International Students

About Singapore

Singapore is a sovereign republic in Southeast Asia.

We experience tropical climates ranging from 22 to 35°C (72 to 95°F), with high humidity from 73% to 90%.

Singapore is a known global commerce, finance and transport hub.

This is a small island with approximately 5.3 million population, with English as the working language here.

The population is diverse with a significant Chinese, Malay and Indian citizenry, with Eurasian and other races making up the rest of the population.

In the arts, there are about 500 theatre companies and and societies registered, with arts festivals regularly on the national calendar through the year. For an overview of the arts in Singapore, refer to the industry’s state-governing agency, National Arts Council.

The ITI campus is atop a hill in the Selegie / Wilkie Roads area which is a designated arts and heritage precinct with many museums, galleries and arts organisations surrounding it.

Support for International Students

We will provide the following assistance to new international students:

• Student’s Pass application
• Airport pick-up service on arrival if required 
• Advice and administrative assistance on accommodation if required

A detailed International Students Guide will be provided to applicants shortlisted for auditions.

Please note that the information provided here serves as a guide only and students are advised to do their own research regarding procedures and budgeting.

Student's pass and other immigration matters

International students must obtain the Student’s Pass from the Singapore immigration authorities, as well as any necessary visa or permit from their own country, before arriving in Singapore. Incoming international students will be advised on the necessary procedures to secure these clearances after being accepted by ITI, and after the Student Contract has been signed.

It is advisable to allow three to eight weeks for the processing time of a Student’s Pass and other paperwork by Singapore authorities from the date the application is submitted. 

For more details, please visit the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website.

Please note that the terms and conditions for the Student's Pass requires a student’s regular attendance at ITI. ICA will cancel the Student’s Pass if a student fails to attend classes for a continuous period of seven days or more without any valid reason, or if his/her percentage of attendance for the programme in any month is below 90 per cent without any valid reason. You should also note all other terms and conditions related to this pass. Student’s Pass holders are not allowed to take up part-time or full-time employment in Singapore. ICA reserves the right to cancel the Student’s Pass.

Housing and Accommodation

We will provide, upon request, advice and administrative assistance to any student to help secure housing for the duration of the programme. Options for students include student hostels or renting rooms or flats. Enrolled students will be provided with an Accommodation Guide, on request.

Living Expenses

Transportation:

Public bus – One-way single journey bus-rides on a prepaid farecard costs between S$0.92 and S$2.17; higher for non-farecard and special services.

MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) train – One-way single journey on a prepaid farecard costs between S$0.92 and S$2.17; higher for non-farecard.

Taxis – Basic starting fares range from S$3.90 to S$4.10, excluding various surcharges.

Food:

Affordable local food is widely available. Food at hawker centres and neighbourhood eateries costs from S$3.50 for a one-dish rice or noodles-based meal and from S$1.50 for a soft drink. A fast food meal costs upwards of S$6.

More expensive local and foreign fare is available from cafes and restaurants. Singapore offers a wide array of international cuisines, with dietary restriction food options available.

Utility and Phone Bills:

A utility bill for a single occupant in a flat can range from S$60 to S$100. Student hostels usually include utilities in their rent.

Mobile phone monthly subscription plans begin from about S$5 for a SIM-only plan. Prepaid cards start at S$8 and can be topped up. Usage rates vary among service providers.

Medical Services:

A consultation with a private general practitioner for flu starts at S$30 (including medication).

Private dental services start at S$55 for scaling and polishing, or a tooth filling.

Singapore Laws

As a student in ITI, you are are advised to be familiar with Singapore laws e.g. working illegally, drug trafficking, smoking, littering, jaywalking, over-staying on expiry of passes, etc. Visit the relevant national agency websites below for information and updates.

• Immigration and Checkpoints Authority of Singapore

• Singapore Police Force

• Ministry of Manpower

• Central Narcotics Bureau

• Land Transport Authority

Student Services

For support services for students and a downloadable Student Handbook on policies and procedures, look here.