Arriving at Changi Airport: Immigration and Customs

Immigration Clearance: Upon landing at Changi Airport, proceed to immigration with your travel documents. As an international student, you should have your In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter for the Student’s Pass ready. Present your passport and the IPA letter to the immigration officer. The IPA letter acts as your entry visa (if required) and will allow you to enter Singapore on a short-term Visit Pass. You may also need to show a completed SG Arrival Card (an electronic arrival immigration form) – it’s advisable to submit this online up to 3 days before arrival. The officer will take your fingerprints and photo if it’s your first entry, then stamp your passport or issue an electronic visit pass valid for a short period.

Student’s Pass Requirements: The Visit Pass you receive on arrival is temporary. Within its validity, you must complete formalities to get your long-term Student’s Pass. This involves: downloading and signing the Student’s Pass Terms & Conditions, undergoing a medical examination if instructed, and scheduling an appointment with ICA (Immigration & Checkpoints Authority). Many universities coordinate offsite enrolment sessions for Student’s Pass issuance on campus; otherwise, you’ll book an appointment to visit the ICA Building at 2 Crawford Street (Lavender MRT station). At the appointment, bring all required documents (passport, IPA letter, medical report, etc.) and pay the issuance fee (S$60, plus S$30 for a multiple-entry visa if applicable). Note: As of 2023, Student’s Passes are issued digitally – after completion of formalities you will download your digital pass or view it in the SingPass mobile app. Be sure to register for a SingPass account (Singapore’s digital ID) once you have your FIN/student pass, as it will be useful for accessing government e-services and your digital pass.

Changi Airport’s arrival area – after clearing immigration, you’ll collect your baggage and proceed through customs.

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Getting from the Airport to Your Accommodation

Whether you have pre-arranged housing or not, your next step is to travel from Changi Airport to your accommodation.

If You Have Pre-Arranged Housing: Many students will have arranged a place to stay in advance, such as a university dormitory or a private rental room. Make sure you have the address handy (print it out or save it on your phone). From Changi, you have several transport options:

• Taxi/Grab: The easiest (but most expensive) option is to take a taxi from the official taxi stand or book a Grab car (a popular ride-hailing service) via the app. A ride to the city center or campus area can cost around S$20–S$30+ depending on distance and time (there’s an airport surcharge). After a long flight with heavy luggage, this door-to-door option can be worth it for convenience. Tip: Both regular taxis and Grab operate with metered or upfront app fares; all are safe and regulated.
   

• Airport Shuttle: Changi Airport offers a shuttle bus service that can take you to major hotels for a fee. If your pre-arranged housing is near a hotel, this could be an option. Inquire at the Ground Transport Desk in the arrivals hall.
   

• MRT/Train: Singapore’s Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) is efficient and cost-effective. Changi Airport is connected to the MRT (CG2 station on the East-West Line). If your accommodation is near an MRT station, you can take the train. Transfer lines if needed to reach the station closest to your destination. The MRT is cheap (a few dollars at most), but consider that it might be challenging with large luggage, especially during peak hours. If you arrive during off-peak times, the train is a viable option. Travel time to the city by MRT is around 30–45 minutes.
   

• Public Bus: Buses are available from the airport bus bays. They are inexpensive but not ideal if you have many bags, as they have limited luggage space and make many stops.
   

Setting Up Essential Services

Once you’ve dropped off your luggage and taken a breath, you’ll want to set up the basic services that will make your life in Singapore comfortable. These include getting a local SIM card for phone service, obtaining a transportation card, opening a bank account, and accessing the internet on campus. It’s a good idea to handle these within the first couple of days after arrival.

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Getting a Local SIM Card (Mobile Phone)

Staying connected is a top priority. You will likely want a Singaporean SIM card for your phone so you have a local number and data plan. Here are your options and steps:

• Buying a SIM at the Airport: Right after you exit customs at Changi, you’ll find telecom shops/kiosks for Singtel, StarHub, and M1 (the three main telcos). They sell prepaid tourist SIM cards which offer a big bundle of data and calls for a short duration (for example, S$12 for 100 GB data, 500 mins local calls, valid 14–15 days). The advantage of buying at the airport is immediate connectivity – you can call family or use maps right away. However, the airport SIM deals are oriented to short-term visitors, and may be slightly pricier than regular SIMs in the long run.
   

• Buying a SIM in the City: If you don’t urgently need mobile service at the airport, you can buy a prepaid SIM from convenience stores like 7-Eleven or Cheers, or from official telco stores in the city. In fact, SIM cards from outside the airport are usually cheaper or come with better ongoing top-up rates. Many 7-Eleven stores sell generic prepaid SIMs (e.g. Singtel’s hi!Card, StarHub’s Green card, M1) – just ask the cashier. You’ll need to show your passport for registration, as per law.
   

