FAQ

What happens if my child is unable to secure a place in PSR?

PSR can accommodate up to 255 students in a typical year. If you apply to PSR but are not able to secure a space, we will try our best to let you know as soon as possible so that you have sufficient time to explore other suitable accommodation options.

Would the student hostel fees be charged only for the period the hostel is occupied by the student?

Hostel fees will be charged for the duration that the students had committed for their stay, which may be by semester or for the whole academic year.

When can I apply for on-campus housing?

There are several campus housing options you can consider, including SMU’s Prinsep Street Residences (PSR). The application portal is now open for campus housing. You are encouraged to apply as soon as you can.

Are there any useful contacts which I could reach out to in case that I require assistance from the University upon my arrival in Singapore?

There is a comprehensive list of contact emails on the matriculation website https://matriculation.smu.edu.sg/contact.

Please feel free to contact any of our SMU colleagues from the list.

I would like to know why we are required to pay for matriculation?

The one-time confirmation fees are for pre-course activities and the actual matriculation process. For the matriculation process, the costs are allocated for registration, information technology services, library services, sports-related activities, student activities, insurance, as well as academic-related services.

Who should I contact in SMU when I start my academic term and am feeling unwell?

SMU students are covered under a medical insurance scheme. When you collect your SMU student card, you will also be issued a medical e-card which you can use to visit a doctor. If you are unwell, you can visit the doctors on SMU’s Panel Clinic list (https://www.mycg.com.sg/smu#smu-e-card-panel).

Will there be someone from SMU to greet me at the airport upon arrival?

If you have concerns about your arrival at the airport, please email our staff from the Diversity, Inclusion and Integration (DII) team at dii@smu.edu.sg.

SMU Student Medical Insurance

The SMU student insurance plans are in place to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all students.

SMU provides basic medical insurance for matriculated undergraduates, postgraduates and non-graduating students. To learn more about the SMU student medical insurance, please click here.

Are examinations conducted online or in-person?

Examinations will be conducted in-person, on campus.

Are classes conducted face-to-face, on campus?

Classes will be taught in-person, on campus.

Are parents allowed to travel with their children to Singapore?

Please refer to Travelling to Singapore - Overview (ica.gov.sg) for more information on travelling to Singapore.

How do I go about applying for my student pass?

In accordance with the Immigration Act, any foreigner who is not a Singapore Permanent Resident and wishes to study at SMU is required to apply for a student's pass.

SMU will advise you by email on the student's pass application procedures. You may also refer here for more information. After receiving the email, please log on to the SOLAR system on the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website, with your assigned SOLAR application number and your personal particulars. Once you have logged on to the system, you may proceed to complete the student's pass application form (Form 16) and submit the application online to ICA for processing.

Please ensure that you read through the FAQs before you proceed to apply online. The FAQs are available at the ICA website.
We will keep in touch with you via email throughout the student's pass application process until you arrive safely in Singapore. Hence, please ensure that you check and clear your mailbox regularly.

Completion of Formality (COF)

All international students are also required to make an e-appointment with ICA for the Completion of Formality (COF). Once you have confirmed your travel dates, please log on to SOLAR or the ICA website to arrange an e-appointment date as there are limited slots. Please note that:

All students who received their student pass in-principle approval (IPA) after 31 May is required to attend the Offsite Enrolment (OSE) in-person at SMU on 15 August to complete the student pass formalities.

What is the current situation with my student pass application? Will my student pass application be approved soon?

ICA is the sole authority for processing and approval of student pass applications. SMU will monitor your application and will notify you once the In-principle approval (IPA) is issued for your application. As ICA will require longer period of time to process applications during this peak season, you must submit your student pass application as soon as you receive the application instructions from us.

Are the miscellaneous fees covered under the financial loan schemes?

The financial loan schemes only cover subsidized tuition fees. Miscellaneous fees are not covered under these loan schemes and are usually paid separately to the University.

How many SMU undergraduates experience global exposure?

At SMU, we aspire to have 100% of our students embark on at least one global experience before graduating. Many students go on to have more than one global experience, whether through an overseas exchange programme, international internship, overseas community service programme, study mission, summer school, and so on. In fact, SMU is so serious about global exposure that we have made acquiring overseas experience a graduation requirement for our students!

What options do I have if I am unable to travel due to medical conditions or family constraints?

We are aware of students who have difficulties travelling because of exceptional circumstances. We strongly encourage students to discuss and seek advice with our university counsellors and faculty advisors should they have any concerns. SMU is committed to our students’ welfare and success, and we will work with students facing exceptional and challenging situations to explore holistic alternatives and consider exceptions where necessary

What types of financial assistance are available to students with demonstrated needs to help them afford the costs of embarking on global exposure trips?

SMU has a range of University-funded and donor-supported financial assistance schemes that needy students can tap on for their overseas activities and programmes. The value of these financial assistance schemes ranges from S$500 to S$10,000. Some of these grants/subsidies are listed below. Singaporean SMU students may also tap on the SMU Overseas Student Programme Loan, which has no income criterion.

SMU is committed to provide necessary assistance and financial support in situations where a student faces difficulties completing the global exposure requirement due to financial issues.

* Some of the grants/subsidies available (non-exhaustive) include:

How much would it cost a student to embark on other forms of global exposure – e.g. overseas community service and study missions?

Students who participate in many forms of global exposure, such as overseas internships and overseas community service, may apply for grants/subsidies to cover the cost of the travel. Most students who go on overseas internships or overseas community service are awarded grants which would cover the expenses involved with the global exposure activity.

For study missions, the cost varies depending on the destination region. The estimated cost, by region, is as follows:

Region

Estimated cost

Southeast Asia

S$500 to S$1,500

Rest of Asia

Up to S$2,000

Europe / North America

S$3,000 to $4,000

How much would it cost a student to go on an international student exchange programme?

A student going on an exchange programme to a partner university remains enrolled full-time at SMU while away on the exchange programme. Therefore, for each term that the student is away, the amount of tuition and student fees are as per what the student would pay for a regular SMU term.

While the student is not required to pay tuition fees to the overseas partner University, the student is responsible for the air tickets cost, living expenses, accommodation costs, additional travel arrangements and health insurance etc. Based on feedback from students who recently went on such trips, the estimated cost differs according to the region that the student travels to:

Region

Estimated cost

Southeast Asia

S$3,000 to S$5,000

Rest of Asia

S$5,000 to S$8,000

Oceania

S$8,000 to S$12,000

Europe

S$8,000 to S$12,000

South America

S$8,000 to S$12,000

North America

S$10,000 to S$16,000

There are numerous forms of financial aid available to students to offset the cost of going on exchange programmes.

Are students allowed to use their own overseas arrangements, rather than official SMU programmes, to fulfil this global exposure requirement?

About 90% of our graduates in the Class of 2019 chose to take up an activity from the myriad of overseas exposure programmes offered by the University. SMU is continuing to ramp up and enhance these opportunities following the implementation of the global exposure graduation requirement from Academic Year 2018-2019 onwards. With these added opportunities, the University expects more students to take up these formal programmes to fulfil the global exposure requirement.

How long do these different forms of overseas stints last?

Overseas stints may last from 5 working days to 15 weeks, subject to programme requirement.

How may students fulfil this global exposure requirement?

Students may fulfil the global exposure requirement by participating in any of the following SMU-organised overseas activities:

International Exchange Programme

Summer Exchange Programme

Short-Term Study Programme

Community Service

Study Mission

Co-Curricular Activities

Internship

Global Innovation Immersion Programme

SMU-X Overseas

Cultural Immersion Programme

Why is SMU making it a requirement for all undergraduates to acquire overseas experience during their period of study at the University?

Global traction and understanding underpins success in careers in today’s globally connected environment. To have global exposure from the vantage of a university education is invaluable for international networking and global vision; it also open doors to bigger opportunities.

When students approach their global exposure opportunities with an enthusiastic and open mind, the benefits are immense. Academically, gaining a first-hand, real-world perspective of issues learnt in the classroom serves to deepen students’ learning and knowledge application. More importantly, the journey builds independence, empathy, open-mindedness, not to mention soft-skills like communication and teamwork. These attributes not only build character and personal development, but also give students an edge when they are seeking employment and advancement in the competitive workplace.

We believe that our consistently strong Graduate Employment Survey results can be attributed to SMU’s holistic approach towards education (which includes making 80-hours of community service and 10-week of internship graduation requirements), and particularly to the international exposure that the majority of SMU graduates receive. To make sure no student misses out on this precious global experience, the University is committed to giving global exposure participation an extra push by enhancing support and by providing more (and new) opportunities for students.

I am an NSMen and I have a reserved place in SMU. How do I submit an appeal to change programme before commencement of my academic year?

Please kindly email (admissions@smu.edu.sg) to express your interest to appeal with the following details :

(i) Your full name

(ii) Application No.

(iii) Programme you intend to change to

(iv) Reasons for change of programme (a write-up is preferred; 1000-word limit)

We will inform you on the outcome of your appeal. Please check the status of your appeal online via Applicant’s Self Service. If your appeal for course change is not successful, you will still keep your place in the degree programme that you have previously accepted.

For UK A-Level qualifications, what subject combinations are accepted?

We do not have any subject pre-requisites, except for applicants to the Bachelor of Science (Economics) programme, where a good pass in A-Level Mathematics is required.

Is SAT/ACT/IELTS/TOEFL/C1 Advanced compulsory for IB applicants?

SAT/ACT/IELTS/TOEFL/C1 Advanced is not compulsory for IB applicants.

Is SAT/ACT/IELTS/TOEFL/C1 Advanced/PTE Academic/AST compulsory for applicants with the local qualifications?

SAT/ACT/IELTS/TOEFL/C1 Advanced/PTE Academic/AST is not compulsory for applicants with the following entry qualifications:

- Singapore-Cambridge GCE A-Levels

- Acceptable Polytechnic Diplomas from Nanyang Poly, Ngee Ann Poly, Republic Poly, Singapore Poly and Temasek Poly

- IB Diploma

- NUS High School Diploma

- Acceptable Diplomas from NAFA / LASALLE / NIE

How do I apply for the PLE major?

For prospective students, please click here to apply. There is no separate application for the PLE major.

Where do I find out more about the PLE major, including the curriculum?

Please click here for more information.

I am currently serving my Singapore National Service and have a place reserved in SMU. I am interested in pursuing the PLE major. Do I have to submit a new application for admission?

There is no need for you to re-apply. For Academic Year 2026-27, please email to express your interest at admissions@smu.edu.sg by 19 March 2026 (11.59pm, Singapore Standard Time).

Can a PLE student transfer out of PLE to another major offered by School of Social Sciences, e.g. Psychology?

Yes, it is possible. Applications for transfer are subject to approval, and must be submitted to the school before the end of the second year.

Can Social Science (PLE major) be taken as a secondary degree in the double degree programme?

At the end of Year 2, non-Social Science students can apply to be considered for the double degree programme with Social Science (PLE major) as a secondary degree. This option is not available to Social Science students.

Can current SMU students take PLE as a first major?

No. This option is not available to current SMU students.

Can PLE be offered as a second major?

At the moment, there are no plans for PLE to be offered as a second major. Prospective students who wish to pursue the PLE which is offered as a first major must apply for it at the time of application into SMU.

Can Social Science (PLE major) students enroll in the double degree programme?

Yes, PLE major students are eligible to apply for consideration into the double degree programme with their secondary degree either in Accountancy, Business Management, Economics or Information Systems. If you aspire to do a double degree programme at the School of Law, you must first be offered admission into the School of Law. Selection for a place in the double degree programme at the School of Law is highly competitive as a very small number of places are available each year.

Can PLE major students take a second major?

Yes, like all SMU students, PLE students may take up a second major offered by SOSS or by another school by the end of the second year.

Must I declare my interest in PLE major before commencement of Year 1?

Yes, you must declare your interest in PLE major at the time of application for admission into SMU. You will be asked to indicate your interest in the online application for admission.

Will there be any interviews for PLE applicants?

Shortlisted PLE applicants will be interviewed by a joint panel comprising faculty members from the School of Social Sciences, School of Economics and School of Law.

Are there any additional requirements to be considered for the PLE major?

Prospective students are expected to demonstrate a strong command of the English Language and possess strong grades in Mathematics.

English Language Requirements

The English Language requirements are as follows:

• GCE A-Levels (H1/H2 Level curriculum): Minimum of A or B in General Paper (GP) or Knowledge & Inquiry (KI)

• GCE A-Levels (A-Level/AO-Level curriculum): Minimum of B3 grade or better in GP

• Polytechnic Diploma: Minimum of A1 or A2 in O-Level English Language

• IB Diploma: Grade 6 or 7 in English A1 at Higher Level or Standard Level or Grade 6 or 7 in English A - Literature or English - Language and Literature at Higher or Standard Level

• NUS High School Diploma: English Language Subject CAP of B+ or better and B+ or better in EL5102 English for Academic Purposes or EL5101 Language in Society II and EL6103 Language in Society III

• International Qualifications: Either one of the following:

◦ SAT (old SAT - before March 2016) : A minimum total score of 1,900 with a combined score of 1,400 for critical reading and writing

◦ SAT (new SAT - from March 2016) : A minimum total score of 1,350 with at least 700 each for evidence-based reading and writing. Essay is not required.

◦ ACT : A minimum composite score 29 and a writing score of at least 32

◦ IELTS : A minimum overall score of 7.5 with at least 7.0 each for both reading and writing

◦ TOEFL iBT (internet-based test) : A minimum score of 100, with at least 24 each for both reading and writing

◦ TOEFL PBT (paper-based test) : A minimum score of 600, with at least 5.5 for TWE (Test of Written English) and 50 for reading

Note: The minimum scores indicated above for law applicants will be minimally sufficient for applicants to make a competitive application. Meeting these requirements does not guarantee an admission into SMU, as admission is on a highly competitive and selective basis.

Mathematics Requirements

A significant number of courses in the PLE major are of a highly quantitative nature. As such, applicants are expected to meet additional requirements in the form of a good pass in Mathematics at H2 Level/A-Level/H1 Level/Additional Mathematics at O-Level. Applicants who do not meet this requirement can still apply for consideration if they have an alternative Mathematics content background. The PLE selection committee makes the final decision on admission.

How are students selected for the PLE major?

SMU adopts a holistic approach to selection. Applicants will be evaluated on their academic credentials and co-curricular activity records. Interviews will be conducted for shortlisted applicants.

How many students are enrolled in the PLE major each year?

The PLE major enrols 45 students in each year.

Can I become a lawyer with the Bachelor of Social Science BSocSc (PLE major) degree?

The BSocSc (PLE major) does not enable a graduate to be called to the Singapore Bar.

However, SMU PLE alumni who are admitted to the J.D. programme within three years of obtaining their bachelor’s degree may be exempted for up to 9 course units from the 25 course units of the J.D. degree, if they have completed and obtained a minimum B grade for Law courses at SMU in the undergraduate degree. LGST courses and other universities’ courses taken on exchange do not qualify for exemption. The grade point obtained for the Law courses exempted will be computed into the J.D. GPA. If, in addition to the exempted Law courses, a student has completed other SMU courses listed in the J.D. list of Law core courses, they do not have to take those courses again but will have to replace them with other J.D. Law electives.

SMU PLE alumni who are admitted to the J.D. programme within three years of obtaining their bachelor’s degree will enjoy an additional $2,000 discount on tuition fees of the J.D. programme for each CU exempted, up to 3CUs.

Further information on the JD programme can be found at: http://www.smu.edu.sg/programmes/postgraduate/jd.

What degree will I get upon graduation?

You will graduate with a Bachelor of Social Science degree. The PLE major will be indicated in the official result transcript.

What are the career opportunities for graduates with a PLE major?

Due to the interdisciplinary nature of the programme, graduates would be well-equipped with the knowledge and skills to handle multifaceted jobs in their chosen fields of public service, non-government organisations or industry. Possible jobs include careers in journalism, diplomatic service, foreign affairs, public service, consulting and research, amongst others.

What type of student are we looking to enroll in the PLE major?

We are looking for students who possess the following attributes:

• Strong academic records;

• The ability to think strategically and reason well;

• The ability to frame a problem and develop a solution in new ways by drawing from multiple disciplines;

• The ability to express ideas clearly and effectively;

• The ability to gather and utilise relevant knowledge;

• Personal characteristics such as curiosity, open-mindedness and persistence.

What is the PLE major? What are its distinctive features?

The first of its kind in Singapore, the PLE programme provides a unique and rigorous, interdisciplinary major between Politics, Law and Economics. PLE majors will get to focus on a specific area of complex problems they are interested in under one of five tracks, which they will have to declare by the end of their second year. Each track offers electives from a set of carefully curated multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary courses relevant to real world problems.

It aims to prepare future leaders and thinkers with a deep understanding of global political and economic transformations and the legal frameworks and contexts within which such changes take place. As a student of this major, you will hone strategic and analytical thinking skills and seek innovative solutions to real world problems.

I would like to change my first choice to Law in my online application. How should I go about doing this?

For the 2026 admissions exercise, If you wish to change your first choice to Law, you must let us know by emailing admissions.smu.edu.sg by 22 March 2026.

When will the writing test and interview be conducted?

For the 2026 admissions exercise, shortlisted applicants who have applied by 10 March will take the writing test on Saturday, 14 March. Shortlisted applicants who have applied after 10 March (and by the final application deadline) will take the writing test on either on Friday, 27 March or on Sunday, 29 March. Please be informed that you must take the test on the assigned date; it will not be possible for you to take the test on another of the test dates except in exceptional circumstances.

Interviews are scheduled to take place on 28 March, 4 April, 11 April and 13 to 18 April. We will aim to let shortlisted candidates know their assigned dates as soon as possible. Please be informed that your interview will take place on the assigned date; it will not be possible to reschedule the interview except in exceptional circumstances.

Both writing tests and interviews are conducted in-person, on campus. We strongly advise all applicants to be mindful of the above mentioned dates when making travel arrangements. Alternative arrangements for the interviews and writing tests will apply for international applicants who do not reside in Singapore.

Will all Law applicants get to be interviewed?

Shortlisted applicants will receive invitations to take a writing test. After the test, certain applicants will be further shortlisted for an interview. Only shortlisted applicants who attend both the writing test and the interview will be further considered for admission.

Must I put law as my first choice if I wish to be considered?

To be considered for the Bachelor of Laws programme, you must have indicated that programme as your first choice of programme.

What is the difference between a double degree and a second major?

A double degree programme (DDP) allows students to take courses and graduate with two different degrees. They receive two separate degree certificates. In a DDP, some courses can be double-counted towards the requirements of both degrees, allowing students to complete both programmes in a shorter time than it would take if both are completed separately.

In a second major or double major, students take courses to meet the requirements of two majors (the first major and the second major) in a single degree programme. Upon graduation, the name of the majors will be indicated in the result transcripts. They will not be shown in the degree certificate.

Click here for more information about double degrees and second majors. For a listing of the second majors, please click here.

Can I withdraw from the double degree programme and continue with a single degree programme?

Double degree students may withdraw from their secondary degree. However, before withdrawing from the double degree programme, you should seek advice from your school on how to fulfill the remaining academic requirements of your primary degree.

What is the duration of a double degree programme?

The expected duration is 4 years for non-Law double degree students. Law students who are enrolled in a double degree programme will complete the programme in 5 years.

I was not offered direct entry into the double degree programme. Does this mean I will not have the opportunity to do a double degree?

Freshmen who are not offered direct admission into the double degree programme (DDP) may enrol in the single degree programme and will be eligible to apply for the DDP by the end of Year 2 if they meet the double degree requirements, which is a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.4. Enrolment into the DDP is also subject to availability of places, and the ability to complete the DDP successfully within the normal candidature period of four years, so as to enjoy the subsidised tuition fees.

Freshmen who are offered direct admission into the DDP will be considered full-fledged students in both degree programmes. These students must, however, achieve a minimum cumulative GPA 3.40 at the end of second year of study (or end of third year of study for LLB double degree students). Students who fail to meet the cumulative GPA of 3.40 will be asked to withdraw from the double degree programme and pursue a single degree. As such, direct entry into the DDP does not guarantee that you will graduate as a double degree student.

What are the minimum requirements for a double degree programme?

Places in the double degree programme (DDP) which are merit-based are limited. As such, keen competition is expected. To be eligible for direct entry into the DDP, applicants must have good academic results.

Students aspiring to do a double degree at the School of Law must be offered admission into the Law programme. Admission into the double degree programme will be decided by the School of Law.

No additional interview is required for those who apply for a place in the DDP for non-law programmes. However, for those who wish to be considered for the DDP with Bachelor of Social Science - Politics, Law and Economics (PLE) major as the secondary degree programme, an interview to assess suitability will be conducted by the School of Social Sciences for shortlisted candidates.

Will there be exemptions for SMU accounting modules if I have the ACCA/CAT qualifications?

You will not be eligible for exemptions from ACCA/CAT qualifications.

If I am granted some exemptions, can I choose not to be exempted from these modules?

You can choose not to be exempted from the modules. This is a privilege given to you and the final decision lies with you. Please seek advice from your school first before making the final decision.

Do I get exemptions for the relevant subjects that I have taken in the Junior Colleges / Polytechnics / High Schools / University?

Singapore-Cambridge GCEA-Levels, IB Diploma, NUS High School Diploma and international qualifications- Up to 5 subject exemptions

Acceptable Diplomas from Nanyang Poly, Ngee Ann Poly, Singapore Poly, Republic Poly and Temasek Poly

- For cGPA 3.8 and above: Up to 10 subject exemptions.

- For cGPA 3.7 to 3.79: Up to 4 subject exemptions.

- For cGPA 3.65 to 3.69: Up to 3 subject exemptions.

- For cGPA 3.60 to 3.649: Up to 2 subject exemptions.

The above are indicative guidelines and are subject to change from time to time. The number of exemptions will depend on specific course(s) taken and results obtained for these courses. Exemptions will be assessed by the Dean's Office after the applicant receives an offer of admission into SMU and accepts the offer.

I am still waiting for my appeal outcome. However, I am asked to matriculate now. What should I do?

If you have received our email on matriculation, you may wish to matriculate for the programme which you had already accepted. If your appeal is successful, we will make the necessary amendments on our system and your student records to reflect the latest status.

I missed this year's application deadline. Can I still apply?

You will not be able to apply once the online application portal is closed. If you missed the application deadline, you will have to apply in the following year. All prospective students are strongly advised to take note of the SMU application opening and closing dates. Having not applied to other universities is not a valid ground for appeal. All applicants are advised to apply to more than one university.

I was not offered a place in any of the degree programmes that I have chosen. Can I appeal for a programme that I had not opted previously?

You may appeal for a programme that you had not opted previously.

I have not been successful in my application for admission. Can I appeal to be reconsidered? I have been offered my second choice of degree programme. Can I appeal to be considered for my first choice?

If your application has not been successful or you have not been offered your first choice of programme or you have been offered admission to a single degree but would like to appeal for a double degree programme, you may submit an appeal for reconsideration. Appeals must be submitted online via Applicant’s Self Service. You must have your User ID and Password to access Applicant's Self-Service. For the 2026 admissions exercise, the online appeal portal will open from 13 April 2026 to 30 June 2026. Only applicants whose outcome of their applications is known (successful or reject) can submit their appeals online.

In your online appeal, you may state your reasons for reconsideration (not more than 1000 words). All online appeals must be submitted by 30 June 2026. We would advise applicants who wish to appeal to do so early, preferably within one week following notification of the outcome of the application. The Office of Admissions & Financial Assistance (OAFA) is the central co-ordinating body for all appeals. As such, please refrain from sending your appeals to multiple parties within SMU as this will only slow down the appeal process. Appeals sent to the other offices will be re-directed to OUAFA for processing.

All appeals will be processed in a timely and equitable manner. As the number of appeals received will be large, we will aim to inform most applicants of the outcome of their appeals within 21 working days. Some appeals, though, may take a longer time to process and notifications of outcome for such appeals will be sent beyond the 21 working days timeline. You may check the outcome of your appeal online via Applicant's Self Service.

Notifications will be sent by email, so please ensure that you have provided us with a valid email address for reply and that you check your email inbox on a regular basis. If you would like to update your email address, please do so at Applicant's Self Service.

If you have been offered admission to a degree programme and would like to appeal for a change of programme, you should accept the programme offered first while waiting for the outcome of your appeal. The offer will lapse if you do not accept it within the stipulated deadline.

