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

Step Up and Train the Next Generation of Musicians

Teaching music to vastly diverse learners is both the sharing of knowledge and a performance in itself. The NAFA Diploma in Music Teaching supports aspiring music educators in achieving this with an all-rounded curriculum focusing on both music and education.

Emphasis on developing technical competence, stylistic awareness and creativity in performance or composition, is met with an equal focus on acquiring pedagogical skills and strategies to teach.

You can expect a rigorous broad-based and practice-led curriculum with an abundance of exposure to industry projects, teaching practice and industrial attachments.

If you wish to further your career as a Ministry of Education (MOE) teacher, you may apply to the MOE when you are in Year 1 of your Diploma programme. Find out more about the Art and Music Teacher Training Sponsorship here. Upon completion of your diploma programme at NAFA, you will continue with a 2-year Diploma in Education at the National Institute of Education (NIE) at Nanyang Technological University to acquire further skills in classroom management and teaching strategies. 


Learn about Both Music and Teaching

Learn what it means to be both a musician and an educator with a curriculum focused on building strong foundational skills in performing, as well as the pedagogical skills and strategies to teach.

Understand the Mind of a Musician

Gain insights to what musicians need—from ways to protect their health and well-being, to the range of digital and job search skills required to thrive in their careers—through a range of carefully curated modules and activities offered both at NAFA and at the National Institute of Education (NIE).

Future-proof Your Skills

Core units in contextual studies, as well as aural and musicianship classes will add depth to your understanding of music, and equip you with skills in communication, collaboration, problem solving and more, to enhance your overall employability.

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
DMU1181

Principal Study (Pedagogy Track) 1A

This module provides students in Music Teaching programme with the opportunity to understand and develop their basic technical and musical skills, whether in their instrument or composition.

In addition, all students will be involved in Learning Lab, a series of weekly small-group seminars on musicianship, repertoire, as well as practical skills for musicians and music educators, aimed at complementing the musical learning of students.
1 6
DMU1152

Professional Studies 1A

This module consists of a range of classes and rehearsals/performance tailored specifically to students’ areas of study. It is designed to complement and extend the performing experiences, technical skills and repertoire knowledge that students develop on their principal instruments or composition study within the Principal Study module. In addition, the module aims to equip students with the practical skills and knowledge they need as musicians and/or music educators, through workshops on health and well-being.
1 4
DMU1153

Aural and Musicianship Skills 1A

Students learn to experience and communicate music more meaningfully. This module focuses on basic theoretical knowledge and aural skills, including time signatures, basic chord progressions, sight singing, and melodic writing.
1 3
DMU1154

Music in Context 1A

This module enables students to acquire a broad and informed knowledge of selected composers, compositions, and musical genres during the Age of Common Practice. Students will benefit from an orientation on basic characteristics in Baroque national styles and ideas, and be exposed to issues relevant to their Principal Study disciplines. In the Chinese Music Pathway, the module aims to equip students with the basic knowledge of the elements of Chinese music and to appreciate, understand, and analyze Chinese musical compositions.
1 3
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
DMU1182

Cross-Disciplinary Creative Practices

The module introduces students to various artistic disciplines in NAFA, including visual arts, design thinking, and theatre. It aims to widen students’ perspectives, and help students draw connection between music and other art forms and practices in NAFA, as well as to develop an overview of NAFA’s heritage and Southeast Asian art practices.
1 2
DMU1281

Principal Study (Pedagogy Track) 1B

This module provides students in Music Teaching programme with the opportunity to understand and develop their basic technical and musical skills, whether in their instrument or composition.

