This paper reports a study aimed at developing a substantive theory on the perspectives of Mainland Chinese studying in Singaporean universities. The study was guided by two research questions: (1) Why do university students from Mainland China choose to study in Singapore? and (2) How do Mainland Chinese university students manage the experience of studying in Singapore, a different cultural environment? A grounded theory approach was adopted and the so-called theory of "selective pragmatism" was generated. The theory suggests that Mainland Chinese students at Singaporean universities can be classified into three "types"--the "intellectuals", the "opportunists" and the "loyalists"--according to how they individually exercise choices and decisions based on four categories--push forces in regard to China, pull forces in regard to Singapore; individual resilience in coping and adapting to life overseas; and future career intentions. Common to all, however, is pragmatism, which is selectively exercised in different ways, thereby distinguishing the three types. (Contains 1 note and 4 figures.)