Admission Requirements

Diploma

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 Qualifications
  • Language Proficiency
  • Special Factor
  • Age Requirement
  • Module Exemption

Selection is competitive and places are subject to availability. However, the academy may consider talented applicants who excel in Artistic Talent and Creativity, but have not met the full educational requirements for the course.


All applicants are to demonstrate their artistic potential through portfolio submission/admission test/audition as specified in each course, in order to be considered for admission.



3D Design

  • Diploma in Design (Furniture and Spatial)

  • Diploma in Design (Interior and Exhibition)

  • Diploma in Design (Object and Jewellery)

  • Diploma in Design (Landscape and Architecture)


All applicants (except from China) may select either (A) Portfolio Submission or (B) Admission Test.‬‬‬‬‬ Applicants from China will need to take the admission test. Requests to submit a portfolio by applicants from China are subject to approval.

(A) Portfolio Submission

You are to submit 10-15 images of recent art or design work, which should include a range of finished artwork as well as development work in preparing the finished artwork (sketches, mood boards, etc). Portfolios are assessed with the aim of identifying your creative and technical potential to undertake a course in art and design.

(Allowed image file types: .jpg,.jpeg,.png,.gif,.tif,.tiff,.bmp. Maximum image file size: 5 MB)
(Allowed video file types: .mpeg,.mp4,.mov,.m4v,.avi,.wmv,.flv,.asf,.mpg,.mp3. Maximum image file size: 200 MB)

The work submitted should preferably be not more than two years old. It may be the result of assigned class projects or independent exploration. It is recommended that the selected examples of work reflect your interests, experience and competencies in art and design.

While compiling the contents of the portfolio, you may concentrate on a single medium or show work in a breadth of media. The portfolio may include, but is not limited to the following: drawing, prints, photography, painting, film, video, animation, sculpture, ceramics, digital work, etc.

Guidelines on taking photographs of artworks:
  • A clean background with no visual clutter distracting the artworks should be used.
  • The artwork should be evenly lit and there should not be any shadows cast in the artworks.

You are also expected to write a statement of intent - in about 100 words - stating your reasons for pursuing a course of study in art and design. Please include your goals, interests and aspirations for the future.

(B) Admission Test

Selected applicants may be asked to attend an in-person/web interview.

The test paper is divided into 3 parts:

  1. Drawing from observation, where you will be tested on your ability to draw an actual object or scene in front of you
  2. Creative visualisation, where you will be tested on your creativity and imagination to visualise an object or scene using the lines/shapes provided
  3. Written essay, where you will be tested on your ability to write and express your views on design

(Test Duration: 3 hours)

Arts Management

Diploma in Arts Management

Personal Statement and Testimonial

You are required to submit a 500-word personal statement and a testimonial through https://pss.nafa.edu.sg/.

Personal Statement
Your personal statement should articulate your interest for the arts and future career goals. Through your personal statement, you will be evaluated based on your:

  • Past experiences in artistic practice, arts management and/or attending arts events
  • Aspiration to work in the arts and cultural industries
  • Written communication skills

Testimonial
The testimonial should be written by an official (e.g. teacher, principal, advisor, etc.) of an educational institution you have attended. Through the testimonial, you will be evaluated based on your:

  • Personality traits
  • Participation in co-curricular activities
  • Leadership ability or potential

(Allowed document file type: .pdf. Maximum document file size: 10 MB)

Dance

Diploma in Dance

Audition

You are 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 your own appropriate attire for dancing.
  • The audition may take up to 3 hours

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 a CD or from your own media device (e.g. phone, tablet, MP3 player with a 3.5mm audio output jack. 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

Applicants who are unable to attend a live audition may request for an online audition. For the Practical Assessment, applicants may choose to perform the two solos through the Internet or submit a current pre-recorded performance. Both options will be followed by an online interview.

Design & Media

  • Diploma in Advertising

  • Diploma in Graphic Communication

  • Diploma in Illustration Design with Animation

  • Diploma in Screen Media


All applicants (except from China) may select either (A) Portfolio Submission or (B) Admission Test.‬‬‬‬‬ Applicants from China will need to take the admission test. Requests to submit a portfolio by applicants from China are subject to approval.

