Admission Criteria for Polytechnic Diploma Holders

For polytechnic students and university undergraduates, you are encouraged to apply during the final semester of your final year studies.

If you have a Polytechnic Diploma and at least 5 ‘O’ Level passes (including English and Mathematics), you may apply to be an English medium teacher.

If you wish to be an Art or Music teacher, an ‘O’ Level pass in Mathematics is not required, but applicants should have a diploma in music or fine art from LaSalle or NAFA. Do note that admission is subject to an audition or portfolio assessment by NIE.

Entrance Proficiency Test (EPT)

To qualify for entry into NIE, you will need to pass the entrance proficiency test if you do not meet the relevant exemption criteria. (Information on the various EPTs).

Training

You will be sent to NIE for training for a period of 2 years. At the end of your training, you will be awarded the Diploma in Education (DipEd) or Diploma in Education (PE) [DipEd (PE)]. (Information on teacher training.)

If you wish to teach Physical Education (PE), you will have to pass the Physical Proficiency Test (PPT) before you can be accepted into NIE to take the 2-year Diploma in Education (PE) course.

Teaching Level

Polytechnic Diploma holders will be trained to teach in Primary schools, with the exception of Art and Music teachers. Art and Music teachers will be trained to teach in Secondary schools.

Teaching Subjects

Subjects taught at the Primary level include English, Science and Mathematics. Mother Tongue Language teachers need only teach the Mother Tongue subject.

Co-curricular Activities (CCA)

All Primary school teachers have to undertake CCA as assigned by the school principal.

Teaching Bond

Tuition fees for all trainee teachers are fully paid by the Ministry of Education. While undergoing training at the NIE, trainee teachers will receive a monthly salary (inclusive of CPF and year end bonus). Upon completion of their NIE training, they will serve a 3-year teaching bond. A trainee teacher who fails to graduate from NIE or whose service is terminated before fully discharging the 3-year bond will have to pay liquidated damages to the Ministry.

Degree Programme [BA (Education) / BSc (Education)]

‘A’ Level holders and Polytechnic Diploma holders who wish to pursue the 4-year teaching degree may apply for the BA (Education) / BSc (Education) programme if they meet the minimum criteria.