Complete Guide to the Singapore Study Visa for Indians for 2026

Did you know that Indian students opting for Singapore have jumped by around 38% in recent years, driven by friendlier visa policies, world-class universities, and career prospects? (Education World)

If you’re planning to pursue higher education in top universities in Singapore in 2026, you will need a Singapore Student Pass, also referred to as a Singapore study visa, to enrol in a full-time course at a recognised institution. This guide is tailored specifically for Indian students and covers everything you need to know, from eligibility criteria and required documents to application fees and a step-by-step application process.

By following this guide, you will learn how to avoid common mistakes, anticipate potential delays, and increase your chances of a smooth approval. Whether it’s a Singapore student visa for Indian students or navigating the SOLAR application system, this guide equips you to apply confidently and efficiently.

A Singapore Student Visa for Indians in 2026, officially called a Student Pass, is the document issued by Singapore’s Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) that allows international students to live in Singapore for full-time study at a registered institution. It must be approved before you travel. It cannot be obtained by entering on a tourist visa. Applications are submitted online through the ICA’s Student’s Pass Online Application & Registration (SOLAR) system.

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• Purpose: Designed for full-time academic studies leading to a diploma, undergraduate degree, or postgraduate qualification.
• Duration:
  • Undergraduate courses: Typically up to 4 years
  • Postgraduate courses: 1 to 2 years (depends on program)
• Work Restrictions:
  • On-campus work may be allowed with prior approval from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM)
  • Off-campus employment usually requires a separate work permit
  • Students without a work permit can work up to 16 hours per week during term time
• Application Fees:
  • S$45 (~₹3,056) processing fee
  • S$60 (~₹4,075) issuance fee for the Student Pass
• Issuance: A Pass is issued digitally through the FileSG website or the Singpass app after completing all formalities

While the Singapore study visa (also known as the Student Pass) can meet the demands of most international students wishing to study in Singapore, the country provides a range of study visa options for different types of needs, including; 

• Business Visa
• Training Employment Pass (TEP)
• Social Visa
• Dependant's Pass 

Let's review these options to help you choose the one that best aligns with your academic and professional objectives.

To qualify for a Singapore Student Pass, Indian students must meet specific requirements set by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA). These criteria ensure that applicants are prepared for academic success and can contribute positively to Singapore's educational environment.

• Requirement: You must be accepted into a full-time, non-religious course at an approved educational institution in Singapore.
• Note: Part-time courses, evening, or weekend classes are not eligible.
• Institutions include government, government-aided, and independent schools, as well as Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) and EduTrust-certified Private Education Institutions (PEIs).

Demonstrating proficiency in English is crucial for academic success in Singapore's English-medium institutions.

• Accepted Tests & Minimum Scores:
  • IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 to 7.0
  • TOEFL iBT: Score of 90
  • PTE Academic: Score of 55
• Alternative Academic Assessments:
  • SAT: Minimum score of 1250
  • ACT: Minimum score of 30
  • GMAT/GRE: Scores between 550–670

Note: Some institutions may have higher requirements, so it's essential to check with the specific school.

• Requirement: Possess a valid Indian high school diploma or equivalent.
• Supporting Documents:
  • Transcripts from previous institutions.
  • Certificates demonstrating completion of relevant academic programs.

You must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses in Singapore.

• Suggested Funds: At least ₹5.4 lakhs (approximately S$8,000), excluding tuition fees.
• Accepted Proofs:
  • Recent bank statements.
  • Sponsor letters from parents, guardians, or organisations.
  • Scholarship award letters.

Note: The exact amount may vary depending on the institution and course duration.

• Health Insurance: While not mandatory, it's advisable to have health insurance coverage during your stay.
• Medical Examination: Some applicants may be required to undergo a medical examination.
• Vaccination: Applicants aged 12 years and below must submit vaccination records to the Health Promotion Board (HPB) as per ICA guidelines. 

• Police Clearance: You may be required to provide a police clearance certificate from your home country to demonstrate good character.
• Legal Compliance: Adhere to all legal requirements and regulations set by the ICA and other relevant authorities.

Ensure you have the following documents ready for your application:

• Completed Form 14A, signed by you.
• Registration Acknowledgement Letter from the institution.
• Passport biodata page and birth certificate (if applicable).
• Educational documents: Transcripts and certificates.
• Proof of financial support: Bank statements, sponsor letters, or scholarship award letters.
• Recent passport-sized digital photograph.
• Completed Form V39A.
• Application Fee: ₹3,056 (approximately S$45).

