Questions
FAQ for Prospective International Students
To answer some of your queries about living and studying in Singapore, we have a list of frequently asked questions answered. For current students please go to FAQ for Current Students.
1. About SISH Institute
SISH Institute is located at:
1 Eunos Road 8, #07-09 Paya Lebar Green North, Singapore 408603
Nearest MRT Station:
Little India (NE7/DT12), Exit A
Approximately a 5-minute walk from the station.
Yes. SISH Institute has been registered with SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) under the Private Education Act 2009 since 2010. Under the Private Education Act, registered PEIs are required to register its programmes with SSG. You can verify our registration status at TP Gateway.
– Effective 1 October 2024, the Committee for Private Education (CPE) has been dissolved, and SSG will directly regulate all private education institutions, including SISH.
The EduTrust Certification Scheme (EduTrust) is a quality assurance scheme administered and governed by SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) for Private Education Institutions (PEIs) in Singapore, with the aim to raise the standards of the industry to ensure PEIs provide a higher standard of educational services and good student/ graduate outcomes.
SISH Institute is awarded EduTrust (4 Years) for sustaining an excellent level of performance in managing their institutions and providing high quality education standards and welfare for their students.
2. Academic Programmes & Learning
No, students are not allowed to book classrooms for revision, group study, or self-study purposes. Classrooms are scheduled for official teaching activities only.
However, the school provides alternative spaces for students who wish to study independently or in groups:
School Library – A quiet environment ideal for focused study, with access to learning resources and Wi-Fi.
Designated Study Areas – Available throughout the campus for both individual and group revision.
These areas are open during regular school hours, and students are encouraged to make full use of them. Please be respectful of others by keeping noise levels appropriate and cleaning up after yourself.
Classroom-Based Learning: Regular face-to-face lectures, tutorials, and interactive sessions with lecturers and peers. Ideal for structured learning and direct engagement.
Distance Learning: Self-paced study with limited face-to-face sessions (e.g., block tutorials). Students access materials online and attend intensive sessions for clarification.
Note: Currently, all SISH programmes are conducted on-campus via classroom-based learning, delivered by experienced local and international academics and industry professionals.
Pre-Course Counselling Services: All prospective students (and their parents or guardians) are required to attend a pre-application counselling session by SISH or SISH representatives in your country. This ensures you fully understand the course details, admission criteria, and study pathway opportunities so you can make a well-informed decision about your studies.
Orientation Program for All Newly-Enrolled Students: New students attend orientation to learn about academic policies, student rights, fee protection, grievance procedures, and school values to ensure a smooth transition into their studies.
Intervention Framework: This system proactively identifies and supports students facing academic, attendance, disciplinary, financial, or internship challenges. Early, targeted interventions ensure timely assistance, helping students overcome obstacles and remain on track for programme success.
Pastoral Counselling Services: An Internal Counsellor provides emotional support using the STAR framework (Physical, Academic, Social, Emotional, Well-being) to help students cope with stress and adapt to academic and social life.
Student Council: The Student Council fosters leadership, teamwork and community. It collaborates with Student Services to organize events, gather feedback, represent student interests, and enhance engagement, fostering a vibrant and inclusive campus community.
Facilities and Programmes to Enrich Student Education Experiences: SISH provides learning-enhancing facilities like a library, breakout area, Wi-Fi, and F&B amenities. Academic support, language programmes, and assistance for disadvantaged students are available upon request, subject to approval and resource availability, to support holistic development.
Other Student Support Services: Students may receive applicable support during their studies, including health and accommodation guidance for international students, guardian collaboration for under-18 students, and career advice for further education, subject to individual needs and resource availability.
Yes. We believe in holistic development and offer a range of out-of-classroom experiences, including:
– Industry talks and guest lectures
– Cultural and social events
– Leadership and soft skills workshops
– Community outreach programmes
These activities support personal growth, communication, and employability.
Yes. All new students attend an orientation session before classes begin. You will be briefed on:
– SISH’s vision, mission, and values
– Academic policies and assessments
– Student support services
– Code of conduct and dispute resolution
– Immigration and Student’s Pass procedures
This ensures a smooth transition into your studies.
