Known as the “Lion City,” Singapore is the ASEAN region's premier educational and financial hub and technological powerhouse. With its top-tier universities, strategic location, and rich cultural diversity, Singapore presents a compelling option for Indian students seeking an international education. 

Research shows the country has over 30,000 international companies, including many MNCs.

So, if you’re looking for good universities, a steady economy and opportunities for career development,  you should consider Singapore.

Suppose you plan to study in Singapore and get a Singaporean study visa. This guide will give you complete information about the visa, covering the basic facts about it, its advantages, the prerequisites for the visa, and life in Singapore once you get there.

Why Study in Singapore?

Reputation for Academic Excellence

Singapore hosts many accredited universities in Asia and worldwide, such as the National University of Singapore and Nanyang Technological University. Singaporean universities usually rank among the best in the world.

For example, the QS World University Rankings has ranked NUS as the eleventh best university in the world. Singaporean universities are known for their focus on business, engineering, science, or arts education, their excellent teaching environment, and their robust research programs.

Practical site and international accessibility  

Strategically positioned in the heart of Asia, Singapore is easily accessible from many Asian and European countries, including India. This global connectivity opens up a world of internships and job placements for students in renowned MNCs. With just a 4-5 hour flight from India, staying connected with family and friends is convenient.

Teaching English as the Medium of Instruction  

Another plus for Indian students is that Singapore's instruction medium is English. This eliminates the stress of learning a new language, allowing students to learn without any hindrances. 

Diverse and Multicultural Society  

Singapore is built with immigrants. Around 75% of its economy is Chinese, 15% is Malaysian, and 7.5% is ethnic Indian. Therefore, it will be easier for students from India to adapt and feel comfortable since what they see around them will look like their home. 

Availability of Jobs and Career Opportunities  

Singapore is the Global Business Hub, and it has a vibrant economy in financial and other sectors like technology, healthcare, engineering, etc, for jobs. When students graduate from a Singaporean university and start looking for jobs, they have a platter full of job opportunities. Since Singapore has over 37,000 international companies, student job placements are easy. 

What are the Eligibility Requirements for a Singapore Study Visa?

Here are a few requirements that you need to keep in mind while applying for a Singapore study visa.

Offer Letter: All Students seeking a study Visa in Singapore must have an offer letter from their university of choice before applying for a study visa or student pass. The offer letter also has to point out the course you’ll be taking, the duration of this course, and the date when the course begins. Along with this, you would also need all your academic transcripts at hand. 

Financial Stability: To be accepted, candidates must produce evidence of sufficient funds to support their living and studying expenses in the country. This can usually be proved through official bank statements or sponsorship letters.

Language Proficiency: Since courses are offered in English, students may be required to present a language proficiency test. The minimum score requirement for the undergraduate program is 6.5 in IELTS and 85-90 in TOEFL. For the postgraduate degree, students must score at least 7.5 in IELTS and 90 in TOEFL.

Valid Passport: In order to travel to Singapore, it is essential for the student to possess a valid passport. This passport must not only be current but also have a validity period of at least six months beyond the intended arrival date in Singapore. Ensuring that the passport meets this requirement is crucial for a smooth entry into the country, as it helps prevent any potential issues with immigration authorities upon arrival.

What Documents Are Required for a Singapore Study Visa?

To apply for a Singaporean study visa, Indian students must prepare the following documents:

• Student Visa Application Forms (Form 16) and (V36), when filled out and signed, can be downloaded from the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website or requested by the university.
• Recent Passport-Sized Photographs.
• Copy of Passport  
• Letter of Admission from any Singaporean Institute of Higher Learning.
• Bank statements, scholarship letters or letters of financial guarantee that demonstrate your ability to meet most of your expenses throughout your study.
• The Official High School Diploma
• Records of College Transcripts/Certificates for postgraduate studies.
• Photocopies of academic certificates such as school leaving certificates, diplomas and degree certificates.
• Medical Reports.
• In-principal approval letters
• Employment Record
• Accommodation details
• Proof of paid application and tuition fees

What is the Process for Applying for a Singapore Study Visa?

