Your first month in Singapore will fly by. Between getting used to the weather , exploring the food scene, and managing student life, it can feel like a lot. Here’s a practical checklist—plus a few mindset tips—to help you settle in with less stress and more ease.

Week 1: Get the Essentials Sorted

• SIM Card & Internet: If you haven’t already, get a local SIM card with data. GOMO, StarHub, and M1 offer affordable student plans.
• EZ-Link Card: Grab one for bus and MRT travel. Top up via the SimplyGo app.
• Bank Account: Open an account with POSB, OCBC, or UOB. Bring your student pass, passport, and proof of address.
• Student Pass: Attend your scheduled appointment with ICA and get this finalized early.

Mindset tip: Don’t panic if everything doesn’t happen instantly. Some queues and processing times are normal.

Week 2: Build a Daily Routine

• Groceries & Meals: Find your go-to hawker centres (Tiong Bahru, ABC Brickworks) and supermarkets (NTUC FairPrice, Cold Storage).
• Class Schedule: Get used to your ESSEC timetable and carve out time for meals, workouts, and relaxation.
• Apps to Download:
  • Citymapper or Google Maps for transport
  • Grab for rides and food delivery
  • Carousell for secondhand furniture or electronics

Mindset tip: Treat this time as “orientation to life,” not just school. Explore different neighborhoods, cafes, and routines until one clicks.

Week 3: Build Connections

• Say yes to invites: Orientation activities, student club events, casual hangouts.
• Start small talk: Ask your classmates what hawker food they love or where they’re from.
• Join a community: Sports, volunteer groups, faith-based communities—there’s something for everyone.

Mindset tip: Feeling homesick is normal. Reach out. Most people are open to a chat—you just have to start.

Week 4: Make It Feel Like Home

• Decorate your space: Buy a plant, hang some photos, or add cozy touches to your room.
• Set personal goals: Think beyond academics—maybe it’s learning a new dish, exploring 3 neighborhoods, or mastering basic Singlish.
• Health & Wellbeing: Find a nearby GP (general practitioner), locate the closest polyclinic, and save emergency numbers in your phone.

Mindset tip: You don’t have to figure it all out. But you do have to keep showing up. One step at a time.

Singapore’s a place that grows on you. Aim to get settled in your first month, but stay curious. Every food stall, MRT ride, and new friend is part of the adventure. Welcome again to ESSEC Asia-Pacific. You’ve got this!