If you are applying as an international student, here's a little introduction to living in Singapore:

Accommodation

Consider renting a Housing and Development Board (HDB) apartment. Singapore's public housing apartments are located close to amenities and services such as supermarkets, food centres, clinics, bus stops and Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) stations. They range in size from one-room to five-room and larger executive units and rental rates are reasonable. To rent a HDB flat, you must be a Singapore citizen or permanent resident or hold a student pass. Visit the HDB website for details.

Alternatively, you might prefer to rent a private apartment or house. Rental rates depend on the location, size and condition of the apartment or house and facilities and furnishings provided. Visit the Contact Singapore website for what to look out for when renting a private residential property.

Communication

The main mobile phone service providers are SingTel, StarHub and M1. SingTel and StarHub also offer fixed home phone lines. There are also public pay phones in most shopping malls and MRT stations. You can buy a stored-value phone card at post offices and convenience stores.

The main Internet service providers are SingNet, StarHub and Pacific Internet. Most public places offer free wireless broadband access.

Healthcare

Singapore has a world-class healthcare system, with well-trained medical practitioners and well-equipped hospitals and clinics island-wide. Visit the Ministry of Heath website for more information.

Transport

The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) network serves most business, shopping and residential areas, with trains arriving every three to eight minutes. Public buses run at regular intervals of up to 30 minutes depending on the route and there are late-night services as well. Use an EZ-Link cash card for travel on MRT trains and public buses; you can buy this card at any train station or bus terminal.

Taxis are a faster and more comfortable, though more expensive public transport option. There are surcharges during peak hours and on public holidays and for travel within the city area. You can book a taxi, stop one on the streets or wait at a taxi stand.