Are SAT Subject Tests required for admission?

SAT Subject Tests are not required. SAT Subject Tests do not replace your high school academic grades.

Where can I find more information on SAT/ACT/IELTS/TOEFL/C1 Advanced/PTE Academic/AST?

Please click on the following links for more information

Registration for SAT/ACT/IELTS/TOEFL/C1 Advanced/PTE Academic/AST is a separate process from application for admission to SMU. Click the above links for information on test dates and registration. You must submit a separate application for admission by 19 March 2026. Click here to find out how to apply for admission to SMU.

Can I combine SAT/ACT/IELTS/TOEFL/C1 Advanced/PTE Academic/AST scores from more than one sitting?

Combination of scores from different sittings will not be allowed.

When must I submit SAT/ACT/IELTS/TOEFL/C1 Advanced/PTE Academic/AST scores to be considered?

To be considered in the 2026 admissions exercise, applicants must take the SAT/ ACT/ IELTS/ TOEFL/C1 Advanced/PTE Academic/AST by 19 March 2026 and submit the test scores to SMU by 31 March 2026. Tests taken after 19 March 2026 will not be considered. You are strongly encouraged to take the test early.

How long are SAT/ACT/IELTS/TOEFL/C1 Advanced/PTE Academic/AST scores valid for?

SAT/ ACT scores are valid for 5 years. For the 2026 admissions exercise, scores from tests taken before 19 March 2021 will not be considered.

IELTS/ TOEFL/ C1 Advanced/ PTE Academic scores are valid for 2 years. For the 2026 admissions exercise, scores from tests taken before 19 March 2024 will not be considered.

Aptitude Scholastic Test (AST) scores are valid for 2 years. For the 2026 admissions exercise, scores from tests taken before 19 March 2024 will not be considered.

Can I submit GMAT / GRE?

GMAT and GRE are test scores required of applicants who are applying for admission into postgraduate programmes. For the purpose of admission into undergraduate programmes, we will only consider SAT/ACT/IELTS/TOEFL/C1 Advanced.

Is SAT/ACT/IELTS/TOEFL/C1 Advanced/PTE Academic/AST compulsory for applicants with international qualifications?

Applicants with international qualifications, including UK A-Levels must submit either SAT or ACT or IELTS or TOEFL or C1 Advanced or PTE Academic or AST for consideration. For details of the minimum requirements, please click here.

SAT/ACT/IELTS/TOEFL/C1 Advanced/PTE Academic/AST is not compulsory for IB Diploma applicants.

Can males serving Singapore National Service (NS) apply? Will places be reserved for them for post-NS admission?

Yes. They can apply and places will be reserved for successful applicants who have accepted the offer. 

I would like to make changes to the application that I have submitted. Who should I write to?

Please write to SUTD.

How can I apply for this dual degree programme?

All applications are centrally managed by SUTD. Please refer to SUTD website for the application details and closing date. 

What are the admissions requirements for the Dual Degree Programme?

Applicants are required to be academically strong, have a high capacity for multi-tasking, possess a passion for design, technology and management, and be willing to engage in an interactive pedagogy. Shortlisted applicants will be assessed holistically and will be invited for a joint interview. Please refer to SUTD website for more information.

What are the global exposure opportunities that Dual Degree Programme students can look forward to?

Students will be given opportunities to gain global exposure via an internship, community service or a business study mission.  

How is it possible that the two 8-term programmes can be condensed into 12 terms?

SMU and SUTD have mutually identified and recognised up to 14 courses that are offered by both institutions. DDP students only need to complete these 14 courses once to fulfill the curriculum credit requirements

What is total number of courses in the Dual Degree Programme?

The total number of courses students take ranges from 49 to 52, depending on which pillar they enroll in. The total number of courses students take is also subject to curriculum changes for each new intake for either university.

Where can I find details of the dual degree curriculum?

Please refer to the SUTD website for details.

What is the duration of the dual programme?

The duration is 4.5 years spread over 12 terms. Each new cohort begins the programme in May of every year.

How many students will be enrolled in this programme?

Due to the demanding nature of this programme, the intake is limited to 45 students per cohort.

When did the first intake commence?

The first intake of students commenced in May 2014. 

Why is the programme not open to Architectural & Sustainable Design (ASD) students?

The DDP programme invites students with a strong interest in EPD, ESD and ISTD to apply as most ASD students pursue a Master of Architecture degree after their bachelor’s programme.

Who can apply for this programme?

We are inviting high-achieving students who have a strong interest in one of the following engineering pillars as well as in business management to apply for this programme:

• Engineering Product Development (EPD) • Engineering Systems and Design (ESD) • Information Systems Technology and Design (ISTD)

What are some of the useful numbers that I will have should have on hand?

SMU Numbers

IT Helpdesk

6828 0123

Dato' Kho Hui Meng Career Centre

Email: placement@smu.edu.sg

Office of Dean of Students

Email: deanofstudents@smu.edu.sg

Mrs Wong Kwok Leong Student Wellness Centre

6828 0786

Email: counselling@smu.edu.sg

Centre for Student Financial Assistance

Email: finasst@smu.edu.sg

Centre for Social Responsibility

6828 0676

Office of Campus Infrastructure and Services

6828 0343

Office of Finance

Email: studentloans@smu.edu.sg (Student Loans)

Office of Registrar

6828 0100

Office of Student Life

Email: studentlife@smu.edu.sg

Office of Admissions and Financial Assistance

6828 0980

Li Ka Shing Library

6828 0355

Kwa Geok Choo Law Library

6828 0635

Emergency Numbers

Ambulance and Fire Brigade

995

Non-Emergency Ambulance

1777

Police

999

Police Hotline

1800 255 0000

General Numbers

Local Directory Assistance

100

Immigration Enquiry Service

6391 6100

Flight Information

1800 542 4422

Taxi Booking Numbers

CityCab

6552 1111

Comfort Taxis

6552 1111

SMRT Taxis

6555 8888

TransCab

6555 3333

Premier Taxis

6363 6888

Prime Taxis

6778 0808

Yellow-Top Taxis

6293 5545

How much should I budget for each month for my living expenses?

Singapore has one of the highest living standards in the South East Asia.

An international student in Singapore spends, on average, about S$750 to S$2,000 a month on living expenses. This amount will, of course, vary depending on your lifestyle and course of study.

Click here for information on the estimated living expenses in Singapore.

What do I have to look out for in renting a private accommodation?

If you prefer to rent a private apartment, you can engage the services of property agents to help you with such arrangements. Please note that you would need to pay an agent fee if you engage their services. These are some of the things to look out for:

Rent This includes the rental amount of the unit, rental deposit, security deposit, administrative charges, agent fees for service rendered, etc.

Location Check whether the apartment or hostel is conveniently located and if public transport, grocery stores, food outlets or banks are easily accessible.

Period of lease The lease of a unit is normally for a year. Landlords of private apartments usually ask for up to three months' rent as deposit. However, short term lease is available but usually at a higher rental.

Others The cost of accommodation depends on several factors such as the locality, type of premises, size, furnishings provided, recreational facilities available, period of lease. Housing in Singapore is generally expensive, especially within the city.

Please note that the contract or tenancy agreement is solely between the student and hostel management or owner. Beware of scams:

Make sure you visit the room or apartment for rent, and ensure that you thoroughly understand the contract or tenancy agreement before you make any commitments
Never make any payment before that
If in doubt, consult your peers, senior students and friends

I will need to find local accommodation. Is there one that SMU provides or recommends?

Students may apply to stay at SMU’s Prinsep Street Residences (PSR), which is sought out for its diverse social, cultural, and academic programming, and its location at the heart of Singapore!

I am concerned about medical insurance coverage. Where can I get myself insured adequately for the duration of my studies?

Specialist consultation, hospitalisation or surgery can be a financial burden for students. All SMU Undergraduates are covered under a Group Personal Accident Policy, and a Medical and Group Hospitalisation & Surgical Policy. Insurance premiums are payable annually. It is mandatory for all International Exchange Students to participate in this insurance scheme. The insurance fee is inclusive of other miscellaneous fees. Students will be instructed on the payment arrangements they are formally accepted to study at SMU.

Where would the nearest medical consultation clinic be in the campus vicinity should I require medical advice/treatment?

Medical facilities in Singapore are of a high standard and are readily available. A visit to a General Practitioner (GP) usually costs around S$30. However, SMU students will only need to pay S$5 for each doctor’s visit at The Clinic @ Campus located at Basement 1 of SMU.

Singapore's public hospitals accept patients without a doctor or specialist's referral. Vaccinations are required only if you come from a yellow-fever area. You do not need to worry about malaria here as Singapore is not within the malaria zone

Will I be required to go through any form of pre-enrolment medical examination?

Yes, all SMU students are required to undergo a compulsory medical examination with The Clinic Group (TCG) in Singapore prior to commencing studies at SMU. You can check the matriculation website for the list of TCG clinics. It is strongly advised to check with the clinic beforehand as certain clinics with high crowd volume may take a few days to process the medical report.

How do I get to SMU?

SMU is located at the heart of the Central Business District and is very accessible via public transportation.

Address:

Singapore Management University

Administration Building,

81 Victoria Street,

Singapore 188065

By MRT – alight at Bras Basah Station (Circle Line)

By Bus – 7, 14, 16, 36, 111, 131, 162, 167, 171, 502, 518, 700, 700A

By Taxi - Taxi service in Singapore is easily available, convenient, and reasonably priced. If this is your first time in Singapore, you are strongly advised to take a taxi to your hostel from Changi Airport. Taxi bays are available at the Changi Airport arrival halls. Taxis are metered and fares start from S$3.20. A list of possible additional surcharges can be found posted in the taxis. For trips originating from the airport, there is a surcharge of between S$3 to S$5. Between midnight and 6 a.m., there is an additional surcharge of 50% of the fare shown on the meter. Tipping is not expected. Most taxi drivers are conversant in both English and Mandarin. If you are dissatisfied with the taxi service for whatever reasons, please note down the taxi number and time of boarding so that you can provide feedback to the respective Taxi Companies.

What are the most pertinent things that I will need to settle upon arrival in Singapore?

Complete the Disembarkation/ Embarkation card, which you will receive while on the plane. Copies are also available at the Immigration Checkpoint at the Singapore Changi Airport. You must present this with your passport and the original copy of your Student's Pass approval letter (application for those who require a visa to enter Singapore) to the Duty Officer at the Immigration Checkpoint upon your arrival in Singapore. Please retain the portion of the Disembarkation/ Embarkation card and your Student's Pass approval letter which will be returned to you, as these are required for the completion of your Student's Pass formalities at the Immigration Checkpoints Authority.
Complete your medical examination. Remember to make a photocopy of your medical examination report for the ID verification exercise at SMU.
Complete your Student's Pass formalities at the Immigration Checkpoints Authority (ICA) – please see Question on “How do I go about applying for my Student Pass?”

Required documents:

- IPA Letter

- Passport

- Disembarkation/ Embarkation card

- Form 16

- Medical report from approved hospitals/clinics in Singapore

Open a bank account.
Finalise your Tuition Fee Loan application (if pending).
Attend SMU Matriculation.
Verify your original academic documents at:

Office of Undergraduates Admissions

SMU Administration Building, Level 3

For enquiries, you may contact us at:

Tel: (65) 6828 0980

Email: admissions@smu.edu.sg

What do I have to note with regards to visa-related matters?

SMU will arrange for a visa to be issued should you require one to enter Singapore. The student's pass in-principal approval (IPA) letter that you will receive will include a single-entry visa. Please ensure that you have received the IPA letter before you leave for Singapore.

What are the essential items/issues that I will need to note or arrange prior to my departure?

To facilitate a smooth administrative process in Singapore, please ensure that you have these items ready prior to your departure for Singapore:

A valid passport for international travel with a validity of at least six months.
A photocopy of the bio-data page of the passport
Student pass In-Principal-Approval (IPA) Letter
Form 16 – to be presented when collecting your student pass from ICA.
Pre-enrolment medical report.
SMU's Letter of Offer (printed copies from email are also acceptable)
All original academic transcripts and educational documents. International full-time undergraduates must bring along their original high school results and/or transcripts, SAT I report etc. for verification at the Office of Undergraduate Admissions at SMU upon arrival into Singapore. Official translations of documents are required if they are not in English.
Other forms of personal identification, such as an identity card and birth certificate
Six passport-sized photographs done in your home country (size: 35mm x 43mm)
Letter or email confirming your accommodation plans in Singapore.

How do I apply for scholarships?

You will be asked to indicate your choices of scholarships in the online application form for admission. If you have submitted an online application for admission without having indicated your choices of scholarships, you may do so by applying for scholarships through Applicant's Self Service.

Where can I find information on scholarships?

Please click here for details on scholarships.

When can I apply for financial aid?

Students must first matriculate before they apply. Apply online via OASIS Applicant's Self Service.

Does tuition fees include accommodation and living expenses?

Tuition fees do not include accommodation, miscellaneous fees, cost of books and study materials and living expenses.

What would be my tuition fees if I am admitted to the Double Degree Programme (DDP)?

DDP students are required to pay the higher of the tuition fees if both degree programmes are priced differently e.g. Law students pay the higher tuition fees.

Will students paying unsubsidised tuition fees be eligible for any financial aid or scholarships?

Students paying unsubsidised tuition fees are not eligible for any financial aid or scholarships administered by Singapore Ministry of Education (MOE) or SMU.

What is the Tuition Grant Scheme?

The MOE Tuition Grant is a grant provided by the Government of Singapore to help students manage the costs of full-time tertiary education in Singapore. Eligible Singapore Citizens, Permanent Residents and international students enrolled in full-time undergraduate courses at the autonomous universities may receive it.

You are eligible to take up a Tuition Grant if you have not previously taken a Tuition Grant or received sponsorship/scholarship from the Government of Singapore to attain another qualification at an equal or higher level.

Eligible Singapore Citizens are automatically awarded a Tier A Tuition Grant, which is the highest level of tuition fee subsidy, when you commence your studies. Singapore Citizens thus pay the lowest tuition fees. There is no bond obligation.

Eligible Permanent Residents may choose to apply for a Tier B Tuition Grant only. Successful applicants are required to work for a Singapore entity for three years upon graduation.

Eligible international students may choose to apply for a Tier C Tuition Grant only. There is a limited number of Tuition Grants available for international students, and selection is competitive and based on merit. Successful applicants are required to work for a Singapore entity for three years upon graduation. Those who are not eligible for, or choose not to take the grant, will pay the non-subsidised tuition fees and will not be bound by the three-year work obligation.

There are Tuition Grant implications for the following categories of students:

1. Applicants holding degrees from the publicly-funded Singapore tertiary institutions

2. Transfers within SMU or from the other publicly-funded Singapore tertiary institutions

3. Re-admitted undergraduates

For full details of this scheme and frequently asked questions, please refer to the MOE website.

What are the miscellaneous fees and how often do I have to pay?

Miscellaneous fees are fees charged for registration, information technology, library, sports-related, student activity, insurance and other orientation and academic-related services. They are compulsory and are payable prior to the start of the new academic year.

How do I pay my tuition fees? Can I pay in instalments?

Fees are payable in two instalments in a year – at the beginning of the first and second semesters. Fees for special term courses are payable separately.

How do I know if I am eligible for financial aid?

You may use the Student Financial Needs Calculator to help determine if you are eligible and to find out the type and quantum of financial aid that you may qualify for.

Does SMU offer any financial aid?

SMU has a comprehensive range of financial aid schemes to help students in the payment of their tuition fees. These schemes cover only the subsidised tuition fees. They do not cover the miscellaneous fees charged by SMU. Please click here for more details.

I would like to find out more about the tuition fees.

Please click here for more information.

My final high school results will be released after the admissions application deadline on 19 March 2026. Can I still apply?

If your final results are not available at the time of application, you must still submit an application for admissions by 19 March 2026*. Please submit your predicted high school results, as attested by your school teacher/counsellor. The predicted results must be submitted by 31 March 2026. You must send in your actual high school results immediately when available.

I will be sitting for my IB Diploma examinations in May 2026. Can I still apply for admission, even though applications have closed?

Yes, you may apply by submitting your IB predicted scores, as attested by your school. Self-declared predicted scores will not be accepted. The predicted scores must reach SMU by 31 March 2026 for prospective students applying in the Academic Year 2026-27. Please apply for admission and submit the predicted scores early.

I do not have GCE O-Level qualifications prior to my Diploma from the local Polytechnics. Can I apply for admission?

Yes, you can apply for admission, even if you do not have any GCE O-Level qualifications.

Does SMU accept any type of Polytechnic Diploma for the purpose of admission?

For the purpose of admission, SMU will consider acceptable polytechnic diplomas (except Advanced Diplomas/Specialist Diplomas/Certificate Courses) from the 5 Polytechnic institutions in Singapore (Nanyang Polytechnic, Ngee Ann Polyechnic, Singapore Polytechnic, Republic Polytechnic and Temasek Polytechnic). Such diplomas are typically done on a full-time basis over three years.

Will applicants applying with a full set of Polytechnic results have an advantage over the final semester Poly students who apply using their five semester results?

Both groups will not be disadvantaged. Final year students are required to submit their final semester results immediately when available.

I am a Polytechnic graduate. Do I need to have a Certificate of Merit to apply?

You do not need to have a Certificate of Merit to apply for admission. You are welcome to apply as long as you satisfy the basic entry requirements.

I did not pass my Mother Tongue Language at the A-Levels. Can I qualify for admission?

If you meet the other admissions requirements, you will be offered Conditional Admission into SMU. You must fulfill the Mother Tongue requirements before graduating from SMU.

I am a private candidate who has taken the Singapore-Cambridge GCE A-Level examination in 2004 or earlier and do not have project work (PW). Will I be at a disadvantage when I apply for admission?

No, you will not be at a disadvantage.

Can I use my GCE A level results which were based on the “old A-Level syllabus” to apply for admission?

Yes. You can apply for admission with results taken under the old syllabus.

Can I gain admission if I fail the General Paper?

If you did not pass your GP, you can still apply. We will take into consideration your performance in the other A-Level subjects on a competitive and selective basis.

Can I combine my A-Level results from different sittings for the purpose of application for admission? I wish to retake my A-Levels. Do I have to take all my H2 and H1 subjects again?

SMU will consider your grades for three H2 content-based subjects and General Paper (GP) / Knowledge and Inquiry (KI) taken at the same sitting of the A-level examination. The H1 content-based subject and H1 Project Work (PW) subject can be of a different sitting.

If you wish to retake your A-Level exams, you will need to take all H2 content-based subjects and GP/KI again in one sitting.

As for the H1 content-based subject and H1 PW, you can choose not to retake and use the grades attained at the earlier sitting of the A-level examination.

However, if you decide to retake one or all of the H1 content-based subjects and H1 PW subject, the best H1 content-based subject and H1 PW grade will be taken into consideration.

Can students from the A-Level Science / Arts stream and non-business Polytechnic diplomas apply for admission?

Yes, you are welcome to apply for admission.

When will applicants be notified for interviews? When will applicants be informed of their application outcome?

Only shortlisted applicants will be called up for interviews.

Please click here for more information on the important dates relating to admissions.

Can I make amendment to my application form after submission online?

You can update your personal particulars (mailing address, telephone contact, mobile contact and email address) by logon to Applicant's Self Service. For other matters, please email to admissions@smu.edu.sg for assistance.

How do I know if my application fee payment and supporting documents have been received?

You can check if your application fee payment and supporting documents have been received by logon at Applicant's Self Service.

I have forgotten my User ID and Password. Where can I retrieve the information?

You may retrieve your User ID and Password by logging on Applicant's Self Service and double-click Forgot User ID and Password on the left hand column.

How do I check the status of my application?

You can check the status of your application online at Applicant's Self Service. You must have a User ID and Password that are both available at the time of making an online application for admission.

Is there a separate application for aptitude-based admissions?

There is no separate application for aptitude-based admissions.

Does SMU practice aptitude-based admissions?

At SMU, we are committed to a holistic and aptitude-based admissions approach, where we look for students who have not only been successful academically but who possess qualities that we value. In addition to academic grades, we will look for evidence of these qualities such as aptitude, positive attitude, intellectual curiosity, critical thinking and communication skills, as demonstrated through leadership in co-curricular activities; impactful involvement in community service and volunteer programmes; significant awards and achievements in areas relevant to the course applied for; noteworthy involvement in work/internships relevant to the course applied for; as well as other relevant factors.

Can I apply for admission now and defer my studies for one year?

Currently, full-time National Servicemen or regulars in the SAF or Singapore Police Force are allowed deferment of studies due to military obligations. If your application for admission is successful and you wish to request for deferment for another reason, please email us at admissions@smu.edu.sg for consideration.

I have already graduated with a Bachelor's degree. Can I apply for a second degree?

Yes, you may. However, as the number of places for undergraduate degrees is very limited, priority for admission will be given to those without a first degree. You may wish to consider pursuing postgraduate degree programmes.

Will all applicants get a chance to be interviewed for admission?

Only shortlisted applicants will be interviewed.

What happens if my interview at SMU clashes with another commitment?

Interviews play an important role in the admissions process and as such, it is in your interest to attend the interview as scheduled. There is a very tight schedule for these interviews, and only in exceptional circumstances (for example, due to illness or National Service commitments) will it be possible to accommodate requests for changes. Law interviews for shortlisted candidates are conducted in end Mar/April. Click here for more information on law interviews and writing tests.

Will my chances of gaining admission into my second, third, fourth and fifth choice be lower if I am not selected for my first choice?

We will consider an applicant's choices in the order of his/her preference. If you are not successful in your first choice, you will still be considered for your other choices in competition with other eligible applicants and subject to the number of places available. For those interested in law, you must indicate law as your first choice in your application.

How many degree programmes can I select in the online application?

You may select up to 4 degree programmes, in order of preference.

My qualification does not fall within the recognised international high school qualifications. Can I still apply?

Yes, you may still apply under the 'International/Other qualifications' category.

Can I apply with diploma qualifications awarded by a foreign or private institution?

For the purpose of admissions to SMU’s undergraduate programmes, we are able to consider diplomas awarded by the 5 local (Singapore) polytechnics, Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA), Lasalle College of the Arts, National Institute of Education (NIE) and BCA Academy, Singapore. We regret that we are unable to consider diplomas awarded by other private or overseas institutions.

How do I submit the supporting documents?

After applying online, please upload the relevant supporting documents (for example, NRIC/Passport details, academic results, school testimonials, CCA records, etc) using the online upload function at Applicant's Self Service. If you wish to submit other documents on top of the online submission, you may send the hardcopy documents to SMU either by mail or by hand via the Drop box:

By Mail:
Office of Undergraduate Admissions & Financial Assistance
Singapore Management University
Level 3, Administration Building
81 Victoria Street
Singapore 188065

By Hand:
The Drop box (8am-9pm daily) is located outside Office of Undergraduate Admissions & Financial Assistance

Note:
Please do not submit original transcripts/ certificates.

What are the supporting documents which I need to submit?

Click the links below for information on the typical supporting documents to be submitted.

Can I print the online application form from the website and submit it by hand/post?

Applications must be submitted online. There are no hardcopy or downloadable application forms. Applications submitted from forms that are downloaded and printed from the website will not be accepted.

My application was unsuccessful in last year's admission exercise. Will I be penalised in any way if I apply again this year with the same results?

You will not be penalised. We will treat it as a fresh application each time you apply. You compete with a new pool of applicants in each admission exercise.

I have submitted an online application for admission. I would like to cancel my application. How do I go about doing this?

Please email us at admissions@smu.edu.sg on your decision to cancel or withdraw your application. Kindly indicate your full name and application number in your email.

Where can I view a sample of the online application form?

Please click here for a sample of the online application form.

What are the important dates that I should take note of?

Please click here for information on the important dates that you should take note of.

What are the admissions requirements?

Please click here for more information on admissions requirements.

When can I apply for admission? When do applications close? How do I apply for admission?

For the Academic Year 2026-27, applications will open from 17 November 2025 and will close on 19 March 2026, 11.59pm Singapore Time.

Please click here for more information.

What is the academic calendar like?

The academic calendar is a listing of the start and end dates for Term 1, Term 2, Term 3 (Special Term), end-of-term examinations and vacation periods.

Click here for more information.

What is the number of course places in SMU in each year?

