MOE-Sponsored Admission for Polytechnic Diploma Holders FAQ

1. What are the initial teacher preparation programmes that I can apply with a polytechnic diploma as my highest qualification?

Applicants with polytechnic diploma qualifications may apply for consideration of admission to the four-year BA/BSc (Academic Discipline & Education) and the two-year Diploma in Education Programme or Diploma in Physical Education Programme.

2. What are the entry requirements for the NIE programmes?

All local polytechnic diploma holders with five GCE 'O' Level passes including passes in English Language and Mathematics are eligible to apply for consideration of admission to the BA/BSc (Academic Discipline & Education) and the Diploma Programmes.

3. In addition to fulfilling the entry requirements, what are the other special requirements for the programmes?

Please refer to the BA/BSc (Academic Discipline & Education) Information & Handbook for details on the special entry requirements which can be viewed under 'Study @ NIE' > 'Admissions' > 'Teacher Education & Undergraduate Studies' > 'Undergraduate programmes' in the NIE website.

4. What are the additional criteria for the Physical Education Programme?

For admission to the Diploma in Physical Education Programme or the Bachelor of Science (Academic Discipline & Education) reading Physical Education and Sports Science as your Academic Subject, you must pass the Physical Proficiency Test (PPT) and have a good CCA record in your school years. Registration and details on the PPT can be obtained from the Admissions page.

5. Am I required to take the Entrance Proficiency Test?

You will need to pass the Entrance Proficiency Test if you do not meet the exemption criteria. Please visit the RELC Examinations Bureau website at RELC for details on the exemption criteria and registration for the Entrance Proficiency Test.

6. Must I register for the Entrance Proficiency Test before submitting my application for the NIE progammes?

It is advisable to register for the Entrance Proficiency Test at the same time that you submit your application so as not to delay the outcome of your application.

7. How do I apply for the NIE programmes?

BA/BSC (ACADEMIC DISCIPLINE & EDUCATION) PROGRAMME:

Your application must be submitted online through the Nanyang Technological University website at http://www.ntu.edu.sg. In addition, you must also submit your online application for appointment in the teaching service through the Ministry of Education website at http://www.moe.edu.sg/teach. 

Diploma in Education/ Diploma in Physical Education Programmes:

Your application must be submitted online through the Ministry of Education website at http://www.moe.gov.sg/teach.

8. When must I submit my application?

BA/BSC (ACADEMIC DISCIPLINE & EDUCATION) PROGRAMME:

You must submit your application during the admission exercise for polytechnic diploma holders that is normally held in February. Please check NTU’s website for the exact admission exercise window (http://admissions.ntu.edu.sg/undergraduateadmissions/pages/default.aspx).

Diploma in Education/ Diploma in Physical Education Programmes:

Applications are accepted throughout the year. However, it is advisable to submit your application to Ministry of Education at least three months before the intake.

9. When is the intake for the NIE programmes?

There is only one intake a year, which is in July.

10. Is there an age limit?

There is no age limit for admission to the NIE programmes.

11. Can I choose the subjects and school level that I want to teach?

You may state your preference. However, the decision on the subjects and the level that you will teach will be determined by the selection panel if you are successful in your application.

12. Where can I get the structure of the NIE programmes?

Details on the structure of the programmes can be viewed under 'Programmes' --> 'Admissions' in the NIE website.

13. How much is the tuition fees for the NIE programmes per year?

If you are admitted into the programme, you will be appointed by the Ministry of Education as a General Education Officer upon completion of your studies. As your tuition fees for the normal duration of the programme will be paid for by the Ministry, you will be required to serve a bond with the Singapore Education Service.

14. How long is the teaching bond?

Candidates who complete the Diploma in Education/Diploma in Physical Education Programmes will be required to serve a three-year bond while those who complete the BA/BSc (Academic Discipline & Education) will be required to serve a four-year bond with the Singapore Education Service.

15. What are the teaching scholarships available?

Please refer to the Ministry of Education website at http://www.moe.gov.sg/teach for details on the teaching scholarships.

16. Can I be admitted to the Programme if I do not want to be bonded to the Ministry of Education?

Yes, this will be the case if you are admitted as a full-fee paying candidate. Details on this scheme can be obtained from 'Programmes' --> 'Admissions' in the NIE website.