International Students
Student Pass
International students must possess a valid Student's Pass to be able to study at SMU. SMU will assist in the application of student passes once the offer to the programme is accepted. Under the Immigration Checkpoint and Authorities (ICA) regulation, only international students studying in a full-time programme are allowed to have student passes.
Upon completion of the programme, students will have to give up their student passes. Extension of the student pass is not allowed once a student has completed graduation requirements.
Please note that the University does not sponsor the student's dependents (e.g. spouse, children, parents) for any immigration passes.
More details about Student Pass in Singapore, please visit Singapore Immigration and Checkpoints Authority here.
Student Accommodation
Student Hostels
Students who require accommodation will be pleased to note that SMU students enjoy preferential rates at various privately-managed student hostels.
For more information, please click here.
Private Apartments
If you prefer private apartments, you can engage the services of a property agent to help you find an apartment. There will be an agent's fee for this.
Points to Consider When Choosing Accommodation:
| ✅ | Rent | This includes the rental amount of the unit, rental deposit, security deposit, administrative charges, agent fees for service rendered, etc. |
| ✅ | Location | Do check whether the apartment/hostel is conveniently located and if public transport, grocery stores, food outlets or banks are easily accessible. |
| ✅ | Length of Lease | The lease of a unit is normally for at least a year. Landlords of private apartments usually ask for up to 3 months' rent as deposit. However, short-term lease is available but usually at a higher rental. |
| ✅ | Others | The cost of accommodation depends on several factors such as the locality, type of premises, size, furnishings provided, recreational facilities available, length of lease. Housing in Singapore is generally expensive, especially within the city. |
Do note that the contract / tenancy agreement will be solely between the student and hostel management / owner. Please read the contract / tenancy agreement carefully before you make any commitment.
Cost of Living
The living costs you incur will depend on your lifestyle. An international student may expect to incur the following per month:
| Accommodation | Meals | Transportation | Miscellaneous |
| S$400 – S$2,000 | S$300 – S$500 | S$150 – S$300 | S$500 – S$1,500 |
International Student Experience
The Office of Global Learning annually plans a series of social and recreational programmes to engage our international students. These activities provide opportunities for integration with the university community and are aimed at enhancing the student experience. For more details, please click here.