Embarking on your educational journey in Singapore begins with securing a Student Pass, officially known as the Student's Pass. This process is systematic, and adhering to each step ensures a smooth application experience.

Before initiating the visa application, you must receive a formal Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Singaporean institution. Ensure that the institution is registered with the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA).

Once you accept the offer and pay any required deposits, your institution will register you in the Student's Pass Online Application & Registration (SOLAR) system. They will provide you with:

• SOLAR application number
• SOLAR login credentials (username and password)

These details are essential for proceeding with your application.

Log in to the ICA portal using your SOLAR credentials and complete eForm 16, the official application form. Information required includes:

• Personal particulars (as in your passport)
• Educational background
• Course details
• Travel history

Gather and upload clear, colour scans of the following documents:

• Recent passport-sized photograph (meeting ICA specifications)
• Passport biodata page (valid for at least 6 months)
• Official Letter of Acceptance from the educational institution
• Completed eForm 16 (printed, signed, and scanned)
• Birth certificate
• Previous academic transcripts and certificates
• Proof of Financial Support (bank statements, sponsor letter, or scholarship award letter)

For Indian students, a Visa Eligibility Letter may be required by your institution before they issue your LOA. Check with your school's admissions office for specific requirements.

A non-refundable application fee of S$45 is payable online via the SOLAR system. Keep the payment receipt for your records.

Upon successful application review, the ICA will issue an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter. This document allows you to enter Singapore and is not the actual Student Pass, but it is essential for the next steps. The IPA will contain all conditions and instructions for your final registration.

Once you have the IPA, you can travel to Singapore. To complete the formal registration process:

• Make an appointment via the ICA e-Service to select an appropriate date and time for your appointment.
• Bring the following documents to the ICA Services Centre at 2 Crawford Street, Level 3, Singapore 207218:
  • IPA letter
  • Passport
  • Disembarkation/Embarkation (D/E) card
  • Medical report (if required)
  • Original copies of all documents submitted online

At this appointment, your fingerprints will be taken, and the actual Student Pass card will be issued. 

As of February 27, 2023, the ICA issues the Student Pass in digital form only. After completing the formalities, you will receive an email from no-reply@file.gov.sg with instructions on retrieving your digital Student Pass via the FileSG website or the Singpass app. (Source: ICA)

While the majority of Singapore student visa applications for Indian students are approved, some applicants do face rejection. Understanding the common pitfalls can help you avoid delays and ensure a smoother approval process.

• Insufficient Financial Proof
  One of the leading reasons for rejection is failing to demonstrate adequate funds. Indian students should show clear proof of financial resources covering at least one year of tuition fees and living expenses in Singapore. Accepted proofs include bank statements, sponsor letters, or scholarship award letters.
• Gaps in Academic History
  Unexplained gaps in your education history can raise concerns with the ICA. Always provide proper explanations or supporting documents for any breaks in studies, internships, or work experience.
• Incorrect or Incomplete Documentation
  Applications may be rejected if documents are unclear, incomplete, or not translated into English. Ensure all educational certificates, financial proofs, and identification documents are accurate, legible, and uploaded correctly in the SOLAR system.
• Non-Approved Institution
  Only courses offered by ICA-approved or EduTrust-certified institutions are eligible for a Student Pass. Verify your institution’s approval status before applying to avoid unnecessary delays or rejections.
• Health or Character Issues
  Applicants may be required to submit a medical examination report and, in some cases, a police clearance certificate. Completing these requirements thoroughly ensures compliance with Singapore’s legal and health standards.

• Contact Your Institution: The international student office can guide you on the next steps and provide support.
• Understand the Reason: ICA usually specifies the reason for rejection. Review it carefully to address gaps or errors.
• Reapply or Appeal: Once you have rectified the issues, reapply through your school or submit an appeal with the necessary supporting documents.

By following these guidelines, Indian students can significantly improve their chances of obtaining a Singapore student visa and avoid common errors during the application process.

With a visa approval rate above 90%, Singapore remains one of the most student-friendly destinations for Indian students in 2026. By understanding the eligibility criteria, preparing your documents carefully, and navigating the SOLAR application system, you can make your Singapore Student Pass application smooth and hassle-free. 

Beyond academics, Singapore offers innovative research opportunities and a good average salary post graduation, making it an ideal destination to build a successful future. Indian students can also bring family members along through the Dependant’s Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass for added support during their studies.

To maximise your chances, ensure eligibility, prepare all documents accurately, and apply early through the official SOLAR portal. For expert guidance on your Singapore study visa for Indians, our Study Abroad Experts at Leap can help you navigate the process efficiently.