(A) Portfolio Submission

You are to submit 10-15 images of recent art or design work, which should include a range of finished artwork as well as development work in preparing the finished artwork (sketches, mood boards, etc). Portfolios are assessed with the aim of identifying your creative and technical potential to undertake a course in art and design.

(Allowed image file types: .jpg,.jpeg,.png,.gif,.tif,.tiff,.bmp. Maximum image file size: 5 MB)
(Allowed video file types: .mpeg,.mp4,.mov,.m4v,.avi,.wmv,.flv,.asf,.mpg,.mp3. Maximum image file size: 200 MB)

The work submitted should preferably be not more than two years old. It may be the result of assigned class projects or independent exploration. It is recommended that the selected examples of work reflect your interests, experience and competencies in art and design.

While compiling the contents of the portfolio, you may concentrate on a single medium or show work in a breadth of media. The portfolio may include, but is not limited to the following: drawing, prints, photography, painting, film, video, animation, sculpture, ceramics, digital work, etc.

Guidelines on taking photographs of artworks:
  • A clean background with no visual clutter distracting the artworks should be used.
  • The artwork should be evenly lit and there should not be any shadows cast in the artworks.

You are also expected to write a statement of intent - in about 100 words - stating your reasons for pursuing a course of study in art and design. Please include your goals, interests and aspirations for the future.

(B) Admission Test

Selected applicants may be asked to attend an in-person/web interview.

The test paper is divided into 3 parts:

  1. Drawing from observation, where you will be tested on your ability to draw an actual object or scene in front of you
  2. Creative visualisation, where you will be tested on your creativity and imagination to visualise an object or scene using the lines/shapes provided
  3. Written essay, where you will be tested on your ability to write and express your views on design

(Test Duration: 3 hours)

Fashion Studies

  • Diploma in Fashion Design

  • Diploma in Fashion Merchandising & Marketing


All applicants (except from China) may select either (A) Portfolio Submission or (B) Admission Test.‬‬‬‬‬ Applicants from China will need to take the admission test. Requests to submit a portfolio by applicants from China are subject to approval.

(A) Portfolio Submission

You are to submit 10-15 images of recent art or design work, which should include a range of finished artwork as well as development work in preparing the finished artwork (sketches, mood boards, etc). Portfolios are assessed with the aim of identifying your creative and technical potential to undertake a course in art and design.

(Allowed image file types: .jpg,.jpeg,.png,.gif,.tif,.tiff,.bmp. Maximum image file size: 5 MB)
(Allowed video file types: .mpeg,.mp4,.mov,.m4v,.avi,.wmv,.flv,.asf,.mpg,.mp3. Maximum image file size: 200 MB)

The work submitted should preferably be not more than two years old. It may be the result of assigned class projects or independent exploration. It is recommended that the selected examples of work reflect your interests, experience and competencies in art and design.

While compiling the contents of the portfolio, you may concentrate on a single medium or show work in a breadth of media. The portfolio may include, but is not limited to the following: drawing, prints, photography, painting, film, video, animation, sculpture, ceramics, digital work, etc.

Guidelines on taking photographs of artworks:
  • A clean background with no visual clutter distracting the artworks should be used.
  • The artwork should be evenly lit and there should not be any shadows cast in the artworks.

You are also expected to write a statement of intent - in about 100 words - stating your reasons for pursuing a course of study in art and design. Please include your goals, interests and aspirations for the future.

(B) Admission Test

Selected applicants may be asked to attend an in-person/web interview.

The test paper is divided into 3 parts:

  1. Drawing from observation, where you will be tested on your ability to draw an actual object or scene in front of you
  2. Creative visualisation, where you will be tested on your creativity and imagination to visualise an object or scene using the lines/shapes provided
  3. Written essay, where you will be tested on your ability to write and express your views on design

(Test Duration: 3 hours)

Fine Art

  • Diploma in Fine Art

  • Diploma in Art Teaching


All applicants (except from China) may select either (A) Portfolio Submission or (B) Admission Test.‬‬‬‬‬ Applicants from China will need to take the admission test. Requests to submit a portfolio by applicants from China are subject to approval.

(A) Portfolio Submission

You are to submit 10-15 images of recent art or design work, which should include a range of finished artwork as well as development work in preparing the finished artwork (sketches, mood boards, etc). Portfolios are assessed with the aim of identifying your creative and technical potential to undertake a course in art and design.

