Back To Main Menu
Overview Students' Work Modules Entry Requirements Fees How to Apply
Overview Students' Work Modules Entry Requirements Fees How to Apply
Duration: 3 Years
Mode: Full-time

Put Your Best Foot Forward on the Dance Stage

Embark on your quest to become the best dance artist you can be, mentored by an international faculty of professional artist-educators.

You will train in contemporary, classical and traditional dance techniques, gaining technical excellency and building a strong artistic foundation in dance performance and creation alike. You will also learn somatic practices, dance education, production and science to support your understanding of dance as a whole and enhance your future job prospects.

Armed with a robust understanding of dance and dance making that you will get to put into practice with our application-based theory and industry-based learning curriculum, you will become a highly sought-after dance artist, both locally and around the world.


Be Immersed in the Richness of Asian and Western Dance

Our conservatory-style approach to dance training means you will become versatile in our hallmarks of Ballet and Contemporary Dance as well as be familiarised with an array of Asian dance and movement practices to develop your flexibility in dance performance and diversity in dance creation.

Think Critically and Creatively about Dance Making

You will sharpen your creative and critical thinking skills as you pursue your studies in the dynamic field of dance. These interdisciplinary skills will enable you to collaborate effectively with your peers in other disciplines for a refreshing take on performance making.

Learn from Leading Artist-Educators

Be immersed in our intercultural and vibrant environment, taught by a reputable faculty comprising of respected local and international dance practitioners. Visiting guests from renowned dance companies and leading independent artists will also impart a wealth of knowledge and firsthand experiences at masterclasses, workshops and talks.



Read The Straits Times feature on our transformative programme.
Source: The Straits Times © SPH Media Limited. Permission required for reproduction

Students' Work

Modules

The following programme modules are applicable to students enrolled in August 2021 and after. NAFA students enrolled in AY2020/2021 and earlier are to refer to the Diploma Programme and Module Information Booklet on the StudentNet for the programme modules in your respective years of enrolment.

Code Title Semester Credits
DDN1110

Dance Techniques 1A

This module aims to develop students’ technical and artistic proficiency in Ballet, Contemporary and Asian Movement and Dance at different levels of competency.
1 10
DDN1120

Dance Supplementary Practices 1A

This module aims to prepare students to take on the physical challenges of what is currently trending as well as teach them how to prevent injury, maintain and enhance their personal dance practice.
1 4
DDN1130

Dance in Context 1A

This module aims to introduce students to aspects of culture, production and science to inform their dance practice.
1 2
DDN1140

Dance Performance IA

This module aims to develop practical experience learning and/or creating, rehearsing and presenting dance repertory.
1 2
DDN1210

Dance Techniques 1B

This module aims to develop students’ technical and artistic proficiency in Ballet, Contemporary and Asian Movement and Dance at different levels of competency.
2 10
DDN1220

Dance Supplementary Practices 1B

This module aims to prepare students to take on the physical challenges of what is currently trending as well as teach them how to prevent injury, maintain and enhance their personal dance practice.
2 4
DDN1230

Dance in Context IB

This module aims to introduce students to aspects of culture, production and science to inform their dance practice.
2 2
DDN1240

Dance Performance IB

This module aims to develop practical experience learning and/or creating, rehearsing and presenting dance repertory.
2 2
DDN1000

Professional Development Roadmap 1

This module aims to ensure that students are employable, marketable and relevant in the Dance and related industries. Students are encouraged to take a proactive approach to their professional development.
2 2
DDN2110

Dance Techniques 2A

This module aims to develop students’ technical and artistic proficiency in Ballet, Contemporary and Asian Movement and Dance at different levels of competency.
1 10
DDN2120

Dance Supplementary Practices 2A

This module aims to prepare students to take on the physical challenges of what is currently trending as well as teach them how to prevent injury, maintain and enhance their personal dance practice.
1 4
DDN2130

Dance in Context 2A

This module aims to introduce students to aspects of culture, production and science to support and enhance their dance practice.
1 2
DDN2140

Dance Performance 2A* (Option A)

This module aims to develop practical experience learning and/or creating, rehearsing and presenting dance repertory.
1 2
DDN2150