Entry into SMU's undergraduate programmes is highly competitive and places are limited. You may refer to the Indicative Grade Profile as a guideline on the number of places taken up in the previous year.

How many intakes are there per year?

There is only 1 intake per year, starting in August.

I have completed my GCE O-levels. Does SMU offer foundation programmes?

SMU does not offer foundation programmes.

Does SMU offer any diploma programmes at undergraduate level?

SMU does not offer any diploma programmes at undergraduate level.

Does SMU offer any part-time programmes?

Our undergraduate programmes are conducted on a full-time basis. We do not offer any part-time programmes.

Does SMU offer degree programmes via distance learning or online learning mode?

Our undergraduate programmes are conducted on campus at SMU. We do not offer programmes on a distance-learning or online learning mode.

What is SMU's undergraduate degree award system?

CUM LAUDE & MERIT AWARDS

SMU uses the cumulative GPA (Grade Point Average) criteria to recognise students with academic excellence and it is based on a 4.0 system.

Cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA)

3.8+ / 4.0 - Summa Cum Laude (Highest Distinction)

3.60 to 3.79 / 4.0 - Magna Cum Laude (Higher Distinction)

3.40 to 3.59 / 4.0 - Cum Laude (Distinction)

3.20 to 3.39 / 4.0 - High Merit

3.00 to 3.19 / 4.0 - Merit

Summa Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude and Cum Laude are latin awards adopted from the US system, and can be translated as with Highest Distinction, with High Distinction, and with Distinction respectively.

All cum laude awards are highly selective. They do not equate to the various classes of degree honours conferred by universities that follow the British system of academic honours. For more information on the SMU degree certificate, please click here.

Are all SMU degrees four years in duration or less? Can I complete the programme in less than 4 years?

Non-Law single degree students may be able to complete the programme in 3 years or 3.5 years or 4 years, through the granting of credits or course exemptions (up to 6 credits/course exemptions may be given) or fast-tracking by taking more courses during the regular terms or summer terms (subject to approval from the Deans).

Students who intend to fast-track are advised to plan their course time-table wisely in order to maximise learning opportunities. Most SMU students see the value of spending 4 years at SMU to broaden their knowledge base and real-life skills through internships and global exposure opportunities.

The duration of the law programme for single degree students is 4 years while those enrolled in the double degree programme (DDP) with the School of Law complete the DDP in 5 years.

What is the medium of instruction for SMU courses?

The medium of instruction is English.

What are the undergraduate degrees offered in SMU?

SMU currently offers the following undergraduate degree programmes:

Bachelor of Accountancy
Bachelor of Business Management
Bachelor of Laws
Bachelor of Science (Economics)
Bachelor of Science (Information Systems)
Bachelor of Science (Computer Science)
Bachelor of Science (Computing & Law)
Bachelor of Science (Software Engineering)
Bachelor of Social Science
Deferred Declaration of Degree

Why do I need to pay for the Annual Miscellaneous Fees?

All students are charged the mandatory miscellaneous fees regardless whether you are on Leave of Absence (LOA) for a term. These fees help defray the costs of student activity, registration, information technology, library services, group insurance and any other academic-related services.

I have selected maximum financing for my TFL application. Do I still need to pay any fees?

The Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) finances up to 90% of the subsidised tuition fee payable by a Singaporean student. Subject to meeting the eligibility criteria, you may apply for SL to finance the remaining 10% of the subsidised tuition fee payable by a Singaporean student and if applicable, an annual living allowance (LA) of $3,600 (maximum).

Therefore, if you had opted for only TFL when you applied for loan financing, you will need to pay the balance fees not financed by the TFL.

In addition, the annual fees are not covered under the loan financing. You will need to pay for these charges every Term 1. However, if you are a Singaporean student who is eligible for SL and had opted for SL with LA, you do not need to pay any fee as the LA can be used to offset the annual fees.

For further information and application, please visit our Student Loans e-Portal for more details.

Why are my financial aids not reflected in my online Statement of Account?

If you have been approved of financial aids prior to the start of the term, the financial aids will be reflected in your online Statement of Account after verification, by Week 3 of the term. You would need to settle the balance outstanding (including annual fees, where applicable) not financed by the financial aids before the payment due date which is 30 days from billing date. If you are still unsure of the balance tuition fee to pay after taking into account your approved financial aids, you may like to make use of the online Tuition Fee Calculator to simulate the Net Tuition Fee Payable Amount (ie, net amount payable after approved loans financing).

If however, you have been approved of your financial aids only after term starts, the financial aids will be reflected in your online Statement of Account within 4 to 6 weeks after the financial aids have been awarded to you.

Should there be insufficient funds in your PSEA account or the CPF account, please do note that your online Statement of Account will be adjusted accordingly subsequently after confirmation with MOE and CPF Board.

How do I update my contact details for my loan matters?

Effective 20 January 2024, Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation Limited ("OCBC") will take over the administration of your Tuition Fee Loan, Study Loan and/or Overseas Student Programme Loan from Singapore Management University ("SMU"). Please contact OCBC directly.

For SMU Education Loan & SMU Computer Loan, please fill in the Update Contact Details form to update your contact details for your loan matters.

When I write to enquire on my Student loan matters, what information must I furnish to facilitate a reply?

Please visit our Student Loans e-Portal for more details.

What can I do if my guarantor does not meet one of the eligibility criteria and I am unable to find an alternative guarantor?

If your guarantor does not meet one of the eligibility criteria due to (a) age exceeding the maximum age allowed or (b) nationality because you are the only family member who is a Singapore Citizen or Singapore Permanent Resident, you would need to demonstrate that you have attempted all efforts but were unable to find a suitable alternative guarantor.

Depending on the loan in which you are intending to apply for, you may approach the following to assist you to put forth an appeal on your behalf, to the relevant authority, for exceptional approval to be granted on a case-by-case basis.

(a) Tuition Fee Loan - visit any OCBC FRANK retail stores or branches during operational hours

(b) Study Loan/Overseas Student Programme Loan - write in to Centre for Student Financial Assistance (finasst@smu.edu.sg)

Can the person who witness my guarantor’s signing of the Tuition Grant (TG) agreement also witness his signing of the loan agreements?

The TG agreement may be signed in the presence of a/an (i) lawyer/solicitor, (ii) Notary Public or its equivalent or (iii) official from the Singapore Embassy/Consulate Office. However, the signing of the loan agreements may only be witnessed by a/an (a) Notary Public or its equivalent or (b) official from the Singapore Embassy/Consulate Office.

As such, if your guarantor approaches a lawyer/solicitor to witness the signing of the loan agreements, your guarantor would need to ensure that the lawyer/solicitor is a Notary Public or its equivalent. Documentary evidence to support the Notary Public or its equivalent status is necessary.

Can a person still be the guarantor of my student loans if he/she is already a guarantor of 2 student loans?

A guarantor should guarantee a maximum of 2 student loans. If however, you are unable to find a suitable alternative guarantor and your guarantor is prepared to act as the guarantor of your student loans, depending on the loan in which you are intending to apply for, you may approach the following to appeal for exceptional approval to be granted, on a case-by-case basis, for your proposed guarantor to be allowed to guarantee more than 2 student loans.

(a) Tuition Fee Loan - visit any OCBC FRANK retail stores or branches during operational hours

(b) Study Loan/Overseas Student Programme Loan - write in to Centre for Student Financial Assistance (finasst@smu.edu.sg)

Prior to the appeal, you would need to ensure that you highlight to your guarantor of the additional financial obligations that he/she needs to shoulder should, for some unfortunate reasons, the loans that he acts as a guarantor for, default.

Can my guarantor be someone who is currently serving National Service and intends to continue his studies after completing his National Service?

Your guarantor may not be a full-time student. As he intends to pursue full-time education after he completes National Service, we would encourage you to look for an alternative guarantor due to the financial burden that he would need to shoulder should for some unfortunate reasons, the loans that he acts as a guarantor for, default during his full-time education.

What does my guarantor need to do if he/she is residing overseas and unable to sign the loan agreements in person in Singapore?

All guarantors based in Singapore must come to OCBC Bank with the student to sign the loan agreements in the presence of a bank officer. The same guarantor stated on the application form must be present when the student signs, and that guarantor must continue to comply to the requirements. If not, the loan application will be rejected.

If the guarantor is not in Singapore, please follow the instructions stated in OCBC website.

Do I have to wait for the next academic year to apply for student loan financing if I miss the application window?

The application window for student loan financing opens twice an academic year (students will be notified via emails of the exact dates):

(a) between May and September,
(b) between December and February

If you miss the application windows stated above, you can wait for the application window to open before the start of the next academic term.

Please visit our Student Loans e-Portal > Loan Application for more details.

Are the annual fees covered under the student loans?

The student loans only cover subsidised tuition fees. Annual fees are not covered under these loans and would need to be paid separately to the University.

Can I apply for student loans (eg, TFL, SL, etc) and bursary concurrently?

Student loans and scholarship are separate financial assistance schemes. Award of the loans and bursary are based on separate eligibility criterias. You may hence, apply for loans and scholarship concurrently. That said, you will need to act accordingly to ensure that you do not breach the terms and conditions of your scholarship.

Can I still apply for student loans if I have already applied for CPF Education Loan (CPF Loan)?

Student loans and CPF Loan are separate financial assistance schemes. . You may hence, apply for both loans concurrently. However, the CPF Loan will take precedence in terms of disbursement priority (as stipulated by MOE).

I took up student loans during my undergraduate days. When can I start repaying the loan?

Repayment of loans starts after your graduation and in accordance with the terms and conditions of your signed loan agreements. Please refer to your copy of the loan agreements for the terms and conditions of the loans. If you require any further clarification, please contact OCBC Bank.

Upon graduation, you will be notified on your loan repayment commencement. However, you may start repayment during your course of study if you have the financial capability to do so.

Should you wish to start repaying the loan during your undergraduate days, and unless you are confident of keeping up with the monthly instalments (due on 1st of each month), we would suggest that you consider doing lump sum payment (minimum sum - $1,000 each) so that you do not incur penalty interest if you fail to pay the monthly instalment on time.

Please visit our Student Loans e-Portal > Loan Repayment for more details.

Can I repay the student loans before I graduate?

You may start the repayment of your student loans before you graduate.

If however, you are not repaying the loans in full during your course of study, it is preferable that the repayment be in the form of lump sum/partial payment as the repayment instalment plan cannot be paused once the plan commenced. Penalty interest at 1% per month will be charged on overdue instalments.

Please visit our Student Loans e-Portal > Loan Repayment for more details.

Can I use CPF to repay my student loans?

CPF savings can only be used to pay tuition fees. You may utilise your own PSEA funds and/or repay your MOE Funded Student Loans by contacting or visiting any OCBC branch for further assistance. Alternatively, you may wish to visit our Student Loans e-Portal > Loan Repayment for more details.

I am residing overseas and have closed my Singapore bank accounts but would like to repay my loans. What are the payment options available for me?

SMU has appointed Overseas-Chinese Banking Corporation (OCBC Bank) as agent to administer the MOE-funded loan (ie. Tuition Fee Loan, Study Loan and SMU Overseas Student Programme Loan) schemes and has completed the transition on 20 January 2024. Please visit OCBC website for more details on loan repayment.

For repayment of SMU-funded loan schemes - SMU Education Loan and/or SMU Computer Loan, please visit our Student Loans e-Portal > Loan Repayment for more details.

When will I receive the Living Allowance (LA)?

Office of Finance will disburse the LA starting Week 7 of Term 1 and Term 2. However, if you apply for the LA only during the application window prior to the start of the term, you will only receive the LA after you and your guarantor have signed the loan agreement and you have been awarded the loan scheme.

I am on scholarship and my terms of scholarship does not allow other financial aid. Why are loans still being disbursed to my account?

With effect from 1 Aug 2017 (ie, AY2017/18 Term 1), students who did not apply the scholarship via SMU and who are not scholars of Singapore Government Ministries, Organs of State or Statutory Boards, would need to need to liaise directly with their sponsors on the settlement of their tuition fees. To avoid being on finance hold due to delay in the settlement of your outstanding fees, you are advised to either (a) make payment then seek subsequent reimbursement from your sponsor or (b) submit the invoice to your sponsor immediately upon receipt of the billing notification for your sponsor to make payment directly to SMU.

As we would not be aware of your scholarship, the loans will be disbursed accordingly if there are outstanding tuition fees in your account. It is hence, your responsibility to ensure that you do not breach the terms and conditions of your scholarship and write in to (studentloans@smu.edu.sg) to inform Student Loans Team that you need to cease the TFL/SL financing should your scholarship disallow other financing.

Should you fail to inform Student Loans Team to cease the TFL/SL financing, Student Loans Team will continue to extend the loans to you as long as your tuition fees are outstanding when the loan disbursement takes place.

I am receiving a number of financial aids (including CPF Education Loan and student loans) for my tuition fee. In what order will my tuition fee be deducted?

Your tuition fee will be deducted by the following order of priority as stipulated by MOE (with 1 being the highest priority to be disbursed first) :

Mendaki Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy (TTFS),
Scholarship/bursary (per gift agreement),
SkillsFuture Credit,
Post-Secondary Education Account (PSEA),
Central Provident Fund Education Loan (CPF Loan),
Student Loans – (i) Tuition Fee Loan (TFL), (ii) Study Loan (SL), (iii) Study Loan Living Allowance (LA)

I applied for the Overseas Student Programme (OSP) Loan Scheme. When can I expect to receive the funds?

The approved OSP Loan quantum will be processed only after the application approval by OCBC Bank is received by SMU. The funds will be disbursed to you (via Inter-bank GIRO arrangement to the bank account maintained with SMU), no earlier than six weeks prior to trip departure (as indicated in your application form), OR within 4-6 weeks from OCBC Bank’s approval, whichever is later.

Students who submit application for loan financing within 1 month of date of departure may not be able to receive the funds before departure as the loan agreements must be signed and loan duly awarded before the funds may be disbursed to your bank account that you maintained in OASIS.

Why is the TFL still not disbursed to my account even though I have already signed the loan agreement with OCBC Bank?

The TFL will only be disbursed to your Student Account after you and your guarantor have signed the loan agreement and the loan application status has been approved by OCBC Bank. The disbursement will take place 4 to 6 weeks after loan approval.

I have applied for student loans to finance my tuition fee but the loans are not showed in my account inquiry in OASIS. Do I need to pay the full tuition fee?

If you have applied for student loan financing but the loan application (i) has not been approved or (ii) has been approved but the loans have not been disbursed to your account, it is not necessary for you to settle the full tuition fee.

You are required to settle only the remaining balance of your tuition fee not financed by the student loans and the mandatory annual fees (if applicable) if the annual fees are not covered by any of your approved financial aids or scholarship.

I have applied for Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and Study Loan (SL). When will I receive the money in my bank account?

For financing of tuition fee under the Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and Study Loan (SL) Schemes, you will not receive any money in your bank account. The quantum which may vary from term to term depending on whether there are other financial aids that ranked in higher priority (based on the order stipulated by MOE) will be disbursed directly to your Student Account to offset against your outstanding tuition fees (if any).

If you have applied for Living Allowance (LA) under the SL Scheme, the annual LA will be disbursed over 2 terms to the (receiving) bank account that you maintained in OASIS, after offsetting against the outstanding tuition fees and annual fees (if any).

I have applied for Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and Study Loan (SL). Will I receive the full quantum upfront?

For financing of tuition fee under the Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and Study Loan (SL) Schemes, the full quantum will not be disbursed upfront as the total financing required for your course of study cannot be ascertained at this point. The disbursement will be done on a per term basis and the quantum may vary from term to term, depending on whether there are other financial aids that ranked in higher priority (based on the order stipulated by MOE). The loan will be disbursed directly to your Student Account to offset against your outstanding tuition fees.

Does the Tuition Fee Loan (TFL)/Study Loan (SL) finance the Term 3 tuition fees?

Yes, the TFL/SL cover the tuition fee for all the terms including summer term (ie, Term 3). The financing also includes regular terms where a student goes on leave of absence but failed to apply for it within the stipulated deadline.

Please visit our Student Loans e-Portal for more details.

I am already on the student loan financing but I have exceeded the 8 terms of study at SMU. Am I still eligible for student loan financing?

You would however, need to write in to (studentloans@smu.edu.sg) to inform Student Loans Team of your extended study so that the loan tenure can be extended accordingly.

I am into the 5th year of my study due to LOA in previous term(s). Am I eligible for student loan financing?

If you are already on the Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and/or Study Loan (SL) Schemes, you will continue to receive the same quantum of student loan financing, which is pegged to the subsidised tuition fee payable by a Singaporean student, until you graduate. No action is required from you as Office of Finance would have already extended your loan tenure accordingly based on your approved LOA application.

However, if you are not on student loan financing schemes and would like to apply for the financing, you may do so when the application window opens. Please note that International Students who are paying non-subsidised tuition fees are not eligible to apply for the student loan financing.

Please visit our Student Loans e-Portal for more details.

What happens to my Tuition Fee and Study Loan if I terminate my studies?

If you pre-terminate your studies or withdraw your studies from SMU without completing your course of study, the loans that you have taken out during your stay at SMU will become immediately due and repayable in full.

Interest will be chargeable with effect from the first day of the month following the termination if the loans remained outstanding.

For UG withdrawal, please visit SMU UG Withdrawal.

For PG withdrawal, please visit SMU PG Withdrawal.

The banks that I approached to enquire about student loans for undergraduates, have asked me to get a Letter of Offer (LOO) from SMU. Which Office do I approach to request for the LOO?

Tuition Fee Loan - apply directly to OCBC Bank (wef 24 January 2024)

Complete the application form accordingly before printing out the hardcopy form

Proceed to any of the OCBC FRANK retail stores or branches with hardcopy form and guarantor to complete application and signing process
Physical NRIC/Passport and SMU Student Card and photocopies of each identification required for verification purposes (Freshmen who have not collected SMU Student Card may provide Enrolment Status Letter as proof of admission, by requesting for the letter via OASIS > Home > Finance & Admin > Certification & Personal Info > Enrolment Letter & Academic Summary)

Study Loan and/or Overseas Student Programme Loan

The loan application is done via your student portal OASIS > Self-Service Apps – Financial Aid Application (under “Policies and Self-Service Apps”) or > Finance & Admin > Fee Matters & Financial Assistance Schemes > Schemes & Obligations > Apply for Finance Aid (located at the end of the page)

Financial Aid Type: Loan
Financial Aid Form: Select as appropriate – (a) Study Loan; (b) Overseas Student Programme (OSP) Loan

Why do I still receive outstanding fee reminders from the Office of Finance when I am on Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and Study Loan (SL) financing?

The Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and Study Loan (SL) finance only up to 90% and balance 10% (subject to eligibility) respectively of the subsidised tuition fee payable by a Singaporean student. Both TFL and SL however, do not cover the annual fees which need to be paid by you.

Thus, if you are a Singapore Citizen paying subsidised tuition fee and has not applied for Living Allowance (LA) under the SL scheme, the reminder is to prompt you that you have not paid the annual fees which are not covered by the TFL and SL schemes.

If you are a Singapore Citizen paying full fees due to studies (excluding Leave of Absence terms without fee obligations) beyond normal candidature of 8 terms, the reminder is to prompt you that there are partial tuition fee and/or annual fees which remain outstanding and have not been paid.

If you are a Singapore Permanent Resident (SPR) or International Student (IS), the maximum loan quantum of 100% and LA are unable to cover your full tuition fee. The reminder is consequently a notice to prompt you that you have outstanding tuition fee and/or annual fees not paid.

Should you have unpaid annual fees and/or remaining tuition fee not financed by TFL, SL and LA, you would need to settle them by the various payment modes available.

If you are still unsure of the balance tuition tee to pay after taking into account your approved loans, you may like to make use of the online Tuition Fee Calculator to simulate the Net Tuition Fee Payable Amount (ie, net amount payable after approved loans financing).

Why is there a Finance Hold on my account?

Please check your account for outstanding fees. Upon successful payment updates, your account would be lifted within 48 Hours

Do I need to terminate my student loans arrangement if I am subsequently awarded a scholarship?

You would need to check the terms and conditions of your scholarship to find out if you are eligible for other financial aids. Please ensure that you do not breach the terms and conditions of your scholarship. If however you are unsure, do contact your sponsor or Centre for Student Financial Assistance (CSFA) (finasst@smu.edu.sg) (if applicable) for clarity.

Should you need to cease the loan disbursement, please write in to Student Loans Team studentloans@smu.edu.sg (provide your campus ID) and visit our Student Loans e-Portal > Loan Repayment for details on how to repay your loans.

Can my parents who are either unemployed/retired or a homemaker still be the guarantor of my student loans?

It is not a requirement that your guarantor has to be in employment. Guarantors must however, meet the eligibility criteria as set out in the application instructions. For more information on the eligibility criteria for guarantors, please go to Student Loans e-Portal > Loan Application.

Does my guarantor need to be provide income statement for my student loans application?

It is not a requirement that your guarantor has to be in employment. Hence, it is not necessary to produce any income statement unless you are applying for a student loan that requires household income assessment (ie, PCI assessment). For more information on the eligibility criteria for guarantors, please go to the Financial Assistance Schemes website https://www.smu.edu.sg/about/financial/financial-assistance-schemes

I am a non-Singaporean student. Will I be able to get 100% financing for my tuition fees?

As an International Student, you will not be able to finance your tuition fees fully with the various financial assistance schemes as the Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and Study Loan (SL) finance only up to 90% and balance 10% (subject to eligibility) respectively of the subsidised tuition fees payable by a Singaporean student.

Should you be eligible for the Study Loan Living Allowance (LA), the scheme may potentially provide additional financing of up $1,800.

Nevertheless, if you are a Singapore Permanent Resident (SPR), you would be able to fully finance your tuition fees if you are eligible for all of the above 4 financial assistance schemes.

Please visit our Student Loans e-Portal for more details.

Am I eligible to apply for student loans to finance my tuition fee if I am an International Student?

International Students who are paying non-subsidised tuition fee are not eligible to apply for student loans. You may apply for student loan financing if you are paying subsidised tuition fee and you have completed the requirements as set out in the Tuition Grant (TG) process.

If you have been awarded the student loan financing prior to the completion of the TG process, you would need to ensure that you complete the requirements set out in the TG process as the award of the student loan financing is contingent upon completion of the TG process.

I’m a full-fee paying International Student. I am currently in a very tight financial situation and want to know if there is loan that I could take to fund the remaining years of my education?

Full-fee paying International Students are not eligible to apply for any loan schemes. However, if you are unable to fund your education, you may consider applying for a bursary or emergency relief fund (subject to eligibility). For further information and application, please go to the Financial Assistance Schemes website

I am a non-Singaporean student. I never received the allowance even though I have been awarded the maximum Living Allowance (LA) of $3,600 under the Study Loan (SL) Scheme. Why is that so?

The financing under the Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and Study Loan (SL) Schemes is not sufficient to cover the tuition fees payable by you. As such, the Living Allowance (LA) which is disbursed over 2 terms annually has been used to offset the outstanding tuition fees.

Do I need to apply for the Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and Study Loan (SL) in my subsequent years of study if I am already on student loan financing?

Application for financing under the TFL/SL schemes applications is one-time only. If you are approved of your application, you do not need to submit a new application in your subsequent years of study. The financing will take effect from the approved term and shall remain for the remaining tenure of your course of study (including summer term) unless you inform Student Loans Team (studentloans@smu.edu.sg) that you have alternative financing and do not require the loan disbursements.

How can I tell whether my loan application has been approved?

Once your application has been approved, a notification will be triggered by OCBC Bank to inform you on the application status.

I am keen to go for an overseas exchange program. However, I do not have the financial means to do so. Is there any loan scheme available for this purpose?

The Overseas Student Programme (OSP) Loan Scheme is aimed at enabling more Singaporean students to take advantage of various overseas experiences so as to gain international exposure and consequently develop a more global mindset. The loan scheme is available for students participating in OSPs approved by SMU.

For more information and application, please go to Overseas Student Programme Loan or visit our Student Loans e-Portal for more details.

If you are a non-Singapore Citizen, you would need to find alternative financing to fund your overseas experience, That said, grants and scholarships are available to help students (including non-Singaporean students) defray part of their costs. Should you be eligible, you may wish to consider applying for these schemes. For further information and application, please go to the Financial Assistance Schemes website.

Do I need to re-apply for the Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and Study Loan (SL) if I switch my course of study?

