Government Subsidy for Part-time Degree Studies

Mr Yee Jenn Jong asked the Minister for Education whether the Ministry will consider (i) reviewing its policy of not allowing full-time NSmen to be eligible for Government subsidy for part-time degree studies undertaken by working adults; and (ii) increasing the award values of bursaries for part-time degrees for those ineligible for the subsidy for working adults.

Mr Heng Swee Keat: All Singaporean males have an obligation to serve a two-year National Service (NS) period. This requires the full-time commitment of our National Servicemen, many of whom serve in combat vocations, in order to ensure that Singapore has the operational capability to defend itself.

Furthermore, the part-time degree programmes at our Autonomous Universities (AUs) and the SIM University (UniSIM) are designed for adult learners who already have some working experience, to help them upgrade their skills sets, or to enable them to switch to a different career. Therefore, the curriculum, mode and delivery of the programme are not suitable for those who are fresh out of school. Such young university applicants would be better served in a full-time degree programme, where they can develop strong foundational skills and benefit from a vibrant campus life.

For the above reasons, MOE does not extend Government subsidies and bursaries for part-time degree programmes to those who are serving their two-year National Service.

However, all Singaporean males who have completed their two-year NS and gained work experience are free to sign up for part-time degree programmes at the AUs and UniSIM. These operationally-ready National Servicemen will enjoy subsidies for their part-time degree studies. The subsidy has recently been increased to 55% of the course fees for all Singaporeans. Bursaries are also available to those who need financial aid on top of the fee subsidy.

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