Settle In

Welcome to Singapore!
Find out more about traveller essentials and enjoy convenient travel as Singapore is very well connected with public and private transport services from all ports of entry.

Public Transport
Travel easily to different parts of Singapore using the efficient public transportation network of Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) trains and buses.

• Public Bus – There are many apps to help you navigate your journey.
• MRT - Refer to the MRT map here to plan your route.

Pay for public transport
EZ-Link card is a contactless stored value card that can be easily purchased at various locations in Singapore.
Alternatively, pay using a compatible credit card or smart device under the SimplyGo Initiative. Here's a summary by the Land Transport Authority about your options to pay for public transport and how to plan your travel route.

MRT stations no longer accept cash payment. You can still pay cash on buses but remember to have exact change and to keep your ticket for checks.

You may also find Concession and Monthly Travel passes useful if you travel frequently. Find out more here.

Taxis and Ride Hailing Services
Find the list of taxi operators and ride-hailing services here.

Remember to download and install only official apps from official App Stores to guard yourself against malicious mobile apps.

The NUS Campus Map gives you an overview of the various NUS campuses. There are the public buses, public trains (MRT) and free NUS internal shuttle bus services that will bring you around and between the campuses.

University Campus Infrastructure provides information about the free NUS Internal Shuttle Bus operating within and between NUS campuses. The NUS Next Bus is a useful app that allows you to check for the route and timings.

Mobile services:
Singapore has a wide range of telecommunication providers. You can subscribe to a mobile data service plan or buy a pre-paid card that has stored, rechargeable value. There are many websites that help you compare your options.

Wi-Fi & other NUS services:
NUS students have access to free Wi-Fi on campus.
NUS IT Care has a Quick Start Guide for new students to set up the basic tools, services, and resources you will need as a new student.

Wireless@SG:
Access this free Wi-Fi at many public locations in Singapore. Find out more here.
Even as you enjoy the seamless connectivity on campus and in public spaces, remember to stay safe online! Find out more from Singapore’s CyberSecurity Agency.

Check out University Campus Infrastructure's (UCI) website for more information on food options on campus including vegetarian and halal food. They also list retail outlets on campus. You may find some essentials at the NUS CO-OP located at the Faculty of Science and the Central Library.

For a wider range of products, consider going off-campus:

• Fairprice is a common grocery store chain found in almost every mall, with the nearest located at Kent Ridge MRT station. Fairprice Extra outlets also stock small electronics and basic home furnishing products.
• IKEA is a popular option for home furnishing products located a few bus stops from NUS.
• Neighbourhood Town Centres and shopping malls are available at nearly every MRT station, offering a wide variety of stores such as electronics, fashion, and services.

As a tip, check the furniture that is already afforded to you as part of your on-campus or off-campus housing such as bed, tables, and chairs. Remember to confirm their sizes and dimensions. Furnishing and electronics may not be included in your accommodation but you can consider preloved items on Infiniuse or uNivUS Marketplace.

You will need to attend the Offsite Enrolment (OSE) held on campus to complete the student pass formalities. When contacted by the Office of the University Registrar or your Faculty regarding your OSE appointment date, it is important to check that you are available on that date.

You can refer to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority’s (ICA) website to understand the completion of formalities and issuance of student pass. 

Medical examinations for ICA Student Pass & Pre-Admission to NUS
Make an appointment with the University Health Centre (UHC) for your medical examinations if you have not done it in your home country. Visit the UHC website for more information. You are required to complete your medical examination for the Student Pass at least 5 working days before your OSE appointment.

Student Insurance
All full-time matriculated NUS students are subscribed to the university's medical insurance scheme. Find out more from the University Health Centre website here.

Scams are a rising crime in Singapore as digital finance becomes more widespread. Join us on the WHOSAY? podcast and learn how to spot the red flags of a scam, protect yourself from scams and seek help without shame.

More Resources

• National Crime Prevention Council
• ScamShield

Singpass will allow you to prove your identity online for easy and secure transactions with Government Agencies and other private sector services in Singapore.

You can apply for Singpass when: 

• Your Student Pass has been issued by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA), and  
• You have secured a residential address in Singapore. 

Some examples of when Singpass will be necessary include: 

• Updating the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) when you change your place of residence in Singapore. Learn more about this and other matters related to your Student Pass here - Undergraduate and Graduate students.
• Signing up for a bank account digitally using Singpass identity verification. 

How to apply for Singpass? 