Application for financing under the TFL/SL schemes applications is one-time only, regardless of change in course plan. If you are approved of your application, you do not need to submit a new application even though you may be pursuing a different course in your subsequent year of study. The financing will continue with amount adjusted accordingly (where applicable) until you complete your course of study (including summer term) unless you inform Student Loans Team (studentloans@smu.edu.sg) that you have alternative financing and do not require the loan disbursements.

What is the difference between Tuition Grant (TG) and Tuition Fee Loan (TFL)?

Tuition Grant (TG) is a grant from the Singapore Government to help students manage the costs of full-time tertiary education in Singapore. It is applicable to eligible Singapore Citizens (SC), Singapore Permanent Residents (SPR) and International Students (IS) enrolled in full-time diploma or undergraduate courses at the autonomous universities, polytechnics and art institutions. For more information and application, please go to Tuition Grant Subsidy scheme located on the Ministry of Education (MOE) website or call the MOE Tuition Grant Section Hotline at 65-6872 2220.

Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) is a loan to help students who require financial assistance to pay the tuition fee. It will help students finance up to 90% of the tuition fee payable by a Singaporean student. The TFL is interest-free during the course of study and repayable after graduation. For more information and application, please go to Tuition Fee Loan or visit our Student Loans e-Portal for more details.

I have applied for the CPF Education Loan Scheme (CPFELS), Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and Study Loan (SL) to finance my tuition fee. However, I want to utilise the TFL and SL first before the CPF Loan. Can this be done?

As the CPFELS is ranked in higher priority in terms of disbursement (based on the order stipulated by MOE), the CPF funds will be disbursed first to finance your tuition fee. The TFL and SL will be disbursed accordingly to cover the balance outstanding tuition fee only if there is insufficient CPF funds to pay off the full tuition fee. Consequently, you would not be able to utilise the CPF funds last.

Besides, the TFL and SL cover 100% of the subsidised tuition fees payable by a Singapore Citizen. If you are a Singapore Citizen and eligible for both TFL and SL, you will not require CPF Loan and may wish to consider revoking the CPF arrangement.

If however, you are a non-Singapore Citizen, you may specify the percentage of CPF funds you wish to utilise when submitting the application to CPF Board so that the balance outstanding tuition fees will be financed by the TFL and SL. Please however, note that CPF, TFL and SL do not cover the annual fees which need to be paid by you.

Can I request to back-date the application for my Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and Study Loan (SL) to finance my outstanding tuition fees from prior terms?

Financing under the TFL/SL schemes is effective from the approved term and may not be back-dated to prior terms.

If you have outstanding tuition fees from prior terms that have not been paid, you will need to find alternative source of financing to settle them.

Am I still eligible to apply for the student loan financing if I have previously taken out loans to finance my education in the polytechnic?

You would be eligible to apply for student loans provided you are paying subsidised tuition fee (ie, if you are not an International Student paying non-subsidised tuition fee) at the point of application.

How to check on the loan application status?

Contact OCBC FRANK Retail Stores or Branches for enquiries relating to Tuition Fee Loan application status.

Tel: 1800 363 3333 (within Singapore)
+65 6363 3333 (outside Singapore)

For Study Loan and Overseas Student Programme (OSP) Loan:

Please log on to your student portal OASIS > Self-Service Apps – Financial Aid Application to check > Finance & Admin > Fee Matters & Financial Assistance Schemes > Schemes & Obligations > Financial Aid Application History.

Contact OCBC FRANK Retail Stores or Branches for enquiries relating to application status after your loan signing process is completed.

What is the difference between Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and Study Loan (SL)?

The Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) finances up to 90% of the subsidised tuition fee payable by a Singaporean student.

Subject to eligibility, the Study Loan (SL) finances the balance of the subsidised tuition fee payable by a Singaporean student. In addition, a loan of up to $3,600 (maximum) per annum to help students meet their daily living expenses is available under the SL scheme.

Both TFL and SL however, do not cover the annual fees which need to be paid by the student. If the annual fees remain unpaid, the living allowance (LA) will used to offset against the annual fees before the net amount is disbursed to the student.

For further information and application, please go to Student Loans e-Portal.

Can I use Post-Secondary Education Account (PSEA) funds to repay my student loans?

You may apply to use the funds in your PSEA account to repay your loan if you are no longer studying at SMU (ie, graduated or withdrawn). For more information and application, please go to Post-Secondary Education scheme located at the MOE PSEA website.

That said, you may withdraw the PSEA funds during your course of study to pay the tuition fees if you are still an undergraduate so that you do not have to incur a bigger loan at the end of your study at SMU.

Please visit our Student Loans e-Portal > Loan Repayment for more details.

What is the interest rate on the student loans?

Except for the interest-free Study Loan Tier 1, the interest rate payable on the rest of the student loans is based on 3-month compounded Singapore Overnight Rate Average (3M SORA) plus 1.5 percentage points or such other rates as may be determined from time to time by the bank or SMU**.

** The interest rate is subject to change on a half-yearly basis based on the 3M SORA published on the MAS website on 1 March or 1 September.

What is the penalty and interest if I fully repay my student loans before graduation?

The student loans are interest-free during the course of study. Consequently, if you fully repay the loans prior to graduation, you are not required to pay any interest as the loans are still interest-free. If however, you do not fully repay the loan before graduation, you would need to pay interest on any outstanding balance not repaid when interest starts after graduation.

There is no penalty or administrative charge for fully repaying the loans before graduation or before the maximum repayment period.

Do I need to repay the Living Allowance (LA)?

The Living Allowance (LA) is a form of financial assistance extended to needy students to help them pay for their daily expenses. The LA is part of the Study Loan (SL) Scheme and thus, a loan that is also repayable after graduation.

When is the interest chargeable for on the Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and Study Loan (SL)?

The student loans are interest-free during the course of study. The interest chargeable on the loans will commence after graduation.

Depending on the term in which a student graduates, interest will be chargeable with effect from the following dates:

Term 1 – 1st March
Term 2 – 1st Aug
Term 3 – 1st Oct

What are the available payment modes to pay my tuition fees?

Online payment via Student Self-Service (OASIS app: Fee Payment).
GIRO (Paying bank) for Undergraduates only.
Credit Card -At SSH office (Opp Dental@Uni)
NETS - At SSH office (Opp Dental@Uni)

I have applied for Financial Aid(s) (e.g. Mendaki, CPF Education Loan Scheme, Tuition Fee Loan, Study Loan, Post Secondary Education Account) and/or Scholarship(s) before the start of term. Why is it not shown in my statement of Account?

The approved Financial Aid(s) and/or Scholarship(s) payments will be posted to your online Statement of Account in due course depending on the approval date. If the Financial Aid(s) and/or Scholarship(s) do not cover 100% of your Tuition Fees, please arrange for the remaining balance to be paid by the other available payment modes. Please take note that you are still required to pay the mandatory Annual Fees if it is not covered by any of your Approved Financial Aid(s) and/or Scholarship(s).You do not need to pay on due date if your subsidized tuition fees is covered by Financial Aid(s).

Will my fees be adjusted if I have changed my nationality/citizenship?

The effective date will be the date which students present their official documents to Office of Registrar. Any adjustment on the tuition fees will be made if the effective date falls before the start of academic term. Otherwise, the fee adjustment will take effect from the following academic term(s).

Can Mendaki/CPFELS/TFL/SL/PSEA pay for my summer term?

Mendaki – No

Post-Secondary Education Account – Yes

CPF Education Loan Scheme – Yes

Tuition Fee Loan – Yes

Study Loan – Yes

I have applied for the maximum Living Allowance (LA) of $3,600 under the Study Loan (SL) Scheme. Why am I receiving a lower amount?

The Living Allowance (LA) is disbursed over 2 terms annually. If you have outstanding tuition fees and/or annual fees, the LA will be used to offset the outstanding fees before the net amount is disbursed to you.

When can I receive my scholarship allowance?

If you have been approved of your scholarship prior to the start of the term, your scholarship allowance will be disbursed to you latest by end of Week 8 of the term.

If however, you have been approved of your scholarship only after term starts, you will receive your scholarship allowance 4-6 weeks after the scholarship has been awarded to you.

When would I receive my scholarship's cash allowance?

If you are approved of your scholarship application and awarded a scholarship with cash allowance:

Prior to the start of the new academic year of study – The cash allowance will be credited to your receiving bank account established with the University via inter-bank giro transfer by Week 7 of each regular term of study.
After the new academic year of study has started – The cash allowance will be credited to your receiving bank account established with the University via interbank-giro transfer within 4 to 6 weeks after the scholarship has been awarded to you.

Can I use my scholarship allowance to offset my tuition fee and annual fee?

Your scholarship will automatically be applied to offset your tuition fees approximately three weeks after your billing date.

However, the scholarship does not cover the annual miscellaneous fee, which is charged in Term 1 of each academic year. This fee covers IT facilities, insurance, and student activities. You will need to pay this fee separately to avoid being placed on administrative hold.

If there is any remaining scholarship amount after covering your tuition fees, it will be disbursed to your SMU receiving bank account in two equal instalments by Week 7 or 8 of Term 1 and Term 2.

Why do I need to pay tuition fee if I was informed that, as a Singaporean student, I will automatically be granted and need not apply for the Tuition Grant?

The TG thus, enables an eligible student to pay tuition fees at subsidised rates. It does not however finance the tuition fees payable. Should a student require financing to pay for his/her subsidised tuition fees, the student may apply for the various available financial assistance schemes.

For further information and application, please go to the Financial Assistance Schemes website or visit our Student Loans e-Portal.

What are the conditions for a guarantor for the TFL?

A guarantor for the TFL needs to meet the following eligibility criteria:

(a) Must be at least 21 years old and below 60 years old
(b) Must not be an undischarged bankrupt or a student pursuing full-time education
(c) May not serve in this capacity for more than two outstanding student loans, including the loan being applied for

And one of the following conditions:

(i) Must be a Singapore Citizen for an applicant who is a Singapore Citizen
(ii) Can be either a Singapore Citizen or a Singapore Permanent Resident for an applicant who is a Singapore Permanent Resident
(iii) Can be of any nationality for an applicant who is a non-Singaporean/Singapore Permanent Resident

What are the financial assistance schemes available to post-graduate students?

If you are a Singapore Citizen or Singapore Permanent Resident but pursuing any SMU post-graduate programmes, you would need to approach one of the commercial banks or financial institutions to apply for an education loan.

Loan financing is generally not available to International Students who are on post-graduate programmes in Singapore. That said, if you are a post-graduate student of Indian nationality, you may wish to consider checking with State Bank of India Singapore Branch which offers student loans exclusively for students from India who have secured admission in selected educational institutions for higher studies in Singapore, to enquire if the student loans are also extended to post-graduate programmes.

What are the financial assistance schemes available to undergraduates?

There are several financial assistance schemes (FAS) available at SMU to assist undergraduates in managing their educational expenses, from financing of tuition fees, daily expenses to participating in overseas student programmes.

For more information and application, please go to the Financial Assistance Schemes website

Does my guarantor need to be provide income statement for my student loans application?

It is not a requirement that your guarantor has to be in employment. Hence, is not necessary to produce any income statement unless you are applying for a student loan that requires household income assessment (ie, PCI assessment). For more information on the eligibility criteria for guarantors, please go to Student Loans e-Portal > Loan Application

How do I apply for financial assistance to fund my tuition fee if the banks I approached to enquire about loan financing for my tuition fees informed me that they do not offer Tuition Fee Loans to SMU students?

Tuition Fee Loan applications are to be submitted to OCBC Bank.

Please note that it is compulsory to indicate your SMU Student ID (e.g. 01234567) in the TFL application form, or your application will be rejected by the bank. Prospective students should apply for the TFL only after they have received their SMU Student ID/Card. Those who have not collected SMU Student ID/Card may provide a copy of the Enrolment Status Letter as proof of admission, which can be requested via OASIS > Home > Finance & Admin > Certifications & Personal Info > Enrolment Letter & Academic Summary.

Study Loan applications, you can apply via your student portal OASIS > Self-Service Apps – Financial Aid Application (under “Policies and Self-Service Apps”) or > Finance & Admin > Fee Matters & Financial Assistance Schemes > Schemes & Obligations > Apply for Finance Aid (located at the end of the page)

Financial Aid Type: Loan
Financial Aid Form: Select as appropriate – Study Loan

Please visit our Student Loans e-Portal for more details.

Where can I find the student loans application form?

Tuition Fee Loan application - Apply via OCBC website - FRANK x SMU Student Loan | FRANK by OCBC.

Study Loan and Overseas Student Programme (OSP) Loan - application forms can be found in your student portal OASIS > Self-Service Apps – Financial Aid Application (under “Policies and Self-Service Apps”) or > Finance & Admin > Fee Matters & Financial Assistance Schemes > Schemes & Obligations > Apply for Finance Aid (located at the end of the page)

Financial Aid Type: Loan
Financial Aid Form: Select as appropriate – (a) Study Loan and (b) Overseas Student Programme (OSP) Loan

What are the supporting documents required for my student loan application?

Please refer to the this link Documents Required for the list of documents required to support your loan application.

If however, you are applying for student loans which are subject to household income assessment (ie, PCI assessment), you would need to submit the relevant supporting documents to substantiate your application.

I have applied for the CPF Education Loan Scheme (CPFELS) and maximum Tuition Fee Loan to finance my tuition fee. However, I want to utilise the TFL first before the CPF Loan. Can this be done?

As the CPFELS is ranked in higher priority in terms of disbursement (based on the order stipulated by MOE), the CPF funds will be disbursed first to finance your tuition fee. The TFL (subject to the percentage as specified in your application) will only be disbursed to cover the balance outstanding tuition fee if there is insufficient CPF funds to pay off the full tuition fee. Consequently, you would not be able to opt to utilise the CPF funds last.

That said, if you want wish to maximise the TFL financing, you would need to specify the percentage (10%) of CPF funds you wish to utilise when submitting the application to CPF Board so that the balance outstanding (90%) tuition fees will be financed by the TFL.

What is the maximum loan quantum I can obtain under the Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and Study Loan (SL) financing?

The TFL finances up to 90% of the subsidised tuition fee payable by a Singaporean student. Subject to meeting the eligibility criteria, you may apply for SL to finance the remaining 10% of the subsidised tuition fee payable by a Singaporean student and if applicable, an annual living allowance (LA) of $3,600 (maximum).

For further information and application, please visit our Student Loans e-Portal.

I am not on the student loan financing but I have exceeded the 8 terms of study at SMU. Am I eligible to apply for student loan financing?

If you are already on the Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and/or Study Loan (SL) Schemes, you will continue to receive the same quantum of student loan financing, which is pegged to the subsidised tuition fee payable by a Singaporean student, until you graduate. Please write in to (studentloans@smu.edu.sg) to inform Student Loans Team of your extended study so that the loan tenure can be extended accordingly.

If however, you are an International Student who was not on student loan financing schemes, you would not be eligible to apply for the financing as International Students are not eligible to apply for student loan financing if they are paying non-subsidised tuition fees.

I am on scholarship but I noticed that loans are still being disbursed to my account. Why?

With effect from 1 Aug 2017 (ie, AY2017/18 Term 1), students who did not apply the scholarship via SMU would need to liaise directly with their sponsors on the settlement of their tuition fees.

Under the new arrangement, students may submit the Statement of Account to their private sponsors directly on the payment arrangement of their tuition fees. Alternatively, students may also make payment first and print out the receipt to seek subsequent reimbursement from their sponsors.

If your tuition fees are outstanding when the loan disbursement takes place, the loans will be disbursed to your account even though you are on scholarship. Thus, you would need to write in to Account Enquiry to request Office of Finance to cease the loan financing and arrange for your tuition fees to be settled promptly to avoid finance hold on your account.

This above arrangement however, does not apply if students are scholars of Singapore Government Ministries, Organs of State or Statutory Boards. That said, you would need to ensure that your sponsor informed us of your scholar status so that we can make the necessary arrangements with them.

I took up student loans during my undergraduate days. How do I make loan repayment?

Repayment of loan starts after your graduation and according to the Terms and conditions per your signed loan agreements. You will be notified upon graduation on your loan repayment commencement.

SMU has appointed Overseas-Chinese Banking Corporation (OCBC Bank) as agent to administer the MOE-funded loan (ie. Tuition Fee Loan, Study Loan and Overseas Student Programme Loan) schemes and has completed the transition on 20 January 2024. Please visit OCBC website for more details on loan repayment.

For repayment of SMU-funded loan schemes - SMU Education Loan and/or SMU Computer Loan, you will need to fill up a  reply slip to submit your repayment plan for your loan.

Can my father, who is handicapped, be the guarantor of my student loans?

As there is concern that they may be misled into signing legally binding documents and to safeguard their interest, the visually impaired are not allowed to be guarantors of the student loans. Hence, the visually impaired person whom you are proposing to be guarantor will not be able to act as your guarantor even though he may have met the other eligibility criteria of a guarantor.

If your proposed guarantor is hearing impaired and is able to read English, he may act as your guarantor as he would be able to understand and be aware of his obligations and responsibilities under the loans. He would however, not be able to act as your guarantor if he does not meet the eligibility criteria of a guarantor.

Who is eligible for the Tuition Fee Loan?

All Singapore Citizens, SPRs, foreigners pursuing MOE-subsidised UG programmes at SMU except the following:

Students on Government/ Statutory Board/ any scholarship
Students receiving full subsidy from Mendaki
Students using 100% CPF
Students on self-funded courses
Full-fee paying foreign students

Can I repay my student loans by debit/credit card/paynow/paylah?

For repayment of SMU-funded loan schemes - SMU Education Loan and/or SMU Computer Loan, we currently do not have Paynow / Paylah function and credit cards are not accepted for loan repayment. Please visit our Student Loans e-Portal > Loan Repayment for more details.

I have previously applied for GIRO to repay my school tuition fees. Do I have to apply for GIRO again to repay my loans?

GIRO arrangement made with OCBC Bank during UG days CANNOT be used for repayment of the loans due to different receiving bank account. Establishing a new GIRO authorisation arrangement for loan repayment is required.

I am an International Student currently overseas, how do I apply to open a bank account in Singapore for purpose of submitting my loan application?

International Students currently overseas can open a local bank account with DBS without being physically present in Singapore. It will take 3-5 working days to get the account opened (from the application and submission of the full supporting documents online). The links can be found below.

Applicants will just need to upload the supporting documents during their online application.

1. Online Opening of personal account:

https://www.dbs.com.sg/personal/deposits/bank-with-ease/addon-casa

2. Supporting Documents required for the online account opening, under the section: “Foreigner (Studying in Singapore)”

https://www.dbs.com.sg/personal/support/bank-account-opening-documents-required.html

Will I receive a statement of the financial aids that I have?

For more information on the financial aids (PSEA, CPF, Scholarships, Bursary, Student Loans, etc), kindly go to your OASIS portal to view the summary for the past semesters.

I have applied for a bursary as well as Tuition Fee Loan (TFL). Will the bursary be used to offset against the balance fees not covered by the Tuition Fee Loan?

Depending whether your awarded bursary is an allowance or one that is used to offset your tuition fee.

If the awarded bursary is an allowance, the allowance will be paid to you to the bank account that you have in OASIS. You may use the bursary to pay off the balance fees when you received the funds in your bank account.

Do I need to pay for my school fees while on internship if I have yet to complete my coursework requirements?

If student is on internship and has yet to complete his/her coursework requirements, he/she is liable for tuition fee unless Leave of Absence (LOA) is applied and granted (approved ) for that period.

When do I have to pay my term fees?

Students will be notified via email of any charges (and its payment due date) posted to their online Statement of Account. Students may view their online Statement of Account by logging in to OASIS > Finance & Admin > Fee Matters & Financial Assistance Schemes > Account Inquiry.

What are annual fees and how frequent must I pay them?

Annual fees are not included in the tuition fee and not covered by tuition grant. These fees are charged for information technology, student activities and insurance. They are mandatory and are payable once a year prior to the start of the new academic year.

How do I retrieve the breakdown of invoices that makes up the opening balances?

Is cash accepted?

Please note that cash payment is not accepted in SMU.

What is the study candidature for single & double degree course?

The normal candidature period* (single and double degree) is 4 years. Students should attempt to graduate within the normal candidature period. The candidature period includes time taken to fulfill the internship and community service requirements, as well as time taken to undertake external study programmes (such as international exchange programme).

Leave of absence that has been approved will not be counted within the candidature period.

During the period of candidature, generally, a student must enroll for at least 1 course unit and not more than 5.5 course units of study per term.

*Government funding for undergraduate education in which every undergraduate student admitted is only funded up to the normal candidature of four (4) years.

If a student has yet to graduate after the 4th year of study, there will be no further Tuition Grant from the government to fund this student. Full tuition fee will then apply, as stipulated in OASIS (please refer to Home>Academic>Advisement & Curriculum>Period of Candidature for more information)

Does SMU accept GIRO Payment for Fees?

Payment mode via Giro starts only from Term 2 of study. Do ensure that the application status is Approved for GIRO to be in effect. You can check the status in OASIS > Self-Service > Maintain Bank Accounts > Add Paying Bank Account.

What are the financial loan schemes available to the undergraduates

We have a range of financial loan schemes to assist students in the payment of the tuition fees. Please note that these loan schemes cover the subsidized tuition fees and exclude the non-tuition fees charged by the University. Detailed information on the application for these loans will be sent to the students in the Matriculation Pack. Please visit our Student Loans e-Portal for more details.

When will I be notified of my coming term fees?

Term Fees will be posted to your account 2 to 3 weeks before the start of regular term. A notification email will be sent to all students via your respective SMU email account of any new charges and your relevant charges will be posted to your online Statement of Account. To view your online Statement of Account, please login to Account Inquiry App.

How can I retrieve the GIRO account information that I had submitted previously?

You can view the previous submission under OASIS > Self-Service > Maintain Bank Accounts > Add Paying Bank Account.

What are the type of fees and the exact outstanding amount I have to pay for the term?

Students will be notified via email of any charges (and its payment due date) made to their online Statement of Account. Students may view their online Statement of Account for details on the charges and its outstanding amount by logging in to OASIS > Finance & Admin > Fee Matters & Financial Assistance Schemes > Account Inquiry.

When would the Finance Hold be lifted?

Upon successful payment updates, your account would be lifted within 48 Hours

How do I apply for GIRO Payment to pay my school/tuition fees?

Step to apply for GIRO to pay your school fees as follow:-

You need to get ready the following before applying for Interbank GIRO:

A - Name of Payer's bank
B - Payer's bank account number
C - Payer’s name as reflected in their bank statement or bank book
D - Access to a printer to print out the generated Interbank GIRO Application Form Log in to OASIS > Self-Service > Maintain Bank Accounts > Add Paying Bank Account.

Step 1: Complete the Interbank Giro Form online with the information from A, B and C.

Step 2: Click "Submit"

Step 3: Print GIRO Application Form (this may take a few minutes)

Step 4: Print the generated PDF document

Step 5: Payer to sign the document with signature as per bank records

Step 6: Student to submit the hard copy form to Finance Office (Level 1 of Administration Block or SSH Office Opp Dental@Uni )

What happens if I have applied for my tuition fee to be paid by GIRO and I have also submitted my PSEA application form?

Your tuition fees will be paid forth by your PSEA Account first before any deduction on the balance outstanding fee is made from your Bank Account.

If you have applied through the Standing Order PSEA Application Form, we will deduct whatever balance you have in your PSEA Account.

If you have applied through the Ad-hoc PSEA Application Form, we will claim the stated amount on the form subject to the balance available in your PSEA Account.

Please check with MOE to ensure that you have sufficient balance in your PSEA Account when filling out the PSEA Ad-hoc Application Form.

Where can I pay my bills?

Students may pay the bills by logging in to OASIS > Campus Finance> Make a Payment.

What is the annual fees make up off?

There are 4 components to Annual Fees

- Student Activities
- Insurance
- Hospitalisation & Medical- Insurance
- Personal Accident- IT Facilities

How do I make payment online?

Only Visa or Mastercard will be accepted.

Credit Card payment is subject to the credit limit as granted by your bank. Please log in to OASIS > Self Service > Make A Payment

Where can I view my Online Statement of Account?

Students will be notified via email of any charges (and its payment due date) posted to their online Statement of Account.

Students may view their online Statement of Account by logging in to OASIS > Campus Finance> Account Inquiry.

How do I terminate my GIRO Debit (deduction of fees) Bank Account?