Dance Creation 2A* (Option A)

This module aims to challenge students with developing dance composition skills to create short group dances. Students will also be introduced to basic music improvisation in relation to dance.
1 2
DDN2210

Dance Techniques 2B

This module aims to develop students’ technical and artistic proficiency in Ballet, Contemporary and Asian Movement and Dance at different levels of competency.
2 10
DDN2220

Dance Supplementary Practices 2B

This module aims to prepare students to take on the physical challenges of what is currently trending as well as teach them how to prevent injury, maintain and enhance their personal dance practice.
2 4
DDN2230

Dance in Context 2B

This module aims to introduce students to aspects of culture, production and science to support and enhance their dance practice.
2 2
DDN2240

Dance Performance 2B* (Option B)

This module aims to develop practical experience learning and/or creating, rehearsing and presenting dance repertory.
2 2
DDN2250

Dance Creation 2B* (Option B)

This module aims to provide Dance students the experience of working collaboratively with other artistic disciplines.
2 2
DDN2013

Industry Project

This module aims to provide students the opportunity to participate in the conceptualisation, planning and execution a dance project.
1 2
DDN2000

Professional Development Roadmap 2

This module aims to ensure that students are employable, marketable and relevant in the Dance and related industries. Students are encouraged to take a proactive approach to their professional development.
2 2
DDN3012

Overseas Immersion* (Taken after Year 2 during the Vacation)

This module aims to provide students the opportunity to develop their global perspective by experiencing an overseas learning environment as well as cultivating an awareness and appreciation of other cultures, preferably in the Asia Pacific region.
Vacation 4
DDN3110

Dance Techniques 3A

This module aims to develop students’ technical and artistic proficiency in Ballet, Contemporary and Asian Movement and Dance at different levels of competency.
1 10
DDN3120

Dance Supplementary Practices 3A

This module aims to prepare students to take on the physical challenges of what is currently trending as well as teach them how to prevent injury, maintain and enhance their personal dance practice.
1 4
DDN3130

Dance in Context 3A

This module aims to consolidate the students’ knowledge and skills related to culture, production, science and education to support and enhance their dance practice.
1 2
DDN3140

Dance Performance 3A* (Option C)

This module aims to develop practical experience learning and/or creating, rehearsing and presenting dance repertory.
1 2
DDN3150

Dance Creation 3A* (Option C)

This module aims to guide students to consolidate dance composition information and skills towards producing a contemporary choreography.
1 2
DDN3210

Dance Techniques 3B

This module aims to develop students’ technical and artistic proficiency in Ballet, Contemporary and Asian Movement and Dance at different levels of competency.
2 10
DDN3220

Dance Supplementary Practices 3B

This module aims to prepare students to take on the physical challenges of what is currently trending as well as teach them how to prevent injury, maintain and enhance their personal dance practice.
2 4
DDN3230

Dance in Context 3B

This module aims to consolidate the students’ knowledge and skills related to culture, production, science and education to support and enhance their dance practice.
2 2
DDN3240

Dance Performance 3B* (Option D)

This module aims to develop practical experience learning and/or creating, rehearsing and presenting dance repertory.
2 2
DDN3250

Dance Creation 3B* (Option D)

This module aims to guide students to consolidate dance composition information and skills towards producing a contemporary choreography.
2 2
DDN3011

Industrial Attachment* (Option E)

This module aims to provide students the opportunity to immerse themselves in the dance or a related industry, where they will be required to apply their dance knowledge and practice their skills in an authentic setting.
1 2
DDN3013

Industry Project* (Option E)

This module aims to provide students the opportunity to participate in the conceptualisation, planning and execution a dance project.
1 2
DDN3000

Professional Development Roadmap

This module aims to ensure that students are employable, marketable and relevant in the Dance and related industries. Students are encouraged to take a proactive approach to their professional development.
2 2
DTD2010

Gemmology*

This module explores the science of gems: formation, history, physical properties, practical applications, and the methods and instruments used in the basic identification of the stones, colours and values.
1 and 2 2
DTD1001