• Prepaid vs. Postpaid: As a newly-arrived student, starting with a prepaid SIM is simplest. Prepaid SIMs have no contract – you pay upfront and recharge as needed. Plans are affordable; for example, M1 offers a prepaid SIM for $15 that includes 150 GB of data (for the first month) and is valid for 180 days. Prepaid users must remember to top up before the validity expires to keep the number active. Once you are settled, if you prefer, you can switch to a SIM-only postpaid plan (no contract monthly plan) which might offer more data for the cost – but these require your FIN/Student Pass and sometimes a local bank account for billing. Some popular SIM-only monthly plans include Gomo (by Singtel), Giga (by StarHub), Circles.Life, etc., which can be as low as S$10–$20 per month for large data bundles.
   

• Comparing Telcos: All telcos in Singapore have good coverage and 4G/5G speeds in the city, so you won’t go wrong with any of the big three (Singtel, StarHub, M1). There are also smaller operators (MVNOs) like SIMBA (formerly TPG), Circles.Life, and others that offer competitive rates. For instance, SIMBA has a $10 prepaid plan with 300 GB data (valid one month) which is great for heavy data users. Consider your usage: if you mainly use messaging apps and campus Wi-Fi, even a basic plan will suffice; if you need a lot of mobile data for off-campus use, choose accordingly.
   

• Don’t Forget Data Plans: Whichever SIM you choose, be sure to activate a data package instead of using pay-as-you-go for data. Data without a plan can quickly deplete your balance. Prepaid SIMs usually come with an included data bundle or easy add-on packages. (In Singapore, incoming calls on most plans are free, but note that on some prepaid cards, incoming calls might incur charges once the initial bundle is used, so check the terms.)
   

Getting a Transport Card (EZ-Link)

Singapore’s public transport system is excellent, and you’ll likely use the MRT trains and buses daily to get around. The simplest way to pay for rides is with a stored-value transit card. The two main cards are EZ-Link and NETS FlashPay, functionally similar for transit. Here’s how to get set up:

• Buy an EZ-Link Card: You can purchase an EZ-Link card at any MRT station ticket office or Passenger Service counter (including at Changi Airport MRT station). The card itself usually costs S$5 (non-refundable) and you’ll need to load some travel value onto it (e.g. pay S$10 and you get a card preloaded with S$5 value). Some convenience stores (7-Eleven, Cheers) also sell EZ-Link cards. There are occasionally special designs or promotions, but a standard card is fine.
   

• Using Your Card: The EZ-Link card is a contactless smart card. Tap it on the card reader when you board a bus or enter a train station, and tap again when alighting or exiting. The fare is automatically deducted. The card works on almost all public transportation – MRT, LRT, public buses – as well as on some taxis and at parking, and even for small purchases at certain merchants. As a student on a budget, having an MRT card is essential unless you plan to take taxis everywhere (which would be costly).
   

• Fares: Singapore’s transport fares are distance-based. A typical one-way student commute might cost anywhere from S$0.80 to S$2.00 depending on distance. With an EZ-Link, you usually get a small discount vs. cash fares. Also, if you take a bus then train in one journey, it’s considered a single journey fare (cheaper than two separate fares).
   

• Topping Up: You need to maintain a positive balance on the card. You can top up the card at MRT station machines (accepting cash or NETS), at convenience stores (with cash or card), or through mobile apps if you have enabled that (the EZ-Link app or SimplyGo app can top up if you link a bank card, once you have one). A useful feature: If you eventually open a local bank account, you can enable Auto Top-Up via the EZ-Link app, so it automatically reloads, but this is optional.
   

• Student Concession Pass: Since you’ll be a full-time student, check if your university student card doubles as a concession transit card, or if you can apply for a student concession pass. Some universities work with TransitLink to issue student EZ-Link cards that offer discounted monthly passes. For example, tertiary students can buy a monthly concession pass for unlimited bus/train rides at a fixed price. Inquire during your campus registration or at a TransitLink office with your student documents.

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Opening a Local Bank Account

Having a local bank account in Singapore is important for managing finances, whether it’s to receive a scholarship stipend, pay your rent, or simply to avoid foreign transaction fees on your cards. Singapore’s major banks include DBS/POSB, OCBC, UOB, as well as international banks like Standard Chartered, Citibank, and HSBC. Most students choose one of the local banks for convenience. Here’s how to proceed:

When to Open: You can open a bank account after you have your Student Pass or at least the IPA letter and proof of enrollment. Some banks may allow account opening with just the IPA (in-principle approval) letter and passport, but many will want to see your Student Pass (or at least the FIN number on it) and your student matriculation card or enrollment letter.

Documents Needed: Typically, prepare the following documents when you go to the bank:

• Passport (original)

• Student’s Pass card or IPA approval letter

• Proof of student status: your university matriculation card (student ID) or a letter of enrollment from the university.

