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Entry Requirements How to Apply Fees Scholarship & Financial/Aid Schemes FAQ
Entry Requirements How to Apply Fees Scholarship & Financial/Aid Schemes FAQ

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

MASTER OF COMPOSITION
In collaboration with the Royal College of Music (RCM)

Please note: The final intake for this programme is in August 2025, after which it will be discontinued. Updated programme offering will be made available in due course.

This programme page remains until January 2026, after which this programme page will be removed, as the programme is being discontinued.

 
  1. All applicants are to submit a portfolio of at least two, but no more than five, contrasting examples of their compositions.

  2. The portfolio must include written scores. Recordings are optional.

    • PDF version of the written scores. Please ensure that written music is clear and legible with full information of instrumentation, scoring and performance details. Common composition software includes Sibelius, Finale, as well as other notation software in the market.

    • Recording of the works (accompanied by the PDF version of the written scores).

  3. Applicants are required to submit a personal statement (250 – 350 words) to support their application for the Master of Composition programme. The personal statement should be based on the following questions:

    • Why are you applying for the Master of Composition programme, based on your ambitions and interests?

    • What skills do you possess that make you suitable for the rigorous demands of the programme?

  4. Applicants will require two professional references emailed directly to Student Admission Office.

  5. All applicants will be asked about their intentions and expectations of the programme, as well as how the Master of Composition programme will be useful to their future plans.

  6. Typical questions asked during the interview may include:

    • Why do you want to study at NAFA?

    • What are your musical interests?

    • What do you think you need to do most to improve your writing?

  7. The panel will be looking for evidence of both a talent for composition and the ability to realise effectively ideas in a variety of forms and media.

  8. Though live auditions are preferred, an online interview may be arranged by the Student Admissions Office for applicants who are unable to attend a live audition. Applicants are to inform Student Admissions Office in advance if they wish to attend an online audition.

Live auditions in Singapore
Live auditions in Singapore are usually held bimonthly.

Applicants will be notified of the exact date and time via email one week before the audition.

Live auditions in China

Applicants residing overseas who wish to attend the live auditions in China are to inform Student Admissions Office via email at least two weeks prior to the audition.

Applicants are required to have at least:

  • A relevant undergraduate degree from RCM-NAFA or a recognised institution, usually in Music
  • Degree transcripts must indicate passing grades in equivalent RCM-NAFA Bachelor of Music modules
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 Royal College of Music will be required prior to final acceptance into the programme.

 

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 Royal College of Music will be required prior to final acceptance into the programme.

An English Language proficiency* of at least:

IELTS TOEFL - iBT PTE ACADEMIC DUOLINGO
5.5 71 42 95

Other qualifications equivalent to any of the above.

*Waived for NAFA applicants who have successfully completed NAFA's Bachelor of Music. 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.

 

MASTER OF PERFORMANCE
In collaboration with the Royal College of Music (RCM)


Please note: The final intake for this programme, awarded by the Royal College of Music, is August 2025. Updated programme offering will be made available in due course.

 
Mode of Audition
The audition will be conducted live with an audition panel.

Audition Requirements
We understand that auditions are a significant milestone on every applicant’s journey towards a career as a conservatoire musician. The guidance below will help the applicant prepare to the best of his or her abilities and make one aware of the audition process.

  1. The audition will be recorded and reviewed by the appropriate Head of Faculty from the RCM.

  2. Applicants should present a varied programme and show a range of styles, periods and characters.

  3. Applicants are to note these specific audition requirements for each faculty of study:

    Keyboard Studies
    Piano applicants are required to prepare a varied programme of at least 50 minutes. The programme must include an advanced étude and all works must be performed from memory.

    Strings Studies
    String instrumental applicants are required to prepare all of the following:

    • one significant movement from a concerto composed after 1800

    • a contrasting piece of the applicant’s choice

    Winds Studies and Percussion Studies

    • Brass, woodwind and percussion applicants are required to prepare a programme of two contrasting pieces at a standard reflective of the applicant’s artistry, expressive and technical competency.

    • It would be preferred if at least one of these works was from memory, but it is not compulsory.

    Vocal Studies
    Vocal studies will not be offered in AY2025/2026.

    Chinese Instrumental Studies
    Chinese instrument applicants are required to prepare all of the following:

    • One significant movement of a concerto, or a work written originally for the solo instrument and orchestra (一首协奏曲)

    • A chuan tong piece from standard repertoire (一首传统乐曲)

    • A piece written after 1970 (一首创作乐曲(1970年后))

    • All works must be performed from memory

  4. During the live auditions, the panel will listen up to 20 minutes of the programme.

  5. Applicants are required to bring a list of the repertoire studied in depth in recent years as well as proof of recent public performances along to the live audition.