Metalsmithing*

Students are introduced to the basic principles of handling raw materials. They will also learn various methods and materials employed in the fundamental techniques of object making.
1 and 2 2
DTD2020

Introduction to Furniture Design*

This cross-disciplinary elective introduces students to the design principles, ergonomic studies and material application in furniture design with the help of workshop practice, concept ideation and presentation.
1 and 2 2
DTD2043

Introduction to Interior Design*

This cross-disciplinary elective introduces students to the basic principles in interior design, with an emphasis on programming, space planning, colour scheme and furniture arrangement for residential design.
1 and 2 2
DDM2900

Design and Brand Strategy*

This module allows students to discover the framework and strategies of developing a successful brand expression through case studies and analysis. Students will develop a critical understanding of the social (cultures of consumption) and psychological (emotions in marketing) aspects integrated within the context, which will allow students to develop the ability to make good design decisions.
1/2 4
DDM2901

Digital Photography and Publication*

In this module, students will learn to use photography as a medium of expression and communication. Students would explore the different perspectives of story-telling through images, and be equipped with the skills to compile them into a publication.
1/2 4
DDM2902

Packaging Design*

This module allows students to explore the different forms and functions of packaging design to provide packaging solutions that are appealing, functional and sustainable.
1/2 4
DFS2006

History of Asian Costume*

This module will expose students to Asian elements relating to fashion. Countries and topics covered include Malaysia/Indonesia (Kebaya), India (Sari), China (Cheong Sam and Qi Pao), Thailand (Traditional Court Uniform), Japan (Kimono) and Korea (Hanbok).
2 2
DFS2209

Costume Design*

This module allows students to gain knowledge in designing the styles and costumes in theatre, film or television productions. They will be exposed to topics such as reading and analysis of scripts, creation of the mood and style for a production, communication with the Director, distinguishing of characters, and planning of costume plot.
1/2 4
DFS1205

Textile Design and Innovation 1*

Students will be introduced to various techniques of textile decoration, such as screen-printing and laser cutting to develop their own decorative textiles and prints.
2 2
DFS2105

Textile Design and Innovation 2*

This module explores the manipulation of fabrics through dyeing, shibori, bonding, embossing and weaving to create distinctive textiles.
1 2
DFA1001

Introduction to Painting*

Students are introduced to the basic tools, materials and techniques in watercolour and acrylic painting. Topics covered include still life and landscapes.
1 and 2 2
DFA1003

Introduction to Printmaking*

Students are introduced to the basic tools, materials and techniques in printmaking. Topics covered include mono-print, woodcut and simple stencil printing technique.
1 and 2 2
DFA1008

Introduction to Gong Bi*

This module covers fundamental principles involved in bird and flower compositions, and the line drawing and painting techniques specific to Gong Bi.
2 2
DFA1011

Figure Drawing*

This module helps students develop the visual and technical skills necessary for portrait and figure drawing. Students work in a variety of media, with an emphasis on charcoal.
1 and 2 2
DAM2094

Arts Management Fundamentals*

This cross-disciplinary elective allows non-Arts Management students to explore management concepts and practices that are relevant to the arts and culture industry. Basic yet essential knowledge and skills in management, including skills unique to arts management, are explored in this module, and students are encouraged to observe, analyse and apply these skills in the day-to-day practice of the arts. Students will learn essential arts management skills and apply them in planning and decision-making within the context of running an arts company or organising an arts event.
1 and 2 2
DAM2095

Introduction to Arts Marketing*

This cross-disciplinary elective aims to equip students with basic marketing knowledge and skills essential to all artists. Students will be introduced to the key concepts of marketing and how it is applied to the arts. Students will also learn what motivates audiences to support the arts as well as the basic skills in how to market and promote their artworks.
1 and 2 2
DMU1041

Instrumental Studies: Guitar*

This module provides a foundation on classical guitar technique, with emphasis on effective hand positioning and a strong grasp of the rudiments of music.
2 1/2
DMU1042

Instrumental Studies: Gamelan*

This module provides students with the practical skills of playing Javanese Gamelan, from simple to slightly complex pieces, up to the level of Irama II.
1/2 2
ACE1001

