International Students Without Parent Relocation

Many families choose a Singapore education for their child while parents remain overseas. This page explains the usual pathways for Student’s Pass, accommodation, local guardianship, and the option for a parent to stay in Singapore on a Long-Term Visiting Pass (LTVP).

Student’s Pass 

International students who are not Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents may require a Student’s Pass to study in Singapore (unless their parents relocate to Singapore and the students can secure Dependant Passes, LTVP, or Diplomatic Passes).

What parents should expect:

  • Student’s Pass applications are processed in accordance with the requirements of the Singapore authorities
  • Approval is assessed on a case-by-case basis
  • Processing time and outcome are determined by the authorities

What 5 Steps Academy can do:

  • Provide school documents needed for enrolment and the pass application
  • Explain the application steps and document checklist
  • Request additional information if required for compliance

What the school cannot do:

  • Guarantee approval
  • Influence application outcomes

Accommodation options 

Families usually choose one of the following arrangements:

A. Student dormitory / student hostel

Most common for ages 15–18

  • Structured student environment
  • House rules and curfews set by the provider
  • Meals often included

B. Homestay (host family)

Common for younger students

  • Family environment
  • Daily adult supervision
  • Meals often included

C. Private housing (family-arranged)

  • Parents rent a private apartment or room
  • Often used when a parent or relative stays with the child
  • Parents or an appointed guardian remain responsible for supervision outside school hours

Upon request, the school may share a reference list of accommodation providers. 

Local guardianship (students under 18)

For students under 18 who are not living with a parent in Singapore, parents are expected to appoint a local guardian.

A local guardian usually:

  • Acts as a local emergency contact
  • Supports medical consent if required
  • Communicates with the school when necessary
  • Assists with urgent matters outside school hours (based on the agreement)

Important notes:

  • Dormitories generally provide accommodation and basic supervision only, and do not act as legal guardians
  • 5 Steps Academy does not act as a guardian
  • Guardianship is arranged independently by parents

Upon request, the school may provide a list of Guardian and Homestay Service Providers as a reference. 

Parent staying in Singapore (Long-Term Visit Pass)

Some families consider having a parent or close relative stay in Singapore to care for the child.

In certain cases, a parent or close relative may apply for a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) to stay in Singapore with the student. Approval is assessed by the authorities and is not guaranteed.

If a parent stays in Singapore:

  • The family may provide accommodation directly
  • Parents remain fully responsible for the child outside school hours
  • A separate guardian is not required if the parent lives with the student

Age-based guidance (best practice)

  • Ages 5–11:
    Parent stay or homestay with strong adult supervision is common.
  • Ages 12–14:
    Homestay or closely supervised accommodation, plus local guardian.
  • Ages 15–18:
    Student dormitory or homestay, plus local guardian.

This guidance reflects common practice; final decisions are made by parents.

Typical guardianship and accommodation costs 

Prices vary by provider, accommodation type, location, and contract length. A rough estimate is $1500-$2500 per month. For more information, please see the Guardianship and accommodation costs section.  

Planning checklist for parents

Before arrival, parents should confirm:

✅ Student’s Pass documents prepared
✅ Accommodation secured
✅ Local guardian appointed (if required)
✅ Medical insurance arranged

The Next Step

The Admissions Team at 5 Steps Academy can:

  • Explain the Student’s Pass document checklist
  • Share reference lists of independent accommodation providers
  • Share reference lists of local guardian services 

Contact Admissions:
📧 admissions@5steps.academy
📱 Tel / WhatsApp: +65 8655 0005