  6. Applicants are required to submit a personal statement (250 – 350 words) to support their application for the Master of Performance programme. The personal statement should be based on the following questions:

    • Why are you applying for the Master of Performance programme, based on your ambitions and interests?

    • What skills do you possess that make you suitable for the rigorous demands of the programme?

  7. Applicants will require two professional references emailed directly to Student Admissions Office.

  8. Non-pianists are required to bring along their accompanists if their chosen pieces require accompaniment. A list of accompanists and their details are available to applicants after application and they are required to make arrangements with the accompanists directly for practice sessions and payment.

  9. All instrumentalists except percussionists and pianists are required to bring their principal study instrument for the audition. Applicants are encouraged to provide a set of music scores of their pieces for the audition panel.

  10. Applicants are not allowed to bring a page-turner, a teacher or a translator to the audition. The only people in the audition room will be the applicant, the accompanist and the audition panel.

  11. As our programmes are taught in English, we expect applicants to be able to communicate in English at their audition.

  12. Typical questions asked during the interview may include:

    • Why do you want to study at NAFA?

    • What are your musical interests?

    • What do you think you need to do most to improve your performance?

Live auditions in Singapore
Live auditions in Singapore are usually held bimonthly.

Applicants will be notified of the exact date and time via email one week before the audition.

Live auditions in China

Applicants residing overseas who wish to attend the live auditions in China are to inform Student Admissions Office via email at least two weeks prior to the audition.

 

Applicants are required to have at least:

  • A relevant undergraduate degree from RCM-NAFA or a recognised institution, usually in Music
  • Degree transcripts must indicate passing grades in equivalent RCM-NAFA Bachelor of Music modules
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 Royal College of Music will be required prior to final acceptance into the programme.

 

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 Royal College of Music will be required prior to final acceptance into the programme.

An English Language proficiency* of at least:

IELTS TOEFL - iBT PTE ACADEMIC DUOLINGO
5.5 71 42 95

Other qualifications equivalent to any of the above.

*Waived for NAFA applicants who have successfully completed NAFA's Bachelor of Music. 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.

 

Unleash Your Potential — NAFA is Where Your Story Begins

HOW TO APPLY

Apply online
Apply online here along with your application fees. Applications are open from October each year for the following year’s August intake.
Keep the Application Acknowledgement for your reference and submit the required documents
Send documents listed in the checklist to [email protected] for verification within five working days from the application date.

Make payment of the Application Fee (non-refundable) online
Make payment of the Application Fee (non-refundable) online at https://payment.nafa.edu.sg/Students.

Singapore Citizens & Singapore Permanent Residents International Students
Application fee S$75.00 S$105.00

Application fee is inclusive of prevailing GST.

Receive an email
You will receive an email from the Student Admissions Office on the details of your audition upon receipt of all required documents.
Application outcome
Receive the outcome of your application via email within 4 – 6 weeks after your Portfolio Submission/Interview/Audition or Admission Test.

Unleash Your Potential — NAFA is Where Your Story Begins

FINANCIAL MATTERS

To know more about the details related to the master fees, please click the links below:

Unleash Your Potential — NAFA is Where Your Story Begins

Scholarship & Financial/Aid Schemes

 

SCHOLARSHIPS, MERIT AWARDS & BURSARIES

In recognition of exceptional academic achievement, artistic talent, and leadership potential, NAFA offers a wide range of scholarships, merit awards, and bursaries to both new and current students. These awards are designed to support students who demonstrate excellence in the arts and creative industries, and who show promise in contributing meaningfully to the cultural landscape.

NAFA’s scholarships are made possible through institutional and donor support, and are available across Diploma, Bachelor’s, and Master’s degree programmes. Application periods vary depending on the level of study and are announced on the official NAFA website. Students are encouraged to refer to the relevant scholarship pages for detailed timelines and eligibility criteria.

In addition to NAFA’s in-house awards, students may also apply for externally sponsored scholarships. Enquiries and applications for these should be directed to the respective sponsoring organisations. Please note that miscellaneous fees are not covered by scholarships, bursaries, or government subsidies such as the Mendaki Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy (TTFS).

View scholarships offered

 



 

FINANCIAL AID

We understand that pursuing an arts education is a significant investment—and we're here to help. Financial challenges should never stand in the way of creative potential. That’s why NAFA offers a variety of financial support for students from diverse backgrounds.

These schemes are designed to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder students from pursuing their artistic and academic goals. NAFA offers both internal and external assistance options, including subsidies, grants, and student employment opportunities.

View Financial Aid Scheme

 



 

GOVERNMENT FINANCIAL & BURSARY SCHEMES

Explore the range of Singapore government-funded financial and bursary schemes you can use to support your tuition fees at NAFA.