(Allowed image file types: .jpg,.jpeg,.png,.gif,.tif,.tiff,.bmp. Maximum image file size: 5 MB)
(Allowed video file types: .mpeg,.mp4,.mov,.m4v,.avi,.wmv,.flv,.asf,.mpg,.mp3. Maximum image file size: 200 MB)

The work submitted should preferably be not more than two years old. It may be the result of assigned class projects or independent exploration. It is recommended that the selected examples of work reflect your interests, experience and competencies in art and design.

While compiling the contents of the portfolio, you may concentrate on a single medium or show work in a breadth of media. The portfolio may include, but is not limited to the following: drawing, prints, photography, painting, film, video, animation, sculpture, ceramics, digital work, etc.

Guidelines on taking photographs of artworks:
  • A clean background with no visual clutter distracting the artworks should be used.
  • The artwork should be evenly lit and there should not be any shadows cast in the artworks.

You are also expected to write a statement of intent - in about 100 words - stating your reasons for pursuing a course of study in art and design. Please include your goals, interests and aspirations for the future.

(B) Admission Test

Selected applicants may be asked to attend an in-person/web interview.

The test paper is divided into 3 parts:

  1. Drawing from observation, where you will be tested on your ability to draw an actual object or scene in front of you
  2. Creative visualisation, where you will be tested on your creativity and imagination to visualise an object or scene using the lines/shapes provided
  3. Written essay, where you will be tested on your ability to write and express your views on design

(Test Duration: 3 hours)

Music

  • Diploma in Music

  • Diploma in Music Teaching

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. If necessary, please contact Student Admissions Office for a list of accompanists. Applicants are required to make arrangements with the accompanists directly for practice sessions and payment. An accompanist fee is payable at S$100, and includes a 45-minute rehearsal along with the audition.

The audition consists of the following:

  • Performance of two contrasting works of your choice
  • Sight-reading
  • Aural awareness
  • Short interview with the audition panel about your musical experiences, interests and your ambitions for future studies and career

Composers should submit a portfolio of at least 2, but not more than 5, contrasting examples of your compositions. Please submit your portfolio one week in advance of the 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.

Though live auditions are preferred, applicants who are unable to attend a live audition may submit a video recording for their audition. If they pass this round, an interview via Skype/Facetime/Video Conference with applicants will be arranged by the Student Admissions Office. There will be a quick-study and aural test conducted during the interview.

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 stationery for the performance of each work.
  • The video should show the performer in full body if possible.

A minimum of ABRSM Grade V Theory* is also required. Applicants without the qualification are given the opportunity to take a 2-hour Music Theory paper.

The paper will test the following areas at a level similar to ABRSM Grade V:

  • Rhythm
  • Clefs and transposition
  • Scales and intervals
  • Harmony
  • Musical terms and signs
  • Composition of a simple eight-bar melody

*Further information about the requirements of ABRSM Grade V Theory can be found at www.abrsm.org

Theatre

  • Diploma in Theatre (English Drama)

  • Diploma in Theatre (Mandarin Drama)

Audition

You are required to attend an audition. The audition consists of three sections - Workshop, Audition Monologue and Interview.

  • You are not required to prepare an audition piece prior to the audition
  • You are required to report to the audition venue 30 minutes earlier to register
  • The audition may take up to 3 hours
  • Wear comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement

Workshop

You are expected to participate enthusiastically in the improvisation exercises and theatre games of the workshop. Through your participation in the workshop, you will be evaluated based on your:

  • Openness to improvisation and willingness to work with others
  • Vocal response in an improvisation - projection, range, tone and clarity
  • Physical response in an improvisation - expressiveness, spontaneity and range

Audition Monologue

You would be asked at the audition to select one out of three pieces of dramatic texts to perform. Time would be given to you to prepare for the performance. Through your performance of the monologue, assessors will evaluate your:

  • Ability to perform a dramatic text - comprehension, characterisation and creativity
  • Physical skills - presence on stage, spatial awareness, physical range, movement vocabulary and physical portrayal of character
  • Vocal skills - projection, clarity, range and tone

Interview

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

  • Existing knowledge of and experience in theatre and/or performance
  • Personality traits
  • Innovation and creativity

Minimum Educational Qualifications accepted:

  • 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 / Excellent 2 points
    Grade of B3 - C6 / Good 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.

