studying in singapore is becoming known as one of the premier locations in Asia for education, with globally recognized schools, an international business setting, and an obvious opportunity to gain permanent residency after graduation.
But you’ll need to get one important piece of paperwork before packing up your luggage – a valid Singapore study visa.
Ausizz Migration Consultants will provides detailed information about everything you need to know in order to obtain your Singapore study visa in 2026, from eligibility and required documents to fees, processing times, and scholarship possibilities at the National University of Singapore.
What Is a Singapore Study Visa (Student’s Pass)?
1. Student’s Pass Overview
The Student’s Pass is the name of theSingapore study visa and the official document that tourists can use to enter Singapore through the International & Checkpoints Authority.
It is a long-term document that gives foreigners the legal right to live in Singapore while they are taking courses.
No matter which school in Singapore you attend, whether it is a public university or polytechnic, you must have a valid STP before you can stay in Singapore for your entire study programme.
2. Who Needs It
International students who are studying full-time at an accredited school in Singapore are required to have a Singapore study visa.
This requirement includes those studying at the National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore Management University (SMU), polytechnics, Institutes of Technical Education (ITE’s), and privately registered educational institutions (PEIs) that are accredited by the Singapore government.
Students enrolled in short term courses less than thirty days do not require a Singapore study visa, all other long-term student study programmes require a Student’s Pass.
3. Validity & Extension
The period your singapore study visa is valid for the entire educational duration of your selected course.
You will require to apply for a new length visa if you have an extended course or if you have completed an existing course and move onto a higher level qualification.
The educational institution is responsible for processing extensions via SOLAR to issue renewals required prior to almost expiring.
You must be careful to never exceed the period of your Student’s Pass, as this is a major immigration offense and may impact future visa applications to Singapore.
Singapore Study Visa Eligibility Criteria (2026)
The first step to applying for a Singapore study visa in 2026 is to check that you have all required documents to qualify for the visa.
1. Academic Requirements
You must be accepted into an Institute of Higher Education in Singapore that has received approval from the ICA. In general, there are different entry qualifications required by each of the Institutes of Higher Education based on both the Institute and the level of the course.
Entry qualifications vary, and none are universally accepted.
For example,
if you want to attend the National University of Singapore, then you will need to present either very good A levels, International Baccalaureate Diploma or equivalent results and very competitive scores from acceptable international standardised English language proficiency test (IELTS, TOEFL) as well.
The NUS also requires students to be in very good academic standing to receive a scholarship and thus will require planning well in advance.
2. Financial Proof
The ICA will also require proof that the applicant has sufficient financial resources (or financial support from another person) to cover the cost of tuition and living expenses while studying in Singapore.
The ICA will require proof of sufficient resources (i.e., SGD $10,000 – 20,000) above the cost of tuition.
The ICA typically expects to see proof of funding via the submission of either bank statements showing sufficient funds or proof of scholarship etc.
Typically, if you receive an NUS scholarship, you will have met the financial requirement automatically.
3. Health & Character Criteria
It is required that you have a sound mind and body.
Depending on your nationality and the purpose and length of stay, you may need to have a medical examination through an approved doctor in Singapore included in your documentation requirements.
You are required to disclose any previous criminal convictions and this may lead to extra investigations on your application for a Singapore Student visa or potential refusal of your Singapore Student visa application..
Step-by-Step Application Process for Singapore Study Visa
1. SOLAR System – Where It All Begins
All applications for study visas in Singapore are submitted online through the SOLAR system (Student’s Pass Online Application & Registration).
After an institution has verified that you have enrolled with them, you will receive an eForm16 reference number, which serves as your login ID for the SOLAR portal.
To complete your application online, you will have to complete your application form, upload all the required documents and pay your application fee through the SOLAR portal.
You should make sure every field in your application is accurate; inaccuracies between the application form and supporting documentation are the most common cause of delays in getting your study visa while you’re studying in Singapore.
2. IPA Approval – In-Principle Approval Letter
if you have obtained the approval of your Singapore study visa.
The IPA letter is your entry clearance to enter and travel to Singapore.
It will also indicate if you will receive your Student’s Pass when you arrive in Singapore and complete your biometric registration at ICA.
You must keep the IPA letter in a safe place, as you will need it to show ICA at the airport and upon arrival in Singapore.
3. ICA Appointment – Collecting Your Student’s Pass
We ask that you visit ICA, located in Singapore at 10 Kallang Sector, within thirty days of your arrival in Singapore, to complete the process of registering your biometrics and receive your physical Student’s Pass card.