Do not rush to buy textbooks. You will receive:
– Official course materials from your lecturers
– A recommended reading list
We advise consulting your lecturer before purchasing any books. Many resources are available digitally or through shared access.
Public holidays are accounted for in the academic calendar. Classes are not scheduled on public holidays, and no remedial sessions are held on those days. Always refer to your official class schedule for accurate planning.
Schedule adjustments may occur due to:
– Lecturer availability
– Public holiday replacements
– Facility or equipment needs
– Emergency circumstances
Any changes will be communicated promptly via email and the Student Portal.
To qualify for Industrial Attachment, students must:
– Successfully complete all coursework, assignments, and exams (including re-sits if applicable).
– Ensure the placement is relevant to their field of study.
– IA is graded as Pass/Fail and counts as elective credits.
Yes. SISH conducts industrial attachment visits during your placement to monitor your progress and provide support if needed.
You must inform SISH immediately if you encounter any issues with your host company.
3. Attendance & Academic Policies
Students must maintain a neat, clean, and professional appearance:
Hair: Neatly trimmed; only natural or dark brown/black colouring allowed.
Facial hair: Must be clean-shaven; beards must be covered during practical sessions.
Attire: Follow grooming and uniform guidelines (especially for F&B and Hotel training).
Detailed guidelines are available in the Student Handbook (Appendix diagrams).
If you are absent due to illness:
– Submit a Medical Certificate (MC) to the Student Services upon returning to class.
– The MC must be submitted on the first day back.
– Failure to do so will result in the absence being marked as unexcused.
The school reserves the right to verify the authenticity of MCs.
Students in full-time programmes are required to fulfill a minimum class attendance of 90% (international students)* and 75% (local students) for each module; failing which they will be barred from attending the examination for that module.
*For international students, 90% attendance is compulsory to meet the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) requirements.
Students in the part-time programmes are required to fulfill a minimum of 75% class attendance for each module; failing which they will be barred from attending the examination for that module.
All absences must be supported by valid documentation (e.g., medical certificate). Falling below the threshold may result in disqualification from sitting for exams.
International students can only enrol in full-time programmes. If you are absent for more than 7 consecutive days, you will be required to withdraw from the course.
To ensure fairness and integrity, all students must follow these rules:
– Arrive at least 10 minutes before the exam starts. Latecomers (30+ minutes) will not be allowed to enter.
– Bring your NRIC, Student Pass, or Passport for identification.
– No food or drinks (except water in a clear plastic bottle).
– No communication devices or dictionaries.
– No talking or exchanging materials during the exam — this is considered cheating.
– All answer scripts and question papers must be returned to the invigilator.
– You cannot leave the exam room during the first or last 30 minutes.
Violations may result in disciplinary action or disqualification.
The passing mark varies by module and is specified in your Course/Module Information Handout, given at the start of each term.
To pass a module, you must:
– Achieve the minimum overall score across all assessments (e.g., tests, assignments, exams)
– Complete all required coursework (e.g., presentations, projects)
– Failure in any component may result in failing the module.
If you fail a module:
– You will be given one re-examination, usually 3 weeks after results are released.
– If you fail the re-exam, you must re-module (retake the entire module).
– Re-moduling incurs a fee of S$1,020 per module (Diploma, Advanced Diploma, etc.).
For Vatel courses, you must also maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 to progress.
You must apply in advance using the Student Request Form with supporting documents at least 14 calendar days before the exam (depending on the reason).
Approved reasons include:
– Reservist duties (Singapore Citizens/PRs)
– Medical conditions (with MC)
– Bereavement (immediate family)
– Official overseas assignments
Failure to obtain prior approval will result in automatic failure of the module.
Results for Diploma and Advanced Diploma modules are typically released 4 to 6 weeks after the completion of the examination for that module and will be accessible via the Student Portal.
Yes, students may submit a Final Result Appeal if they believe there has been an error in assessment.