For Diploma in Art Teaching:

  • Singapore-Cambridge GCE ‘O’ Level: At least 5 GCE ‘O’ Level credits, or its equivalent, including English as a First Language
  • Good grades in Art at the GCE ‘O’ Level. Applicants who have external Art qualifications and Art portfolio are welcomed to apply
  • Pass admission test or portfolio submission
  • Selected applicants may be asked to attend an in-person or online interview

For Diploma in Music Teaching:

  • Singapore-Cambridge GCE ‘O’ Level: At least 5 GCE ‘O’ Level credits, or its equivalent, including English as a First Language
  • Good grades from acceptable music examination boards or a pass in GCE ‘O’ Level Music. Applicants who are involved in musical groups and play a musical instrument are welcome to apply
  • Pass music audition

International applicants who have completed at least 10 years of education are eligible to apply. Relevant supporting evidence of applicants’ achievements in the arts must be submitted with the application.

If the earliest you are able to submit your full results is mid-2019, you may use your most recent school examination or preliminary examination results, which must be certified by your school, for application.

Overseas Educational Qualifications Accepted:

China

  • Senior High School Leaving Certificate Examination
  • National College Entrance Examination (NCEE), also known as “Gao-kao”

India

Secondary School Certificate (Standard X) from:

  • The Central Board of Secondary Education Examinations (CBSE)
  • The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (ISCE)
  • Other certificates equivalent to GCE ‘O’ Level

Indonesia

  • Sekolah Menengah Atas /Umum (SMA/SMU) National Final Evaluation Examination*
    *Good SMA/SMU/High School Year 10 and 11 results will be considered

Korea

  • High School Graduation Certificate of National Examination (Year 11/Year 12)

Malaysia

  • Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) Examination
  • Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) Examination
  • Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) Examination

Myanmar

  • Basic Education High School Examination/Matriculation

Philippines

  • High School Diploma/Certificate

Sri Lanka

  • Sri Lanka General Certificate of Education - Ordinary Level

Taiwan

  • General Scholastic Ability Test (GSAT)
  • Senior Secondary School (Grade 11 / Grade 12)

Thailand

  • High School Year 12*
    *Good High School Year 10 and 11 results will be considered

Vietnam

  • High School Year 11 Results
  • High School Diploma (Year 12)
  • Diploma in arts-related studies

Other Qualifications

  • General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE)
  • Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE)
  • International Baccalaureate Middle Year Programme (IB MYP)
  • International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBDP)
  • International Baccalaureate Career-related Certificate (IBCC)
  • International Baccalaureate Certificate

The minimum English Language proficiency requirement for all Diploma Courses except Diploma in Dance and Diploma in Music:

  • Grade C6 at GCE ‘O’ Level
  • TOEFL iBT 50
  • TOEFL 500
  • IELTS Academic Band 5
  • SAT score of 480 (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing component)
  • Duolingo score of 75
  • Qualifications equivalent to any of the above

The minimum English Language proficiency requirement for Diploma in Dance and Diploma in Music:

  • Grade D7 at GCE ‘O’ Level
  • TOEFL iBT 40
  • TOEFL 400
  • IELTS Academic Band 4
  • SAT score of 450 (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing component)
  • Duolingo score of 55
  • Qualifications equivalent to any of the above

In addition to the minimum English Language proficiency requirement, the minimum Chinese Language proficiency requirement for Diploma in Theatre (Mandarin Drama) is Grade C6 at GCE ‘O’ Level in Chinese Language or Higher Chinese or Literature in Chinese. The subject(s) will form part of the 4 ‘O’ Level subject requirements.

Applicants who do not meet the English Language proficiency requirement for the applied diploma course will have the option to enrol in the NAFA Preparatory English Course (PEC). Prior to enrolment in the PEC, applicants are required to submit their English Language proficiency scores from certification systems such as TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo. They will be placed in the appropriate module(s) – Pre-intermediate Level English and/or Intermediate Level English or Supplementary English as determined by the submitted scores.

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

Applicants should be 16 years of age or above in the year they are admitted to Year 1 of the diploma course.

ITE students from selected 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.

Applicants are still required to submit their final-year results and meet the early admission requirements of the respective courses. Any applicant who does not meet the early admission requirements will have his/her conditional offer revoked.

