Singapore is really making a name for itself as a top place for international education in Asia.
In fact, every year, thousands of students from around the world come here to study at Singapore’s excellent universities.
Anyway, if you’re thinking about studying in Singapore, we are not surprised.
However, you’ll need to know about getting a Student’s Pass in order to make this happen.
As a matter of fact, that’s what they call their student visa in Singapore.
Besides, just like students get their approval to study here, there are also students who get rejected.
This means that you must have a clear idea about the approval rate of this and what causes it to change.
Therefore, without any further explanation, let’s break down everything that you need to know about getting approved and the factors for it.
Understanding Singapore’s Student Visa System
Before looking at the approval rate, let’s see how this process goes.
Well, Singapore keeps things organised with their Student’s Pass system.
This means that the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) handles everything by working together with schools and universities.
In this case, you can get a Student’s Pass for all kinds of programs.
Whereas if you wish to take a quick language course or complete a full degree.
Anyway, before applying, you need to get accepted into a school that has been approved by the ICA.
Which simply means that the school you are applying should be a registered one.
Moreover, you’ll also need to prove that you can pay for your studies and show that you don’t have any legal problems.
Note: The ICA takes a good look at everything. This includes your grades, and your money capabilities as well.
Current Student Visa Approval Rates
For what it’s worth, the numbers look pretty good.
This means that Singapore approves about 85-90% of eligible student visa applications.
That is especially true for students who are going to well-known universities and technical colleges.
Also, your chances might be better if you’re from countries that have good relationships with Singapore.
These include China, India, and other Southeast Asian nations.
But keep in mind these numbers can change depending on what’s happening in the world and any changes in immigration rules.
Common Reasons for Visa Rejection
It’s really helpful to know what might get your application rejected.
Because this is the red zone to drop down the approval rate.
Well, a lot of people get turned down because they didn’t fill out everything properly or their information doesn’t match up.
Moreover, if you cannot prove your money side, that is a major downfall as well.
This is because that Singapore wants to make sure that you can actually afford to study and live there.
Moreover, they also look closely at your academic history, and if there are gaps or sudden changes in what you’re studying.
In case if there are any study gaps, they might have questions regarding that.
So, make sure to fill all the study gaps that you have in order to get your visa.
Note: If they spot any fake documents like certificates or bank statements, that’s an automatic rejection, and you might get banned from applying again.
How to Improve Your Approval Chances
Getting your Student’s Pass isn’t just luck, it’s about being really thorough.
Therefore, get all your documents in order, and if any documents aren’t in English, make sure to have a translated version of those.
When it comes to money, you need to show them everything, including bank statements, letters from people who are supporting you, or scholarship papers that prove you can handle the costs.
Furthermore, picking a well-known school can really help your chances as well.
Note: Make sure that all your academic documents are verified before you send those in.
Application Process Timeline
You should start working on everything about three months before your classes begin.
After you get accepted, your school will start your Student’s Pass application through SOLAR (that’s their online system).
Usually, it takes about two to four weeks to process, but it might take longer during busy times.
Note: You can’t apply until you have your acceptance letter, so plan ahead and give yourself extra time to get your documents.
Tips from Successful Applicants
People who’ve successfully gotten their Student’s Pass say it’s really important to make sure that all your information matches across different documents.
They recommend making a list of everything you need and checking it multiple times.
If you need to do an interview, you should know everything about your course and the school. Also, be ready to talk about what you want to do in Singapore after graduating.
They also say it’s important to stay in touch with your school throughout the whole process.
This is because it’s worth knowing about any sudden changes when it comes to documents.
Special Considerations
These days, there are some extra things to think about because of the pandemic.
This includes health requirements and restrictions that might depend on where you’re from.
Always remember that the document checklist isn’t the same for every applicant.
As different countries might need different paperwork, and if you’re studying something like medicine or technology, they might look at your application extra carefully.
Also, make sure that you know the rules about working part-time while studying.
This is because breaking these rules can cause problems with your visa.
After Approval
Once you get approved, there’s still some stuff to do.
As in you’ll need to get a medical check-up and pick up your Student’s Pass in person.
Moreover, to keep your visa valid, you need to do well in your studies, show up to classes, and follow Singapore’s law in the most perfect way.
In addition to that, about a month before your visa expires, you’ll need to start the renewal process and show your updated documents.
This is to show that you have done something as an international student in Singapore.
Note: Don’t forget to inform the authorities if you have moved or changed anything about your studies.
Getting and keeping a Singapore Student’s Pass takes some work, but it’s totally possible to do if you plan ahead.
Always remember that your best sources of information come from your school’s website and the ICA website.
Moreover, if you need any help, talk to the international student office at your school or find a registered education agent who has experience regarding your issue.
As a matter of fact, most students usually contact the ICA directly with specific questions.
Contact TEVS a Singapore student visa consultants in Sri Lanka for more details.
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