Life in Singapore
Essential Guide for International Students
⚠️ Important: Compliance with Singapore regulations and Student Pass requirements is mandatory. Violations may result in pass cancellation and deportation.
Applicable Singapore Laws
In Singapore, several activities are strictly regulated:
- Littering is prohibited, and trash must be disposed of in designated bins.
- The import, sale, and possession of chewing gum, except for therapeutic types, are banned.
- Smoking is only allowed in designated smoking areas and is prohibited in most indoor locations.
- The possession and trafficking of illegal drugs including vapes, are strictly prohibited, with strict legal consequences.
- Public drinking is not allowed between 10:30 PM and 7:00 AM in public places, and certain areas, such as Little India and Geylang, have stricter regulations, particularly on weekends.
- Student pass holders are not permitted to work in Singapore without a valid work pass.
About SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG)
The SSG's role is to regulate the private education industry in Singapore. As a regulator, SSG ensures that only registered Private Education Institutions (PEIs) are allowed to offer private education and the PEIs meet and maintain the minimum requirements for the protection of students.
Student's Pass Requirements
Mandatory Attendance & Presence
- Attendance Requirement: A minimum attendance rate of 90% is required throughout the course duration.
- Continuous Absence: Students are not permitted to be absent for seven consecutive days without prior authorization.
- Pass Expiry: Students are prohibited from remaining in Singapore once their Student Pass has expired.
Study & Work Restrictions
- Course Restrictions: Students are strictly permitted to undertake the course and attend the institution that is specified on their Student Pass.
- Employment: Unauthorized employment during the course of study is strictly prohibited.
- Pass Surrender: The Student Pass must be returned within seven days of course suspension or completion.
Daily Life Tips
- Public Transport: MRT and buses are efficient - get an EZ-Link card
- Dining: Hawker centers offer affordable local food
- Respect Local Culture: Singapore is multi-cultural - be respectful of all communities
- Queuing: Always queue orderly in public places
- Escalator Etiquette: Stand on the left, walk on the right
- Air Conditioning: Bring a light jacket - indoor spaces can be very cold
Cost of Living
On average, international students in Singapore typically spend around S$1,600 per month on living expenses. Below is a general guide to the typical costs that international students may incur while living in Singapore:
- Accommodation: S$600 and above (depending on the location and type of accommodation)
- Utilities: S$50 and above (for electricity, water, and other utility services)
- Food: S$450 – S$900 (varies depending on dining choices, from hawker centres to restaurants, and grocery costs)
- Transportation: S$100 – S$150 (for public transport)
- Telecommunication: S$35 and above (including mobile phone plans and data packages)
- Books and Stationery: Varies (based on individual needs for textbooks and study materials)
- Personal Expenses and Leisure: S$150 – S$500 (varies based on individual lifestyle choices)
*This estimation may vary depending on individual preferences and lifestyle choices.