Complete the GIRO Bank Account Termination Form at OASIS > Self-Service > Maintain Bank Accounts > Add Paying Bank Account, select Cancellation.

Please complete the online form, print the form, sign on the hardcopy form and then submit to Office of Finance at the available drop box at:

• 1st floor, Administrative Building

• SSH Office (Opp Dental@Uni)

What is the subsidised tuition Fee for current term Singapore Permanent Resident?

Your Tuition Fees will vary depending on your admit term. For the latest fees payable, please visit the website https://admissions.smu.edu.sg/financial-matters/tuition-fees-grant

What is the coverage of the group insurance?

The insurance coverage includes:-

• Group Personal Accident Coverage that is a 24 hours worldwide coverage, which covers accidental death, accidental permanent disablement, outpatient accident medical reimbursement, and physiotherapy reimbursement.

• Outpatient GP Consultation Coverage• Outpatient Specialist Consultation Coverage

• Hospitalisation and Surgical Coverage To find out more on the coverage and claims, please visit student life website at: https://www.smu.edu.sg/campus-life/health-and-safety/student-insurance-coverage/student-insurance-coverage.

Where can I view my invoices?

Please be informed that no invoice will be issued. Instead, all charges will be posted to your online Statement of Account.

To view your online Statement of Account, please login to Account Inquiry App.

What is the penalty imposed for late payment?

Penalty charge of up to S$10 (if any) may be imposed if students fail to settle all outstanding fees after due date and will be put on Finance Hold.

A notification email will be sent to inform students who are on Finance Hold.

Students will NOT be allowed to view their examination results and bid for courses in BOSS.

Will my fees change if I change my primary program in year 2?

If you are applying to change your primary degree programme in year 2, you shall be liable for payment of the prevailing rate of tuition fees applicable to the new programme if approved.

National Servicemen will lose the fee privilege granted for admission to the previous programme.

The Office of Registrar will inform you on the outcome of your application.

Why is my Online Payment declined?

Possible reasons for declined transaction:

Expired card or wrong expiry date.
General decline of the card. No other information was provided by the issuing bank.
Insufficient funds in the account.
Inactive card or card not authorized for card-not-present transactions.
The card has reached the credit limit.
Invalid CVN. Please ensure you have entered the credit card details correctly.

Alternatively, you may try using another card. If you wish to find out the reason of declined transaction, please check with your issuing bank.

I have applied for Term 3A/3B courses and approved for internship during Term 3, will I be refunded if I decide to drop Term 3A/3B courses?

For students who have applied and are successful in the application for internship placement in the summer term (Term 3), 100% of the tuition fee will be refunded if you drop Term 3A/3B courses during BOSS 2.

For students who drop Term 3A/3B courses after BOSS 2, there will be no refund and the grade of “W” will be recorded.

How do I update my receiving bank account information to receive payment from the University?

Payments from the University to the students are managed via interbank giro. You must, therefore, register your receiving bank account information with the University.

A bank account registered and not belonging to you (singly or you not being a joint account holder) will not be accepted.

Please login to OASIS > Self Service > Campus Finance > Maintain Bank Accounts > Receiving Bank Account Details

May I know the CPF Loan rejection reason?

Due to confidentiality reason, the CPF Account Holder will have to contact CPF Board directly either via call or email personally to find out the reason for rejection.

CPF Hotline: 1800-227-1188 (local)
CPF Education Scheme email: education@cpf.gov.sg
CPF Education Scheme fax: 6229-3243

Why is my Online Payment in error?

Access denied, page not found or internal server error.

Please contact IT Help Centre at Tel: 6828 0123 or email: helpdesk@smu.edu.sg

I have completed my coursework requirements and I am doing my internship attachment. Do I have to pay tuition fee for the term?

Students who have completed the coursework requirements for their degree but not their internship need not pay tuition fees for the remaining term(s) while fulfilling their internship.

I have paid my tuition fees for this term and I need to get a receipt. Where can I collect one?

For payment via online credit card and AXS, please retain copy of the receipt generated from the system supported with your Statement of Account (Can be obtained from Account Inquiry App) for your necessary claims.

For payment via any other modes, please email to Office of Finance at accountenquiry@smu.edu.sg

How long does the MOE Tuition Grant last?

There was a change in 2006 in government funding for undergraduate education in which every undergraduate student admitted from Academic Year 2006-07 or thereafter is only funded up to the normal candidature of four (4) years.

If a student has yet to graduate after the 4th year of study, there will be no further Tuition Grant from the government to fund this student.

Full tuition fee will then apply, as stipulated in OASIS (Refer to OASIS> Academic > Advisement & Curriculum > Period of Candidature.)

If I am already covered under my personal insurance, can I opt out of the insurance coverage that is part of the Annual Miscellaneous Fees?

This is a group insurance purchased on behalf of all students studying in SMU; as such it is mandatory that all students pay for the miscellaneous fees.

The insurance is to cover you for Hospitalisation, Medical and Personal Accident for emergencies that may occur when carrying out student activities.

If I am approved of my application for leave of absence, can I still apply for bursary?

You are not restricted to apply for bursary should you be contemplating to apply for leave of absence. Your bursary application, if approved, is awarded for one year of your academic studies.

Payment is made in each regular term of your study and subject to you being in active term of study.

If I am approved of my bursary application this year, do I need to submit a new application for my subsequent year of study?

Generally, a bursary is tenable for one year of the recipient’s academic studies.

To continue to receive such financial assistance, a new application is required to consider the applicant’s eligibility for a subsequent year’s award.

Can PSEA pay for my study trip?

Yes, if the programme or study trip is approved by SMU as an enrichment programme (summer course).

How many days are the fees due after charged?

The fees charged are normally due in 30 days for Term billing. For trips and adhoc charges, it would be dependent on the programme manager.

What is the subsidised tuition Fees for current term Singaporean?

Your Tuition Fees will vary depending on your admit term. For the latest fees payable, please visit the website https://admissions.smu.edu.sg/financial-matters/tuition-fees-grant

Am I allowed to receive a scholarship and a bursary in the same year?

Generally, concurrent receipt of two awards in the same year of study may not be allowed. However, this may vary between awards. You would need to refer to the eligibility criteria and/or the terms and conditions of award.

If you wish to seek further clarification, you may send your email to the Centre for Student Financial Assistance (finasst@smu.edu.sg), providing details of the schemes you are enquiring on.

Are scholarships available to all students?

Yes. Scholarships are available to all outstanding local and international students. Please visit https://admissions.smu.edu.sg/scholarships for the list of scholarships available.

Can I pay pro-rated fees for the regular terms (Term 1 & 2)?

Student is required to pay the regular term fees regardless of the number of courses registered. If you only have one (1) course remaining before graduating in your final regular term, please approach your School Manager to appeal for single course billing, subject to approval.

Do I have to pay the tuition fee if I am on student exchange program?

Yes. Students on local or international exchange are to arrange for SMU tuition fee to be paid for the term participation in the exchange programme.

How much is the tuition fee for Term 3 if I have bidded 2 course modules successfully?

Unlike the regular terms, the tuition fee for Term 3 is priced on a per course basis and is subject to revision without prior notice. To find out the charges of Term 3 course fees, log in to OASIS > Self Service > Campus Finances > Account Inquiry.

What type of miscellaneous fees do I need to pay?

There are 4 components to Annual Fees

- Student Activities
- Insurance
- Hospitalisation & Medical- Insurance
- Personal Accident- IT Facilities

Do I need to pay fees if I withdraw from the school within 2 weeks?

If the withdrawal is effected within the first 2 weeks of the term, tuition fees charged would be reversed.

How much will I be refunded if I drop a Term 3A course?

If a student drops a course for Term 3A within the first 3 days of Term 3A, there will be 60% refund of the tuition fee paid/Charged for Term 3A. Thereafter, there will be no refund.

Students who have opted to pay their tuition fee by education loans will have to clear the fees due for the term and outstanding loans with CPF Board.

When are the fees due for payment?

Please log in to Account Inquiry App to view the due date for each charges.

How much will I be refunded if I drop a Term 3B course?

If a student drops a course for Term 3B within the first 3 days of Term 3B, there will be 60% refund of the tuition fee paid/Charged for Term 3B. Thereafter, there will be no refund.

Students who have opted to pay their tuition fee by education loans will have to clear the fees due for the term and outstanding loans with CPF Board.

How much are the annual fees?

Annual Fees are subjected to vary yearly review. For the latest annual fees payable, please visit https://admissions.smu.edu.sg/financial-matters/tuition-fees-grant

What is the subsidised tuition Fees for current term Singaporean?

Your Tuition Fees will vary depending on your admit term. For the latest fees payable, please visit https://admissions.smu.edu.sg/financial-matters/tuition-fees-grant

What is the subsidised tuition Fees for current term International Students?

Your Tuition Fees will vary depending on your admit term. For the latest fees payable, please visit https://admissions.smu.edu.sg/financial-matters/tuition-fees-grant

When is the student loans application dates for current term?

Financing Type

Financial Aid Scheme

Application Period

For tuition fees

Tuition Fee Loan (up to 90% of a Singaporean student’s annual subsidised tuition fee)
Study Loan (up to remaining 20% of a Singaporean student’s annual subsidised tuition fee)

Tuition Fee Loan & Study Loan
May to September (Term 1)
December to February (Term 2)

*All applications must be submitted in the application periods stated above.

For living expenses

Study Loan (up to $3,600.00 annual living allowance)

Study Loan
May to September (Term 1)
December to February (Term 2)

For financial assistance to Singaporean undergraduate students in OSPs approved by the University

Overseas Student Programme (OSP) Loan

Applications are accepted all year round

*Note: For Overseas Student Programme (OSP) Loan applicants, please submit your applications at least 2 months prior to departure

When is the Mendaki application dates for current term?

For the latest Mendaki application dates, please visit the website https://admissions.smu.edu.sg/financial-matters/financial-aid/mendaki-tertiary-tuition-fee-subsidy

When is the PSEA application dates for current term?

For the latest PSEA application dates, please visit the website https://admissions.smu.edu.sg/financial-matters/financial-aid/post-secondary-education-account-psea-scheme

When is the CPF application dates for current term?

For the latest CPF application dates, please visit the website https://admissions.smu.edu.sg/financial-matters/financial-aid/cpf-education-loan-scheme

I am a second year student. Can I still apply for student loans to finance my tuition fees even though I did not apply for it previously?

If you are a full-fee paying (ie, have fully utilised the MOE Tuition Grant (TG) and no longer paying subsidised tuition fees) SC or SPR, you may still apply for student loans to finance the tuition fees payable even though you previously have not applied for the loan(s) when you were paying subsidised tuition fees.

For further information and application, please visit our Student Loans e-Portal.

My account is on admin hold and I am unable to do BOSS bidding. Do I have to inform Student Loans or Office of Finance about this?

it is not necessary for you to write in to Student Loans to enquire or inform on the admin hold on your account if you have already settled the balance of the tuition fees and annual fees (if applicable) not financed by student loans.

Notwithstanding that your loan application may be under processing (ie, loan application status not showed as "Awarded" yet) when the BOSS bidding exercise starts, you will not be affected and will still be able to do bidding if the outstanding balance in your account is pending the disbursement of the student loans.

What is the proper channel to communicate with Office of Finance with regards to tuition fees and financial aid matters?

You may communicate with Office of Finance on the following:

1) PSEA, CPF, Mendaki, SkillsFuture and Tuition Fees-related matters

a) OASIS - https://oasis.smu.edu.sg/Pages/OFN/Contact-Us-OFN-CSFA.aspx
b) SMU Main page - https://ofnsupport.smu.edu.sg/hc/en-us/requests/new

2) Please visit our Student Loans e-Portal for student loan matters.

How can I be eligible for a bursary?

To be eligible for the various University bursaries (eg, SMU Bursary, SMU Access), your tuition fees need to be funded by loan schemes or subsidies and covered up to 90% of the subsidised tuition fees payable by a Singaporean student.

The loan schemes/subsidies are available for application during several application windows in an academic year and the application dates, other than being announced via emails, are published in the following:

1. OASIS under "Announcements", "SMU" tab
2. SMU website https://www.smu.edu.sg/campus-life/financial-matters/financial-assistance-schemes (under the individual schemes)

When am I able to apply for financial assistance?

The various financial assistance schemes (Mendaki Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy, PSEA, CPF Education Loan Scheme, Tuition Fee Loan and Study Loan) to help fund your tuition fees have application windows and the application dates. Other than being announced via emails, they are published in:
1. OASIS under "Announcements", "SMU" tab

2. SMU website https://admissions.smu.edu.sg/financial-matters/financial-aid

Why did I receive a refund for my tuition fees?

If you applied for your PSEA funds to offset your tuition fees or have applied for any financial assistance scheme (eg. bursary, loan), it will be deducted or disbursed to offset your tuition fees. Any excess payment would be refunded to you in accordance to the mode of your tuition fee payment.

My single course billing has been approved and rates should be applied for my single course. However, I’ve received a full charge for my tuition fees instead. May I clarify?

For single module billing charge queries, you may enquire with http://ofnsupport.smu.edu.sg.

If you have existing loans with us, your Tuition Fee Loan and Study Loan will finance up to 90% or 10% (respectively) of the Singaporean subsidized tuition fees for your single course billing. Please visit our Student Loans e-Portal for more details.

Will I receive a statement of account for my loan?

Tel: 1800 363 3333 (within Singapore)
+65 6363 3333 (outside Singapore)

For SMU-funded loan schemes - SMU Education Loan and/or SMU Computer Loan, the consolidated statement of account will be emailed to you mid-month. Please note that the statements are pertaining on the previous month’s end balance and the $100.00 is just a default indication of the minimum required monthly instalment if students do not submit the repayment plan, based on the terms and conditions of the loan agreement.

How much is the application fees and what are the payment modes?

Our application fee is only SGD $15.00 (inclusive of GST). The following payment modes are available:

Credit / Debit Card payment via the Applicant’s Self Service. (Preferred mode).
NETS at the Student Services Hub , located at SMU Campus Basement Concourse.
PayNow at the Student Services Hub

Does SMU offer honours degrees?

Yes, all SMU undergraduate degree programmes are direct meritorious honours degree programmes.

What will the writing test and interview be about?

The writing test will be about one and a half hours long. Candidates will be presented with one or more passages and asked to provide written responses to several questions. The test will allow candidates to demonstrate their skills in understanding, synthesising, and critically thinking about newly acquired information, as well as in forming and communicating a personal response in a clear and concise manner. Where candidates require further knowledge to answer a question but that knowledge is not available, they should state this and elaborate.

The interviews will give candidates the opportunity to demonstrate similar skills, but in the setting of a conversation between two interviewers and two interviewees. Candidates are encouraged to respond to the interviewers as well as fellow interviewees at appropriate points during the interview – for example, to ask clarifying questions or to present opposing views.

What should I do to prepare for the writing test and interview?

The writing test and interview may discuss legal issues, but will not require that candidates have any prior knowledge of the law, philosophy, or any other discipline. If you want to prepare for the writing test and interview, we advise you to get into the habit of reading well-written publications on any general topic and thinking critically about what you have read and how you might respond.

When will the NS Men Early Matriculation take place?

The NSMen Early Matriculation window will take place between 10^th November 2025, 9AM to 9^th January 2026, 5PM for students admitting in August 2026.

What if I do not want to early matriculate?

You can matriculate during the main round in June 2026. However, please note that we will require you to confirm your SMU acceptance again via the Joint Acceptance Portal. An email will be sent to you in April – May for you to reconfirm your acceptance.

Is it compulsory to matriculate during the NS Men Early Matriculation window?

No, it is not compulsory. However, we strongly encouraged the students to matriculate during the NS Men Early Matriculation student as student can access the SMU facilities when you received your SMU student card.

In addition to that, students may register for the Special Term after matriculating into SMU.

When will be the next round of matriculation window?

If you do not matriculate between 10^th November 2025, 9AM to 9^th January 2026, 5PM you will matriculate during the main matriculation window in June 2026 (tentatively).

I have decided to continue my education at another institution. What steps should I take next?

Please email admissions@smu.edu.sg with your full name, application number, and the name of the institution where you will be continuing your education to process your withdrawal.

I have had a change of mind regarding my program. Can I reapply for the 2026 intake?

There is no need to re-apply. You may submit an official appeal to admissions@smu.edu.sg by 20 March 2026 for our consideration.

How do I complete my matriculation?

Please refer to the email we sent you on the matriculation procedures.

Is the confirmation fees payment compulsory?

Yes, the confirmation fees payment is required before you can matriculate. It is non-refundable.

When should I complete my Medical Examination?

After completion of your Online Matriculation, all matriculated SMU students are required to undergo a COMPULSORY medical examination with The Clinic Group. Please complete the medical examination by 31 January 2026.

Click here for more information on the Medical Examination.

When can I receive my SMU Student Card?

For students that complete the medical examination by 9 January 2026 may collect the SMU Student Card on 28 February 2026.

Do note that student can only access SMU facilities with the Student Card.

Do I need to upload my photo for the SMU Student card?

Yes, you need to upload your photo via the Self-service portal. On the right Navbar icon, click on Menu > Self-service > Student Admissions > Upload Photo.

What if I cannot make it for the Student Card Collection?

If you are unable to attend the Student Card Collection on 28 February 2026, you can collect your student card during the main round of collection. Further details and instructions will be provided in a follow-up email closer to the date.

Can I get a family member/friend (proxy) to collect my Student Card on behalf?

As the SMU student card is a legal identification document for your SMU student status, you have to collect it in person.

What is the Special Term for Returning National Servicemen (RNS)?

Most NSMen will complete their national service between four to eight months before they enter the local universities. The Special Term for RNS was conceived which allows NSMen to take modules one semester before the start of the Academic Year in August.

Click here for more information on the Special Term.

When will the Special Term be conducted?

SMU’s Special Term consists of two periods called Term 3A and Term 3B.

Term 3A: May to June (5 weeks)
Term 3B: Jun to July (5 weeks)

What are the modules that we can take during the special term?

Information on the modules will be available when the application window for the special term is opened. The Registrar Office will send out an email in late March of each year to all matriculated students.

Will returning NSmen attending the Special Term classes be able to graduate one semester earlier?

This depends on the number of modules taken per semester. There is no guarantee that you can graduate early.

Is there an early intake for returning NSmen?

Yes, there is an early intake for NSmen that is held during the Special Term that commences in April. NSmen who have reserved their places in SMU are eligible to enroll in this Special Term provided that they have matriculated prior to the start of the Special Term.

I am currently serving my National Service (NS). May I still apply?

Yes, you should apply for admission. If your application is successful and you intend to accept SMU offer, a place will be reserved for you until you have completed your National Service.

How many years can NSmen be reserved a place at SMU?

NSmen are reserved a place for the period of their national service stint. Offers that are not accepted upon completion of national service will be deemed to have lapsed.

I will soon be enlisted into NS. How do I check if I have accepted the offer and a place in SMU has been reserved for me?

You may check if you have accepted the SMU offer via the Applicant's Self Service platform. We will not send any confirmation letter or email.

I have accepted an offer from SMU. As I will be serving my NS, what should I do next?

No further action is required from you until the completion of your NS. SMU will contact you (via email/letter) in your year of admission on matriculation/enrolment procedures.

I wish to disrupt my NS and join the school term in August. What should I do?

Please provide the documentary evidence from your unit that you are able to disrupt your NS. You may submit your supporting documents via email to admissions@smu.edu.sg.

Can I change programme during my NS?

Please kindly email to admissions@smu.edu.sg with the following details :

(i) Your full name

(ii) Application No.

(iii) Programme you intend to change to

(iv) Reasons for change of programme (a write-up is preferred ; 1000-word limit)

I made a mistake in my programme choices after submitting the application form. Can I still change it?

You may submit an appeal to admissions@smu.edu.sg on your revised programme choices by 31 March 2025. If your request is accepted, we will grant you a one-time change. Please note that we are unable to change programme choices after this deadline to avoid any disruption in processing your application.

I noticed that the information provided for my student pass application is incorrect. Is it possible to withdraw my application and receive a refund for the application fee?

The payment of STP processing fee is non-refundable. Students should check the accuracy of the information declared on eform 16 before submitting to ICA.

Is there a deadline as to when I should submit my student pass application?

We encourage students to apply for student pass early from early May as all IPA issued is valid for 4 months from date of approval. This should be able to cover the period till the course start date till end Aug. Due to surge in applications in June/July, students that apply during the peak period may expect longer processing time of at least 2 weeks.

Bursary

What is the order of disbursement among government bursaries, donor-funded awards, and other types of financial aid?

Mendaki Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy
External Sponsorships
MOE Higher Education Community Bursary & Higher Education Bursary
Bursaries / Scholarships
SMU Access Plus
SkillsFuture Credit; Post-Secondary Education Account; CPF Education Loan
MOE Tuition Fee Loan; MOE Study Loan

Am I allowed to receive a scholarship and a bursary in the same year?

Yes, it is possible to receive both a scholarship and a bursary in the same academic year, depending on the specific terms and conditions of each award. Some scholarships and bursaries can be held concurrently, while others may have restrictions.

We recommend reviewing the eligibility and holding conditions for your specific scholarship and bursary.

If you wish to seek further clarification, you may send your email to the Centre for Student Financial Assistance at finasst@smu.edu.sg, providing details of the schemes you are enquiring on.

Can I be awarded a SMU-administered bursary while receiving another bursary or scholarship?

A student in receipt of a scholarship, study award, study grant and/or bursary may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Our financial assistance managers will advise the applicants accordingly when they are processing the bursary applications.

Concurrent receipt of Higher Education Bursary and Higher Education Community Bursary is not allowed.
Concurrent receipt of Higher Education Bursary or Higher Education Community Bursary with other financial aid (SMU or external awarded study awards or scholarships or awards of similar nature) that cover or exceed your full tuition fee payable* and living expenses cap is not allowed.
The above clauses should be applicable to the whole of the academic year where you are eligible to receive the bursary.

* Excluding Mendaki Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy

Am I required to refund the bursary if I withdraw from my studies or take a leave of absence?

Recipients of government bursaries may be required to refund part or all of the bursary if they withdraw from studies, defer, take a leave of absence, are suspended or dismissed, or experience any changes to their enrolment status.

Additionally, if bursary recipients receive full scholarships, sponsorships, or other financial awards in the same academic year, they may also need to refund the government bursary, subject to the prevailing terms and conditions.

Recipients must promptly inform SMU via finasst@smu.edu.sg if they receive any scholarships, sponsorships, or financial awards during the academic year.

Refund amounts and requirements will depend on each case’s specific circumstances and timing.

This policy ensures responsible use of government bursary funds while supporting recipients facing genuine financial or medical challenges.

I have applied for a bursary as well as Tuition Fee Loan (TFL). Will the bursary be used to offset against the balance fees not covered by the Tuition Fee Loan?

The bursary and Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) work together to cover your tuition fees. The bursary will be applied first to offset your tuition fees, reducing the amount payable. Any remaining balance after the bursary is covered by your Tuition Fee Loan.

Who will notify me about the result of my financial assistance application?

Government Bursaries – By SMU Centre for Student Financial Assistance
Donor funded Bursaries – By SMU Centre for Student Financial Assistance
Donor funded scholarships – By SMU Centre for Student Financial Assistance
SMU Study Loan – By SMU Centre for Student Financial Assistance
Tuition Fee Loan – By DBS Bank
Mendaki Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy (TTFS) – By Mendaki
Post-Secondary Education Account – By Ministry of Education
CPF Education Loan Scheme – By CPF Board

I am currently a recipient of the SMU Lee Kong Chian Scholars’ Programme. Based on my PCI, I qualify for the Higher Education Community Bursary Tier 1 (HECT1), but my tuition fees are already fully covered. How does the bursary work in this case?

As a recipient of the SMU Lee Kong Chian Scholars’ Programme, you remain eligible for the Higher Education Community Bursary. In this case, your tuition fees will first be offset by the bursary, and any remaining balance will be covered by your scholarship.

We encourage you to accept the bursary offer through the OASIS platform.

This approach reflects SMU’s core Circle Value of giving back to the community by enabling donor funds to support students meaningfully and responsibly.

For further information, please contact ssc@smu.edu.sg.

I'm awarded the Higher Education Community Bursary Tier 1, SMU Access Plus Tier 1, and the SMU Living Allowance. For AY25/26, could you confirm that the two bursaries will fully cover my tuition fees and that I’ll receive $4,000 from the Living Allowance?

