There are many reasons why Singapore has emerged as one of the leading countries preferred by Indian students due to the high ranking of universities, promising career prospects, a culturally diverse country, and the safety of living there. If you wish to pursue education in either the National University of Singapore, Nanyang Technological University or any other privately-owned university in Singapore, getting a proper student visa would be the most crucial thing.
As compared to other nations, Singapore grants a pass to students rather than a visa. It becomes mandatory for international students to get approval from the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Type | Student Pass |
| Issued By | Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) |
| Application Portal | SOLAR System |
| Average Processing Time | 2–4 weeks |
| Visa Fee | SGD 30 application fee |
| Student Pass Issuance Fee | SGD 60 |
| Required Offer Letter | Yes |
| IELTS Mandatory? | Depends on university |
| Work Rights | Part-time work allowed for eligible students |
Thousands of international students flock to Singapore each year owing to its superior educational systems and vocational courses offered there.
- More than 65,000 international students study in Singapore annually.
- Singapore universities consistently rank among Asia’s best institutions.
- The country offers excellent post-study work opportunities for global graduates.
What Is a Singapore Student Visa?
The student visa of Singapore is referred to as Student Pass. This visa permits international students to be in Singapore throughout the period of their studies.
Students enrolled in:
- Full-time undergraduate programs
- Postgraduate degrees
- Diploma courses
- Certificate programs
must have a Student Pass when the course period exceeds 30 days. ThThe process will be done via the Students’ Pass Online Application and Registration (SOLAR) System.
Types of Singapore Student Visas
There is only one study permit that Singapore provides to foreign students, but there may be variations in relation to the requirements and validity period.
Full-Time Student Pass
It is the most common type of pass for international students studying in accredited institutions in Singapore.
Eligible students include:
- Undergraduate students
- Master’s students
- PhD candidates
- Polytechnic students
- Diploma students
Short-Term Study Visa
Students attending:
- Short certification programs
- Exchange programs
- Training courses under 30 days
may or may not need a Student Pass as they can study using a shorter visa, based on their course period.
Eligibility Criteria for Singapore Student Visa
To apply for Singapore Student Pass, one must fulfill the following requirements:
Admission Confirmation
First, you need to get an official acceptance letter from a reputable school or university in Singapore.
Valid Passport
Your passport must be valid during the entire period you plan to study in Singapore.
Financial Proof
Students may need to demonstrate they can manage:
- tuition fees
- accommodation
- daily expenses
- Cost of living in Singapore
Medical Requirements
Some students might need a medical checkup according to the course period and their nationality.
Documents Required for Singapore Student Visa
Students may require health examinations based on course duration and nationalities.
Required Documents Checklist
| Documents | Purpose |
| Valid Passport | Identity verification |
| Admission Letter | University confirmation |
| Passport-size Photographs | Visa processing |
| Completed eForm 16 | Student Pass application |
| Proof of Funds | Financial capability |
| Academic Certificates | Education verification |
| English Language Test Scores | IELTS/TOEFL if required |
| Medical Report | Health clearance |
| Visa Fee Receipt | Application proof |
Students should ensure all documents match passport details exactly.
How to Apply for a Singapore Student Visa
Application procedure for Singapore Student Visa is relatively easy and quite an online process.
Step 1: Receive Admission Offer
Apply to a recognised Singapore institution and obtain your acceptance letter.
Step 2: Get SOLAR Registration Details
Your institution will register your application in the SOLAR system and provide:
- SOLAR application number
- login credentials
Step 3: Submit Student Pass Application
Complete the online application through the ICA portal and upload the required documents.
Step 4: Pay Visa Fees
Students must pay:
- SGD 30 application fee
- SGD 60 issuance fee after approval
Step 5: Receive In-Principle Approval (IPA)
If approved, students receive an IPA letter, which acts as a temporary entry visa.
Step 6: Complete Formalities in Singapore
After arriving in Singapore, students may need:
- biometric verification
- medical check-up
- document verification
before receiving the final Student Pass.
Singapore Student Visa Processing Time
The average processing time for a Singapore Student Pass is:
| Application Type | Processing Time |
| Standard Applications | 2–4 weeks |
| Peak Intake Periods | Up to 6 weeks |
One should apply for the Student Pass at least a month before the course commences.
Singapore Student Visa Fees 2026
Understanding total visa-related expenses helps students plan their study budget better.
| Fee Type | Cost |
| Application Fee | SGD 30 |
| Issuance Fee | SGD 60 |
| Multiple Entry Visa (if applicable) | SGD 30 |
Though Singapore is viewed as being cheaper compared to certain countries in the West, students should be careful to calculate the cost of studying and living there.
Cost of Living in Singapore for International Students
Monthly living expenses in Singapore vary depending on personal habits, accommodation, and location.
Average Monthly Expenses
| Expense Category | Average Cost |
| Accommodation | SGD 500–1,500 |
| Food | SGD 300–600 |
| Transport | SGD 80–150 |
| Internet & Utilities | SGD 80–200 |
| Personal Expenses | SGD 150–400 |
There are very good transportation systems in place in Singapore that can make commuting easier for international students.
Can International Students Work in Singapore?
International students who meet requirements have a right to work part-time during studies.
Work Rules
- Up to 16 hours per week during academic sessions
- Full-time during vacations (for eligible institutions)
- Students must hold a valid Student Pass
Work opportunities are available in:
- retail
- hospitality
- internships
- campus jobs
Common Reasons for Singapore Student Visa Rejection
Even if there are usually no problems with approval, visas can be refused because of:
- Incomplete documentation
- Financial insufficiency
- Incorrect information
- Poor academic background
- Unverified institution details
It is important for students to verify their application before submitting it.
Why Study in Singapore?
Singapore has emerged as one of the finest educational destinations across Asia due to its quality education and world exposure.
Key Benefits
- Globally recognized universities
- Safe and multicultural environment
- Strong career opportunities
- Excellent connectivity in Asia
- High-quality education system
- Research-focused learning
For Indians wishing to pursue their education abroad without straining their budget, there could not be a better place than Singapore.
Conclusion
Singapore still remains among the best options available for Indians who want to pursue higher studies abroad in Asia. Due to its top universities, infrastructure, and job prospects, Singapore provides an excellent educational experience for Indian students.
Gaining complete knowledge about the entire process of obtaining a Singapore student visa, which includes documentation, fees, and other information regarding the duration of the process and living expenses, is essential for students.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is a Singapore student visa easy to get?
Yes, if students meet admission and financial requirements, the approval process is generally straightforward.
2. How much bank balance is required for a Singapore student visa?
There is no officially fixed amount, but students should show enough funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses.
3. Can I work while studying in Singapore?
Yes, eligible international students can work up to 16 hours weekly during academic sessions.
4. How long does the Singapore student visa process take?
Most applications are processed within 2–4 weeks.
5. Is IELTS required for a Singapore student visa?
IELTS is not directly required for the visa, but universities may ask for English proficiency scores.
6. What is the validity of a Singapore Student Pass?
The validity usually matches the duration of the academic course.
7. Can dependents accompany international students to Singapore?
In most cases, dependent visas are limited and depend on the visa category and course duration.
8. Is Singapore expensive for Indian students?
Singapore can be moderately expensive, especially accommodation costs, but proper budgeting helps manage the cost of living in Singapore effectively.
9. Can a Singapore student visa get rejected?
Yes, rejection may occur due to incorrect documents, insufficient funds, or incomplete applications.
10. When should I apply for a Singapore student visa?
Students should apply at least 4–6 weeks before course commencement to avoid delays.