• Local address proof: some banks might accept your dorm address or ask you to fill it in on the application form. (Bring a copy of your housing contract or any document with your Singapore address, if available.)

• Any initial deposit required (funds in cash or a cheque). Many student-friendly accounts don’t require a large initial deposit, but be prepared with at least S$100–$500 in case.

Where to Open: You can open an account at any branch of the bank. Note that NUS, NTU, and other campuses sometimes have a bank branch or a special arrangement: e.g., NUS has an OCBC Frank branch on Kent Ridge campus.

Choosing a Bank: All major banks in Singapore are reliable and offer online banking and ATM access. A few considerations:

• DBS/POSB: DBS is the largest bank; POSB is a subsidiary of DBS (focused on savings accounts). They have the most ATMs island-wide, including on campuses and MRT stations. DBS’s basic savings account (“My Account”) has no minimum balance and no monthly fees for students/young adults. NUS explicitly “prefers” students to use DBS for stipend disbursement.

• OCBC: OCBC’s Frank account is targeted at students/youth – minimum age 16, no initial deposit, and no minimum balance requirement (no fall-below fee) if you’re under 26. OCBC ATMs are also common, though perhaps slightly fewer on some campuses.

• UOB: UOB has student-friendly options too (like UOB One account). They may require a S$500–$1000 minimum daily balance or else a small fee (a common scenario for most regular accounts if no special youth waiver).

• Standard Chartered JumpStart: StanChart offers a JumpStart account for 18–26-year-olds with no fees, no minimum balance, and even 2% interest on balances up to S$20k. This is quite attractive, though SCB has fewer ATMs (they partner with service networks, but only ~25 ATMs of their own in SG).
   

• Digital Banks: Singapore also introduced digital banks (like Grab’s GXS Bank, or Trust Bank by Standard Chartered/NTUC). These might not require any minimum balance and are very easy to open via app with SingPass. However, as a new international student, it might be simpler to stick with the established banks for now, since the university systems (for fees or stipends) might be smoother with them.

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University Orientation and Registration

Orientation is an exciting part of your arrival – it’s where you get introduced to the campus, meet fellow students, and complete registration formalities. Singapore universities usually have a series of orientation events for new students (sometimes called Freshmen Orientation or Welcome Week). Here’s what to expect and do:

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Orientation Programs and Campus Tours

Attend all orientation activities that you can, especially those for international students. Universities often organize:

• Welcome Briefings: There may be a special briefing for international freshmen covering important info about student pass, healthcare, safety, and cultural adjustment. For example, NTU holds compulsory briefings for new international students to share administrative and safety information. These sessions are valuable – they highlight do’s and don’ts and available support services.

• Campus Tour: Join a campus tour (or explore on your own with a map). Senior student volunteers might show you key facilities: the library, canteens, sports center, health center, etc. Knowing your way around early is a big confidence booster when classes start.

• Orientation Camps/Activities: Some schools or faculties organize multi-day orientation camps filled with fun games, outings, and bonding activities. As an international student, you might feel shy, but these are great for making local friends and learning about Singaporean student culture. Don’t worry if some references or cheers go over your head – seniors will help you fit in.

• Freshmen Welcome Ceremony: Many universities have an official welcome ceremony or convocation for new students. It could be an address by the Dean/President, and maybe performances. Attend if scheduled – it’s often inspiring and you might receive a welcome pack.

• Student Clubs/Welcome Fair: Look out for a fair or exhibition of student clubs and societies. Universities here have many clubs (cultural, sports, arts, academic, etc.). There might be an orientation week fair where you can sign up for those that interest you. This is also where you might find the Indonesian Students’ Association booth (more on that later). Joining clubs is a fantastic way to make friends and beat homesickness.
   

Academic Registration and Student ID

Apart from the fun stuff, you must complete academic registration to officially enroll in your courses and get your student ID card:

• Document Verification: If you were instructed to bring original academic documents (transcripts, diplomas) for verification, ensure you do that at the registration office. Some universities require this to finalize your admission (especially if you submitted copies during application). Check if your orientation schedule has a slot for document verification or “Registration Part I/Part II”.
   

• Course Registration: Depending on the university, you might have already chosen courses online prior to arrival, or you might do it during orientation week. Ensure you know how to register for classes/modules. If you’re in a general first-year program, courses might be pre-assigned. But if you have electives or specific tutorials to select, there might be an add/drop system online. Attend any academic briefing by your faculty – they will explain the curriculum and how to use the course registration system (e.g., NUS has ModReg, NTU has STARS). If you’re unsure, ask an academic advisor or your faculty’s office.
   

