Information for International Students

Student’s Pass

International students have to apply for a Student’s Pass from the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority in order to pursue full-time studies in Singapore. The Student’s Pass is only issued to full-time students and not to part-time students. International students who wish to pursue programmes on a part-time basis should obtain employment in Singapore first before applying for admission to the University and should ensure that they are permitted to work and reside in Singapore throughout the course of their study by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority.

Passport holders of specific countries, including China and India, must have a valid visa before entering Singapore.

The University will assist successful international applicants in their applications for the Student Pass. The costs connected with the application will be borne by the student.

For further information, please visit: http://www.ntu.edu.sg/isc/Immigration/Pages/StudentsPass.aspx

Accommodation

Graduate students may apply for on-campus accommodation administered by NTU or rent accommodation off-campus.

Please note that on-campus vacancies are limited. For more information, please visit: http://www.ntu.edu.sg/has/Graduate/Pages/index.aspx

The University also manages an Off-Campus Accommodation System (OCAS). For more information on this, please visit:
http://www.ntu.edu.sg/has/Off-campus/Pages/index.aspx

Cost of Living

Please find below an estimate of monthly living expenses in Singapore (in SGD):

Candidates are expected to have sufficient funds to cover expenses for their entire period of study.

Part-time Employment

International students holding a student pass may seek permission to work up to a certain number of hours per week. For advice, please contact [email protected].

Requirements for International Students Opening a Bank Account in Singapore

Foreigners who wish to open a bank account in Singapore must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid passport and employment pass, employment permit, or student pass. Some banks may also require proof of address in Singapore, such as a utility bill or tenancy agreement.

Steps

1. Preparing necessary documents: Ensure that you have all the necessary documents ready, including your passport, proof of residence, employment pass or student pass, and any other additional documents required by the bank. *Some banks may require a minimum initial deposit*.
2. Choosing a bank and type of account: Popular banks for foreigners include DBS/POSB, OCBC, UOB, HSBC, and Standard Chartered. Research the various banks and types of accounts available and select the one that best suits your needs. Consider factors such as minimum balance requirements, fees and charges, interest rates, and other features.
3. Submitting the application and opening the account: Once you have decided on the bank and type of account, fill out the application form and submit it to the bank along with the required documents. You can typically do this online or in person at a bank branch.
4. Activating the account and accessing banking services: Once your application has been approved, you will receive your bank account details and can start using your account. You may need to activate your account and set up online banking services to access additional features and services.

Important Tips

• Visit multiple banks to find the one that suits your needs best.
• Be patient with the process, as it may take time to get everything set up.
• Keep copies of all documents submitted and any correspondence with the bank.
• Be aware of any monthly maintenance fees, withdrawal fees, and charges for international transactions.
• Some student accounts may offer fee waivers if certain conditions are met.
• Consider a multi-currency account if you plan to manage funds in different currencies.
• Check the bank’s fees for international transfers if you’ll be sending money home.
• Familiarize yourself with online banking security measures and tips for protecting your account.

Requirements and Steps to Setting up a Mobile Line in Singapore

1. Choose a Provider: Research and choose from major telco providers like SIMBA, MyRepublic, M1, Singtel, and *Starhub* – located at Changi Airport, where they have booths across multiple terminals as of September 2024. They all offer various prepaid and postpaid plans.
2. Prepare Your Documents: Typically, you will need: A valid passport, work pass, student pass, or other residency document, and Proof of address (like a utility bill or rental agreement).
3. Visit a Retail Store or Online: You can visit a physical store or check if the provider has an online application option. Some providers might require you to visit in person, especially for document verification.
4. Select Your Plan: Choose between prepaid and postpaid plans based on your needs. Prepaid plans are usually easier to set up, while postpaid plans may require a credit check.
5. Fill Out the Application: Complete the necessary application form with your details.
6. Make Payment: Pay for your chosen plan. For prepaid plans, you might just need to purchase a SIM card; for postpaid, there may be an activation fee.
7. Get Your SIM Card: If you’re setting up a prepaid plan, you will receive your SIM card immediately. For postpaid, it may take a few days to activate.
8. Activate Your Line: Follow the provider’s instructions to activate your SIM card, usually by inserting it into your phone.
9. Customer Service: If you encounter any issues, contact the provider’s customer service for assistance.

Important Tips

• Consider getting a prepaid plan first if you are unsure about your long-term stay.
• Keep all receipts and documentation related to your plan for future reference.
• Ask about promotional offers, especially for students, as you may find discounts or bundles.
• Be aware of activation fees, monthly service charges, and any potential penalties for early contract termination.
• Familiarize yourself with the process for cancelling or changing your plan, especially if you finish your studies or change your needs.