The Ultimate Guide to Using SkillsFuture Credits in SG

Introduction

In a job market that moves as fast as Singapore’s, the ability to adapt and upgrade your skillset is essential. To support upskilling, the Government introduced SkillsFuture Credit, giving every Singaporean aged 25 and above, credits they can use to offset course fees for approved training.

Whether you’re planning a total career overhaul, upskilling to stay relevant, or simply exploring personal interests, SkillsFuture Credits make lifelong learning more affordable and accessible.

This guide dives into how SkillsFuture Credits work, what you can use them for, and how institutions like Temasek Polytechnic can help you maximize their value.

What Are SkillsFuture Credits?

SkillsFuture Credits are designed to encourage Singaporean adults to invest in the development of their skills.

There are three main credit types:

1. Opening Credit - $500
   The opening credit is provided to all Singapore citizens aged 25 and above. This credit does not expire and may be utilised at any point in the future.
    
2. One-Off Top-Up (2020) - $500
   The one-off top-up was provided to all Singapore citizens aged 25 and above as of 31 December 2020. This credit expires in December 2025.
   
   
3. Mid-Career Top-up - $4,000
   The mid-career top-up was provided to all Singapore citizens aged 40 and above in May 2024. This credit does not expire and may be utilised at any point in the future. It can be used for a curated list of selected courses that offer improved employability outcomes.

Who Is Eligible To Use SkillsFuture Credits?

Eligibility for SkillsFuture Credits is simple, requiring just a few criteria to be met:

1. Singapore Citizenship
   Only Singapore Citizens are eligible to receive SkillsFuture Credits.
   
   
2. Age Requirements
   a. Opening Credit: Individuals must be 25 years or older to claim the SkillsFuture opening credit.
   b. Mid-Career Credit: Once you reach 40, you are eligible for the Mid-Career SkillsFuture Credit.
   
   
3. Special One-Off Top-Up
   Anyone aged 25 or older as of 31 December 2020 qualifies for the one-off SkillsFuture top-up of $500.

How to Use SkillsFuture Credits: A Step-by-Step

The process of using SkillsFuture Credits is simple, having been designed to be as seamless as possible.

Step 1:
Log into the MySkillsFuture portal with your Singpass.

Step 2:
Find an eligible course on the MySkillsFuture portal. Institutions such as Temasek Polytechnic offer courses for adult learners that can use SkillsFuture Credits.

Step 3:
Register directly with the training provider and indicate that you will be using SkillsFuture Credits.

Step 4:
Submit your claim via MySkillsFuture before your course start date.

Courses You Can Pay For with SkillsFuture Credits

SkillsFuture Credit courses are readily available, ranging from short professional workshops to more substantial qualifications. Designed to support adult learners, they are offered in flexible formats such as part-time study and online learning, making it easier to fit different schedules and needs. While SkillsFuture Credits cannot be used for overseas programmes, a wide range of local options is available. Temasek Polytechnic offers a full range of part-time courses through the Temasek SkillsFuture Academy, all of which are eligible for SkillsFuture Credits.

Fast-growing skill areas today include in-demand digital expertise such as AI, cybersecurity, and data analytics, as well as creative industries like design & media and digital marketing. Care and community services continue to see strong demand, while emerging sectors such as sustainability, renewable energy, and green technologies are rapidly growing in importance.

Tips to Better Use SkillsFuture Credits

Maximizing your SkillsFuture Credits doesn’t mean spending them as fast as you can. There are a few things you can do to ensure you’re getting the most out of your credits.

1. Use expiring credits first
   The opening credit (for those 25 and above) and the mid-career credit (for those 40 and above) have no expiry and can be used anytime. However, the one-off top-up, given to those aged 25 or older as of 31 December 2020, will expire in December 2025. To make the most of your SkillsFuture Credits, it’s best to use the top-up first.
    
