Experiences of international students based on duration of residence in Singapore

Abstract

In response to negative sentiments expressed by Singaporeans as a result of the influx of migrants into Singapore, the Singapore government has implemented exclusionary policies of “differentiation” between Singaporeans and non-Singaporeans. This research investigates how the experiences of international students vary according to their duration of residence in Singapore and examines the ways that these policies have affected their sense of belonging and integration into Singapore society. In-depth interviews with China-born and Indonesian students that extrapolated information on their experiences suggests that international students who have stayed in Singapore for a longer duration are better able to integrate into Singapore society. Challenges and discrimination that international students encounter in their daily lives implies the need for Singapore to create a more inclusive society.