To do this you will need to bring an original copy of the IPA letter you used to apply for the visa, along with a valid passport and any supporting documents required by ICA for this appointment.
You will usually be able to pick up your Student’s Pass card within one working day after having visited ICA.
Documents Checklist for Singapore Student Visa
Obtaining the necessary documents in advance is the most crucial part of a successful Singapore study visa application. Below is a complete checklist:x
1. Academic Documents
- Official Offer/Acceptance letter from your Singaporean institution (This will be a support for your application).
- Certified copies of your transcripts and/or certificate(s), including an official English translation if needed.
- English language proficiency exam score (ex: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English).
- National University of Singapore (NUS) scholarship award letter (if applicable as an additional support for your financial assistance and academic standing).
2. Financial Documents
- Current Bank Statements (three to six months prior to your visa application) indicating adequate funds.
- Sponsorship Financial Documents (if you are being sponsored by a family member or organization).
- Award letter of scholarship (e.g. National University of Singapore or other funding bodies).
- Receipt of tuition fee payment (if you have already paid the first installment).
3. Passport & Medical Documents
- Passport (must be valid for at least six months after the end of your course of study).
- Two recent (within the past 90 days) biometric/photos (white background).
- Medical Examination Report (depending on your citizenship and the length of your course).
- Completed eForm 16 from Your Institution (required to register in the SOLAR system).
Singapore Study Visa Fees & Processing Time 2026
1. Official ICA Fees
| Fee Item | Amount (SGD) | Notes |
| Student’s Pass Application Fee | $30 | Non-refundable; paid via SOLAR |
| Student’s Pass Issuance Fee | $60 | Paid at ICA upon collection |
| Student’s Pass Re-issuance / Renewal | $30 + $60 | Per renewal cycle |
| Late Application Penalty | Varies | Avoid by applying 8 weeks early |
2. Processing Timelines
| Stage | Typical Duration | Tips |
| SOLAR Application Submission | Same day (online) | Submit as soon as CoE is received |
| ICA Assessment & IPA Issuance | 4 – 8 weeks | Faster for public universities |
| Travel to Singapore (after IPA) | Within 2 months of IPA | Book flights after IPA arrival |
| ICA Biometric Appointment | Within 30 days of arrival | Book appointment in advance |
| Student’s Pass Card Collection | 1 working day after appointment | Bring all original documents |
3. Additional Costs to Budget For
- Insurance for Overseas Students: The cost of insurance for an overseas student ranges from approximately SGD 300 to SGD 600 per year and is required by all Singapore study visa holders.
- Translation & Certification of Documents: Charges vary; SGD 50 to SGD 200 depending on the number of documents you will require to be translated officially.
- Medical Checkup (if required): Approximately SGD 80 to SGD 150 at an ICA-accredited clinic.
- Travel & Accommodation to Visit the ICA: Be prepared to have enough funds for the first few days of your stay in Singapore until you obtain accommodations provided by your campus or student housing.
FAQs
Q: What documents are required for a singapore study visa?
A: Key documents required include your offer letter, academic transcripts, valid passport, financial proof, English proficiency results, passport photos, and a completed eForm16 from your institution. A national university of singapore scholarship letter (if applicable) also strengthens your application.
Q: How long does it take to get a singapore study visa?
A: ICA typically takes 4 to 8 weeks to issue an IPA letter after your application is submitted via SOLAR. Apply at least 8–10 weeks before your course start date to avoid delays.
Q: Is the national university of singapore scholarship available for international students?
A: Yes. NUS offers several scholarship programmes for international students studying in singapore, including the ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship, Science & Technology Scholarship, and various faculty-specific awards. Scholarship holders must maintain strong academic performance to retain their award.
Conclusion
Investing in an education in Singapore will positively impact you academically/professionally/personal-wise for years to come. The Singapore Study Visa Act provides the legal basis for this opportunity. Additionally, there are processes that must be followed to ensure that your application is submitted correctly, including information regarding the eligibility requirements and documentation needed, how to go through SOLAR to apply as well as costing/processing times, etc. By understanding these three main categories, you will be ready to submit your complete and viable application for an SSV. If you plan on participating in the Singapore National University Scholarship Program; begin compiling your academic and supporting documentation right now.
Get expert visa guidance from Ausizz Migration Consultants. Our experienced consultants will help you with the Singapore study visa process, documents, and university admission.
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