Speech Presentations*

Speech Presentations is a programme in writing and presenting speeches. It will impart skills that students need to present their ideas effectively in public. In a supportive classroom environment, students will learn to communicate their ideas effectively using verbal and written techniques.
1 and 2 2
ACE1101

Business Communication*

This module will cover the full spectrum of communications in the workplace; this ranges from effective online correspondences, to report writing, and verbal communication skills.
1 and 2 2
ACE1102

Entrepreneurship in the Arts*

This module will cover the different models of entrepreneurship in the arts industry, and strategies to succeed independently. Students are guided to create personal value and build a productive start-up in the arts with available resources (e.g., intelligence, insight, ethics, initiative and influence).
1 and 2 2
ACE1103

Starting Your Own Business*

This module informs students with essential knowledge in setting up a business. Students develop business literacy through learning basic business principles and processes such as licensing, financial management, start-up operations, and consumer behaviour.
1 and 2 2
ACR2000

Singapore Arts Scene*

This module creates awareness in students of issues and trends in the arts scene, and develops critical thinking skills through problem-based learning.
1 and 2 2
IDP2001

Interdisciplinary Project 2A*

This module is an open platform of at least 2 disciplines, designed to introduce students to identify shared concepts and methods of the various disciplines. It aims to expose students to insights of the various disciplines, and become competent to integrate knowledge from multiple disciplines.
1 or 2
2
IDP2002

Interdisciplinary Project 2B*

This module is an open platform of at least 2 disciplines, designed to introduce students to identify shared concepts and methods of the various disciplines. It aims to expose students to insights of the various disciplines, and become competent to integrate knowledge from multiple disciplines.
1 or 2 4
IDP3001

Interdisciplinary Project 3A*

This module is an open platform of at least 2 disciplines, designed to engage students in identifying shared concepts and methods of the various disciplines. It provides insights of the various disciplines through an interdisciplinary environment, and raise new questions using interdisciplinary perspectives.
1 or 2
2
IDP3002

Interdisciplinary Project 3B*

This module is an open platform of at least 2 disciplines, designed to engage students in identifying shared concepts and methods of the various disciplines. It provides insights of the various disciplines through an interdisciplinary environment, and raise new questions using interdisciplinary perspectives.
1 or 2 4

*Electives

Option (A): Students take one of two dance options (A) in Semester 1. The other dance option (A) may be taken as an Elective in Semester 1.
Option (B): Students take one of two dance options (B) in Semester 2. The other dance option (B) may be taken as an Elective in Semester 2.
Option (C): Students take one of two dance options (C) in Semester 1. The other dance option (C) may be taken as an Elective in Semester 1.
Option (D): Students take one of two dance options (D) in Semester 2. The other dance option (D) may be taken as an Elective in Semester 2.
Option (E): Students take one of two dance options (E) in Semester 1 or 2. The other dance option (E) may be taken as an Elective in Semester 1 or 2.

Show More

entry requirements

NAFA hopes to attract applicants with the potential to become excellent arts practitioners. Applicants are selected by merit, based on the following criteria:

  • Potential in Artistic Talent and Creativity
  • Educational Qualification
  • English Language Proficiency
  • Special Factor

Selection is competitive and is subject to the availability of places. However, the Academy may give consideration to talented applicants who excel in Artistic Talent and Creativity, but have not fully met the education qualification stated.
Find out about the specific entry requirements that apply to you.


Audition Instructions – Diploma in Dance

You will receive a confirmation email containing the audition details nearer to your assigned audition date.

You will be required to attend an audition.

  • The audition consists of two sections - Practical Assessment and Interview.
  • You are required to report to the audition venue 30 minutes earlier to register, warm up and change into appropriate attire for dancing. You must bring your own attire.
  • The audition may take up to 2 hours.
Audition Date
26 January 2024
23 February 2024
22 March 2024
12 April 2024
3 May 2024

Note: You will be notified of the outcome of your application 4 to 6 weeks after your portfolio interview or audition. Some application outcomes may take longer than expected.

