How to Apply for a Singapore Student Visa

Singapore is not only a popular tourist destination in Asia. But has also emerged as a popular study destination and a top option for international students seeking world-class education and a sophisticated lifestyle. Moreover, Singapore is also home to renowned institutions like Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and the National University of Singapore (NUS) which have state-of-the-art faculties and high-quality programs.

Although Singapore has a small land area, the "Lion City" proves that size doesn't matter. Owing to its quality institutions, affordable education, and low cost of living, Singapore attracts a large number of students all around the world. It is considered a first-world country holding some of the world's biggest and strongest economies. Singapore was also ranked as the world’s second safest city after Tokyo by the Economic Intelligence Unit.

Furthermore, if you are aspiring to study at a university in Singapore, then you have to start your preparations as an international student in the country. But one of, if not the most important documents to allow you to study in Singapore is a student visa. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to obtain a Singapore student visa. Including the application process, the documents you will require, and other key essentials you need to keep in mind.

What is a Singapore Student Visa?

In Singapore, a student visa is referred to as a student pass, and also universities in this country are known as Institutes of Higher Learning (IHL). A Singapore Student Visa is an essential document that foreign students need to obtain to pursue full-time study programs in Singapore, especially for courses lasting for more than 30 days.

The Singapore government has designed a specific scheme named the SOLAR system, i.e. Student’s Pass Online Application and Registration system which is the official registration department that monitors student visa applications. You must apply for this student pass. Your visa or pass application is submitted to the Student's Pass Online Application and Registration or SOLAR system.

Moreover, student visa applications are processed directly by the Singapore Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) for applicants up to 19 years who wish to attend a private institution. Students above the age of 20, who wish to study vocational, commercial, language, or fine arts courses, may be asked to appear for an interview.

Furthermore, you must submit your application at least one month before your intended arrival in Singapore, but you can begin the application process up to two months in advance. You should receive a decision within two weeks and the entire application process costs $90. However, you’ll only be exempt from student pass requirements if your study program is shorter than 30 days.

Applications Steps

Moreover, below are the steps in applying for the Singapore Student Visa. Once the documents (outlined below) are ready, then you can start the student pass application.

1. Accept a place at an Institute of Higher Learning (IHL):

You must enroll in an IHL approved by the Singaporean authorities. Secure the letter of admission or acceptance from your chosen Singaporean university.

2. IHL registers you with the SOLAR system service:

Also, check if your registration in the SOLAR system has been completed. All international students must apply for their student visa through the SOLAR online service on the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website. Generally, the university or IHL will just provide the SOLAR website with your personal details, i.e. name, date of birth, gender, nationality, and admission details (course details, start and end of the study program).

3. Receive your SOLAR application reference number:

After you've been registered, your IHL will send over a personalized application number that you can use to access SOLAR.

4. Log in to SOLAR and complete the application:

To finish your registration, you have to fill out and submit the eForm16. Moreover, to complete the form, you will need to provide your passport details, email address, and Singapore address. However, you can provide the university's address if you don't have an arranged accommodation yet. It’s important to print a copy of your completed form because you’ll need to present this to the ICA center in Singapore.

5. Pay the applicable fee and wait for a decision:

You must pay a standard processing fee of $30 before submitting your application. Then, if your application is successful, you will receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter. It acts as your temporary student visa and grants you entry into Singapore.

Upon presenting your IPA to the officials at the Singaporean port of entry, you will be issued a visit pass. Then, after you have arrived, you will need to arrange an appointment and collect your official student visa or pass from an ICA center. You must also pay an issuance fee of $60 once your application is approved by the ICA.

Required Documents for Singapore Student Visa

Furthermore, the following are the documents needed for the Singapore Student Pass application:

• A printed copy of the completed eForm16
• Formal admissions letter from your IHL
• SOLAR registration acknowledgment letter from your IHL
• A passport that’s valid for at least 3 months beyond the duration of your stay
• In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter
• A recent passport-sized photograph of yourself
• Certificate of educational achievements and qualifications
• Record of employment history
• Accommodation details for where you’ll be living in Singapore
• Means to pay the online application fee
• Means to pay the student pass collection fee
• Proof of adequate financial resources to cover your living expenses. This may come in the form of bank statements, applicants are required to have a security deposit in the amount of SGD 5,000 ($3,600).
• Recent medical certificate

Moreover, note all documents which are written in another language should be translated into English.

FAQs

Moreover, here are some of the frequently asked questions by international students applying for a Singapore Student Visa.

How long does it take to get a Singapore student visa?

It usually takes around 10 days to two weeks to get your Singapore student visa, but be aware it can take longer in busy periods like July and August. Therefore, it's best to start your visa application as soon as you can — which is two months before you enroll. This gives you plenty of time if there are any delays or issues with your application.

Can I work on a Singapore student pass?

Yes, you can earn while studying in Singapore. You won’t need to apply for any additional paperwork either since these permissions are automatically granted with your student pass. International students are allowed to work up to 16 hours per week during term-time, or full-time during the university holidays.

Can my family members join me in Singapore?

If you have a spouse or children under the age of 18, they could live with you for around a month in Singapore. However, to gain entry to the country, your loved ones will need to receive sponsorship from your university. After gaining sponsorship, they’ll be issued with a social visit pass that will allow them to remain in Singapore for up to four weeks.

What happens if my student visa is rejected?

This doesn't mean the end of your study abroad dreams. Common reasons for a rejected application include things like missing documents or insufficient information. You can usually rectify these sorts of issues with a new application, but beware you'll need to pay the fee again.

Is IELTS required for a Singapore student visa?

Language proficiency test scores like IELTS or TOEFL might be required (not necessarily) for Singapore Student Visa if your chosen university has specified the same.