The Higher Education Community Bursary (Tier 1) will be applied first to offset your tuition fees. Any remaining tuition balance will then be covered by the SMU Access Plus Tier 1, ensuring your tuition fees are fully paid. The SMU Living Allowance will be disbursed separately as a cash payment to support your living expenses.

I’m in Year 1 and have accepted the Higher Education Community Bursary Tier 2 and SMU Access Plus Tier 2. Will these be deducted from my tuition fees with SMU covering the rest? Must I apply for tuition fee loan now, or when I lose my SMU Access Plus?

Yes, your Higher Education Community Bursary (Tier 2) and SMU Access Plus Bursary (Tier 2) will be automatically applied to offset your tuition fees. Any remaining fees not covered by these bursaries will be absorbed by SMU, so no action is required from you for this academic year.

Regarding the tuition fee loan, you do not need to apply this year since your tuition fees are fully covered. If your financial situation changes or you become ineligible for the bursaries next year, you may apply for the tuition fee loan then.

If I am approved of my application for leave of absence, can I still apply for bursary?

If your application for Leave of Absence (LOA) is approved, you may still apply for a bursary for the period you are actively enrolled and attending classes. However, bursary disbursement typically applies only to active study terms.

If I am approved of my bursary application this year, do I need to submit a new application for my subsequent year of study?

If your bursary application is approved this year, you will need to submit a new application for each subsequent year of study to be considered for renewal of the bursary. This ensures that your financial situation is up-to-date and eligibility is reassessed annually.

Please keep an eye out for the application period and deadline announcements each year.

How can I be eligible for a bursary?

To be eligible for a bursary, applicants typically need to demonstrate financial need based on criteria such as:

Household gross income (GHI) or per capita income (PCI) falling within prescribed limits set by the Ministry of Education (MOE) and the university.

Completion of the bursary application form with accurate and complete supporting documents (e.g., income statements, tax forms).

Being a full-time undergraduate student at SMU.

Meeting any additional criteria specific to certain bursaries or funding schemes.

Eligibility requirements may vary depending on the bursary scheme. We encourage you to refer to the official bursary guidelines or contact the Centre for Student Financial Assistance at finasst@smu.edu.sg for detailed information.

What types of Bursaries are available to me through SMU?

Please click below to check your eligibility for the various bursaries available to SMU students:

Higher Education Community Bursary

Higher Education Bursary

Bursaries & Study Awards

When does the Bursary application window open and close?

Apply via student portal OASIS (All Apps → Financial Aid Application) using your student computer account.

Application period: 1 January to 28 February
Applications are for the current academic year during active study.
You must submit a new application each year if you want to be considered for bursaries in subsequent years.

What are the required documents when applying for a bursary?

Please refer to this link for more information.

Is there anything I can do if I’ve missed the deadline for submitting my application or documents?

You can contact the Centre for Student Financial Assistance at finasst@smu.edu.sg.

Is a new application required for the bursary each academic year?

Bursary is tenable for only a year.

A new application is required for each academic year of study.

Is it possible to appeal if my bursary application is unsuccessful?

Should a student's household income be worsened due to justifiable unforeseen circumstances (for example, loss of income due to unemployment) after bursary application or award, the student may appeal to re-assess his/her eligibility for a higher quantum government bursary (no later than January 2026).

You can submit your appeal to the Centre for Student Financial Assistance at finasst@smu.edu.sg.

When will the bursary funds be disbursed if my application is successful?

The financial award will be disbursed in two equal installments against your tuition fees by Week 7 of each term. This disbursement is conditional upon your active enrollment for the term (i.e., tuition fees are being paid). If you receive the funds but later become inactive for the term (i.e., tuition fees are no longer payable), you will be required to refund that term’s disbursement to the University. Please refer to your letter of offer for detailed payment information.

If you encounter difficulties setting up your receiving bank account or need assistance, please submit your enquiry to the Office of Finance via this link.

Scholarship

How do I apply for scholarships?

Prospective students should indicate their interest in the scholarship section of the admission application. No separate application is required.

Current students can apply for scholarships via OASIS > All Apps > Financial Aid Application in January every year.

Select:
Financial Aid Type: Scholarships
Application Form: SMU-Administered Scholarships

How many scholarships can I apply for and how high are my chances of getting a scholarship?

Prospective students can select up to 5 scholarships.
Current students can select up to 3 scholarships.

Your chances depend on how well your profile matches the eligibility criteria of each scholarship. We recommend reviewing the requirements carefully and applying for scholarships that best align with your academic achievements, financial needs, leadership experience, or other relevant factors.

To explore available scholarships and check your eligibility, please refer to the SMU Financial Aid Finder.

I missed the application window for scholarships. Can I apply now?

For prospective students, your application for scholarships is tagged to your admission application. If you are not shortlisted, you can apply for the current students' schemes when the annual application window opens on OASIS in January. We encourage you to explore the available options through the SMU Financial Aid Finder.

For current students, please submit your application when the annual application window opens on OASIS in January. We encourage you to explore the available options through the SMU Financial Aid Finder.

Do I have to submit a separate application for financial aid?

You will have to submit a separate application for financial aid if you are applying for need-based scholarships as these are generally awarded to applicants with demonstrated financial needs.

Current students can apply for financial aid via OASIS > All Apps > Financial Aid Application between January to February.
Financial Aid Type: Bursaries
Application Form: SMU-Administered Bursaries/Study Awards

Please refer to the list of supporting documents required here.

When will I be informed of the application outcome for scholarships?

The application outcome for current students is expected to be released by mid-August.

My application for scholarships is unsuccessful. Can I submit an appeal?

We are sorry to hear that you were not awarded a scholarship during matriculation. Scholarships are highly competitive and limited in number. However, you may still have an opportunity! Current students can apply for scholarships during the annual application window in January. We encourage you to explore the available options through the SMU Financial Aid Finder and submit an application during that period.

How will the scholarship be disbursed? If I have an existing loan arrangement, will the scholarship be disbursed to me in cash?

Unless otherwise stated in the scholarship agreement, all scholarships will be applied towards the offsetting of tuition fees first. The remaining balance, if any, will be disbursed to the recipients in two equal instalments by Week 7 of Term 1 and Term 2.

Your CPF Education Loan Scheme / MOE Tuition Fee Loan / MOE Study Loan will not be activated if your tuition fees are fully covered by your scholarship.

My scholarship has a living allowance component. When will it be disbursed?

If your scholarship is awarded before the start of the academic year, the living allowance will be credited to your SMU receiving bank account in two equal instalments by Week 7 of Term 1 and Term 2.

If your scholarship is awarded after the start of the academic year, the first instalment of the living allowance will be credited to your SMU receiving bank account within 4 to 6 weeks from the date of award.

My scholarship has an overseas allowance component. How do I make a claim?

Please submit the following documents to your scholarship administrator to claim your overseas allowance.

Depending on the overseas programme:
- Exchange – Acceptance from host university and approval issued by SMU GEO Office
- Internship – Offer letter from employer and approval issued by Dato’ Kho Hui Meng Career Centre
- Study Mission – Approval issued by your school
- Summer and Winter Exchange – Acceptance from host university and approval issued by SMU GEO Office or your school
- Community Service Projects – Approval issued by Centre for Social Responsibility
Flight itinerary or e-tickets (both ways)

My scholarship provides a laptop grant. How do I make a claim?

With effect from Academic Year 2025/26, recipients of scholarships that include a laptop grant will no longer need to submit a claim. The laptop grant will be disbursed by Week 7 of Term 1.

We recommend that students purchase their laptops through the SMU PC Tender for optimal compatibility with our IT systems.

Recipients will be responsible for any costs that exceed the value of the laptop grant.

Am I allowed to hold other scholarships/ bursaries/ awards with my scholarship?

Recipients are not permitted to hold other awards of a similar nature during the tenure of their scholarship, except with the prior written approval of the University.

If you require further clarification on your eligibility, please contact your scholarship administrator.

What happens to my scholarship if I apply for a Leave of Absence (LOA)?

If your LOA is approved for one term, your scholarship tenure will be extended by one term. No disbursement will be made during the period of your LOA.

I have been awarded a 2/ 3/ 4-year scholarship. How do I know if my scholarship is renewed?

Your academic performance will be monitored every term. Recipients who do not meet the minimum CGPA requirement stated in their scholarship agreements will be notified.

Recipients of need-based scholarships will have to apply for financial aid every year for income eligibility assessment. Those who do not meet the income requirement of their scholarships will be notified.

Who can I contact for further enquiries regarding my scholarship?

For prospective students, please contact SMU Admissions at admissions@smu.edu.sg.
For current students, please contact the Centre for Student Financial Assistance at finasst@smu.edu.sg.

When will the scholarship allowances be disbursed?

The living allowance and accommodation allowance will be disbursed in two equal instalments by Week 7 of Term 1 and Term 2.

The laptop grant will be disbursed by Week 7 of Term 1 in the year of your matriculation.

My scholarship has an overseas allowance component. How do I make a claim?

Please submit the following documents to your scholarship administrator to claim your overseas allowance.

Depending on the overseas programme:
- Exchange – Acceptance from host university and approval issued by SMU GEO Office
- Internship – Offer letter from employer and approval issued by Dato’ Kho Hui Meng Career Centre
- Study Mission – Approval issued by your school
- Summer and Winter Exchange – Acceptance from host university and approval issued by SMU GEO Office or your school
- Community Service Projects – Approval issued by Centre for Social Responsibility
Flight itinerary or e-tickets (both ways)

My scholarship provides a laptop grant. How do I make a claim?

With effect from Academic Year 2025/26, recipients of scholarships that include a laptop grant will no longer need to submit a claim. The laptop grant will be disbursed by Week 7 of Term 1.

We recommend that students purchase their laptops through the SMU PC Tender for optimal compatibility with our IT systems.

Recipients will be responsible for any costs that exceed the value of the laptop grant.

I am enrolled in Double Degree Programmes. Does my scholarship cover both programmes?

The scholarship covers recipients enrolled in Double Degree Programmes; however, recipients must complete their candidature within 4 years.

Am I allowed to hold other scholarships/ bursaries/ awards/ loans with my scholarship?

Recipients are not permitted to hold other awards of a similar nature or loans during the tenure of their scholarship, except with the prior written approval of the University.

If you require further clarification on your eligibility, please contact your scholarship administrator.

Am I allowed to participate in overseas programme?

Recipients may participate in overseas programmes lasting up to one academic term. Participation in such programmes is not permitted during the final year of study.

Is there a minimum CGPA requirement?

Recipients must maintain a minimum CGPA of 3.4 out of 4.0. Academic performance will be monitored every term.

The University reserves the right to withdraw the scholarship at any time if the recipient’s academic performance or conduct is deemed unsatisfactory.

What happens to my scholarship if I graduate earlier?

You are eligible for 50% of the scholarship quantum for each active term of study. If you graduate earlier, you will not be eligible for the balance quantum.

Am I required to serve a bond?

The ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship and ASEAN Undergraduate Merit Scholarship have no bond; however, recipients are required to accept the MOE Tuition Grant. Singapore Permanent Residents and International Students who accept the MOE Tuition Grant are required to serve a three-year bond with a Singapore-registered company immediately upon graduation.

Recipients of the Science & Technology Undergraduate Scholarship and Science & Technology Undergraduate Merit Scholarship are required to serve a six-year bond with a Singapore-registered company immediately upon graduation.

Recipients are responsible for securing their own employment to fulfill their bond obligations. SMU does not guarantee or provide job placement upon graduation.

What happens if I withdraw from SMU or if my scholarship is terminated?

In the event of premature termination of the scholarship or breach of any of the stated terms and conditions, the recipient shall be liable to repay liquidated damages.

I am a recipient of an external scholarship that does not allow additional financial aid. Why are the loans still being disbursed to my account?

With effect from 1 August 2017, students who did not apply for their scholarship through SMU and who are not scholars of Singapore Government Ministries, Organs of State, or Statutory Boards must liaise directly with their sponsors for the settlement of tuition fees.

To avoid being placed on finance hold due to delayed fee payment, you are advised to either:
(a) Make the payment yourself and seek subsequent reimbursement from your sponsor; or
(b) Forward the invoice to your sponsor immediately upon receiving the billing notification, so they can make payment directly to SMU.

As SMU may not be aware of your scholarship arrangement, TFL/SL will continue to be disbursed if there are outstanding tuition fees in your account. It is your responsibility to ensure that you comply with your scholarship’s terms and conditions.

If your scholarship prohibits additional financing, you must notify the Student Loans Team at studentloans@smu.edu.sg to request cessation of TFL/SL financing.

Failure to do so will result in continued loan disbursements as long as tuition fees remain outstanding at the time of disbursement.

Overseas Programmes & Internships

I have applied for the MOE Overseas Student Programme (OSP) Loan Scheme. When will the funds be disbursed?

The approved MOE Overseas Student Programme (OSP) Loan quantum will be processed only after the application approval by OCBC Bank is received by SMU. The funds will be disbursed to you (via Inter-bank GIRO arrangement to the bank account maintained with SMU), no earlier than six weeks prior to trip departure (as indicated in your application form), or within 4–6 weeks from OCBC Bank's approval, whichever is later.

Students who submit an application for loan financing within one month of the date of departure may not be able to receive the funds before departure, as the loan agreements must be signed and the loan duly awarded before the funds can be disbursed to your bank account maintained in OASIS.

Why is my overseas student programme financial aid application unsuccessful?

Overseas student programme (exchange, study mission, internship, short-term study programme, community service) donor-funded financial aid applications are generally very competitive as there are a lot of applications and awards are limited in number.

The majority of the donor-funded awards are needs-based and require a PCI eligibility criterion. Priority may be given to students who are financially needy with lower PCI. Selection of the awards is at the discretion of the selecting committee or donors.

You can consider applying for PSEA, OSEP subsidy, or MOE OSPL to finance your overseas student programme if you’re unsuccessful in your exchange, study mission, internship, short-term study programme, or community service award application.

I did not complete or/and have withdrawn from my overseas student programme after receiving the financial aid award. What happens to my award?

Your award will be cancelled in OASIS if you withdraw from your overseas student programme. A refund will be required from you if disbursement has already been made to your receiving bank account.

Emergency Grant

What is the SMU Student Emergency Financial Grant (SLFG)?

The SMU Student Emergency Financial Grant is a one-off emergency financial grant by the University to assist full-time undergraduate students facing sudden and unforeseen financial crisis and who would require interim financial assistance while their families seek long-term solutions to meet their financial needs (e.g. medical emergencies, family crisis, or unexpected loss of income).

How do I apply and what kind of situations are considered as "unforeseen/sudden emergencies”?

Prior to applying for the emergency grant, students are required to first submit a bursary application in OASIS for income assessment and PCI verification.

Students can submit the emergency grant application form via OASIS > All Apps > Financial Aid Application > Grant > Application for Emergency Grant and upload the relevant and updated supporting documents to support the unforeseen emergency situation.

Unforeseen emergency examples (domestic helper and family pets are excluded):

Unexpected chronic health condition/medical bills (e.g. stroke, cancer, Parkinson disease – self or immediate family)
Sudden loss of household income (e.g. retrenchment, illness of breadwinner)
Accidents or disasters causing financial strain
Other critical situations impacting ability to pay for education or basic needs

What type of supporting documents are required as proof of evidence of the unforeseen emergency grant?

For medical emergencies: hospital bills, doctor’s memo/letter, police report on accident, insurance claim statements.
For loss of income: retrenchment letter, hospitalisation leave/medical certificate of breadwinner, CPF Transaction History record to show unemployment status.
For other emergencies: any recent official documentation showing the financial impact (e.g. death certificate of family sole breadwinner, overdue household utilities bills).

How long does it take to process my application?

Processing may take about 2–3 weeks, depending on completeness of documents. Urgent cases may be expedited.

How much financial support can I receive?

Your emergency grant application will be reviewed by the Schools committee/donors. The amount varies depending on need and assessment. It is typically a one-off grant meant to provide immediate relief.

When will the emergency funds be disbursed to me?

If your emergency grant application is approved, you can expect to receive the cash disbursement via your receiving bank account, registered in OASIS, within 1 to 1.5 months after your grant offer acceptance in OASIS.

Will receiving this emergency grant affect my eligibility for other bursaries or scholarships?

The emergency grant is a separate grant scheme and does not affect your eligibility for other financial aid schemes.
If successfully awarded, you can concurrently hold the emergency grant with your other financial awards such as bursaries, scholarships, or grants.

Do I need to repay the emergency grant after graduating from SMU?

The emergency grant is not a loan. Repayment is not required.

However, a refund may be required if the student withdraws from SMU after receiving the emergency grant.

Who can I approach if I need help filling in the emergency grant form or explaining my sudden/unforeseen emergency situation?

You can email the Centre for Student Financial Assistance at finasst@smu.edu.sg, or approach your School's Dean of Students office for guidance. You may also approach the Mrs Wong Kwok Leong Student Wellness Centre (MWKLSWC) counsellors at counselling@smu.edu.sg if you need further counselling and advice on your well-being.

Will my emergency grant application be kept confidential?

Your emergency grant application and the reason provided will be kept private and confidential. Only the Schools' office, reviewing committee/donors, and the Centre for Student Financial Assistance will be aware of your emergency situation.

Higher Education Student Loan (HESL)

Do I have to apply for the HESL if I have an existing MOE Funded Loans (ie. TFL/SL)?

The MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and MOE Study Loan (SL) will be replaced by the Higher Education Student Loan (HESL) from 1 July 2026. Find out more about the HESL.

Existing students who have already taken up MOE Loans (TFL/SL/OSP) will continue to receive their current loan provisions.

What is Higher Education Student Loan (HESL)?

The Higher Education Student Loan (HESL) is a new government loan scheme that replaces the MOE Loans (TFL/SL/OSP) from 1 July 2026, providing broader financial support for university students. Find out more about the HESL.

What does Higher Education Student Loan (HESL) covers?

The Higher Education Student Loan (HESL) will provide loans to cover the tuition fees payable and an annual living allowance loan. Undergraduate students who need help to finance the cost of participating in overseas student programmes approved by the University can also apply for the HESL.

For further information and application, please visit HESL website and/or MOE website for more details.

Who is eligible and how to apply for Higher Education Student Loan (HESL)?

SC, SPR and IS who are studying full-time MOE-subsidised undergraduate programmes at SMU.

For a start, the following students can apply for HESL through the StudentLoanSG (SLSG) portal using their Singpass account:

Newly matriculated students in Academic Year (AY) 2026 intake.
Existing students (before AY2026 intake) who do not have TFL and SL for their current course of study.

To apply, log in to the SLSG portal using your Singpass from 10am on Wednesday, 1 July 2026.

If you have taken up MOE TFL and/or SL, no action is required from you. However, if you wish to apply for new or additional loan provision under the HESL scheme, you should approach Centre for Student Financial Assistance (finasst@smu.edu.sg) for advice and needs assessment from Tuesday, 1 September 2026.

Who is eligible for HESL base provision?

To be eligible for HESL base provision, you must be:

SC, SPR and IS who are studying full-time MOE-subsidised undergraduate programmes at SMU.

For further information and application, please visit HESL website and/or MOE website for more details.

IS undergraduates who had rejected the MOE Tuition Grant or who were offered admission without the MOE Tuition Grant are NOT eligible.

Who is eligible for HESL means-tested provision – Balance Fee Coverage & Living Allowance Loan?

Means-tested provision - Balance Fee Coverage

SC only who are studying full-time MOE-subsidised undergraduate programmes at SMU

Means-tested provision - Living Allowance Loan

SC, SPR and IS who are studying full-time MOE-subsidised undergraduate programmes at SMU

To be eligible for HESL means-tested provision, you must be:

SC or SPR who are studying full-time MOE-subsidised undergraduate programmes at SMU with gross monthly household per capita income (PCI) of $3,500 or less.
IS who are studying full-time MOE-subsidised undergraduate programmes at SMU with gross monthly household PCI of $1,875 or less.

For further information and application, please visit HESL website and/or MOE website for more details.

What are the conditions for a guarantor for the HESL?

A guarantor for the HESL needs to meet the following conditions:

Must be between the ages of 21 years old and 60 years old (based on the guarantor’s age at the point of application)
Must not be an undischarged bankrupt
Must be a Singaporean for an applicant who is a Singaporean
Can either be a Singaporean or a Singapore Permanent Resident for an applicant who is a Singapore Permanent Resident
Can be of any nationality for an applicant who is a non-Singaporean/Singapore Permanent Resident

Are there any loan options available if I need financial assistance for my overseas exchange program?

The MOE Overseas Student Programme Loan (OSPL) application will close on 15 May 2026 at 11:59 PM. Late applications will NOT be accepted.

Successful applicants are required to sign the loan agreement at OCBC by 12 June 2026, due to the implementation of the Higher Education Student Loan (HESL) from 1 July 2026. Find out more about the HESL.

Student who wish to apply HESL-Overseas Student Programme, can apply for HESL through the StudentLoanSG (SLSG) portal using their Singpass account from 10am on Wednesday, 1 July 2026.

If you are a non-Singapore Citizen, you would need to find alternative financing to fund your overseas experience. Grants and scholarships are available to help students defray part of their costs. Should you be eligible, you may wish to consider applying for these schemes. For further information and application, please visit the Financial Assistance Schemes website.

If I miss the application window, will I need to wait until the next academic year to apply for HESL financing?

Application for HESL is open all year round. Tuition fee financing shall be on a prospective basis, commencing the following term from the point of loan application.

Financing commencing Term 1 – May to November
Financing commencing Term 2 – December to April

From 1 July 2026, the StudentLoan SG (SLSG) portal will accept HESL application from the following students who can use their Singpass account:

Newly matriculated students in Academic Year (AY) 2026 intake
Existing students (before AY2026 intake) who do not have TFL and SL for their current course of study

Existing students who have already taken up TFL and/or SL but wish to apply for new or additional loan provision under the HESL scheme, please approach Centre for Student Financial Assistance for advice and needs assessment from Tuesday, 1 September 2026.

Find out more about the HESL.

How do I know or check whether my HESL application has been approved or rejected?

For enquiries relating to HESL application status after your loan signing process is completed, please visit StudentLoan SG (SLSG) portal or contact OCBC FRANK Retail Stores or Branches.

For HESL-Overseas Student Programme:

Please log on to your student portal OASIS > Self-Service Apps - Financial Aid ApplicationÂ to check > Finance & Admin > Fee Matters & Financial Assistance Schemes > Schemes & Obligations > Financial Aid Application History.

How does the disbursement work if I have HESL financing?

For students who receive multiple financial aid sources for the payment of tuition fees, the disbursement sequence will be in the following order of priority:

MENDAKI Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy (TTFS)
Scholarship/Bursary (per gift agreement)
SkillsFuture Credit
Post-Secondary Education Account (PSEA) Scheme
Central Provident Fund Education Loan (CPFEL)*
Higher Education Student Loan (HESL)

*If your tuition fee is already fully covered by a Scholarship/Bursary, MENDAKI TTFS, PSEA and CPFEL, the HESL – Base Provision and HESL – Balance Fee Coverage will not be disbursed.

Does the HESL scheme quantum covers the annual/miscellaneous fees/GST fees?

The quantum of loan does NOT include payment of annual/miscellaneous fees.

The quantum of loan is pegged to the subsidised tuition fees payable (excluding GST).

What is the interest rate for the Higher Education Student Loan (HESL)?

The HESL is interest-free during course of study, and interest will start upon your graduation or when you leave the institution. The interest rate basis is:

Standard interest

3-month compounded Singapore Overnight Rate Average (3M SORA) plus 1.5 percentage points or such other rates as may be determined from time to time by the bank.**

Late payment interest for overdue and unpaid loans or loan instalments

3M SORA plus 4.5 percentage points or such other rates as may be determined from time to time by the bank.

** The interest rate is subject to change on a half-yearly basis based on the 3M SORA published on the MAS website on 1 March or 1 September.

You may refer to OCBC website (the Bank administering the loan scheme) for the prevailing interest rates for the HESL.

When is the interest chargeable for the Higher Education Student Loan (HESL)?

The HESL is interest-free during the course of study. The interest chargeable on the loans will commence after graduation as per the terms and conditions of your signed loan agreement.

When and how do I make loan repayment for HESL?