Practical Assessment
You are expected to prepare and perform two contrasting solos of any dance genre/style (e.g. Ballet and Cultural Dance; Chinese classical dance and Chinese folk dance).

  • Each dance should not exceed 90 seconds. The solo dance can be choreographed by yourself or by someone else (e.g. your dance teacher).
  • You are required to bring your own music which can played from your own media device (e.g. phone, tablet, or other audio device).
  • A costume (e.g. tutu for female ballet classical solo) may be worn.
  • Through your performance, assessors will evaluate your:
    • Technique - coordination, control and alignment
    • Artistry - spatial awareness, musicality, dynamic range and performance quality
    • Fitness - strength, control, flexibility, coordination, speed, stamina and stretch

Interview
You are expected to discuss why you want to study dance during the interview. You will be evaluated based on your:

  • Existing knowledge of and experience in dance performance
  • Dance-related interests and career aspirations
  • Dance proclivity and learning attitude
  • Any medical or health concerns

Applicants who are unable to attend a live audition may request for an online audition. Both options will be followed by an online interview with the applicant alone and without the assistance of any other person.

Guidelines for the pre-recorded solos are as follows:

  • You cannot perform/ dance with any make up in the audition videos, although you can tie your hair according to what's necessary.
  • You have to come to the front of the camera (where your face can be seen clearly) and do a brief introduction of yourself. You will then proceed to move into the space and start dancing your solos after the introduction. * Please note that the video has to be shot in one take and not being edited in any way. Otherwise, the audition videos will not be considered.
  • This applies to both male and female applicants.
  • The photo that you send in should be the one that resembles how you look like now.
  • For the online interview, no interpreter should be around, or the interview could be disqualified.

Minimum Educational Qualifications Required

  • Singapore-Cambridge GCE ‘O’ Level: Aggregate score of 25 points or better in 4 GCE ‘O’ Level subjects, excluding English.

    Applicants who are active in their Secondary Schools’ Co-curricular Activities (CCA) may gain up to 2 CCA points. The CCA points can be used to improve their EQ aggregate score for admission consideration.

    Types of bonus points No. of bonus points awarded
    Grades of A1–A2 2 points
    Grades of B3–C6 1 point
  • Singapore Integrated Programme: Successful completion of Year 4 or higher.
  • School of The Arts (SOTA): Successful completion of Year 4 or higher.
  • Institute of Technical Education (ITE): Full-time Higher Nitec or Nitec.
Successful completion of at least 10 years of education.

Eligible international students will be able to use their mid-year examination results to apply for diploma programmes at NAFA. Applicants will be given conditional offer if they are successful in their portfolio interview/audition selection. Applicants are still required to submit their year-end examination results and meet the admission requirements of the respective programmes. Any applicant who does not meet the admission requirements will have his/her conditional offer revoked.

The minimum English Language proficiency requirement:

  • Grade C6 at GCE O-Levels
  • TOEFL iBT 50
  • TOEFL 500
  • IELTS Academic Band 5
  • SAT score of 480 (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing component)
  • Duolingo score of 80
  • Qualifications equivalent to any of the above

If you attain the IELTS Academic band 4 or its equivalent, you are required to take a compulsory English course in Year 1 of your studies. The 40-hour English course is chargeable at S$872 (including prevailing GST).

Recognition is accorded for prior achievements in areas relevant to intended studies.

The Early Admissions Exercise (EAE) allows applicants to apply for and receive conditional admission to NAFA prior to receiving their final grades. The application will commence in June for the following year’s intake.

The EAE is open to graduating GCE O-Level students, final-year Nitec and Higher Nitec students from the Institute of Technical Education, IP or IB Year 4 students.

Applicants applying via Diploma EAE will go through the following process and timeline:

Process

Applicants to:
  • Submit Portfolio for programmes under the Faculty of Art & Design (3D Design/Design & Media/ Fashion Studies/Fine Art) (No Admission Test for EAE)
  • Submit Personal Statement and Testimonial for Diploma in Arts Management
  • Attend Audition for programmes under the Faculty of Performing Arts (Dance/Music/Theatre)

Please refer to the section ‘Potential in Artistic Talent and Creativity’ under each programme for more information about the above.