View Government Loan Scheme

 



 

MORE INFORMATION

FAQs on scholarship & financial support

View FAQ

 


Unleash Your Potential — NAFA is Where Your Story Begins

NAFA, University of the Arts Singapore (UAS)

A Purpose-Driven Approach to Education
At Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, University of the Arts Singapore, we have made a strategic decision to prioritise what is most important — our students — over conventional university rankings. While many institutions prioritise rankings, we consciously focus and invest our resources on student development at NAFA by providing quality teaching and state-of-the art facilities to support student learning. We focus on outcomes measured by the student growth, experience, and graduate employability. NAFA’s positive employment survey results are testament to that. We are proud that our alumni have received numerous accolades and international awards, including the Cultural Medallion Awards and Young Artist Awards, the highest honours in Singapore. Most importantly, they lead fulfilling lives, doing what they are passionate about and contributing positively to society.

Why We Have Chosen a Different Path
We have observed that university rankings often emphasise metrics that do not fully capture the essence of the student experience and teaching quality, and divert resources and attention to areas that do not always have a direct impact on our students. We have made a conscious decision to focus our efforts on creating an environment where the student experience takes precedence over the pursuit of ranking results on a commercial league table.

Our Commitment to a Student-Centric Approach

  • Tailored Transformational Experiences: We believe every student’s journey is unique. Students can choose from a range of inclusive programmes that can be tailored to ensure that we maximise the potential of everyone.

  • Holistic Student Support: At NAFA, UAS, we believe that success in education encompasses more than academic achievements. Prioritising the physical and mental well-being of our students, we offer support groups to address their emotional, social, and professional needs—from career guidance to mental health support. Additionally, a fully equipped student gym is available year-round, encouraging students to maintain their fitness and overall health. With more than 23 scholarships and financial aid schemes that include the Dare to Dream Scholarship, Tuition Grant Scheme, and NAFA-Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple Student Relief Fund Scheme available, students are supported for the duration of their course of study at NAFA, UAS.

  • Fostering a Vibrant Community: We are committed to building a strong and inclusive community where every student feels a sense of belonging. We provide a nurturing and collaborative campus culture that encourages personal growth and meaningful connections beyond the classrooms, through the numerous student activity groups and clubs, alongside experiences with eminent alumni. These activities include Running Club, Indian Dance Group, K-Pop Dance Club, Basketball Club etc with a NAFA, UAS Student Council to represent students across all disciplines.

  • Global Learning Opportunities: Overseas learning is one of the hallmarks of a NAFA, UAS education. We support our students to be exposed to ideas beyond our shores, opening their minds to greater possibilities. Study trips, overseas immersion programmes, international placements, student exchange programmes and collaborative projects are some global learning opportunities available. Our focus remains on equipping students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in their chosen fields and make a positive impact in their communities.

  • Strong alumni network: NAFA, UAS is proud of its vast alumni network which is bolstered by decorated luminaries across the globe. As the only arts institution in the world with cradle to grey programmes, our alumni continue to stay connected with the academy through its eight alumni chapters. Leveraging a common thread of sharing in the NAFA, UAS story, we have many alumni giving back to the academy by guiding their juniors in creative portfolio reviews, career offers and advancement opportunities. Our students are also supported after they graduate, where they can enrol into our Centre for Lifelong Education courses for skills upgrade. As part of the extensive ecosystem at NAFA, UAS, many alumni return to teach and cement their careers here with us.

Why This Matters
By not participating in the university rankings, we are making a conscious decision to channel our resources and energy into enhancing student life and learning. Our goal is to create an environment where students can excel beyond their academic journey and thrive in the arts and creative education.

Join Us in Embracing a New Standard of Excellence
Embark on a college-university experience at NAFA, UAS and enrich your personal growth and aspiration that redefines your journey to higher education excellence.

FAQ - University of the Arts Singapore

The University of the Arts Singapore (UAS) is Singapore's first arts university nurturing a new generation of forward-looking artists, designers, educators, researchers, arts leaders and changemakers. UAS is founded on an alliance of Singapore's leading arts institutions, LASALLE College of the Arts (LASALLE) and Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA). It is supported by the government, which will continue to provide funding for subsidised Diploma and BA (Hons) students and UAS will validate, confer and award degrees in respect to the programmes offered by NAFA, UAS. It will also support both arts institutions in the provision of a shared UAS experience which includes a common curriculum. All academic programmes will continue to be developed, designed and delivered by NAFA, UAS at its campuses.

For more details, please refer to UAS’ website here.
All academic lessons and learning will continue to be delivered at NAFA, UAS’s existing campuses. Meanwhile, UAS will offer common curriculum modules from the National Design Centre which is near NAFA, UAS.

FAQ - Admissions

There is one intake commencing in August each year. Click here for the academic calendar.
Applications typically open in October for the following August intake.

International applicants residing overseas are advised to contact NAFA, UAS’s authorised overseas education counsellors based in their home countries to submit applications from September for the August intake the following year. Click here for more information.