In addition, all students will be involved in Learning Lab, a series of weekly small-group seminars on musicianship, repertoire, as well as practical skills for musicians and music educators, aimed at complementing the musical learning of students.
2 6
DMU1252

Professional Studies 1B

This module consists of a range of classes and rehearsals/performance tailored specifically to students’ areas of study. It is designed to complement and extend the performing experiences, technical skills and repertoire knowledge that students develop on their principal instruments or composition study within the Principal Study module. In addition, the module aims to equip students with the practical skills and knowledge they need as musicians and/or music educators, through workshops on health and well-being.
2 4
DMU1253

Aural and Musicianship Skills 1B

This module develops essential knowledge in fundamental four-part tonal harmonic language and score reading.
2 3
DMU1254

Music in Context 1B

This module enables students to consolidate knowledge about selected composers, compositions, and musical genres in the First Viennese School. Students in Chinese Music Pathway gain an overview of stylistic periods of Western music history from the Middle Ages to the 21st century.
2 2
DMU1255

Special Topics in Performance Studies 1

This module enriches students’ experience, exposure and understanding about musical performance, through projects that inform specific aspects in concert performance.
2 2
DMU1282

Creative Improvisation with Interdisciplinary Collaboration

This module introduces a range of techniques for creative improvisation. Through playing and music-making workshops, students will acquire listening, interacting, reflecting, anticipating, describing and creating skills. These skills will, in turn, deepen their understanding of the music they are performing, as well as develop their critical ability to listen to the sound that they are producing, thus raising their overall musicianship and proficiency.
2 2
DMU2181

Principal Study (Pedagogy Track) 2A

This module provides Music Teaching students with the opportunity to understand and further develop their technical and musical skills from Year 1.

In addition, all students will be involved in Learning Lab, a series of weekly small-group seminars on musicianship, repertoire, as well as practical skills for musicians and music educators, aimed at complementing the musical learning of students.
1 6
DMU2152

Professional Studies 2A

This module consists of a range of classes and rehearsals/performance tailored specifically to students’ areas of study. It is designed to complement and extend the performing experiences, technical skills and repertoire knowledge that students develop on their principal instruments or composition study within the Principal Study module. In addition, the module aims to equip students with the practical skills and knowledge they need as musicians and/or music educators, through workshops on MIDI sequencing and audio recording.
1 4
DMU2153

Aural and Musicianship Skills 2A

This module continues to develop aural perception and musicianship skills in tonal harmony. Students learn theoretical musicianship through practical application.
1 3
DMU2154

Music in Context 2A

Students extend their knowledge of European musical history in the 19 Century and gain a broad and informed awareness of selected composers, performers, musical genres and artistic ideas. Chinese instrumentalists explore the development of modern Chinese music from the beginning of the 20th Century to the present.
1 3
DMU2195

Principles and Foundation of Music Education I

This module introduces the principles and practices of music education for the classroom. Students explore music as a practical and creative activity in education.
1 2
DMU2171

Career Skills

To enhance professional readiness, this module provides students with a broad overview of up-to-date professional development tools and strategies, and the industry practices and trends.
1 2
DMU2281

Principal Study (Pedagogy Track) 2B

This module provides Music Teaching students with the opportunity to understand and further develop their technical and musical skills.

In addition, all students will be involved in Learning Lab, a series of weekly small-group seminars on musicianship, repertoire, as well as practical skills for musicians and music educators, aimed at complementing the musical learning of students.
2 6
DMU2252

Professional Studies 2B

This module consists of a range of classes and rehearsals/performance tailored specifically to students’ areas of study. It is designed to complement and extend the performing experiences, technical skills and repertoire knowledge that students develop on their principal instruments or composition study within the Principal Study module. In addition, the module aims to equip students with the practical skills and knowledge they need as musicians and/or music educators, through workshops on MIDI sequencing and audio recording.
2 4
DMU2253

Aural and Musicianship Skills 2B

This module improves on musicianship in musical structures and techniques from the 18th and 19th centuries. Students continue to develop theoretical musicianship through practical application.
2 3
DMU2254

Music in Context 2B

Students broaden their knowledge of the history of Western music from the late 19th century to early 20th century, building an awareness of selected composers, performers, musical genres and artistic ideas. Students in Chinese Music Pathway explore the development of Chinese music in Singapore.
2 2
DMU2296

Music Practices in the Classroom I

This module introduces musical activities for the primary school pupils. Students develop practical musical skills for classroom teaching.
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 2
DMU2061

Performance Project I*

This is a self-directed study on a subject of the student’s interest. Students develop a professional performance practice through project preparation.
2 2
DMU2056

Overseas Immersion*

This module allows students to complete a 2-to-4 week attachment with one of our partner universities overseas. These cultural exchanges serve to broaden experience and understanding of performance practices in different genres.
2 4
DMU2065

