getting straight A is not a big deal.
securing a job, climb the ranks, perform well with some thinking is a BIG DEAL.
many people out there (nerds) who burn midnight oil, emphasizing on paper result end up being what? slaves to cooperate when they couldnt even express themselves in work environment. Eg, an engineer who found out a way to reduce cost for a machine but lack of confidence,shy, or whatever individual skills to make a presentation to the board will forever only stuck in his office chair being instructed what to do.

anyway that is an off topic. In my opinion, dont pursue things that you cant afford. It might sounds good for your future receiving a paper from UCL. It may help you to obtain some impression from your employer initially but in the end of the day, the best worker outperforms. If you have the capabilities, settle down on NUS (which is already reputable) , get a job and do well. that 7% interest per annum is abit high. Even i dont even feel like paying my 1% PTPTN loan lol.

As some ppl mentioned, you can always do masters during ur final year. I believe with ur persistance, you will obtain some scholarship in no time. However, foreign influence is undoubtly useful. You could use that chance to communicate more with foreigners and abolish chinese-sticking-groups that gets you no where.