SMU has appointed Overseas-Chinese Banking Corporation (OCBC Bank) as agent to administer the Higher Education Student Loan (HESL) scheme.

Repayment of loans commences upon your graduation according to the terms and conditions per your signed loan agreement. You will be notified upon graduation on your loan repayment commencement.

For more information about loan repayment matters, please visit OCBC website, contact OCBC at 1800 363 3333 (local) / +65 6363 3333 (overseas) or visit any OCBC branch during their operating hours Contact Us | OCBC Bank 24-hour Hotline | Branches or ATM Near You.

What happens to Higher Education Student Loan (HESL) scheme if I terminate my studies?

If you pre-terminate your studies or withdraw your studies from SMU without completing your course of study, the HESL scheme that you have taken out during your studies at SMU will become immediately due and repayable in full to OCBC.

Can I use Post-Secondary Education Account (PSEA) funds to repay my HESL?

You may apply to use the funds in your PSEA account to repay your loan if you are no longer studying at SMU (ie, graduated or withdrawn). For more information and application, please visit MOE PSEA Loan Repayment located at the MOE PSEA website.

MOE Tuition Fee & Study Loan (replaced by Higher Education Student Loan from 1 July 2026)

Does the MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL)/ MOE Study Loan (SL) finance the Term 3 tuition fees?

Yes, the MOE TFL/SL cover the tuition fee for all terms, including the summer term (i.e., Term 3). The financing also includes regular terms where a student goes on leave of absence but failed to apply for it within the stipulated deadline.

If I have exceeded the 8 terms of study at SMU, am I still eligible to apply for or continue receiving MOE student loan financing?

If you are already on the MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and/or MOE Study Loan (SL) Schemes, you will continue to receive the same quantum of student loan financing, which is pegged to the subsidised tuition fee payable by a Singaporean student, until you graduate. Please write to studentloans@smu.edu.sg to inform the Student Loans Team of your extended study so that the loan tenure can be extended accordingly.

If, however, you are an International Student who was not on MOE student loan financing schemes, you would not be eligible to apply for the financing, as International Students are not eligible to apply for MOE student loan financing if they are paying non-subsidised tuition fees.

Why do I still receive outstanding fee reminders from the Office of Finance when I am on MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and MOE Study Loan (SL) financing?

The MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and MOE Study Loan (SL) finance only up to 90% and the remaining 10% (subject to eligibility) respectively of the subsidised tuition fee payable by a Singaporean student. Both TFL and SL, however, do not cover the annual fees which need to be paid by you.

Thus, if you are a Singapore Citizen paying subsidised tuition fees and have not applied for the Living Allowance (LA) under the MOE SL scheme, the reminder serves to prompt you that you have not paid the annual fees which are not covered by the MOE TFL and MOE SL schemes.

If you are a Singapore Citizen paying full fees due to studies (excluding Leave of Absence terms without fee obligations) beyond the normal candidature of 8 terms, the reminder serves to prompt you that there are partial tuition fees and/or annual fees which remain outstanding and have not been paid.

If you are a Singapore Permanent Resident (SPR) or International Student (IS), the maximum loan quantum of 100% and LA are unable to cover your full tuition fee. The reminder consequently serves as a notice to prompt you that you have outstanding tuition and/or annual fees that have not been paid.

Should you have unpaid annual fees and/or remaining tuition fees not financed by MOE TFL, SL, and LA, you would need to settle them through the various payment modes available.

What happens to my MOE Tuition Fee and MOE Study Loan if I terminate my studies?

If you pre-terminate your studies or withdraw from SMU without completing your course of study, the MOE-funded loan(s) that you have taken out during your stay at SMU will become immediately due and repayable in full to OCBC.

Interest will be chargeable with effect from the first day of the month following the termination if the loans remain outstanding.

For UG withdrawal, please refer to OASIS > Finance & Admin > Absence & Withdrawal > File a Withdrawal.

I have applied for the CPF Education Loan Scheme (CPFELS), the MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL), and MOE Study Loan (SL) to finance my tuition fees. However, I would prefer to utilise the MOE TFL and MOE SL first before the CPF Loan. Is this possible?

As the CPF Education Loan Scheme (CPFELS) is ranked higher in priority in terms of disbursement (based on the order stipulated by MOE), the CPF funds will be disbursed first to finance your tuition fees. The MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and MOE Study Loan (SL) will be disbursed accordingly to cover the balance outstanding tuition fee only if there are insufficient CPF funds to pay off the full tuition fee. Consequently, you would not be able to utilise the CPF funds last.

Besides, the MOE TFL and MOE SL cover 100% of the subsidised tuition fees payable by a Singapore Citizen. If you are a Singapore Citizen and eligible for both MOE TFL and MOE SL, you will not require a CPF Loan and may wish to consider revoking the CPF arrangement.

If, however, you are a non-Singapore Citizen, you may specify the percentage of CPF funds you wish to utilise when submitting the application to the CPF Board so that the balance outstanding tuition fees will be financed by the MOE TFL and MOE SL. Please note that CPFELS, MOE TFL, and MOE SL do not cover the annual fees which need to be paid by you.

I am keen to go for an overseas exchange program. However, I do not have the financial means to do so. Is there any loan scheme available for this purpose?

The MOE Overseas Student Programme Loan (OSPL) application will close on 15 May 2026 at 11:59 PM. Late applications will NOT be accepted.

Successful applicants are required to sign the loan agreement at OCBC by 12 June 2026, due to the implementation of the Higher Education Student Loan (HESL) from 1 July 2026. Find out more about the HESL.

The MOE Overseas Student Programme (OSP) Loan Scheme is aimed at enabling more Singaporean students to take advantage of various overseas experiences so as to gain international exposure and consequently develop a more global mindset. The loan scheme is available for students participating in OSPs approved by SMU.

For more information and application, please go to MOE Overseas Student Programme Loan for more details.

My single course billing has been approved and rates should be applied for my single course. However, I’ve received a full charge for my tuition fees instead. May I clarify?

For single module billing charge queries, you may enquire with http://ofnsupport.smu.edu.sg.

If you have existing loans with us, your MOE Tuition Fee Loan and MOE Study Loan will finance up to 90% or 10% (respectively) of the Singaporean subsidised tuition fees for your single course billing.

What does my guarantor need to do if he/she is residing overseas and unable to sign the loan agreements in person in Singapore?

All guarantors based in Singapore must come to OCBC Bank with the student to sign the loan agreements in the presence of a bank officer. The same guarantor stated on the application form must be present when the student signs, and that guarantor must continue to comply with the requirements. If not, the loan application will be rejected.

If the guarantor is not in Singapore, please follow the instructions stated on the OCBC website.

Do I need to apply for the MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and MOE Study Loan (SL) in my subsequent years of study if I am already on MOE student loan financing?

Application for financing under the MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) / MOE Study Loan (SL) schemes is a one-time application only. If your application is approved, you do not need to submit a new application in your subsequent years of study.

The financing will take effect from the approved term and shall remain for the remaining tenure of your course of study (including summer term), unless you inform the Student Loans Team at studentloans@smu.edu.sg that you have alternative financing and do not require the loan disbursements.

How can I tell whether my loan application has been approved?

Once your application has been approved, a notification will be triggered by OCBC Bank to inform you on the application status.

Do I have to wait for the next academic year to apply for MOE student loans financing if I miss the application window?

The MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and MOE Study Loan (SL) will be replaced by the Higher Education Student Loan (HESL from 1 July 2026). Find out more about the HESL.

Existing students who have already taken up MOE Loans (TFL/SL/OSP) will continue to receive their current loan provisions.

I have selected maximum financing for my MOE TFL application. Do I still need to pay any fees?

The MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) finances up to 90% of the subsidised tuition fee payable by a Singaporean student. Subject to meeting the eligibility criteria, you may apply for MOE Study Loan (SL) to finance the remaining 10% of the subsidised tuition fee payable by a Singaporean student and if applicable, an annual living allowance (LA) of $3,600 (maximum).

Therefore, if you had opted for only MOE TFL when you applied for loan financing, you will need to pay the balance fees not financed by the MOE TFL.

In addition, the annual fees are not covered under the loan financing. You will need to pay for these charges every Term 1. However, if you are a Singaporean student who is eligible for MOE SL and had opted for MOE SL with LA, you do not need to pay any fee as the LA can be used to offset the annual fees.

Can I request to back-date the application for my MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and MOE Study Loan (SL) to finance my outstanding tuition fees from prior terms?

Financing under the MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) / MOE Study Loan (SL) schemes is effective from the approved term and may not be backdated to prior terms.

If you have outstanding tuition fees from prior terms that have not been paid, you will need to find alternative source of financing to settle them.

Am I eligible to apply for MOE student loans to finance my tuition fee if I am an International Student?

International Students who are paying non-subsidised tuition fees are not eligible to apply for student loans. You may apply for student loan financing if you are paying subsidised tuition fees and have completed the requirements set out in the MOE Tuition Grant (TG) process.

If you have been awarded student loan financing prior to completing the MOE TG process, you must ensure that you fulfil all requirements outlined in the TG process, as the award of the student loan financing is contingent upon completion of the MOE TG process.

I am a second year student. Can I still apply for MOE student loans to finance my tuition fees even though I did not apply for it previously?

If you are a full-fee paying (ie, have fully utilised the MOE Tuition Grant (TG) and no longer paying subsidised tuition fees) SC or SPR, you may still apply for MOE student loans to finance the tuition fees payable even though you previously have not applied for the loan(s) when you were paying subsidised tuition fees.

For further information and application, please go to HESL website and/or MOE website for more details.

What is the maximum loan quantum I can obtain under the MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and MOE Study Loan (SL) financing?

MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) finances up to 90% of the subsidised tuition fee payable by a Singaporean student. Subject to meeting the eligibility criteria, you may apply for MOE Study Loan (SL) to finance the remaining 10% of the subsidised tuition fee payable by a Singaporean student and, if applicable, an annual living allowance (LA) of $3,600 (maximum).

I have applied for MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and MOE Study Loan (SL). Will I receive the full quantum upfront?

For financing of tuition fee under the MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and MOE Study Loan (SL) Schemes, the full quantum will not be disbursed upfront as the total financing required for your course of study cannot be ascertained at this point. The disbursement will be done on a per term basis and the quantum may vary from term to term, depending on whether there are other financial aids that ranked in higher priority (based on the order stipulated by MOE). The loan(s) will be disbursed directly to your Student Account to offset against your outstanding tuition fees (if any).

I took up student loans during my undergraduate days. When and how do I make loan repayment?

SMU has appointed Overseas-Chinese Banking Corporation (OCBC Bank) as agent to administer the MOE-funded loans (i.e. Tuition Fee Loan, Study Loan, and SMU Overseas Student Programme Loan) schemes and has completed the transition since 20 January 2024.

Repayment of loans starts upon your graduation according to the terms and conditions stated in your signed loan agreement. You will be notified upon graduation regarding your loan repayment commencement.

It is crucial that your contact details are kept updated so that correspondences relating to your MOE-funded loan(s) can reach you. Please visit any OCBC branch to update your latest contact details if there are any changes from the details lodged during your loan application.

For more information about loan repayment matters, please visit OCBC’s website, contact OCBC at 1800 363 3333 (local) / +65 6363 3333 (overseas), or visit any OCBC branch during their operating hours.

When is the interest chargeable for on the MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and MOE Study Loan (SL)?

The student loans are interest-free during the course of study. The interest chargeable on the loans will commence after graduation.

Depending on the term in which a student graduates, interest will be chargeable with effect from the following dates:

Term 1 - 1st March
Term 2 - 1st Aug
Term 3 - 1st Oct

Can I use CPF to repay my MOE student loans?

CPF savings can only be used to pay tuition fees. You may utilise your own PSEA funds and/or repay your MOE Student Loans by contacting or visiting any OCBC branch for further assistance.

Can I use Post-Secondary Education Account (PSEA) funds to repay my MOE student loans?

You may apply to use the funds in your PSEA account to repay your loan if you are no longer studying at SMU (i.e., graduated or withdrawn). For more information and application, please go to the Post-Secondary Education scheme located at the MOE PSEA website.

Will I receive a statement of account for my MOE student loans?

Tel: 1800 363 3333 (within Singapore)
+65 6363 3333 (outside Singapore)

What is the difference between MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and MOE Study Loan (SL)?

The MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and MOE Study Loan (SL) will be replaced by the Higher Education Student Loan (HESL from 1 July 2026). Find out more about the HESL.

Existing students who have already taken up MOE Loans (TFL/SL/OSP) will continue to receive their current loan provisions.

The MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) finances up to 90% of the subsidised tuition fee payable by a Singaporean student.

Subject to eligibility, the MOE Study Loan (SL) finances the balance of the subsidised tuition fee payable by a Singaporean student. In addition, a loan of up to $3,600 (maximum) per annum to help students meet their daily living expenses is available under the SL scheme.

Both MOE TFL and MOE SL however, do not cover the annual fees which need to be paid by the student. If the annual fees remain unpaid, the living allowance (LA) will be used to offset against the annual fees before the net amount is disbursed to the student.

Are the annual fees covered under the MOE student loans?

The MOE student loans only cover subsidised tuition fees. Annual fees are not covered under these loans and would need to be paid separately to the University.

How do I update my contact details for my MOE loan matters?

Effective 20 January 2024, Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation Limited ("OCBC") will take over the administration of your MOE Tuition Fee Loan, MOE Study Loan and/or MOE Overseas Student Programme Loan from Singapore Management University ("SMU"). Please contact OCBC directly.

When I write to enquire on my MOE student loan matters, what information must I furnish to facilitate a reply?

For enquiries relating to your MOE student loans (TFL/SL/OSP schemes), please write in to Student Loans Team studentloans@smu.edu.sg (provide your campus ID) for assistance.

I am currently in my 5th year of study due to taking a Leave of Absence (LOA) in previous term(s). Am I still eligible for MOE student loan financing?

If you are already on the MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and/or MOE Study Loan (SL) Schemes, you will continue to receive the same quantum of student loan financing, which is pegged to the subsidised tuition fee payable by a Singaporean student, until you graduate. No action is required from you as Office of Finance would have already extended your loan tenure accordingly based on your approved LOA application.

However, if you are not on MOE student loan financing schemes and would like to apply for the financing, you may do so when the application window opens. Please note that International Students who are paying non-subsidised tuition fees are not eligible to apply for the MOE student loan financing.

I have applied for MOE student loans to finance my tuition fee but the loans are not showed in my account inquiry in OASIS. Do I need to pay the full tuition fee?

If you have applied for MOE student loan financing but the loan application (i) has not been approved or (ii) has been approved but the loans have not been disbursed to your account, it is not necessary for you to settle the full tuition fee.

You are required to settle only the remaining balance of your tuition fee not financed by the MOE student loans and the mandatory annual fees (if applicable) if the annual fees are not covered by any of your approved financial aids or scholarship.

I am a non-Singaporean student. Will I be able to get 100% financing for my tuition fees?

As an International Student, you will not be able to finance your tuition fees fully with the various financial assistance schemes as the MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and MOE Study Loan (SL) finance only up to 90% and balance 10% (subject to eligibility) respectively of the subsidised tuition fees payable by a Singaporean student.

Should you be eligible for the MOE Study Loan Living Allowance (LA), the scheme may potentially provide additional financing of up to $1,800.

Nevertheless, if you are a Singapore Permanent Resident (SPR), you would be able to fully finance your tuition fees if you are eligible for all of the above 4 financial assistance schemes.

Are the miscellaneous fees covered under the financial loan schemes?

The financial loan schemes only cover subsidized tuition fees. Miscellaneous fees are not covered under these loan schemes and are usually paid separately to the University.

Do I need to terminate my MOE student loans arrangement if I am subsequently awarded a scholarship?

Should you need to cease the loan disbursement, please write in to Student Loans Team at studentloans@smu.edu.sg (provide your campus ID).

What are the financial loan schemes available to the undergraduates?

I’m a full-fee paying International Student. I am currently in a very tight financial situation and want to know if there is loan that I could take to fund the remaining years of my education?

Full-fee paying International Students are not eligible to apply for any MOE loan schemes. However, if you are unable to fund your education, you may consider applying for a bursary or emergency relief fund (subject to eligibility). For further information and application, please go to the Financial Assistance Schemes website

Can my guarantor be someone who is currently serving National Service and intends to continue his studies after completing his National Service?

I am a non-Singaporean student. I never received the allowance even though I have been awarded the maximum Living Allowance (LA) of $3,600 under the MOE Study Loan (SL) Scheme. Why is that so?

The financing under the MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and MOE Study Loan (SL) Schemes is not sufficient to cover the tuition fees payable by you. As such, the Living Allowance (LA) which is disbursed over 2 terms annually has been used to offset the outstanding tuition fees.

I am an International Student currently overseas, how do I apply to open a bank account in Singapore for purpose of submitting my loan application?

International Students currently overseas can open a local bank account with DBS without being physically present in Singapore. It will take 3–5 working days to get the account opened (from the application and submission of the full supporting documents online). The links can be found below.

Applicants will just need to upload the supporting documents during their online application.

Online Opening of personal account:
https://www.dbs.com.sg/personal/deposits/bank-with-ease/addon-casa
Supporting Documents required for the online account opening, under the section: "Foreigner (Studying in Singapore)"
https://www.dbs.com.sg/personal/support/bank-account-opening-documents-required.html

What are the conditions for a guarantor for the MOE TFL?

A guarantor for the MOE TFL needs to meet the following eligibility criteria:

(a) Must be at least 21 years old and below 60 years old
(b) Must not be an undischarged bankrupt or a student pursuing full-time education
(c) May not serve in this capacity for more than two outstanding student loans, including the loan being applied for

And one of the following conditions:

(i) Must be a Singapore Citizen for an applicant who is a Singapore Citizen
(ii) Can be either a Singapore Citizen or a Singapore Permanent Resident for an applicant who is a Singapore Permanent Resident
(iii) Can be of any nationality for an applicant who is a non-Singaporean/Singapore Permanent Resident

Can I apply for MOE student loans (eg, TFL, SL, etc) and bursary concurrently?

MOE student loans and scholarship are separate financial assistance schemes. Award of the loans and bursary are based on separate eligibility criterias. You may hence, apply for loans and scholarship concurrently. That said, you will need to act accordingly to ensure that you do not breach the terms and conditions of your scholarship.

Do I need to re-apply for the MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and MOE Study Loan (SL) if I switch my course of study?

Application for financing under the MOE TFL/SL schemes applications is one-time only, regardless of change in course plan. If you are approved of your application, you do not need to submit a new application even though you may be pursuing a different course in your subsequent year of study. The financing will continue with amount adjusted accordingly (where applicable) until you complete your course of study (including summer term) unless you inform Student Loans Team (studentloans@smu.edu.sg) that you have alternative financing and do not require the loan disbursements.

Can I still apply for MOE student loans if I have already applied for CPF Education Loan (CPF Loan)?

MOE student loans and CPF Loan are separate financial assistance schemes. . You may hence, apply for both loans concurrently. However, the CPF Loan will take precedence in terms of disbursement priority (as stipulated by MOE).

What is the difference between MOE Tuition Grant (TG) and MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL)?

MOE Tuition Grant (TG) is a grant from the Singapore Government to help students manage the costs of full-time tertiary education in Singapore. It is applicable to eligible Singapore Citizens (SC), Singapore Permanent Residents (SPR) and International Students (IS) enrolled in full-time diploma or undergraduate courses at the autonomous universities, polytechnics and art institutions. For more information and application, please go to Tuition Grant Subsidy scheme located on the Ministry of Education (MOE) website or call the MOE Tuition Grant Section Hotline at 65-6872 2220.

MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) is a loan to help students who require financial assistance to pay the tuition fee. It will help students finance up to 90% of the tuition fee payable by a Singaporean student. The MOE TFL is interest-free during the course of study and repayable after graduation. For more information and application, please go to MOE Tuition Fee Loan for more details.

Can my parents who are either unemployed/retired or a homemaker still be the guarantor of my MOE student loans?

It is not a requirement that your guarantor has to be in employment. Guarantors must however, meet the eligibility criteria as set out in the application instructions.

Does my guarantor need to be provide income statement for my MOE student loans application?

Can my father, who is handicapped, be the guarantor of my MOE student loans?

Can the person who witness my guarantor’s signing of the MOE Tuition Grant (TG) agreement also witness his signing of the loan agreements?

The MOE TG agreement may be signed in the presence of a/an (i) lawyer/solicitor, (ii) Notary Public or its equivalent or (iii) official from the Singapore Embassy/Consulate Office. However, the signing of the loan agreements may only be witnessed by a/an (a) Notary Public or its equivalent or (b) official from the Singapore Embassy/Consulate Office.

Where can I find the MOE student loans application form?

The MOE Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) and MOE Study Loan (SL) will be replaced by the Higher Education Student Loan (HESL from 1 July 2026).

Existing students who have already taken up MOE Loans (TFL/SL/OSP) will continue to receive their current loan provisions.

The MOE Overseas Student Programme Loan (OSPL) application will close on 15 May 2026 at 11:59 PM. Late applications will NOT be accepted.
Successful applicants are required to sign the loan agreement at OCBC by 12 June 2026, due to the implementation of the Higher Education Student Loan (HESL) from 1 July 2026. Find out more about the HESL.

MOE Overseas Student Programme (OSP) Loan - application forms can be found in your student portal OASIS > Self-Service Apps - Financial Aid Application (under "Policies and Self-Service Apps") or > Finance & Admin > Fee Matters & Financial Assistance Schemes > Schemes & Obligations > Apply for Finance Aid (located at the end of the page)

Financial Aid Type: Loan
Financial Aid Form: Select as appropriate – (a) Study Loan and (b) Overseas Student Programme (OSP) Loan

How to check on the MOE loan application status?

Contact OCBC FRANK Retail Stores or Branches for enquiries relating to MOE Tuition Fee Loan application status.

Tel: 1800 363 3333 (within Singapore)
+65 6363 3333 (outside Singapore)

For MOE Study Loan (SL) and MOE Overseas Student Programme (OSP) Loan:

Please log on to your student portal OASIS > All Apps > Financial Aid Application to check > Finance & Admin > Fee Matters & Financial Assistance Schemes > Schemes & Obligations > Financial Aid Application History.

Contact OCBC FRANK Retail Stores or Branches for enquiries relating to application status after your loan signing process is completed.

Am I still eligible to apply for the MOE student loan financing if I have previously taken out loans to finance my education in the polytechnic?

You would be eligible to apply for student loans provided you are paying subsidised tuition fee (i.e., if you are not an International Student paying non-subsidised tuition fee) at the point of application.

When will I receive the MOE Study Loan Living Allowance (LA)?

I have applied for the maximum Living Allowance (LA) of $3,600 under the MOE Study Loan (SL) Scheme. Why am I receiving a lower amount?

The MOE Study Loan Living Allowance (LA) is disbursed over 2 terms annually. If you have outstanding tuition fees and/or annual fees, the LA will be used to offset the outstanding fees before the net amount is disbursed to you.

What is the interest rate on the MOE student loans?

Except for the interest-free MOE Study Loan Tier 1, the interest rate payable on the rest of the student loans is based on 3-month compounded Singapore Overnight Rate Average (3M SORA) plus 1.5 percentage points or such other rates as may be determined from time to time by the bank or SMU^**.

^** The interest rate is subject to change on a half-yearly basis based on the 3M SORA published on the MAS website on 1 March or 1 September.

I have previously applied for GIRO to repay my school tuition fees. Do I have to apply for GIRO again to repay my loans?

What is the penalty and interest if I fully repay my MOE student loans before graduation?

The MOE student loans are interest-free during the course of study. Consequently, if you fully repay the loans prior to graduation, you are not required to pay any interest as the loans are still interest-free. However, if you do not fully repay the loan before graduation, you would need to pay interest on any outstanding balance not repaid when interest starts after graduation.

There is no penalty or administrative charge for fully repaying the loans before graduation or before the maximum repayment period.

Do I need to repay the MOE Study Loan Living Allowance (LA)?

The MOE Study Loan Living Allowance (LA) is a form of financial assistance extended to needy students to help them pay for their daily expenses. The LA is part of the MOE Study Loan (SL) Scheme and thus, a loan that is also repayable after graduation.

Can I repay the MOE student loans before I graduate?

You may start the repayment of your MOE student loans before you graduate.