– Appeals must be submitted to the Academics Department within 7 working days of results release.
– Include detailed reasons for your appeal.
– A re-marking fee (inclusive of GST) applies.
– The paper will be re-marked by a different examiner.
– All appeals are reviewed by the Examination Board and the decision is final.
Plagiarism is presenting someone else’s work as your own — including content from books, websites, or other students — without proper acknowledgment.
Examples include:
– Copying text without citation
– Submitting another person’s work
– Reusing your previous work without permission (self-plagiarism)
Consequences:
– Zero marks for the assignment
– Disciplinary action
– Possible expulsion
All submissions are checked using plagiarism detection tools. We encourage academic integrity.
Plagiarism is using someone else’s work (text, ideas, code, designs) without proper acknowledgment.
This includes:
– Copying from websites, books, or other students
– Submitting work done by others
– Reusing your own previous work without permission (self-plagiarism)
Consequences include disciplinary action, failing the assignment, or even expulsion.
Students may face disciplinary action for:
– Fighting, gambling, or disorderly behavior
– Smoking on campus
– Defamation (spreading false or damaging statements)
– Working in Singapore on a Student’s Pass (violation of ICA rules)
Penalties range from warnings to expulsion and deportation for international students.
All assignments must be submitted directly to your lecturer, unless otherwise instructed.
Include on every submission:
– Full name
– Student ID number
– NRIC/Passport number
– Module name and code
Always confirm submission deadlines and follow any specific submission guidelines provided by your lecturer.
4. Student Support & Administration
You will find a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a programme offered by SISH Institute here.
https://sish.edu.sg/students/prospective-students/international-students/admission-process/
Step 1: Check the Admission Requirements
Step 2: Fill in the Application Form
Step 3: Submit the Application Form
Step 4: Acceptance of Application
Step 5: Application for Student’s Pass (for foreign students)
Yes. You must inform SISH in writing of any changes to:
– Name
– NRIC/Passport number
– Address (local or home country)
– Contact number
Failure to update your details may result in missed communications (e.g., exam notices, schedule changes).
We welcome your feedback. You may:
– Call: +65 6506 1288
– Email: support@sish.edu.sg
– Submit the SISH Feedback Form (available online)
All feedback is reviewed by the Quality Assurance (QA) Manager. A staff member will contact you within 2 working days.
Yes, Yes, students may apply for a leave of absence under valid circumstances (e.g., medical emergency, family bereavement). You must:
- Complete the Student Request Form, which can be obtained from the Student Services Department
- Submit supporting documents (e.g., MC, flight ticket)
- Receive written approval from School Management
Important:
– Do not book travel until approval is granted.
– Unapproved absence will be recorded and may affect your attendance and Student’s Pass status.
– International students can only enrol in full-time programmes. If you are absent for more than 7 consecutive days, you will be required to withdraw from the course.
Yes, but:
– You may transfer no more than twice.
– Unconsumed fees can be transferred to the new course.
– Exemptions (if any) must be approved by the Associate Dean.
– Processing time: within 4 weeks.
Deferral requests are considered on a case-by-case basis and require valid reasons and documentation.
– If approved, your place may be reserved for the next intake.
– Deferral is not guaranteed and depends on availability.
– Fees are generally non-refundable but may be carried forward.
We recommend deferral over withdrawal if you face temporary challenges.
– Yes, you may withdraw at any time. However, we strongly encourage completing your programme.
– No, you cannot resume from where you left off.
– If you wish to return, you must reapply and restart the entire programme.
We advise choosing deferral instead of withdrawal if possible.
Yes, but you must:
– Clearly state that your views are your own and do not represent SISH.
– Avoid using SISH logos, trademarks, or partner logos without written permission.
– Respect copyright — always cite sources and avoid plagiarism.
– Do not make defamatory or confidential posts.
Violations may lead to disciplinary action.
You can submit feedback or complaints via:
– Student/Customer Feedback Form (available online or at office)
– Email to ss@sish.edu.sg
– In person (must follow up with written submission)
The school will:
– Acknowledge your feedback within 2 working days
– Investigate within 14 working days
– Respond with resolution within 21 working days
You will not be penalized for raising concerns in good faith.