• The fastest and easiest way is to bring your documents in-person to any Singpass counter in a Community Centre near you. Find out more here.
• If you live off-campus and have secured a residential address. then you may also consider setting up your Singpass online.

One common way that various platforms and services verify your digital identity is by sending an OTP or code to your registered phone number or email. This is part of Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) to secure your accounts. Remember to keep your OTP private, and to keep your phones and emails secure! Find out more securing your accounts with 2FA here.

Many international banks have branches in Singapore. Contact your bank to find out more about their services in Singapore.

To open a bank account locally, refer to information directly from the bank. Visit the Association of Banks in Singapore's website for a list of banks in Singapore, and to check out their FAQs and and easy-to-read Consumer Guides.

Singapore is making a rapid transition to a cashless society. Most places accept some form of digital payment while some places no longer accept cash. Refer to these two articles (by SmartNation.GOV & Monetary Authority of Singapore) for a deeper understanding.

Common payment methods include:

• eNETS
• PayWave for credit cards
• PayNow for direct bank transfers to individuals
• Bank-owned mobile wallets (DBS PayLah, OCBC PayAnyone & UOB Mighty, etc.)
• EZ-Link
• Registering your credit card on Mobile contactless payment (ApplePay, SamsungPay, AndroidPay, etc.)
• Various non-bank digital wallets
• Multi-currency mobile wallets

There are blogs comparing the advantages and drawbacks of each for your consideration.

Remember to download and install only official apps from official App Stores to guard yourself against malicious mobile apps.
Even as you enjoy the seamless connectivity on campus and in public spaces, remember to stay safe online! Find out more from Singapore’s CyberSecurity Agency.

There are several ways to make fee payments, such as overseas Telegraphic Transfer, transfer from a local bank account, and various e-payment methods through NUS FastPay.

Refer to the NUS Office of Finance page for detailed information, including due dates.

NUS 
For a smooth transition to life in Singapore and NUS, get acquainted with NUS' Administrative policies and NUS Disciplinary Structure listed by the Office of University Registrar and Office of Student Conduct. If you're staying on campus, learn the accommodation's rules too.

Singapore
It is also good for you to familiarize yourself with local laws in Singapore. Visit Singapore Legal Advice's website for easy-to-read articles. Key laws include:

• Smoking: Vaping is illegal, smoking is prohibited in most places, and NUS is smoke-free. Minimum tobacco age is 21.
• Drinking: Public alcohol consumption is prohibited after 10:30 PM. In NUS, alcohol consumption is restricted to designated campus outlets during specified hours and official university events.
• Drugs: Singapore imposes severe penalties for drug offences, including the death penalty for trafficking.

Did you know?   >>>   There are some lesser-known laws in Singapore that may surprise you.

You are on the start of a new and exciting journey in NUS and Singapore. It’s exciting to explore and step out into a new experience. When you encounter challenges big and small, knowing the resources available can help you in navigating these new experiences. Here are some suggestions on where to start:

1. Self-help   
   This repository of Services and Support for students links you to information on Administrative, Funding, Accessibility, Student Life, and Wellness-related matters.
   .
2. Support from family, friends & your social networks
   You have access to the wisdom of the people around you – take the first step to ask!
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3. University support structures
   Find out about resources for your Health & Wellbeing. Access these resources and more while on the go using the uNivUS app.

Police: Call 999 (SMS 71999 or visit https://www.police.gov.sg/)

Fire or Ambulance: Call 995 (Call non-emergency ambulance at 1777. Also visit https://www.scdf.gov.sg/)

Campus Emergency & Security:

• +65 6874 1616 (24 hours emergency hotline)
• If you lost an item on campus, check here. 
• To report crimes or suspicious activity, please call emergency hotline or visit Integrated Case Management System (ICMS).
• Alternatively, email ces@nus.edu.sg.

Lifeline NUS (psychological support in life-threatening situations for students and staff)

• +65 6516 7777 (24 hours)

NUS Care Unit (support for NUS students and staff who have been affected by sexual misconduct)

• +65 6601 4000 (24 hours)
• Find out more on NUS Care Unit website or contact ncu_help@nus.edu.sg

Samaritans of Singapore (SOS)

• Call 1767 or Whatsapp +65 9151 177 (24 hours)

If you are a victim of a scam, follow the steps here on the ScamShield website.

You can also access a more comprehensive list of Emergency Contacts through the uNivUS app.

If you need assistance with infrastructure and services on campus, you may contact University Campus Infrastructure.