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Last Updated: 25 September 2023

Tamil Language Elective Programme at Secondary Level (TLEP-Sec)

This 2-year programme in selected secondary schools is for students with aptitude and keen interest in Tamil language and literature. Learn about the programme and how to join.

The Tamil Language Elective Programme at the Secondary Level (TLEP-Sec) is a 2-year programme offered in selected secondary schools. It aims to:

  • Nurture capable and enthusiastic students to attain a high level of language proficiency and competency in using the Tamil Language.
  • Enhance their knowledge and understanding of Tamil Literature and Culture.
  • Develop students to be effectively billingual to better serve the needs of our nation.
TLEP-Sec students will be awarded a certificate of recognition after they complete the programme. Singapore Citizens may be eligible for the Tamil Language Elective Scholarship (TLES).

Who can take it

Students who have obtained at least one of the following grades in their Secondary 2 examinations:

  • Grade B3 in Higher Tamil.
  • Grade A2 in Tamil Language.

Course content

All students enrolled in the TLEP-Sec must offer full or elective Literature in Tamil at O-Level.

Programme activities

TLEP-Sec students must participate in:

  • A one or two-day camp held locally during the June holidays in Secondary 3.
  • A one to two-week overseas immersion programme at the end of Secondary 3.
  • School-based activities and programmes such as literary lectures, meet-the-author sessions, enrichment workshops, project work and language competitions.

Where to take it

TLEP-Sec is offered at:

  • Commonwealth Secondary School
  • Riverside Secondary School
  • Yishun Town Secondary School

Admission to TLEP-JC

The TLEP is also offered at the junior college (JC) level as a separate 2-year programme. 

All TLEP-Sec students are encouraged to continue with the programme. Students can apply for schools offering TLEP-JC through the Joint Admissions Exercise (JAE) or Direct School Admission for junior colleges (DSA-JC). 
 
Students who apply through JAE are eligible for 2 bonus points for admission to the respective JC. If successful, students must remain in the programme for 2 years. Students who fail to do so may be asked to leave the JC.

TLEP-Sec scholars who are successfully enrolled in the TLEP-JC may renew their scholarship for another 2 years from Pre-U 1 to Pre-U 2. This is subject to the scholar meeting the scholarship renewal criteria and their school's recommendation.

Learn more about TLEP-JC.