There is a dual system for verification in Singapore:
For Institution Verification: CPE List of Registered PEIs
For Visa/Student's Pass: Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA)
The Committee for Private Education (CPE) / SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) is located in Singapore.
3 to 6 months. Singapore's process is known for its efficiency, driven by a streamlined online visa system and clear institutional standards.
Student's Pass. The student first receives an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter to enter Singapore. The final document is the physical Student's Pass card, collected after arrival.
A student consults with an agent, who assesses their academic qualifications, career goals, and budget.
Initial Documents Required: Academic transcripts (e.g., O-Levels, A-Levels, IB Diploma, Bachelor's degree), Passport copy, and English proficiency scores if the primary language of instruction was not English.
The consultant provides a list of suitable institutions. The student and consultant must verify the institution's status:
- If it's a Private Education Institution (PEI), they must confirm it has a valid EduTrust certification on the CPE website. This certification ensures quality standards and protection for international students.
- If it's an Autonomous University (AU), they confirm the program details and entry requirements on the official university website.
The consultant helps submit the application to the chosen institution along with all required documents, such as the application form, academic certificates, and a Statement of Purpose.
If the application is successful, the institution issues a Letter of Offer. For PEIs, the student will also need to sign a mandatory Standard PEI-Student Contract, which outlines all terms, conditions, and fees, providing legal protection.
After the student accepts the offer and pays the initial deposit, the institution's admissions office registers the student's details in the SOLAR (Student's Pass On-Line Application & Registration) system. This is the official portal of the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA). The institution will then provide the student with the necessary login details to complete their part of the application.
Using the details provided by the institution, the student logs into the SOLAR portal to complete the e-Form 16 (the Student's Pass application form). The consultant assists in ensuring all information is accurate.
Key Documents to Upload: A recent passport-sized digital photograph (with specific background/dimension requirements), Passport biodata page, Letter of Offer from the institution, and proof of financial ability (e.g., bank statements).
The ICA processes the application. If successful, they will issue an IPA (In-Principle Approval) letter via email. The IPA letter is a single-entry visa that allows the student to travel to Singapore to complete the formalities for their Student's Pass. It is not the final visa.
An interview is not a standard part of the process for most applicants. However, the ICA reserves the right to call a student for an interview if they require further clarification on any aspect of the application, such as financial background or the authenticity of documents. The consultant can prepare the student for this possibility.
With the IPA letter, the student can now book flights and arrange accommodation. Upon arrival at Singapore Changi Airport, the student presents their passport and a printed copy of the IPA letter to the immigration officer to gain entry.
Once in Singapore, the student must complete a medical check-up at a local clinic as required by the IPA letter.
This is the final and most important step. The student must make an appointment with the ICA (or a designated on-campus centre for some universities) to complete the formalities. At this appointment, they will submit their biometrics (fingerprints and photo) and receive their official Student's Pass card. This card is the student's long-term visa and primary identification document in Singapore.