2. Optimise your subsidies
   SkillsFuture Credits provide strong support for those looking to invest in their growth, and many programmes also receive government subsidies. Together, these make it more accessible for learners to pursue meaningful upskilling without being held back by cost.
    
   At Temasek Polytechnic, courses are structured to maximise accessibility and impact, giving adult learners the opportunities to advance their skills and careers.
    
3. Align courses with career goals
   Given the sheer amount of courses available across different industries and specialisations, it can be daunting to select a path. While each course has its merits, it’s important to consider your unique career goals prior to diving in.
    
   It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. While an individual hoping to upskill within their own industry might find success with a part-time course, for instance, your schedule, learning style, and target sector may call for a different approach. Researching and planning out your journey will ultimately save you time and allow your credits to be put to the best possible use for you.
    
4. Monitor Industry Trends
   As global industries shift, certain skillsets come into demand while others fall out of fashion. Keeping an eye on trends within any industries you are in or looking to break into could allow you to position yourself ahead of the curve by upskilling in line with industry demand.

Why Choose Temasek Polytechnic for Your SkillsFuture Credits?

1. Industry-informed courses:
   Programmes are designed using real-world industry input to stay aligned with current skill demands, so learners can upgrade in ways that matter. For instance, Temasek Polytechnic offers:
   
   a. Specialist Diploma in Business Analytics
   b. Specialist Diploma in Applied Psychology (Behavioural Insights)
   c. Specialist Diploma in Energy Management & Sustainable Design
    
   …along with many other programmes tailored to evolving industry needs.
   
   
2. Flexible learning:
   Part-time Diplomas & Post-Diplomas, modular short courses, and online courses are all available options to suit the busy schedules of working professionals.
    
3. Adult learner focused:
   Beyond the classroom, Temasek Polytechnic also provides a supportive ecosystem for adult learners through its Temasek SkillsFuture Academy.
   
   
4. Advanced facilities and collaborations:
   Temasek Polytechnic partners with industry leaders to offer hands-on training via its cutting-edge technologies.

How Can You Use Your SkillsFuture Credits at Temasek Polytechnic?

If you’re exploring the options available to you, Temasek Polytechnic offers the following:

1. Part-time Diploma and Post-Diploma Courses
   For those seeking a recognised qualification without compromising flexibility, Temasek Polytechnic offers Part-time Diploma and Post-Diploma courses. Ranging from 1 to 2.5 years, these courses allow learners to study at their own pace while balancing work and personal commitments.
   
   Additionally, Temasek Polytechnic offers modular courses that are stackable towards a Diploma or Post-Diploma qualification. Each module lasts approximately six months, allowing working adults to build skills progressively at their own pace.
   
   
2. SkillsFuture Career Transition Programme (SCTP)
   Led by SkillsFuture Singapore with the goal of helping mid-career professionals make smooth transitions into new positions or sectors, SCTPs equip learners with the skills needed to do exactly that.
    
   Through Temasek Polytechnic, adult learners can access part-time or full-time courses lasting three to six months. These courses are designed by industry professionals and aligned with current market needs, ensuring learners gain relevant and practical skills.
    
   These courses are ideal for mid-career individuals hoping to upskill or pivot to new roles or sectors.
   
   
3. Short Courses
   The short courses offered by Temasek Polytechnic allow you to deepen your understanding and expertise in specific sectors without the long-term commitment of a Diploma or SCTP course. The industry-focused set up makes learning straightforward and convenient.
   
   These courses are designed for busy working professionals seeking to acquire skills or knowledge for either personal or professional development. Short courses usually take a few hours to a few weeks to complete.

Conclusion

SkillsFuture Credits are a valuable resource for Singaporeans, lowering the cost of approved courses, encouraging lifelong learning and individual ownership of skills development, and improving employability by allowing access to a wide range of courses to stay competitive in a changing economy. Whether you’re planning a career change or looking to future-proof your skills, Temasek Polytechnic’s courses are a great place to start!