Here's a step-by-step guide to applying for a Singaporean study visa:

• Get Accepted to an Institute of Higher University in Singapore.
• Apply for the student pass using the Student’s Pass Online Application System (SOLAR).
• After registration, the IHL will share an application number that can be used to access SOLAR.
• After logging in, complete the application online by submitting all the documents.
• Pay the study visa fee. It would be around 1,800 to 5000 INR.
• Wait for your decision, which could take around two weeks to come in.
• If selected, you will receive an In-Principal Approval Letter.
• Enter the country using the IPL.
• Receive the student pass from the ICA.

Pre-Requisites to Singapore Study Visa

Before applying for a study visa, Indian students should take the following prerequisites into account:

Academic Performance: Singaporean Schools are highly competitive. Hence, students are required to have a strong academic record when applying. If you’re applying to a Singaporean University, you should submit a detailed academic performance record from your alma mater.

Entrance Exams: Depending on the course and the university, some students will be required to pass some standardised tests such as the GRE, GMAT, SAT, or other course-specific tests. For the undergraduate program, students are required to sit for SAT or ACT. If you are applying for the postgraduate program, you must pass the GRE or GMAT.

Language Proficiency: As mentioned earlier, it is recommended that students produce TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent test scores to prove their English language fluency. Students need to have a minimum score of 6.5 or higher for IELTS, 90 for TOEFL, and 65 for PTE.

University Entrance Exams: In addition to the various assessments and qualifications that students may have completed, universities in Singapore mandate that prospective students undertake a specific entrance examination as part of the admission process. This exam serves as a crucial prerequisite, evaluating the knowledge and skills of applicants to ensure that they are adequately prepared for the academic challenges that university education entails. This requirement reflects the universities' commitment to maintaining high standards in their admissions, effectively filtering candidates based on their readiness for higher education. 

Becoming a Student Pass Holder in Singapore

If you’re an international student accepted into an IHL in Singapore, this is what you need to know about a Singaporean study visa.

• You do not need a student pass if you have a dependents pass, a long-term visit visa, a short-term visit visa or an immigration exemption order.
• You can enrol in any school or program (non-religious) within the duration of your existing pass. 
• If the existing pass expires, you must apply for the study pass.
• You do not need a study pass if you are applying for short-term courses.
• A study pass is not needed if you are enrolled in practical occupational training or any training that includes dealing with walk-in customers.

What is the Cost of Applying for a Singaporean Study Visa?

All international students applying for the Singaporean Study visa have to pay a few mandatory fees, which are as follows:

The Perks of Studying in Singapore

Quality of Education  

Universities in Singapore are renowned for delivering a high-quality education characterized by innovative teaching methods and personalized tutoring approaches that cater to diverse learning styles. These institutions have state-of-the-art research facilities supporting a wide range of academic disciplines. 

Additionally, Singapore's universities continuously adapt their curricula to align with modern trends and industry demands, ensuring that students acquire relevant skills and knowledge that prepare them for successful careers in a rapidly evolving global landscape. This commitment to excellence not only enhances the learning experience but also fosters a culture of critical thinking and collaboration among students and faculty alike.

Networking Opportunities  

Being in Singapore offers students a unique chance to engage with a diverse community of professionals, faculty, and fellow students from around the globe. This multicultural environment fosters valuable networking opportunities, collaborative projects, and the exchange of ideas, enhancing their educational experience and preparing them for a globalized workforce.

Proximity to India  

Singapore, located just a short distance from India, is an ideal destination for Indian students looking to explore a new country during their holidays. Its proximity makes travel convenient, allowing students to take advantage of weekend getaways or extended breaks easily. 

With a rich blend of cultures, modern attractions, and educational opportunities, Singapore offers a vibrant experience that can enhance their academic journey while providing a refreshing escape from their studies.