5. Student Life in Singapore
We recommend setting aside SGD 15,000 to 20,000 per year. Below is a monthly estimate for a student in shared accommodation:
Estimate Monthly Expenses (S$)
Rent (includes utility charges) $600 – $1,200
Food $450 – $750
Stationaries $50 – $100
Mobile Communication $10 – $30
Public Transport $100 – $150
Personal Expenses Varies with individuals
Note: Costs vary based on lifestyle and inflation.
No. As an international student on a Student’s Pass, you are not permitted to work — paid or unpaid — without written approval from ICA.
Violation may result in:
– Cancellation of Student’s Pass
– Deportation
– Entry ban
We encourage focusing on your studies.
Yes! You may travel during scheduled holidays.
Please inform Student Services in advance by providing:
– Travel dates
– Copy of flight ticket
Ensure you return before the new term begins to avoid being marked as absent.
6. Student’s Pass & Immigration
Your Student Pass Application will be processed by the school. You will be provided with identifier to log in and fill in the details. Your designated Education Consultant will guide you through the process.
Processing time varies. On average, ICA takes 4 to 6 weeks, but may request additional documents, which can extend the timeline.
We will keep you updated throughout the process.
All international students must undergo a medical examination in Singapore after arrival. This is a mandatory ICA health requirement to ensure you meet the standards for stay.
SISH will assist in arranging your check-up with an approved clinic.
Once approved, you’ll receive an eAppointment Acknowledgement from ICA.
Before your appointment date, please ensure you have done the following:
- Ensure you have a Singapore Registered Mobile Number with SMS Capabilities
- Ensure to bring your passport on your appointment date.
Collection Location:
ICA Building, Level 8
10 Kallang Road, Singapore 208718
(Nearest MRT: Lavender Station)
Documents to bring:
– In-Principle Approval (IPA) Letter
– Passport
– eAppointment Acknowledgement
Steps at ICA:
- Proceed to the Self-Service Ticketing Kiosk to collect a queue ticket.
- If you are late, please approach ICA officer at the counter for assistance.
- Collect your queue ticket and proceed to the counter.
After collection:
– Take a screenshot of your digital pass.
– Email it to support@sish.edu.sg for school records.
If you enter Singapore on a tourist visa, you are on a Social Visit Pass (SVP), typically valid for 30 days (depending on nationality).
Important:
– Do not overstay — it is a criminal offence.
– If your SVP expires before your Student’s Pass is issued, extend it online at least 7 days before expiry via: https://www.ica.gov.sg/enter-depart/extend_short_stay
7. Financial Matters
Payment for school fees can only be made after the Student Contract has been signed by both the student and the school.
Important:
– We cannot accept payments exceeding the amount stated in SCHEDULE B INSTALMENT SCHEDULE of your Student Contract.
– All fees are protected under the Fee Protection Scheme (FPS).
– After payment, access your official receipt via the Student Portal.
Refunds are processed according to the Fee Protection Scheme (FPS) and your signed Student Contract. Partial refunds may apply depending on the timing of withdrawal. No refunds are given after classes commence unless under exceptional circumstances.
– During cooling-off period: Full refund minus administrative fees.
– After commencement: Pro-rated refund as stated in the contract.
– Non-delivery of course: Full refund if course is cancelled.
Non-refundable fees include:
– Application fee
– External exam fees
– Bank charges
– Administrative fees (e.g., late payment, reprints)
Submit a Withdrawal Form to Student Services. Processing takes up to 4 weeks.
A bank letter can be issued to help you open a bank account or sign a rental agreement.
To apply:
- Submit your Tenancy Agreement or relevant document to ss@sish.edu.sg for review.
- Once verified, the school will issue the letter.
Note: Only currently enrolled students are eligible.
8. Internship & Career Support
You are eligible when you have:
– Completed all academic requirements
– Cleared any outstanding fees
– Achieved “Excellent” in Professional Conduct
SISH provides internship placement assistance to qualified students.