• Student ID (Matriculation Card): Your student ID card is important. For many universities, you would have submitted a photo online beforehand for your card. Collection of the card might be scheduled during orientation week. This card often serves as your library card, access card for certain facilities, and can be used for identification to get student discounts (movies, museums, etc.). Bring a photo ID when collecting it, just in case they need to verify. Once you get it, treat it like gold – don’t lose it. If lost, report and replace it (for a fee).
   

• Fees Payment: Ensure any required payments (tuition fees, miscellaneous fees, insurance, etc.) are settled by the deadlines. Some students pay before arrival, others may pay during registration week at a finance office or online. Confirm your fee status on the portal; late payment could result in late registration or access issues.
   

• Health Check & Immunization: As mentioned earlier, universities mandate a medical examination for new students. If you have not done this yet, the registration process might include scheduling it. Some schools conduct on-site health screenings during orientation. If not, you might need to visit the campus health center or a designated clinic to get the check-up done. This could include a chest X-ray for tuberculosis and blood tests (and additional tests if you’re in certain fields like healthcare). Complete it as soon as possible because a pending medical report can block your enrolment (universities can bar you from registering for courses or view results if you don’t submit the medical exam). After your check-up is done, submit the forms (often done electronically by the clinic or you may need to upload the scanned report by a deadline).
   

• Orientation by Faculty/Department: Aside from general university orientation, your specific faculty or department will likely have an orientation too. This is crucial to attend – you’ll meet professors or academic advisors, learn about program requirements, class schedules, labs, etc. It’s the time to ask questions about your course structure. They might also assign senior mentors or “buddies” to help new students.
   

Health Matters: Insurance and Medical Check-ups

Staying healthy during your studies is important. Singapore’s healthcare system is high-quality but can be expensive without insurance. Luckily, as a student, you will have certain health provisions.

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Student Health Insurance

All full-time students in Singapore are covered by a compulsory medical insurance scheme provided through their university. This means you will automatically be enrolled in a basic health insurance plan as part of your annual miscellaneous fees. For example, NUS and NTU include coverage for outpatient primary care at the campus health center, personal accident, and hospitalization up to certain limits. You do not need to purchase a separate basic plan unless you want additional coverage.

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Medical Check-ups and Vaccinations

As noted in some universities’ (e.g. NUS) “University Registration” section, completing your medical examination is mandatory for enrolment and also for the issuance of your Student Pass. If you haven’t done it yet:

• Complete the Medical Exam: This usually includes a general health check (medical history, basic physical exam), a chest X-ray (to screen for TB), and a blood test (often for HIV, and possibly hepatitis for certain courses). Women may need a pregnancy test if enrolling in certain courses (like those involving lab work). If you did this back in Indonesia with the provided forms, ensure you submit the results to the university by the deadline (usually you email or upload the scanned form signed by the doctor).
   

• If not done yet, schedule it promptly. Universities often allow you to do it at their campus clinic. For example, NUS’s University Health Centre handles these exams (you can book an appointment online). The cost might be around S$40-S$60 at campus rates. Alternatively, any private clinic in Singapore can do the exam – just bring the official form for the doctor to fill. Note that if you do it privately, you must adhere to the form’s requirements (including an official X-ray report in English, not just the film).
   

• Consequences of Delay: If you don’t submit the medical exam by the deadline, the university can put a hold on your account (meaning you might not be able to see results or register for next semester). Also, ICA might not issue your Student Pass card without it (the IPA letter often states if a medical report is needed). So treat this as an urgent task.

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Finding Community and Support: Indonesian Groups in Singapore

You are not alone in Singapore – there are thousands of Indonesian students and a broader Indonesian diaspora here. Tapping into this community can provide support, friendship, and networking opportunities.

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Perhimpunan Pelajar Indonesia Singapura (PPIS)
We are an umbrella of Singapore-based Indonesian societies acting as a nationwide organization connecting Indonesian students across different institutions. PPIS often holds events like welcome gatherings, Independence Day (17 August) celebrations, cultural festivals, sports tournaments, etc. We also provide pre-departure and arrival guides (like some of the tips you see here).

Almost every university or polytechnic in Singapore has its own Indonesian student society, often affiliated with PPI Singapura:

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During your campus’s club fair or via seniors, connect with these clubs. They organize their own bonding activities–from simple hangouts and study sessions to showcasing Indonesian culture on campus. Being active in the Indonesian society isn’t just for fun: it creates a support network.

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Finally, remember that integrating with both the Indonesian community and the local/international community at your university gives the best experience. You can enjoy bakso with PPI friends one day, and the next day join your Singaporean classmates for chilli crab. Balance is key to cultural adaptation; maintain your roots while growing new branches. 

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欢迎, Selamat Datang, and Welcome to your new chapter in Singapore! With this guide, you should be well-equipped to navigate the initial hurdles. Good luck with your studies, enjoy the journey, and make Singapore your home away from home. Safe travels and sukses selalu! 😊