Living in Singapore
Everything you need to know about life as an international student in Singapore.
Welcome, International Students
Your journey to Singapore starts here
Welcome to CSM Academy International! We are committed to helping international students settle in and make the most of their time in Singapore. From arrival services to accommodation guidance, we provide the support you need to focus on your studies.
Singapore is a vibrant, multicultural city-state that offers a safe, clean, and efficient environment for international students. With world-class infrastructure and a welcoming community, you'll feel at home in no time.
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About Singapore
A cosmopolitan city where cultures come together harmoniously
Singapore is a cosmopolitan society where people live harmoniously, drawing from diverse ethnic influences including Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European heritage. Distinct cultural areas such as Chinatown, Arab Street, and Little India sit alongside colonial British architecture, creating a unique urban tapestry.
Each racial group has its own distinctive religion and there are colourful festivals of special significance all year round. You'll enjoy a remarkable variety of cuisine — Chinese, Indian, Malay, Indonesian, Western, Italian, Peranakan, Spanish, French, Thai, and Fusion.
Languages
Singapore has four official languages — Mandarin, Malay, Tamil, and English. English serves as the unifying language across all ethnic groups and is the primary language of instruction.
Healthcare
Singapore boasts impeccable healthcare standards with state-of-the-art medical facilities. With seven public hospitals and six national specialty centres, quality healthcare is readily accessible and affordable.
Cost of Living
Estimated monthly expenses for international students in Singapore (SGD)
* Estimates based on food courts and hawker centres. Actual costs vary depending on individual spending habits.
Arrival Services
We help you settle in from the moment you arrive
CSM Academy provides arrival assistance to help international students settle down quickly for their studies. We will pick you up from Changi International Airport and send you to the hostels recommended by us.
We also provide information about nearby amenities including banks, ATMs, MRT stations, bus stops, medical clinics, and convenience stores to help you get oriented in your new neighbourhood.
Recommended Resources
Accommodation Advice
The Academy does not provide accommodation. However, students can seek assistance from the Academy's student welfare staff for guidance on the choice, type of accommodation, charges, and other service requirements before setting out to make their own private arrangements.
This is especially helpful if there are contractual requirements involved in renting a room in a private apartment or condominium unit. Our staff can advise on what to look out for in rental agreements.
Adapting to the Environment
Guidance on making Singapore your home away from home
Counselling Assistance
Our School has a Programme Executive who advises students on all school matters and problems they face in adapting to the change in environment. Feel free to reach out for support at any time.
Transportation
Singapore offers a comprehensive public transit system including buses and MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) stations that connect the entire island efficiently.
Purchase an EZ-Link card for $15 (with $10 encoded value) for cashless payments on all public transport. This is cheaper than paying by cash for each trip.
Taxis are also available from operators such as ComfortDelGro, City Cab, and Yellow Top.
Dress Code
Students' attire should be neat and conform to school regulations. Sleeveless T-shirts, shorts, and slippers are not allowed on campus.
Punctuality & Attendance
International students holding a Student Pass must achieve 90% attendance. Failure to do so may result in pass revocation. Medical certificates are required for legitimate absences.
Smoking Restrictions
Smoking is prohibited in all enclosed public spaces including cinemas, public transport, offices, and air-conditioned areas.
Littering Laws
Singapore maintains strict cleanliness standards. Littering is prohibited and carries fines. Always use designated litter bins.
Student Pass Application
Information on securing your Student Pass for studying in Singapore
ICA Form 16 and Form V36 must be completed in English and duly signed by the applicant. Upon approval, CSM Academy International will proceed to submit your Student's Pass application via SOLAR+ to the Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA).
Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA)
Address
ICA Building, 10 Kallang Road
Singapore 208718
(next to Lavender MRT Station)
Operating Hours
Mon – Fri: 8:00 am to 4:30 pm
Closed on Sat, Sun & Public Holidays
Last ticket 30 min before closing
Call Centre
+(65) 6391 6100
Mon – Fri: 8:00 am to 5:30 pm
Student Pass Terms & Conditions
- Produce your STP card and passport at immigration checkpoints upon departure and return.
- Notify ICA of any address changes within 14 days.
- Maintain 90% monthly attendance. 7 continuous days of absence may trigger pass cancellation.
- You cannot engage in paid employment without a valid work pass.
- Surrender your card upon pass cancellation or expiration.
- Non-compliance may result in pass cancellation and deportation. Remaining unlawfully is an offence under the Immigration Act.
Start Your Journey
Study With Us in Singapore
Ready to take the next step? Apply to CSM Academy International and join a vibrant community of healthcare professionals from around the world.