Please email ia@sish.edu.sg with your full name, student ID, and programme details to request a replacement.
We encourage you to first discuss any concerns with your internship supervisor and lecturer-in-charge. If a change is necessary, contact the Internship Office at ia@sish.edu.sg for guidance.
If your IA is terminated due to:
– Poor performance
– Disciplinary issues
– Dropping out without valid reason
You will be deemed to have failed the IA and cannot graduate.
You must inform SISH immediately if you face any issues during your placement.
We take such matters seriously. Please write to ia@sish.edu.sg with full details, including dates, reasons given, and any supporting evidence. Our team will investigate and support you appropriately.
9. Graduation & Certification
After graduation, you will be notified via email and through the Student Portal when your certificate and transcript are ready, provided all academic and industrial attachment requirements have been completed.
Your certificate and transcript will be sent to your registered personal email within three months of the final results being released. Make sure your email address is up-to-date and active to avoid missing this important information.
SISH Institute issues academic certificates and transcripts using OpenCerts™, a verifiable digital certificate technology ensuring authenticity and tamper resistance. Maintained by Singapore’s GovTech infrastructure team and SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG), OpenCerts allows secure and convenient verification of credentials.
SISH Institute certificates and transcripts are official documents providing a detailed record of a student’s academic performance. They reflect grades earned in each module and the student’s overall academic progress. Maintained by the registrar’s office, these records serve as a reliable and standardised way to assess a student’s capabilities and dedication.
Note: Refer to SISH Certificate & Transcript for more information.
SISH Institute issues academic certificates and transcripts using OpenCerts™, a verifiable digital certificate technology ensuring authenticity and tamper resistance.
Your digital certificate and transcript is permanently anchored to a blockchain, ensuring its integrity. To verify its authenticity:
- Click on ‘Save Data’ and download the file to your device.
- Visit the OpenCerts verification page.
- Upload the ‘OA’ file by clicking ‘Browse’.
The verification status of your certificate will be displayed on the webpage. You can also verify your certificate using NextID’s NextCert verifier or via the Verify SG service.
OpenCerts™ ensures the authenticity, permanence, and tamperproof integrity of your credentials. By using blockchain technology, your certificates remain secure and unalterable, providing trust and credibility for employers or institutions verifying your qualifications.
Note: Refer to SISH Certificate & Transcript for more information.
SISH transcript grading system outlines letter grades, percentage ranges, grade points, and performance descriptions. Grades range from A+ (90–100%, 4.0 grade points) for work of outstanding quality and intellectual initiative, down to F (0–49%, 0.0) for unsatisfactory performance with no credit.
Non-graded outcomes include PN (Pass), PPN (Pass via project), FN (Fail), NG (Non-graded), G (Credit cancelled for disciplinary reasons), RW (Result withheld), TR (Transfer credit), and EX (Exemption).
The Grade Point Average (GPA) is calculated as the weighted average of grade points across all modules. External programs follow grading guidelines set by their respective universities or awarding bodies.
Note: Refer to SISH Certificate & Transcript for more information.
10. Further Studies & Academic Progression
Yes. Upon completion, you may apply for admission to:
– Local Universities (e.g., SIM, SUSS, private university partners)
– Overseas Universities (including Australia, UK, and New Zealand)
Admission is subject to the entry requirements of the respective institutions.
For guidance, contact our Student Consultants at: +65 6506 1299 | info@sish.edu.sg
Our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Admissions & Student Services: +65 6506 1299
Email: info@sish.edu.sg
Address: Level 3, Rex House, 73 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 229832
Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Our Student Handbook is available for download on our website. It contains detailed policies on academic regulations, code of conduct, and student rights.
Student Services: +65 6506 1288 | ss@sish.edu.sg
Admissions & Enquiries: +65 6506 1299 | info@sish.edu.sg
Feedback & Complaints: +65 6506 1288 | support@sish.edu.sg
Emergency (Police/Ambulance): 999 / 995
ICA Hotline: 6391 6100
MOM (Work Pass Issues): 6438 5122