If, however, you are not repaying the loans in full during your course of study, it is preferable that the repayment be in the form of lump sum or partial payment, as the repayment instalment plan cannot be paused once the plan has commenced. Penalty interest at 1% per month will be charged on overdue instalments.

I am residing overseas and have closed my Singapore bank accounts but would like to repay my loans. What are the payment options available for me?

SMU has appointed Overseas-Chinese Banking Corporation (OCBC Bank) as agent to administer the MOE-funded loan (i.e. Tuition Fee Loan, Study Loan, and SMU Overseas Student Programme Loan) schemes and has completed the transition on 20 January 2024. Please visit the OCBC website for more details on loan repayment.

Can I repay my MOE student loans by debit/credit card/paynow/paylah?

SMU has appointed Overseas-Chinese Banking Corporation (OCBC Bank) as agent to administer the MOE-funded loan (i.e., Tuition Fee Loan, Study Loan, and Overseas Student Programme Loan) schemes and has completed the transition on 20 January 2024. Please visit the OCBC website for more details on loan repayment.

Can I just apply for Study Loan only without taking up Tuition Fee Loan?

Study Loan cannot be applied on its own and must be applied together with Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) or CPF Education Loan Scheme (ELS).

CPF Education Loan

What is the CPF Education Loan Scheme?

The CPF Education Loan Scheme (CPFELS) is a loan scheme which enables members to use CPF savings from their Ordinary Account (OA) to pay for their children's, spouses’, or their own tuition fees. The student has to repay the amount withdrawn plus interest, in cash subsequently into the payer’s (the CPF member’s) Ordinary Account. Repayment commences one year after the student graduates or leaves the educational institution. Only full-time MOE-subsidised courses at approved local educational institutions are included under this loan scheme.

Please click this link for more information on CPF Education Loan Scheme.

Who is eligible for CPF Education Loan Scheme?

You are eligible for CPFELS if you are:
a) A full-time student at an approved local tertiary institution
b) A Singapore citizen or Permanent Resident
c) Enrolled in a subsidised course approved by MOE

You are not eligible for CPFELS if you are:
a) A student who has exceeded your normal candidature and have fully utilised the MOE Tuition Grant
b) Paying full fees (non-subsidised), i.e., not taking up the MOE Tuition Grant or were given an admission offer without the MOE Tuition Grant

Whose CPF savings can be used?

You can use the CPF Ordinary Account (OA) savings of:
a) Your own
b) Your parents
c) Your spouse
d) Your siblings
e) Your relatives (subject to CPF Board’s approval)

What does the CPF loan cover?

CPF Education Loan Scheme only covers subsidised tuition fees. It does not cover other fees such as annual fee, hostel, registration, or administrative charges.

How do I apply for the CPF Education Loan Scheme?

Two Activities Required of You:
Activity 1: Apply to CPF Board website
Activity 2: Your Notification to SMU on Activity 1

Please click this link for CPF Application Instructions.

When is the application period for CPF Education Loan Scheme?

Term 1: July to Mid August
Term 2: November to Mid December
Term 3: March

Kindly look out for email notification from Centre for Student Financial Assistance at finasst@smu.edu.sg for the application dates and instructions.

You may also refer to this link for the application schedule per CPF website.

Can I change the CPF payer or use a different member account?

To switch to a different eligible CPF member's account for tuition fee deduction, you must first revoke the existing payer. After revocation, you may submit a new application using the alternative CPF member’s account within the designated CPF application period, subject to approval by the CPF Board.

Do I need to apply for CPF every semester?

Students are required to submit only one application for the CPF Education Loan Scheme for the entire duration of their course of study at SMU. Once your application has been approved, there is no need to reapply in subsequent years or semesters. The loan will continue to be applied automatically, provided you remain eligible under the scheme’s terms.

How to revoke or stop using CPF for education?

The CPF member must submit a Revocation Form online.

Please note that CPF withdrawals will continue until you graduate, cancel, or revoke your application. If you no longer wish to utilize CPF funds for your tuition fees, it is important to cancel or revoke your application promptly to avoid incurring unnecessary charges.

An administrative fee is applicable each time a deduction is made from the payer’s Ordinary Account.

Please click this link to submit a revocation form online using your Singpass.

I'm under the CPF Education Loan Scheme. Why am I still being billed for tuition fees?

It is standard procedure for all students, including those under the CPF Education Loan Scheme, to receive a tuition fee bill. The billing is issued to all students initially, after which the CPF deduction is processed.

Please note that CPF deductions typically reflect in your student account within 3 to 4 weeks from the date of the charge. No action is required on your part unless you receive a reminder or follow-up notice after this period.

Do I need to pay the tuition fee upfront while waiting for the CPF payment to be posted?

No upfront payment is required if your CPF Education Loan Scheme application has been approved. The tuition fee charge will remain in your student account temporarily and will be cleared once the CPF Board disburses the funds, subject to the availability of funds in the payer’s account at the time of deduction.

Can I use both CPF Education Loan Scheme and Tuition Fee loan to pay my tuition fees?

The CPF Education Loan Scheme and the Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) are distinct financial assistance schemes. Utilize both schemes concurrently, subject to the deduction order stipulated by the MOE. CPF will be deducted first to offset your tuition fees. If your CPF is insufficient to cover the full amount, the TFL will be used to cover the remaining balance, up to 90% of subsidised tuition fee.

Do I still need to apply for GIRO even if I'm using CPF funds to pay my tuition fees?

While it's not compulsory, you are encouraged to set up a GIRO as a backup payment method. In the event that CPF funds do not fully cover the tuition fees, any remaining balance may be deducted via GIRO. Additionally, GIRO can be used to settle annual fees and other charges that are not covered under the CPF Education Loan Scheme.

Do I need to repay the CPF used?

Yes. You are required to repay the full amount withdrawn plus interest computed based on the prevailing CPF Ordinary Account (OA) interest rate.

Please visit this link for more information.

When must I start repayment of CPF Education Loan Scheme?

Repayment must begin (whichever is earlier):

a) One year after graduation, or
b) One year after leaving the course of study

Please visit this link for more information.

May I know why is my CPF Loan application rejected?

You can check the reason for rejection of your CPF Education Loan Scheme application under "Activities" by logging in to CPF website with your Singpass.

That said, if you wish to maximise the TFL financing, you would need to specify the percentage (10%) of CPF funds you wish to utilise when submitting the application to CPF Board so that the balance outstanding (90%) tuition fees will be financed by the TFL.

Can I still apply for CPF Education Loan Scheme after the application period had closed?

All applications under the CPF Education Loan Scheme should be submitted within the application period. You may refer to the Application schedule to apply for CPF education loan.

Why do I still have outstanding balance with the school if I used CPF to finance 100% of my tuition fee?

The outstanding fees may be due to the following:

i) Compulsory miscellaneous fees

Students are required to pay tuition fees and compulsory miscellaneous fees each semester. As CPF funds can only be used to finance up to 100% of the MOE Subsidized tuition fees, there will be outstanding miscellaneous fees if you did not arrange for payment using other resources (i.e. PSEA, credit card/GIRO).

ii) Exceeded available withdrawal limit

Members can use their Ordinary Account (OA) savings up to the Available Withdrawal Limit under the Education Scheme to finance up to 100% of the MOE Subsidized tuition fees. The Available Withdrawal Limit is either 40% of the member's accumulated OA savings, or remaining OA balance, whichever is lower. If there are insufficient savings in the OA for withdrawal to pay for your tuition fees, your tuition fees will hence become outstanding.

You may have to make alternative arrangement to pay your outstanding tuition fees in credit card/GIRO, or consider other financing options such as the Tuition Fee Loan or Post-Secondary Education Account (PSEA) savings.

iii) Tuition fees not subsidized by MOE

CPF Education Funds can only be used to finance MOE subsidized tuition fees. If you have exceeded the normal programme duration and your tuition fees are not subsidized by MOE, CPF funds cannot be withdrawn to pay for tuition fees that are not subsidized by MOE.

Mendaki Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy

What is Mendaki Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy (TTFS)?

Mendaki Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy (TTFS) is an education subsidy for Malay students that covers their tuition fees at local government tertiary institutions.

Who is eligible for Mendaki Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy (TTFS)?

To find out your eligibility for Mendaki Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy (TTFS), please refer to Mendaki's website at https://www.mendaki.org.sg/assistance_landing/tertiary-tuition-fee-subsidy-ttfs/.

How do I apply for the Mendaki Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy (TTFS)?

Two Activities Required of You:

Activity 1:
Apply online via the MyMENDAKI portal.

Sign up for an account in the MyMENDAKI portal.
Fill up your particulars in “My Profile”. You can also use MyInfo to autofill your details.
Go to “Assistance” and select the TTFS scheme catered to your institution.
Click on “Apply now”.

Activity 2: Your Notification to SMU on Activity 1

(a) To submit your online application
Go to: OASIS > All App > Financial Aid Application

- Financial Aid Type: Subsidy
- Financial Aid Form: Notification to SMU on Application for MTTFS for Malay Students

(b) Fill in all required fields:

Transaction ID = application number from Activity 1
Application Term
% of Tuition Fee Financing Required

(c) Proceed to submit your form.

When is the application period for Mendaki Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy (TTFS)?

Term 1: June to July
Term 2: Mid November to Mid December

Kindly look out for email notifications from the Centre for Student Financial Assistance at finasst@smu.edu.sg for the application dates and instructions.

Do I need to apply for Mendaki Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy (TTFS) every semester?

You need not reapply every year unless there are changes in your household income and you need to reapply for a higher subsidy. The TTFS will continue automatically for the rest of your course, as long as you remain eligible.

What do I do if I missed the application window for Mendaki Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy (TTFS)?

You have to appeal via the MyMENDAKI portal.

What does Mendaki Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy (TTFS) subsidise?

Mendaki Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy (TTFS) covers regular term subsidised tuition fees only.

Does Mendaki Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy (TTFS) covers Summer Term Tuition Fee and Annual Fee

Mendaki Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy (TTFS) does not cover Summer Term Tuition Fee and Annual Fee.

I am currently receiving a 100% Mendaki Tuition Fee Subsidy. How do government bursaries work alongside this subsidy?

If your Mendaki Tuition Fee Subsidy (MTFS) covers 100% of your tuition fees for AY2025/26, your Government bursary (Higher Education Bursary Tier 1 or 2) will be disbursed to you in full as cash, rather than being used to offset your tuition fees.

Post-Secondary Education Account (PSEA) Scheme

What is Post Secondary Education Account (PSEA)?

The Post-Secondary Education Account (PSEA) is a government-administered savings scheme in Singapore designed to help Singaporeans pay for post-secondary education expenses. It is open to all eligible Singapore Citizens.

You may use your siblings' (up to 3) with their consent and after using up your own PSEA funds.

Who is eligible for Post Secondary Education Account (PSEA)?

To find out your eligibility for PSEA, please refer to MOE's website at https://www.moe.gov.sg/financial-matters/psea/overview.

What can the PSEA funds be used for?

PSEA funds may be used for:

Payment of Tuition Fees and annual miscellaneous fees
Reimbursements of course fees/expenses related to overseas programme approved by SMU.

How do I apply for the Post Secondary Education Account (PSEA)?

You may apply via FormSG using SingPass (with parental approval if needed), then submit a grant application through OASIS, indicating category (e.g., TTF-FULLQ for tuition and annual fees, EPC-OTRIP for overseas programmes). This has to be done every term you intend to use PSEA to pay for your tuition fees.

Students and parents/guardians (for students below 21 years old) can access MOE’s Student Finance System (SFS) using Singpass to view their current PSEA balance.

Please click here for application instructions.

When is the application period for Post Secondary Education Account (PSEA)?

Tuition Fee Financing
Term 1 - 1 August to 15 September
Term 2 - 1 January to 15 February
Term 3 - 1 May to 31 May

Overseas Trip Reimbursements
Within 1 month of returning from the Overseas Programme

What do I do if I missed the application window for Post Secondary Education Account (PSEA)?

For Tuition Fees, you may still apply to use PSEA. However, do note that processing time takes up to 6 weeks and you might be placed on finance hold for outstanding fees.

For Overseas Programme reimbursements, please note that if you have exceeded the 1 month from the completion of the programme, you will need to submit an appeal to accountenquiry@smu.edu.sg. This is subjected to approval.

Can I use my PSEA for Overseas Programme? How do I do so?

Yes, you may use your PSEA for Overseas Programme approved by SMU. Please note that it is on a reimbursement basis and the application has to be submitted within 1 month from the completion of the programme.

Please click here for application instructions.

When will I receive my PSEA Overseas Trip Reimbursement?

You will receive the reimbursement in 4–6 weeks' time after your application is "Awarded" in OASIS. It will be remitted to your receiving bank account maintained in OASIS.

What happens to my PSEA funds if they are not fully utilised after studying at SMU?

Repayment of Government Education Loans and Approved Financing Schemes
If you have a PSEA (Post-Secondary Education Account), you can use your funds to pay back the loan amount and interest for the following government loans:

CPF Education Loan Scheme
Tuition Fee Loan (TFL)
Study Loan (SL)
Overseas Student Programme (OSP) Loan

You must have already left your school before using your PSEA to repay these loans. PSEA funds cannot be used for other types of loans that are not listed above.

What Happens to Unused PSEA Funds
Your PSEA account will close when you turn 31. Any money left in the account will automatically go into your CPF Ordinary Account. You cannot take out the money in cash or transfer it to a bank account.

How do I know if my PSEA withdrawal application is successful?

MOE will notify students of deductions through e-notifications when there is a withdrawal from PSEA. Please ensure that you update your email and contact number in your Singpass promptly whenever there is a change.

Students and parents/guardians (for students below 21 years old) can access MOE’s student finance services portal called Student Finance System (SFS) using Singpass to view their current PSEA balance.

SkillsFuture Credits (SFC)

What is SkillsFuture Credit?

SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) aims to encourage individuals to take ownership of their skills development and lifelong learning. All Singaporeans aged 25 and above will receive an opening credit of S$500 from January 2016.

For account balances, you can check via the SFC portal using your Singpass.

Who is eligible for SkillsFuture Credit?

You can use your credit to pay for or offset skills-related course fees by applying for claim(s) starting January 2016. All Singaporeans aged 25 years old and above will be able to access their SFC account and submit a claim via www.skillsfuture.sg/credit once they receive their account activation letter.

How do I apply for the SkillsFuture Credit?

To use your SkillsFuture Credit, first download your Statement of Account from OASIS, then submit your claim with supporting documents at MySkillsFuture to get a Claim ID. Next, log in to OASIS again and complete the process by submitting the Claim ID through the "Financial Aid Application" under SFC. Your credit will be applied once approved; if the claim fails, you’ll need to pay the balance using other methods.

Please click here for application instructions.

When is the application period for SkillsFuture Credit?

You are required to submit your applications to both SFC and OASIS websites within the claim period (2 weeks before course start date).

What do I do if I missed the application window for SkillsFuture Credit?

If you miss the SkillsFuture Credit application deadline (which usually ends one day before the course begins), you won’t be able to use your credit for that course and will need to pay the full fee using other payment options.

To avoid this in the future, ensure you submit your claims on both the SkillsFuture and OASIS platforms within the allowed timeframe. If you need assistance or have special concerns, contact the MySkillsFuture hotline at 6785 5785.

General FA Enquires

What is the annual fees make up off?

There are 3 components to Annual Fees:

Student Activities
Insurance
IT Facilities

What is the coverage of the group insurance?

Please click here to get more information on student insurance.

Why do I need to pay for the Annual Miscellaneous Fees?

All students are charged the mandatory miscellaneous fees regardless of whether you are on Leave of Absence (LOA) for a term.

Why is there a Finance Hold on my account?

Please check your account for outstanding fees. Upon successful payment updates, your account will be lifted within 48 hours.

How do I know if I am eligible for financial aid?

You may use the Student Financial Needs Calculator to help determine if you are eligible and to find out the type and quantum of financial aid that you may qualify for.

What are the financial assistance schemes available to undergraduates and when can I apply it?

Students must first matriculate before they apply. Apply online via OASIS Applicant's Self Service.

I am receiving a number of financial aids (including CPF Education Loan and student loans) for my tuition fee. In what order will my tuition fee be deducted?

Your tuition fee will be deducted by the following order of priority as stipulated by MOE (with 1 being the highest priority to be disbursed first):

Mendaki Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy (TTFS)
External Sponsorships
MOE Higher Education Community & Higher Education Bursaries
Bursaries / Scholarships
SMU Access Plus
Skills Future Credit
Post-Secondary Education Account
CPF Education Loan Scheme
Tuition Fee Loan; Study Loan

What are the financial assistance schemes available to post-graduate students?

Please click here to get more information on postgraduate financial aid.

What is the process for applying for MOE loans? Is there a simplified flow I can refer to?

You may refer to the link for a simplified process flow of the MOE loan application.

How do I apply for GIRO Payment to pay my school/tuition fees?

Please click here for the user guide on setting up your paying bank account.

I have paid my tuition fees for this term and I need to get a receipt. Where can I collect one?

For payment via online credit card, please retain a copy of the receipt generated from the system supported with your Statement of Account (can be obtained from the Account Inquiry App) for your necessary claims.

What are the available payment modes to pay my tuition fees?

Interbank GIRO (undergraduates only)
Online payment through Debit/Credit Cards by VISA, MasterCard, and AMEX
Over-the-counter payment at Student Services Hub (SSH)

Why is my Online Payment declined?

Possible reasons for declined transaction:

Expired card or wrong expiry date.
General decline of the card. No other information was provided by the issuing bank.
Insufficient funds in the account.
Inactive card or card not authorized for card-not-present transactions.
The card has reached the credit limit.
Invalid CVN/CVV. Please ensure you have entered the credit card details correctly.

Alternatively, you may try using another card. If you wish to find out the reason for a declined transaction, please check with your issuing bank.

How do I terminate my GIRO Debit (deduction of fees) Bank Account?

You can terminate GIRO under OASIS > All Apps > Maintain Bank Accounts > Add Paying Bank Account.

How can I retrieve the GIRO account information that I had submitted previously?

You can view the previous submission under OASIS > All Apps > Maintain Bank Accounts > Add Paying Bank Account.

Where can I view my invoices?

Please be informed that no invoice will be issued. Instead, all charges will be posted to your online Statement of Account.

To view your online Statement of Account, please login to OASIS > All Apps > Account Inquiry.

How do I update my receiving bank account information to receive payment from the University?

Payments from the University to students are managed via interbank GIRO. You must, therefore, register your receiving bank account information with the University.

A bank account registered and not belonging to you (singly or you not being a joint account holder) will not be accepted.

Please login to OASIS > All Apps > Maintain Bank Accounts > Receiving Bank Account Details.

What happens if I do not graduate within four years?

If you exceed the 4-year candidature, you will no longer receive the Tuition Grant and full tuition fees will apply, as stated in OASIS. The University is required to charge the full rate beyond the 4th year.

Can I apply for subsidised tuition fees in my 5th year?

Yes, you may apply for subsidised tuition fees in your 5th year if you need to extend your studies or are pursuing a double degree programme.

Important Notes:

Approval is not guaranteed and is subject to case-by-case review.
Submit your application no later than the end of your sixth regular term of study.

Submit your application via OASIS > All Apps > Financial Aid Application
Select FA Type: Subsidy
Choose Application Form: Application for Subsidised Tuition Fee in 5th Year of Study

What is the penalty imposed for late payment?

Students will be put on Finance Hold.

A notification email will be sent to inform students who are on Finance Hold.

Students will NOT be allowed to view their examination results and bid for courses in BOSS.

How much will I be refunded if I drop a Term 3A course?

If a student drops a course for Term 3A within the first 3 days of Term 3A, there will be a 60% refund of the tuition fee paid/charged for Term 3A. Thereafter, there will be no refund.

Students who have opted to pay their tuition fee by education loans will have to clear the fees due for the term and outstanding loans with CPF Board.

I have applied for Term 3A/3B courses and approved for internship during Term 3, will I be refunded if I decide to drop Term 3A/3B courses?

For students who drop Term 3A/3B courses after BOSS 2, there will be no refund and the grade of “W” will be recorded.

How much will I be refunded if I drop a Term 3B course?

If a student drops a course for Term 3B within the first 3 days of Term 3B, there will be a 60% refund of the tuition fee paid/charged for Term 3B. Thereafter, there will be no refund.

Students who have opted to pay their tuition fee by education loans will have to clear the fees due for the term.

Will my fees be adjusted if I have changed my nationality/citizenship?

The effective date will be the date on which students present their official documents to the Office of Registrar (registrar@smu.edu.sg). Any adjustment on the tuition fees will be made if the effective date falls before the start of the academic term. Otherwise, the fee adjustment will take effect from the following academic term.

What would be my tuition fees if I am admitted to the Double Degree Programme (DDP)?

DDP students are required to pay the higher of the tuition fees if both degree programmes are priced differently.

Will students paying unsubsidised tuition fees be eligible for any financial aid or scholarships?

Students paying unsubsidised tuition fees are not eligible for any financial aid or scholarships administered by the Singapore Ministry of Education (MOE) or SMU.

When do I have to pay my term fees?

Students will be notified via email of any charges (and their payment due date) posted to their online Statement of Account. Students may view their online Statement of Account by logging in to OASIS > Finance & Admin > Fee Matters & Financial Assistance Schemes > Account Inquiry.

Do I need to pay fees if I withdraw from the school within 2 weeks?

If the withdrawal is effected within the first 2 weeks of the term, tuition fees charged will be reversed.

Will my fees change if I change my primary program in year 2?

If you are applying to change your primary degree programme in Year 2, you shall be liable for payment of the prevailing rate of tuition fees applicable to the new programme if approved.

National Servicemen will lose the fee privilege granted for admission to the previous programme.

The Office of Registrar will inform you of the outcome of your application.

How many days are the fees due after charged?

For tuition fees and annual miscellaneous fees, payment is due 30 days after billing. For trips and ad-hoc charges, payment deadlines are dependent on the programme manager.

I have completed my coursework requirements and I am doing my internship attachment. Do I have to pay tuition fee for the term?

Students who have completed the coursework requirements for their degree but not their internship need not pay tuition fees for the remaining term(s) while fulfilling their internship.

When will I be notified of my coming term fees?

Term fees will be posted to your account 2 to 3 weeks before the start of a regular term. A notification email will be sent to all students via their respective SMU email accounts for any new charges, and the relevant charges will be posted to their online Statement of Account. To view your online Statement of Account, please log in to the Account Inquiry App.

Can I pay pro-rated fees for the regular terms (Term 1 & 2)?

Student is required to pay the regular term fees regardless of the number of courses registered.

How much is the tuition fee for Term 3 if I have bidded 2 course modules successfully?

Unlike the regular terms, the tuition fee for Term 3 is priced on a per course basis and is subject to revision without prior notice. To find out the charges of Term 3 course fees, please click here.

Do I need to pay for my school fees while on internship if I have yet to complete my coursework requirements?

If a student is on internship and has yet to complete his/her coursework requirements, he/she is liable for tuition fees unless a Leave of Absence (LOA) is applied for and granted (approved) for that period.

What is the Tuition Grant Scheme?

The MOE Tuition Grant is a grant provided by the Government of Singapore to help students manage the costs of full-time tertiary education in Singapore. Eligible Singapore Citizens, Permanent Residents, and international students enrolled in full-time undergraduate courses at the autonomous universities may receive it.

Please click here for more information.

How long does the MOE Tuition Grant last?

There was a change in 2006 in government funding for undergraduate education, in which every undergraduate student admitted from Academic Year 2006-07 or thereafter is only funded up to the normal candidature of four (4) years.

If a student has yet to graduate after the 4th year of study, there will be no further Tuition Grant from the government to fund this student. The student will then be liable for unsubsidised tuition fees.

What is the study candidature for single & double degree course?

The normal candidature period (single and double degree) is 4 years. Students should attempt to graduate within the normal candidature period. The candidature period includes time taken to fulfil the internship and community service requirements, as well as time taken to undertake external study programmes (such as international exchange programme).

Leave of absence that has been approved will not be counted within the candidature period.

Bursary

Scholarship

Overseas Programmes & Internships

Emergency Grant

Higher Education Student Loan (HESL)

MOE Tuition Fee & Study Loan (replaced by Higher Education Student Loan from 1 July 2026)

CPF Education Loan

Mendaki Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy

Post-Secondary Education Account (PSEA) Scheme

SkillsFuture Credits (SFC)

General FA Enquires

Our SMU Stories

Where to Find Us

Get in Touch