Education That Elevates
From Bold Beginnings To Boundless Potential
We cultivate real-world readiness, interdisciplinary learning,
and instilling a growth mindset. Every student graduates with
hands-on experience, global exposure,
and a heart for the community.
Transformative Pedagogy
SMU-X: Where Learning Meets The Real World
Our unique, experiential learning framework challenges students to drive meaningful change
by collaborating on projects with corporates, non-profits and government organisations.
Embodying Impact: Champions of the SMU Spirit
From Resilient Journeys to Inspiring Legacies
These outstanding individuals truly exemplify the SMU spirit. With their leadership, resilience, and
determination, they continue to break boundaries, uplift communities, and make meaningful impact.
Aaron Tan
Bachelor of Science in Information Systems, 2010
CEO & Co-Founder, Carro
Aaron Tan is the Chief Executive Officer of Carro, Asia Pacific’s leading online car retail platform. Since co-founding the company in 2015, he has led it to unicorn status within six years, raising over US$600 million from world-renowned investors including SoftBank Vision Fund, Temasek and PNB.
Lily Kong
SMU President
Lee Kong Chian Chair Professor
As the first Singaporean woman to lead a university in Singapore, Professor Lily Kong has redefined the role of higher education by championing interdisciplinary learning, lifelong education, and research that serves the public good.
Yip Pin Xiu
Bachelor of Social Science, 2017
7-time Paralympic Gold Medallist
Yip Pin Xiu shattered barriers by becoming Singapore’s most decorated Paralympian, inspiring a nation with her resilience and redefining what it means to represent Singapore on the world stage.
Inspiring Minds, Shaping Futures
From Bold Firsts to Transformative Outcomes
SMU’s distinctive approach to education continues to shape confident, agile graduates. With innovative learning experiences and
real-world exposure, they are equipped to navigate change, create opportunities, and achieve success beyond the classroom.
Trailblazing Firsts
Since its inception, SMU has redefined the university experience by introducing bold innovations that prepare students for a changing world.
It was the first in Singapore to mandate internships, community service and global exposure, embedding real-world learning into every student journey.
It was also the first to integrate co-curricular achievements into transcripts, and to pioneer flexible pathways such as second majors and stackable Masters.
These breakthroughs reflect SMU’s commitment to nurturing independent learners and equipping them with breadth, depth and adaptability.
Graduate Success
This distinctive approach has translated into graduates who are highly sought after for their skills, versatility and global outlook.
According to the 2024 Graduate Employment Survey, SMU graduates achieved the highest mean starting salaries in Singapore, alongside the strongest employment rates.
Many secured multiple job offers and signed contracts even before graduation, showing how an SMU education not only opens doors but empowers graduates to thrive in diverse and evolving careers.
Global Recognition and Awards
3rd in Asia
27th Globally
Executive MBA Program
QSRankings
2024
5th in Asia
41th Globally
MBA Program
QSRankings
2025
1st in Asia
29th Globally
MSc in Wealth Management
QSRankings
2025
2nd in Asia
24th Globally
Business Master’s Rankings
QSRankings
2024
2nd in Asia
24th Globally
Business Analytics Rankings
QS Global Masters
2025
Defining Next: Portraits of SMU Alumni
Innovators, leaders and changemakers
Our alumni turned their dreams and ambition into powerful change and enduring impact. From local
success stories to internation acclaim, they continue to lead and empower others in their various fields.
Apoorva Charan (Bachelor of Business Management, 2013)
Film Producer
Apoorva Charan is an LA-based producer. Her producorial feature debut, Joyland, premiered at the Cannes Film Festival (2022) and won the Un Certain Regard Jury Prize, the Queer Palm, and Best International Film at the Independent Spirit Awards (2023). The film was Pakistan's entry to the 95th Academy Awards, was the first film from Pakistan to make the shortlist, and has screened at festivals around the world including Sundance, TIFF, and BFI London Film Festival.
Through her film and TV production company, All Caps, Charan aims to produce unique narratives for a global audience.
Deddy Setiadi (Bachelor of Business Management and Economics, 2015)
Co-Founder
Kodecoon Academy
Drawing inspiration from his personal experiences and driven by his passion for teaching and sharing knowledge, Deddy co-founded Kodecoon Academy, a coding school dedicated to advancing digital literacy amongst young students in Singapore.
Kodecoon Academy is in the process of expanding within Singapore and have recently begun expanding to Indonesia, with the mission of identifying and nurturing talented individuals who are ready for quality tech education with global exposure.
Hafiz Kasman (Bachelor of Business Management, 2017)
Joshua Phua (Bachelor of Science [Information Systems], 2017)
Benjamin Wong (Bachelor of Economics, 2018)
Founders
Kinobi
Friends-turned-founders Hafiz, Joshua, and Benjamin founded Kinobi – a platform for tertiary education institutes and organisations to customise resume support; host resources such as interview skills videos, online lectures, mentorship programmes; as well as provide coaching and networking sessions.
Named one of Forbes 30 under 30 – Asia – Consumer Technology in 2022, Kinobi raised $1 million in seed funding in from an Indonesian venture fund and various angel investors. To date, the platform has garnered 1.5 million users, and clients include the Mendaki Club and Young NTUC in Singapore, the Indonesia Career Center Network, Kent Institute in Australia and Tung Wah College in Hong Kong.
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