Industrial Attachment*

This module provides students with the opportunity to apply their skills in an authentic and practical situation, and to understudy working professionals where they gain industry skills and knowledge.
2 4
DMU2066

Industry Project*

The module provides students with the opportunity to plan and execute a project with an external collaborator (client), bringing together their knowledge, skills and interests in an authentic experience.
2 2
DMU2067

Teaching Practice*

The module provides students with the opportunity to practise effective teaching by applying their skills in teaching preparation, curriculum development and other practical matters.
2 2
DMU2255

Special Topics in Performance Studies 2*

Students develop critical and creative perceptions about music, broaden knowledge on musical repertoire, and cultivate informed judgement in their assessment and evaluation of performers and performances.
2 2
DMU2071

Dalcroze Method*

This module offers an introduction to Dalcroze method in music education, and aims to provide music students with techniques of facilitating music workshop to children in primary schools.
2 2
DMU2072

Kodály Method*

Based on the teaching approaches of Kodály, the programme focuses on innovative methods, materials, and techniques of teaching general music to children in primary schools.
2 2
DMU3181

Principal Study (Pedagogy Track) 3A

This module provides Music Teaching students with the opportunity to understand and further develop their technical and musical skills from Year 2.

In addition, all students will be involved in Learning Lab, a series of weekly small-group seminars on musicianship, repertoire, as well as practical skills for musicians and music educators, aimed at complementing the musical learning of students.
1 6
DMU3152

Professional Studies 3A

This module consists of a range of classes and rehearsals/performance tailored specifically to students’ areas of study. It is designed to complement and extend the performing experiences, technical skills and repertoire knowledge that students develop on their principal instruments or composition study within the Principal Study module. In addition, the module aims to equip students with the practical skills and knowledge they need as musicians and/or music educators, through workshops on song writing and pop song arrangement.
1 4
DMU3153

Aural and Musicianship Skills 3

Students gain a factual and conceptual knowledge of 20th century music theory and the ability to compose and analyse such music using a variety of basic techniques.
1 3
DMU3154

Music in Context 3A

This module explores aesthetic trends of Western classical music written since 1900. Students consider the broader historical and social circumstances in which musical works were created. Chinese instrumentalists gain an understanding of different styles and genres of the Chinese folksongs and folk music, and the issues relevant to their principal study disciplines.
1 3
DMU3193

Instrumental/Vocal Teaching and Outreach IA

This module covers generic pedagogical themes, including strategies for planning instrumental lessons and the assessment of student development and progress.
1 2
DMU3195

Principles and Foundation of Music Education II

This module explores the issues raised in MU2195 in greater depth. Students learn about musical development in children, and explore music education within the wider educational context.
1 2
DMU3281

Principal Study (Pedagogy Track) 3B

This module provides Music Teaching students with the opportunity to understand and further develop their technical and musical skills.

In addition, all students will be involved in Learning Lab, a series of weekly small-group seminars on musicianship, repertoire, as well as practical skills for musicians and music educators, aimed at complementing the musical learning of students.
2 6
DMU3252

Professional Studies 3B

This module consists of a range of classes and rehearsals/performance tailored specifically to students’ areas of study. It is designed to complement and extend the performing experiences, technical skills and repertoire knowledge that students develop on their principal instruments or composition study within the Principal Study module. In addition, the module aims to prepare students for the profession as musicians or music educators, through the development of an e-portfolio.
2 4
DMU3221

Stylistic Studies

Students learn the fundamentals of the harmonic practices of Western European music from the 17th to 19th century.
2 2
DMU3254

Music in Context 3B

Students consider the broader issue of cultural nationalism and identity in the works of select Asian composers, and discuss the context of Western music in Asia from the early 1600s. The module also provides an insight into Southeast Asian music.
2 2
DMU3293

Instrumental/Vocal Teaching and Outreach IB

The lecture series and workshops prepare students for the outreach project. Students learn to teach through improvisation, and develop teamwork and organisational skills.
2 2
DMU3296

Music Practices in the Classroom II

This module continues to examine topics covered in DMU2296. Students are taught the use of supplementary tools in classroom teaching, and music of non-Western cultures is explored.
2 2
DMU3282