*List of courses eligible for early admission:

Higher NITEC/NITEC Courses Eligible for Early Admission to the Following NAFA Courses
Higher Nitec in Filmmaking (Cinematography) All School of Art & Design Courses
Higher Nitec in Interactive Design
Higher Nitec in Architectural Technology
Higher Nitec in Visual Merchandising
Nitec in Digital Animation
Nitec in Fashion Apparel Production & Design
Nitec in Product Design
Nitec in Architectural Technology
Nitec in Interior & Exhibition Design
Nitec in Visual Communication
Nitec in Visual Effects
Nitec in Digital Audio & Video Production
Higher NITEC/NITEC Courses Eligible for Early Admission to the Following NAFA Courses
Higher Nitec in Event Management Diploma in Arts Management
Higher Nitec in Performance Production

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 courses. Applicants from SOTA who have completed Year 4 and above are eligible to receive advanced standing (Year 1, Semester 2 or Year 2, Semester 2) in relevant Diploma courses subject to their final or preliminary examination results.

Applicants with Higher Nitec/Nitec:

Diploma courses from the 3D Design Programme

Full-time ITE graduates from the following courses will be considered for module exemption(s):

  • Higher Nitec in Visual Merchandising
  • Higher Nitec in Architectural Technology
  • Nitec in Interactive Media Design
  • Nitec in Product Design
  • Nitec in Architectural Technology
  • Nitec in Interior & Exhibition Design
  • Nitec in Visual Communication
  • Nitec in Visual Effects

Diploma courses from the Design & Media Programme

Full-time ITE graduates from the following courses will be considered for module exemption(s):

  • Higher Nitec in Filmmaking (Cinematography)
  • Higher Nitec in Games Art & Design
  • Higher Nitec in Interactive Design
  • Higher Nitec in Visual Merchandising
  • Nitec in Digital Animation
  • Nitec in Digital Audio & Video Production
  • Nitec in Interactive Media Design
  • Nitec in Product Design
  • Nitec in Social Media & Web Development
  • Nitec in Visual Communication
  • Nitec in Visual Effects

Diploma courses from the Fashion Studies Programme

Full-time ITE graduates from the following course will be considered for module exemption(s):

  • Higher Nitec in Visual Merchandising
  • Nitec in Fashion Apparel Production & Design
  • Nitec in Product Design

Diploma courses from the Fine Art Programme

Full-time ITE graduates from the following courses will be considered for module exemption(s):

  • Higher Nitec in Visual Mechandising
  • Nitec in Digital Animation
  • Nitec in Interactive Media Design
  • Nitec in Product Design
  • Nitec in Visual Communication
  • Nitec in Visual Effects

Diploma in Arts Management

Full-time ITE graduates from the following courses will be considered for module exemption(s):

  • Higher Nitec in Event Management
  • Higher Nitec in Performance Production

Diploma in Theatre (English Drama/Mandarin Drama)

Full-time ITE graduates from the following courses will be considered for module exemption(s):

  • Higher Nitec in Performance Production

Degree

Top-up degree course in collaboration with University of Essex

  • A graduate of NAFA’s Diploma in Arts Management or its equivalent
  • Satisfactory completion of an admission interview
  • Applicants should be 19 years of age or older in the year of admission
  • Language Proficiency: The University of Essex normally assumes that anyone educated in Singapore is fluent in English. If you have successfully completed post-secondary (e.g. Diploma) education in the medium of English, you will not normally be asked for additional evidence of proficiency. The minimum requirement for international students who have not studied in the medium of English is IELTS Academic Band 6 or equivalent; including a score of Band 6 in the written component.
  • Applicants whose qualifications do not conform to the above requirements (such as those with relevant experience or prior learning) may be considered on a case-by-case basis. In such cases, approval by the University of Essex will be required prior to final acceptance into the programme.

 

All applicants are to demonstrate their artistic potential through the submission of the following:

  1. Statement of Intent (250 – 300 words)
  2. A portfolio which consists of 10-15 pieces of the applicant’s best works. These works should demonstrate creativity, passion, and curiosity and are a reflection of the applicant’s view of the world.

