans too. These typically require guarantors who must be citizens or permanent residents of Singapore.
No. The Singapore CPF Board does not allow CPF funds to be used for postgraduate studies.
Only shortlisted applicants are invited for a personal interview. This will allow us to assess the applicants holistically, taking into account his/her achievements in all areas and to select candidates who have the commitment, experience, motivation and potential to benefit from, and contribute to, the programme.
Our Graduate Programmes & Professional Development (GPPD) Office will assist all international students who have been admitted to the programme, in their application for student pass, which is processed and approved by the Immigration Checkpoints Authority (ICA). The student pass is valid for the whole duration of the course of study. Please click here for more details on the application of the student pass.
- A valid passport
- A letter of offer from SMU (You must have done your online acceptance)
Application for student pass is done online at the Immigration Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website. You must receive a SOLAR application number from SMU before you can submit your application online. The Graduate Programmes & Professional Development Office will be liaising with all accepted international applicants with regards to student pass application. Correspondences will be sent by email, thus please ensure that you have stated a valid email address in your application.
For students who require visa to enter Singapore, the student pass application includes a Single-Journey Entry Visa for ONE-MONTH stay in Singapore till all formalities has been completed upon your arrival in Singapore. We will send the approval letter via email once your student pass is approved, so that you may use the letter as a visa to enter Singapore. You are not required to apply for a separate visa.
If you wish to visit Singapore for personal reasons, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website will give you a list of countries whose nationals require visas to enter Singapore.
With effect from 1 March 2000, Immigration Checkpoints Authority requires all applicants for long-term passes, including Student's Passes, to undergo a medical examination. This includes a general physical medical examination, a chest x-ray and a test for AIDS-causing Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). The examination must be conducted by approved hospitals / clinics in Singapore . This rule applies to anyone visiting Singapore for 6 months or more for the purpose of education.
If you are a new applicant and not in Singapore, the medical examination can either be done in your home country or in Singapore by a qualified doctor.
However, the medical examination required for subsequent renewal of the Student's Pass must be done in Singapore. The doctor must record and certify the results of the medical examination in the designated medical report form.
The medical report should not be issued more than three months from the submission or renewal date of your application; and should be translated in English. If a medical report is submitted to the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority or Ministry of Manpower not more than two years from your submission date, there is no need to re-submit a fresh medical report.
You can also walk in to Raffles Medical Health check clinic, they are open from 8.30am to 4pm and is the closest to SMU.
Their address as follows:
Raffles Medical@ Raffles Hospital Health Check Counter, 585 North Bridge Road
On early termination of your studies (e.g. withdrawal or refused re-admission) at the University, students should bring their Student's Pass to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) within 7 days of cessation of the studies for cancellation.
A full-time matriculated international student of the university holding a valid Student's Pass may take up employment in Singapore during the vacation and is exempted from applying for a work permit as stated in the Work Permit Exemptions Notification.
However, during term time, a student holding a valid Student's Pass is only allowed to work part-time for less than 16 hours per week. A letter of consent is not required from the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority or the university.
We do not arrange accommodation for students; however, there is a variety of accommodation available in Singapore such as student hostels and private apartments. Click here for more information on accommodations.
Singapore uses the Red and Green Channel system for customs clearance. Proceed to the Red Channel if you carry the following items or are not sure:
- Prohibited items
- Controlled or restricted items
- Taxable or dutiable items exceeding your GST Relief or duty-free concession
- Items for which no GST Relief or duty-free concession is granted
If you have nothing to declare, please use the Green Channel. Please visit the Singapore Customs website for more information.
You can obtain information on Singapore's tourist attractions from the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) website, Visit Singapore.
Your monthly expenditure is highly dependent on your course of study, lifestyle and personal needs. As a rough guide, an international student may expect to incur the following:
| Item | Amount |
|
Accommodation |
$500 - $1500 per month (inclusive of GST) |
|
Utilities |
$80 - $150 per month (inclusive of GST) |
|
Food |
$300 - $450 (inclusive of GST) |
|
Public Transport |
$50 - $100 per month (inclusive of GST) |
|
Telecommunications |
$30 & above (inclusive of GST) |
|
Books & Stationery |
$100 - $300 per term (inclusive of GST) |
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