Composition*

The module is an introduction to the basic techniques of composing. At the end of the module, students should have completed two compositions: a solo for their own solo instrument and a work for two to three players.
2 2
DMU3061

Performance Project II*

This is a self-directed study on a subject of the student’s interest. Students develop a professional performance practice through project preparation.
2 2
DMU3065

Industrial Attachment*

This module provides students with the opportunity to apply their skills in a real and practical situation, and to understudy working professionals where they gain industry skills and knowledge.
2 4
DMU3066

Industry Project*

The module provides students with the opportunity to plan and execute a project with an external collaborator (client), bringing together their knowledge, skills and interests in an authentic experience.
2 2
DMU3067

Teaching Practice*

The module provides students with the opportunity to practise effective teaching by applying their skills in teaching preparation, curriculum development and other practical matters.
2 2
DMU3092

Introduction to Music Therapy*

Students develop a general understanding of what music therapy entails and what makes a music therapist. In addition, students will have a glimpse of the realistic aspects of the field through audio-visual resources. The applications of music therapy with a few selected populations and different models of music therapy are briefly examined.
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 and 2 4
DDM2901

Digital Photography and Publication*

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 and 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 and 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 and 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
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

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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.


Audition

You are required to attend an entrance audition of approximately 15 minutes on your intended principal study. Non-pianists are advised to bring along their own accompanist for the audition. Please refer to the list of official accompanists if necessary. The accompanist fee is S$100, for a 45-minute rehearsal and the audition. Applicants are required to make arrangements with the accompanists directly for practice sessions and payment. All instrumentalists except percussionists and pianists are required to bring their principal study instrument for the audition.

The audition consists of the following:

  • Performance of two contrasting works of your choice. Pieces selected from popular music repertoire would not be considered for the purposes of this audition.
  • Sight-reading
  • Aural awareness
  • Music theory*
  • Short interview with the audition panel about your musical experiences, interests and your ambitions for future studies and career

*The music theory paper (approximately 60 minutes) will test applicants in various areas at a level similar to ABRSM Grade V.

Applicants who present documentary evidence of ABRSM Grade V Music Theory or its equivalent will be exempted from the test. Further information about the requirements of ABRSM Grade V Theory can be found at www.abrsm.org

Applicants who obtain a pass in any of the following qualifications will be also be exempted from the theory test:

  • GCE ‘O’ Level or GCE ‘A’ Level Music
  • SOTA Music Year 4 and above
Live auditions in Singapore
Live auditions in Singapore are usually held in the months of December, February and April.

Audition Date
4 to 8 December 2023
26 to 29 February 2024
22 to 25 April 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.

Composition Portfolio Interview

Composers should submit a portfolio of at least two, but not more than five, contrasting examples of your compositions. Do submit your portfolio two weeks in advance of your scheduled audition. You may submit your work as written scores, recordings or a combination of the two.

Please ensure that your written music is clear and legible, and that you include full details, where necessary, of instrumentation, scoring, and performance details. Do not send Sibelius files unless they are accompanied by PDF files of the same material. Recordings should either be on a CD or DVD, or in a file format that can be read in VLC or Windows Media Player.

Individual works should be clearly indexed on both the CD and accompanying documentation. All recordings should be clearly labelled with your name and the title of the piece on both the CD and its cover. Portfolios will be returned to you immediately at the end of the audition or mailed back to you after the audition period upon request.

Online Audition

Though live auditions are preferred, applicants who are unable to attend a live audition may submit a video recording. Following a video pre-screening, shortlisted candidates will be invited to an online audition via Zoom or MS Teams, facilitated by the Student Admissions Office. During the audition, applicants will undergo assessments of sight-reading and aural awareness as well.

Guidelines for Video Recording:

  • The recording should be a clear and accurate representation of your playing. Do not edit the audio/video of your recording
  • The camera should be stationary for the performance of each work
  • The video should show the performer in full body if possible
  • The video should be recorded no more than six months prior to the scheduled audition.
  • The video recording files should be named with the title of the pieces.

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 bonus points. The CCA points can be used to improve their 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

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! Your career as a music educator begins here.

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 the audition at NAFA

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.