For more information about the application procedures and application deadline, click here.
If you did not previously pursue formal education in the same field but have the relevant experience, you may send us a copy of your transcripts, your portfolio, professional CV and references at [email protected] for assistance.

We will consider each request on a case-by-case basis.
Yes, there is part-time option for Master of Fine Arts Fine Art programme.

Mode of Study Duration
Full-time 2-years
Part-time 3-years
You will have to apply separately to Lasalle as a new applicant. Please contact Lasalle directly for your request.
There is no direct transfer arrangement with other Universities. If you wish to pursue your education at another University, please reach out directly to your preferred University to understand their admission process and requirements.
International students who require a Student’s Pass must be enrolled full-time. Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) does not issue Student’s Pass for part-time programmes. An international student who wishes to pursue the part-time programme must have either a valid Employment Pass or Dependant’s Pass from ICA to reside in Singapore throughout the course of study. If the validity of the Employment Pass or Dependant’s Pass expires before the student can complete the part-time programme, NAFA, UAS will have to withdraw him/her from the programme as he/she does not have a valid pass to stay on in Singapore.
Most application results will be sent via email within 4–6 weeks after Portfolio Submission / Audition / Interview.

Applicants may also check on the status of the application by logging into the application portal within 4-6 weeks after Portfolio Submission / Audition / Interview.

Some application outcomes may take longer than expected.

We seek your understanding that we are unable to expedite any specific application as we are already working to provide your application outcome as soon as possible, while ensuring that every application is reviewed carefully and holistically.
While it is unlikely that your appeal will change our decision since every application has been reviewed comprehensively, you may contact your programme manager via email for this request. You may reach them by replying to the email informing you of your application outcome.

Please submit additional portfolio, references, and an appeal letter for our consideration.
Yes, we are immensely grateful to all our donors for their commitment to nurturing creative talent. Every academic year, we disburse over 220 awards with a value of more than $1.3 million to our deserving students.

Please click here for more information. For enquiries, please contact the Office of Student Services (Financial Aids & Awards Scheme) at [email protected] or 6512 6140.

Students who are pursuing NAFA, UAS Master’s Degree may apply for the Graduate Assistantship Award.

You may also apply for the NAC Arts Scholarship.
You may still enrol in NAFA, UAS and pay the full tuition fees to reserve a place in the programme that you are accepted to. If you are successful in your application to the other institution, you may withdraw from NAFA, UAS. You will avoid the possibility of ending up with no programme to study, should your application to other institutions be unsuccessful.

Refer here for the refund policy.
Please contact your programme manager via email for this request. You may reach them by replying to the email informing you of your admission.

Do note that the NS Deferment Letter will only be given to students who have made the minimum required payment of their tuition fees.

If your programme has commenced, please contact the Office of Student Services at [email protected] for the deferment letter.
Programme Transfer is not applicable to Master’s Degree programmes.
Application for deferment will only be considered for reasons due to extenuating circumstances such as prolonged health problems. You will have to submit a completed ‘Request for Deferment’ form with relevant supporting documents to the Office of Student Services. As the application for deferment is subject to approval by the relevant Dean of Faculty, you must continue to attend classes until the outcome of your application is known.
For more details on Student’s Pass and living in Singapore, please refer to our website here.

FAQ - Fees and Scholarships

You may not pay later because there are limited vacancies for our programmes. We seek your understanding to give other deserving applicants a chance to join us.
Please inform your programme manager of your intention to withdraw via email. You may reach them by replying to the email informing you of your admission.

Please refer to the refund policy on whether you will be entitled to a refund.

FAQ - Others

Our faculty bring a wealth of international experience, having received training across Europe, the United States, and Asia. Collectively, they hold advanced qualifications and possess decades of teaching experience across diverse educational settings. You can explore their credentials and read brief biographies on our website.

With a strong focus on excellence and advanced creative skill development, our experienced faculty empowers you to take ownership of your learning journey, encouraging both creative exploration and intellectual curiosity.
Should the student be unable to resolve any dispute and/or grievance with their respective department, they may surface the issue to the Office of Student Services.

If the student is not satisfied with the explanation or solution offered by the Office of Student Services, the student may lodge an appeal to the Vice-President, Provost, or President of NAFA, UAS.

In the event the student is still not satisfied with the explanation or recommendation offered by NAFA, UAS, he/she may seek redress via SSG Mediation-Arbitration Scheme, Small Claims Tribunals or his/her own legal counsel.

Unleash Your Potential — NAFA is Where Your Story Begins

Admission Information

Important Dates

Applications are open from October each year for the following year’s August intake.


International students residing overseas are encouraged to apply as early in August for the following year’s intake for admission to NAFA through the appointed education counsellors, where applicable.