Offer and Acceptance
  • Applicants will receive notification of the application outcome via email. Successful applicants should confirm acceptance of their offers by the deadline stipulated
  • Applicants who accept their offers at this stage will be guaranteed a place, as long as they meet the criteria stated under Entry Requirement for each programme

Withdrawal
  • Should applicants wish to withdraw their acceptance, they must submit their withdrawal notice to [email protected]
  • Applicants who had accepted their EAE offer but fail to make the required payment by the stipulated deadline will have their offers withdrawn
  • Applicants who fail to meet the admission criteria will have their offers withdrawn

Entry Requirements for EAE


For O-Level Students
Students who have registered to sit for the GCE O-Level examinations in the year of Early Admission Exercise (EAE)

For ITE Students
ITE students from full-time Higher Nitec/Nitec courses may apply for early admission. They can use their preliminary examination results (cumulative GPA of up to the 3rd term for a 2-year Higher Nitec/Nitec course or 5th term for a 3-year Nitec course) for application. The minimum cumulative GPA for early admission is 3.0.

For Integrated Programme (IP)/ International Baccalaureate (IB) Year 4 Students
IP and IB Year 4 students may use their mid-year examination results to apply for EAE.


Confirmation of Conditional Offers for Diploma Admission

Successful applicants for the EAE will be given conditional offers and are still required to submit the following document, as applicable:
  • GCE O-Level results with an aggregate of not more than 25 points for 4 subjects excluding English
  • Certificate and Academic Transcript for Nitec or Higher Nitec
  • Completion of IP Year 4 (End-Year Examination Results)
  • Completion of IB Year 4 (End-Year Examination Results)
Any applicant who fails to provide documentary evidence of having met the admission requirements by the deadline stipulated by NAFA will have his/her conditional offer withdrawn.

Applicants may receive module exemption of up to 60 credits, if they have taken and passed the same or similar modules in another institution. The granting of exemption and advanced standing may be subject to applicants passing a Portfolio Interview, Audition or Admission Test. Application for module exemption may be subject to a Portfolio Interview or Audition.

Applicants with GCE A-Level, International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma and IB Career-Related Certificate (IBCC)

Applicants who have completed GCE A-Level or IB Diploma will be eligible to be considered for module exemption (up to 40 credits) in the relevant programmes. Applicants from SOTA who have completed Year 4 and above are eligible to receive advanced standing (Year 1, Semester 2 or Year 2, Semester 1) in relevant Diploma programmes subject to their final or preliminary examination results.


How to Apply

Take the leap! A promising future in dance awaits.

Apply online
Apply online here from 2 October 2023 to 31 March 2024. The application is extended to 15 May 2024.

Keep the Application Acknowledgement for your reference and submit the required documents

Keep the Application Acknowledgement for your reference and submit the required documents for verification within five working days from the application date at:

Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts
Campus 1 (Admissions counter at level 1)
80 Bencoolen Street
Singapore 189655

Operating Hours
Monday to Friday: 9am to 5pm
Closed on Saturday, Sunday, and Public Holidays

Alternatively, you can email a copy of the required documents to [email protected].

Required documents for verification:
  • NRIC for Singapore Citizens and Singapore Permanent Residents. Passport and valid Student's Pass (if applicable) for international students.
  • Academic certificates and transcripts (GCE O-Level or NITEC/Higher NITEC and GCE N-Level or other equivalent qualifications). Certificates in a foreign language must be translated to English.
  • CCA record (if any).
  • English proficiency document (if applicable), e.g. TOEFL, TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, SAT, Duolingo or equivalent qualification.

Make payment of the Application Fee at the cashier counter in NAFA or online

Make payment of the Application Fee at the cashier counter in NAFA or online at https://payment.nafa.edu.sg/Students.
Applicants who are paying online will be required to upload the above documents during application. Receive a test advisory on the date of your audition from the Student Admissions Office.

Attend an audition

Attend the audition at NAFA with the required materials as indicated in the test advisory.

Application outcome

Receive the outcome of your application via email within 4 – 6 weeks after your Portfolio Submission/Interview/Audition or Admission Test.