The standard minimum entry requirements for this course are one or a combination of the following qualifications:

Entry into the first year (any one of the following):

  • Singapore-Cambridge ‘A’ Level (Minimum 2 A-Level/ H2 subjects with a pass in General Paper)
  • Polytechnic Diploma (Singapore)
  • International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma
Direct entry into the second year:
  • A relevant diploma in design from NAFA or a recognised institution
  • Diploma transcript must indicate passing grades in equivalent NAFA diploma modules

You should have completed at least 12 years of general education or have taken the Year 12 National/International examination to be considered for admission.

You may use your most recent school examination or preliminary examination results, which must be certified by your school if you have not received your final results for application. Please submit your final results and certificate within 5 days from the official release date. Failure to complete your Year 12 education qualification before the course commencement will result in your conditional admission offer being revoked

Entry into the first year (any one of the following):

China

  • National College Entrance Examination (NCEE), also known as “Gao-kao”

India

Secondary School Certificate (Standard XII) from:

  • The Central Board of Secondary Education Examinations (CBSE)
  • The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (ISCE)
  • Other Indian State Board Examination

Indonesia

  • Sekolah Menengah Atas (SMA) Ujian Nasional (UN)
  • SMA Ijazah

Korea

  • High School Graduation Certificate of National Examination

Malaysia

  • Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) Examination
  • Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) Examination

Myanmar

  • Basic Education High School Examination/Matriculation

Philippines

  • High School Certificate

Sri Lanka

  • Sri Lanka A-Level Certificate

Taiwan

  • General Scholastic Ability Test (GSAT)

Thailand

  • Thai Mathayom 6

Vietnam

  • High School Graduation Certificate

All Other Equivalent Year 12 Qualifications

Direct entry into the second year:

  • A relevant diploma in design from a recognised institution
  • Diploma transcript must indicate passing grades in equivalent NAFA diploma modules

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
  • Language Proficiency
  • Special Factor
  • Age Requirement
Selection is competitive and is subject to the availability of places.

APEL - Accreditation of Prior (Experiential) Learning
Applicants who do not meet these course entry requirements may still be considered in exceptional cases.

The course team will consider each application that demonstrates additional strengths and alternative evidence. This might, for example, be demonstrated by:
  • Related academic or work experience
  • The quality of the personal statement
  • A strong academic or other professional references
  • A combination of these factors
Each application will be considered on its own merit, but we cannot guarantee an offer in each case. In such cases, approval by the University of the Arts London will be required prior to final acceptance into the programme.

All classes are taught in English. If English was not the applicant’s primary medium of instruction throughout his or her school education, the applicant must provide evidence at enrolment of the following: IELTS level 6.0 or above, with at least 5.5 in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Click here for other acceptable English language qualifications.

Applicants should be 18 years of age or older in the year of admission to Year 1.

At NAFA, we are committed to providing full and equal educational opportunities to all students. The Academy firmly believes that every individual deserves a supportive learning environment. Applicants are invited to inform us in advance of any specific needs, and/or type of physical facilities or support you might require. Please include this information in your application form, supplemented with the relevant medical reports. This will allow us to plan the appropriate learning support for you. 

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

 

All applicants are to demonstrate their artistic potential through the submission of the following:

  1. Statement of Intent of about 500 words outlining the applicant’s interest(s) of practice and/or work the applicant aims to produce in the course of study.
  2. A portfolio which consists of 5 best examples of the applicant’s creative works. Each of these works should be supported by up to 3 visuals of development works. These works should demonstrate creativity, passion, and curiosity and are a reflection of the applicant’s view of the world.

The standard minimum entry requirements for this course are one or a combination of the following qualifications:

Entry into first year (either one of the following):

  • Singapore-Cambridge ‘A’ Level (Minimum 2 A-Level/ H2 subjects and a pass in General Paper)
  • Polytechnic Diploma (Singapore)
  • International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma

Direct entry into second year:

  • A relevant diploma in Fine Art from NAFA or a recognised institution
  • Diploma transcript must indicate passing grades in equivalent NAFA diploma modules

You should have completed at least 12 years of general education or have taken the Year 12 National/International examination to be considered for admission.