Safety and Cleanliness  

Singapore consistently ranks among the safest cities globally, a reputation earned through its low crime rates and effective law enforcement. The city-state offers its residents a high standard of living, characterised by excellent healthcare services that ensure access to top-notch medical facilities and professionals. 

Public transportation in Singapore is efficient and well-connected, making it convenient for individuals to navigate the city seamlessly. Additionally, the social infrastructure in Singapore includes a wide array of amenities such as parks, recreational centres, and cultural institutions, enhancing its inhabitants' overall quality of life. This blend of safety, accessibility, and community resources makes Singapore an ideal place to live for many.

What are the Cons of Studying in Singapore?

While Singapore offers numerous advantages, there are also a few downsides that students should be aware of:

High Cost of Living  

Overall, living in Singapore is more expensive than in other Asian countries. Students have to meet living costs, including accommodation, food and water, transport, and medical bills, which are costly overall. While scholarships and part-time employment can alleviate these burdens, careful preparation must be made.

Competitive Environment

A report by Academic Climate highlights the intense and competitive atmosphere in Singaporean schools, where academic excellence is often prioritised above all else. This high-stakes environment can put immense pressure on students as they strive to meet demanding expectations. 

While this drive for achievement can lead to impressive academic results, it also poses a risk of significant stress and fatigue among students if not properly managed. Addressing these challenges is crucial to ensuring students' well-being and balancing their educational pursuits with their mental health.

Limited Campus Housing  

Many universities provide on-campus dormitory accommodation to their students. However, these dormitories often have limited capacity and cannot accommodate all students seeking housing. As a result, a significant number of students find themselves in the position of having to search for private hostels or rental apartments. 

Unfortunately, this search can be quite challenging, especially in high-demand areas where the cost of living increases. Private accommodation options can be significantly more expensive than on-campus housing, placing an additional financial burden on students who are already managing tuition fees and other expenses. Consequently, students may need to compromise on location, amenities, or even their living conditions to secure a place to stay.

What Institutes Can I Apply to in Singapore?

• Singapore has six publicly funded universities.
• Five polytechnics
• Almost 300 hundred private educational institutions. 

Conclusion

Studying in Singapore is an excellent opportunity for Indian Students looking to study abroad. Singapore's top-quality educational and multicultural environment is the reason for the country's popularity. The Singaporean study visa is your gateway to access this pulsating city-state, best universities and an unparalleled job market across the globe. However, it is always essential to bear in mind the struggles associated with such lifestyle and academics, such as expensive living standards and tough competition in the schools.

If you are considering studying abroad, you don’t have to do it alone. At CounsellingX, our counsellors assist you in choosing the university for the visa process. If well prepared, studying in Singapore may be one of the best things to happen to anyone, as it creates a good platform for career growth and a fulfilling lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get a Student Visa for Singapore?

If you want a student pass for Singapore, you should apply directly to your school or college of interest. The school will then send you an In-Principal Approval Letter that you can use to enter the country. You can apply for the pass after reaching the country.

2. Is IELTS required for studying in Singapore?

Since most courses are taught in English, IELTS or other English language Proficiency tests are required by Institutes of Higher Learning in Singapore. You need an IELTS score of at least 6.0 or higher.

3. Can I work while studying in Singapore?

Yes, Singapore allows its students to work part-time while studying. Students can work up to 16 hours a week while studying in Singapore.

4. What is the success rate of a Singapore Study Visa?

Getting into Singapore for Higher Studies is not that difficult. The success rate of a Singaporean Study Visa is 93%. The process of applying for a visa is also quick and relatively easy.

5.How to apply for PR in Singapore?

Students studying in Singapore may apply for PR; however, getting a visa can be difficult because of Singapore’s selective immigrant policy. It is also important to note that the visa is issued based on the decision of the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority. 

6. How much does the Study Visa cost in Indian Rupees?

The Singapore Study visa costs around SDG 60. However, to continue your studies in the country, you need to pay tuition fees for at least the first year. The visa cost is up to 3,900 INR.