National University of Singapore Checklist for International Students

This article provides a comprehensive checklist for Indian students accepted to the National University of Singapore. It covers every important step like accepting the offer, applying for a Singapore Student Pass, arranging pre-admission medical exams, obtaining insurance, and finding accommodation. By following this checklist, you can ensure a smooth transition to your studies at NUS.

So you have got the admission acceptance letter from the National University of Singapore? Getting admission into NUS is a big achievement. The university holds 8th rank in the list of top 10 universities in the world and #1 in the Asian continent. You just reached a milestone and are yet to complete a few more steps before you begin your studies. These include applying for a Singapore Student Pass, undergoing a medical examination, and obtaining insurance.

Also, you have to find a safe and comfortable accommodation for yourself. This article will be helpful for all lucky Indian students who managed to get admission to universities in Singapore including NUS. At the end of this checklist article, you’ll have a clear idea which are the essential tasks to complete.

Start with Accepting NUS Offer

The National University of Singapore will send you an email to update you about your application status. All you need to visit the official website of the university and log into the Graduate Application System (GDA) to check the status of your application. If you are lucky to get the offer letter, then proceed to accept the offer and make the payment.

Steps to Accept NUS Offer Letter

1. Scroll down to “View Application/Make Payment/Submit Reply on Offer of Admission”
2. You'll see options to accept or reject the offer.
3. Read the admission declarations and complete it.
4. Submit your passport-sized photographs.
5. Verify the personal and academic details mentioned there.
6. Pay the acceptance fee (if applicable)
7. Confirm acceptance of the offer letter from the National University of Singapore.

How to Apply for Singapore Student Visa?

Now, it’s time to apply for a Singapore Student pass. This student pass lets you enter the country and study at any university and college in Singapore. There is some eligibility that you need to follow before you apply for the student visa. Getting a university acceptance letter is the first and foremost eligibility to apply for a Singapore Student visa.

As you have accepted the offer letter from NUS, the university will apply for a Singapore Student Pass on your behalf with the Singapore Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA). To complete the process, ICA will communicate with you to complete the eForm 16 and upload document requirements.

Singapore Student Visa Processing fee is SGD 30 (INR 1,841 approximately) is required for every application submitted to ICA. The fee is non-refundable. Also, an issuance fee of SGD 60 (INR 3,685) has to be paid once the Student's Pass is approved and issued. You must submit the eForm 16 within one month of your course starting at the National University of Singapore.

Documents Required for Singapore Student Pass

• A valid passport of the student.
• Completed Student Visa Application Forms – ICA eform 16
• Application fee payment receipt (Application Fee of USD 30 and an issuance fee of SGD 60).
• A copy of the admission acceptance letter 
• Two passport-sized photographs
• Fixed Deposit Receipts (if necessary)
• Bank education loan sanction letter (if necessary)

Arriving in Singapore and Settling In

Once your Student Pass is approved, ICA will release In-Principle Approval Letter (IPA). IPA Letter is considered a single-entry visa. You need to present a printed copy of the issued IPA letter and a valid passport to the immigration officer at the entry checkpoint (Singapore). The validity of the issued IPA letter will be one month.

Collecting the STP

To get the Singapore Student Pass, you need to make an E-appointment at ICA after arriving in Singapore. Follow the instructions shown on the screen and complete the required formality. All this process should be completed within one month of your arrival.

Pre-Admission Medical Examination

Another part of the National University of Singapore admission process is to undergo your pre-admission medical exams. You can either get it done at the university health centre or by a private health physician. If you're planning to get your pre-admission medical check-up at the University Health Centre, you'll need to make an appointment in advance. Appointments are available from Monday to Friday.

Student Insurance Plan is Mandatory

To study in any university or college in Singapore, a student insurance plan is mandatory. Here, you are going to study at the National University of Singapore, so you must get the University’s medical insurance scheme. This insurance covers insurance for basic medical and personal accident-related issues. This is compulsory for every student and no one can opt out. A Health Services Fee is charged per semester for all students.

Accommodation in Singapore

The next step is to get student accommodation in Singapore. It should be comfortable and secure. You can either get off-campus accommodation or on-campus dormitories. Note that, the capacity of NUS student dormitories is limited. To book these on-campus dormitories, students need to inform the university administration in advance.

Tips to Find Accommodation

It is important to find the right student accommodation while studying abroad. It helps you to focus on your studies and not worry about security. Here are some tips to find student accommodation in Singapore:

1. Start exploring options as soon as possible
2. Consider using student accommodation agencies that specialize in finding suitable housing.
3. Consider your preferences, such as location, budget, amenities etc.
4. Once you've narrowed down your options, schedule visits to inspect the properties.
5. If possible, negotiate the rental price or amenities with the landlord.
6. Once you've found suitable accommodation, pay the required deposit to secure the unit.

Final Preparation for Your Arrival

The university will send you the details about programs and workshops organized during orientation week. The university organizes academic competitions, career and personal development events, social activities, and student dialogues for fresher students.

That’s all about the topic. We hope this information is helpful! We’ve covered everything you need to know before studying at the National University of Singapore. Now, it’s time to pack your bags and book your flight to Singapore.

 Related Read:

• Checklist for Indian Students Going Abroad
• First Time Travel in Flight As International Students
• Student Discount Flights Offers

If you are interested in studying abroad and have some queries related to it? Connect with the team of Shiksha Abroad Counselling for free counselling and request a call back from our team of experts. You can also send us your queries in the comment box below.