You may use your most recent school examination or preliminary examination results, which must be certified by your school if you have not received your final results for application. Please submit your final results and certificate within 5 days from the official release date. Failure to complete your Year 12 education qualification before the course commencement will result in your conditional admission offer being revoked

Entry into the first year (any one of the following):

China

  • National College Entrance Examination (NCEE), also known as “Gao-kao”

India

Secondary School Certificate (Standard XII) from:

  • The Central Board of Secondary Education Examinations (CBSE)
  • The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (ISCE)
  • Other Indian State Board Examination

Indonesia

  • Sekolah Menengah Atas (SMA) Ujian Nasional (UN)
  • SMA Ijazah

Korea

  • High School Graduation Certificate of National Examination

Malaysia

  • Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) Examination
  • Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) Examination

Myanmar

  • Basic Education High School Examination/Matriculation

Philippines

  • High School Certificate

Sri Lanka

  • Sri Lanka A-Level Certificate

Taiwan

  • General Scholastic Ability Test (GSAT)

Thailand

  • Thai Mathayom 6

Vietnam

  • High School Graduation Certificate

All Other Equivalent Year 12 Qualifications

Direct entry into the second year:

  • A relevant diploma in design from a recognised institution
  • Diploma transcript must indicate passing grades in equivalent NAFA diploma modules

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
  • Language Proficiency
  • Special Factor
  • Age Requirement
Selection is competitive and is subject to the availability of places.

APEL - Accreditation of Prior (Experiential) Learning
Applicants who do not meet these course entry requirements may still be considered in exceptional cases.

The course team will consider each application that demonstrates additional strengths and alternative evidence. This might, for example, be demonstrated by:
  • Related academic or work experience
  • The quality of the personal statement
  • A strong academic or other professional references
  • A combination of these factors
Each application will be considered on its own merit, but we cannot guarantee an offer in each case. In such cases, approval by the University of the Arts London will be required prior to final acceptance into the programme.

All classes are taught in English. If English was not the applicant’s primary medium of instruction throughout his or her school education, the applicant must provide evidence at enrolment of the following: IELTS level 6.0 or above, with at least 5.5 in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Click here for other acceptable English language qualifications.

Applicants should be 18 years of age or older in the year of admission to Year 1.

At NAFA, we are committed to providing full and equal educational opportunities to all students. The Academy firmly believes that every individual deserves a supportive learning environment. Applicants are invited to inform us in advance of any specific needs, and/or type of physical facilities or support you might require. Please include this information in your application form, supplemented with the relevant medical reports. This will allow us to plan the appropriate learning support for you.

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

 

Through an audition that consists of three (3) components – Solo Performance, Interview, and Workshop, we look for:

  • Passion for the performing arts
  • Commitment and motivation to strive for excellence in the course
  • Openness and willingness to collaborate creatively and respectfully with others
  • Ability to create, develop and respond to new ideas and to work with new creative forms
  • Openness and responsiveness to different cultural perspectives
  • An aptitude for self-directed learning and critical evaluation of work
  • Ability to communicate ideas physically and/or verbally
  • Aptitude for creative problem solving
  • Technical/artistic acumen

Audition

1. Solo Performance

Applicants are expected to perform a monologue that has been learnt by heart, taken from a published playtext (2-3 minutes), or a dance solo (1.5 minutes) choreographed either by the applicant or by someone else. Through the presentation of a solo performance piece, applicants are assessed on the following:

  • Technical/artistic acumen.
  • Ability to communicate ideas physically and/or verbally.

Monologue (Theatre Specialism)

  • Ability to perform a dramatic text – comprehension, characterisation and creativity.
  • Physical skills - presence on stage, spatial awareness, physical range, movement vocabulary and physical portrayal of character.
  • Vocal skills – projection, clarity, range and tone.

Dance Solo (Dance Specialism)

  • Technique - coordination, control and alignment.
  • Artistry - spatial awareness, musicality, dynamic range and performance quality.
  • Fitness - strength, control, flexibility, coordination, speed, stamina and stretch.

2. Interview

Applicants are expected to discuss why they want to study ‘performance making’ during the interview and share any relevant experience. Through the interview, applicants are assessed on the following:

  • Passion for the performing arts.
  • Commitment and motivation to strive for excellence in the course.
  • Aptitude for self-directed learning and critical evaluation of work.

3. Workshop

Applicants are expected to participate fully in the interactive workshop. Through the workshop, applicants are assessed on the following:

  • Ability to communicate ideas physically and/or verbally.
  • Aptitude for creative problem solving.
  • Openness and willingness to collaborate creatively and respectfully with others.
  • Ability to create, develop and respond to new ideas and to work with new creative forms.
  • Openness and responsiveness to different cultural perspectives.
  • Aptitude for creative problem solving.

The standard minimum entry requirements for this course are one or a combination of the following qualifications:

Entry into first year (either one of the following):

  • Singapore-Cambridge ‘A’ Level (Minimum 2 A-Level/ H2 subjects and a pass in General Paper)
  • Polytechnic Diploma (Singapore)
  • International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma

Direct entry into second year:

  • A relevant diploma in Dance or Theatre from NAFA or a recognised institution.
  • Diploma transcript must indicate passing grades in equivalent NAFA diploma modules.

You should have completed at least 12 years of general education or have taken the Year 12 National/International examination to be considered for admission.

You may use your most recent school examination or preliminary examination results, which must be certified by your school if you have not received your final results for application. Please submit your final results and certificate within 5 days from the official release date. Failure to complete your Year 12 education qualification before the course commencement will result in your conditional admission offer being revoked

Entry into the first year (any one of the following):

China

  • National College Entrance Examination (NCEE), also known as “Gao-kao”

India

Secondary School Certificate (Standard XII) from:

  • The Central Board of Secondary Education Examinations (CBSE)
  • The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (ISCE)
  • Other Indian State Board Examination

Indonesia

  • Sekolah Menengah Atas (SMA) Ujian Nasional (UN)
  • SMA Ijazah

Korea

  • High School Graduation Certificate of National Examination

Malaysia

  • Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) Examination
  • Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) Examination

Myanmar

  • Basic Education High School Examination/Matriculation

Philippines

  • High School Certificate

Sri Lanka

  • Sri Lanka A-Level Certificate

Taiwan

  • General Scholastic Ability Test (GSAT)

Thailand

  • Thai Mathayom 6

Vietnam

  • High School Graduation Certificate

All Other Equivalent Year 12 Qualifications

Direct entry into the second year:

  • A relevant diploma in design from a recognised institution
  • Diploma transcript must indicate passing grades in equivalent NAFA diploma modules

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
  • Language Proficiency
  • Special Factor
  • Age Requirement
Selection is competitive and is subject to the availability of places.

APEL - Accreditation of Prior (Experiential) Learning
Applicants who do not meet these course entry requirements may still be considered in exceptional cases.

The course team will consider each application that demonstrates additional strengths and alternative evidence. This might, for example, be demonstrated by:
  • Related academic or work experience
  • The quality of the personal statement
  • A strong academic or other professional references
  • A combination of these factors
Each application will be considered on its own merit, but we cannot guarantee an offer in each case. In such cases, approval by the University of the Arts London will be required prior to final acceptance into the programme.

All classes are taught in English. If English was not the applicant’s primary medium of instruction throughout his or her school education, the applicant must provide evidence at enrolment of the following: IELTS level 6.0 or above, with at least 5.5 in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Click here for other acceptable English language qualifications.

Applicants should be 18 years of age or older in the year of admission to Year 1.

At NAFA, we are committed to providing full and equal educational opportunities to all students. The Academy firmly believes that every individual deserves a supportive learning environment. Applicants are invited to inform us in advance of any specific needs, and/or type of physical facilities or support you might require. Please include this information in your application form, supplemented with the relevant medical reports. This will allow us to plan the appropriate learning support for you. 

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

Top-up degree course in collaboration with Royal College of Music

  • A graduate of NAFA’s Diploma in Music or for students from other musical institutions, full transcript(s) from your current university or college to demonstrate successful progression through a course of study, equivalent to two years of undergraduate musical training
  • Performance audition of 15-20 minutes
  • An admission interview and assessment of a range of course work
  • Applicants should be 19 years of age or above in the year of admission of the degree course
  • Minimum entry requirement for English language proficiency is IELTS Academic Band 5.5 or equivalent*

    • *Waived for NAFA applicants who have successfully completed NAFA’s Diploma in Music or Diploma in Music Teaching. Non-NAFA applicants who have successfully completed a recognised and approved Diploma qualification or higher, where the language of instruction was English, may be given a waiver on a case-by-case basis.

For more enquiries on degree courses, please call the Student Admissions Office at 6512 4071 or email us at [email protected]




Admissions

Admission Information


course-guide
course-guide