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Overview Modules Entry Requirements Fees How to Apply
Overview Students' Work Modules Entry Requirements Fees How to Apply

Duration: 1 Year
Mode: Full-time

TAKE THAT STEP, BRIDGE THE GAP TO A DIPLOMA IN THE ARTS

The NAFA Foundation programme (NFP) is a 1-year programme for Normal Academic level graduates students preparing to embark on a diploma education in the arts or design. Conducted over 3 academic trimesters, the programme will offer students broad knowledge of the arts and design and develop the students' fundamental skills and techniques related to their selected diploma.

Students can expect a balance between practical, hands-on experience along with theories and concepts that are fundamental to their selected diploma pathways. Discussions and group work will be a common feature in most classrooms to encourage students to develop critical thinking, communication and collaborative abilities.

Upon completion of the Foundation Programme, students will progress directly to their diploma studies.

 


Practice-based Learning

A hands-on learning environment ensures you have the opportunity to acquire and apply subject-specific foundational skills in your chosen field of the arts.

Skills for Tertiary Education

Gain a solid foundation in understanding the arts, research, as well as language and communication, so you have the crucial academic and study skill sets required to start tertiary education on the right foot.

Foundational Discipline Specific Skill Sets

Pathway core modules in areas of visual arts, performing arts, and arts management will hone and prepare you for your targeted area of interest in your diploma programme.




Modules

NFP students are required to take six core modules and two pathway core modules that are related to their selected diploma programme.

Core modules

  1. English Language and Communications 1 & 2
  2. Mathematical Literacy 1 & 2
  3. Understanding the Arts 1 & 2
  4. Research Fundaments
  5. Digital Literacy and Learning
  6. Arts in Practice

Pathway Core Modules

School of 3D Design, Design & Media, Fine Art or Fashion Studies
  • Drawing Essentials
  • Design Essentials

School of Arts Management or Theatre
  • Acting Techniques Foundation
  • Introduction to Stage Production

School of Music
  • Performance in Practice
  • Music In Context

School of Dance
  • Dance Fundamentals 1
  • Dance Fundamentals 2


Core ModulesTrimesterCredits
English Language and Communications 1110
Mathematical Literacy 1110
Understanding the Arts 1110
Reseach Fundamentals110
 
English Language and Communications 2210
Mathematical Literacy 2210
Understanding the Arts 2210
Digital Literacy and Learning210
 
Arts in Practice360

Pathway Core ModulesTrimesterCredits
School of 3D Design, Design & Media, Fine Art or Fashion Studies   
Drawing Essentials120
Design Essentials220
 
School of Arts Management or Theatre   
Acting Techniques Foundation120
Introduction to Stage Productions220
 
School of Music   
Performance in Practice120
Music in Context220
 
School of Dance   
Dance Fundamentals 1220
Dance Fundamentals 2320

Note: Students will only need to attend the pathway core modules relevant to their Diploma programme

Core Modules

English Language and Communications 1 & 2
In this module, students will develop their foundation skills in academic reading and writing, focusing on comprehension and developing vocabulary to enhance their confidence in written and verbal communication. Through various class activities and discussions, students will learn to evaluate multiple perspectives and construct coherent viewpoints in both written and verbal forms.

Mathematical Literacy 1 &
In this module, students continue to learn fundamental mathematical concepts in the context of real-life situations. By integrating practical and relatable examples, students will deepen their understanding and appreciation of mathematics as a vital tool in both everyday life and creative expression. The emphasis on a more hands-on learning and collaborative problem-solving approach, enables students to sharpen their analytical abilities and develop critical thinking skills.

Understanding the Arts 1 & 2
In this module, students are introduced to various design fields in a local and global context, providing them with a general understanding of design as a discipline. Students will be encouraged to explore connections between artistic concepts, design principles, context and execution through the examples and case studies in this module, allowing them to foster connections and deeper meaning with the arts and their own practice.

Research Fundaments
n this module, students are introduced to foundational principles of research in the arts, focusing on the development of information gathering, critical thinking, and interpretation while exploring social issues relevant to the arts. Emphasis will be placed on inductive and deductive thinking as students develop an understanding of the data and information gathered as part of the research process.

Digital Literacy and Learning
In this module, students are introduced to essential digital literacy skills and learning strategies to support their education in the arts. Students will use digital tools to organise content and information, enhance creativity, and support collaboration. Students will also be encouraged to develop ethical online behaviour, be empowered to create meaningful digital projects, and balance the use of technology with well-being.

Arts in Practice
In this module, students are introduced to an authentic experience of creating an artistic project proposal and create a proposed artwork or performance piece in response to a specific site. Students are encouraged to put into practice knowledge, concepts and techniques learnt across the past two trimesters as they work within the areas of discipline.


Pathway Core Modules

Drawing Essentials
In this module, students are introduced to sketching and drawing techniques as the fundamentals of art and design. Students will be taught observational abilities, and develop fundamental skills in drawing, sketching, tonal value studies and shading methods.

Design Essentials
In this module, students are introduced to fundamental design skills that encourages exploration of visual communication, allowing students to develop more expressive yet interesting ways of design applications and solutions.

Acting Techniques Foundation
In this module, students are introduced to basic acting techniques. Students will develop an understanding of fundamental theatre conventions and basic acting techniques - improvisation, using the stage space, character, status.

Introduction to Stage Productions
In this module, students will gain an overview of how stage productions are managed. Students will be introduced to various stage and performance spaces, and the types of shows performed in these venues. Students will also learn key terms and vocabulary used in the performing arts and stage production industry.

Performance in Practice
In this module, students are introduced to the art of live performance as a reflective and interactive process. Students will learn how to approach performances with confidence and purpose, using self-assessment techniques to identify areas for growth and acknowledge progress.

Music in Context
In this module, students are introduced to fundamental elements of music and a broad overview of music history, aimed at fostering a foundational understanding of music's technical, stylistic, and cultural dimensions.

\ Dance Fundamentals 1&2
In this module, students will develop technical and artistic proficiency in ballet and contemporary dance between foundation and elementary levels. The training emphasizes kinaesthetic awareness, movement efficiency, safe practices, and the application of fundamental movement principles across techniques. Students will learn about their kinetic potential, and develop an innate understanding of alignment, the appropriate physical facility, coordination, rhythmical awareness and sense of musicality.


AY2026/2027


TrimesterWeekFrom (Monday)To (Sunday)
Trimester 1Week 1 - 1516 March 202628 June 2026
Mid-Trimester Week^Week 84 May 202610 May 2026
Assessment WeekWeek 1622 June 202628 June 2026
Vacation29 June 202616 August 2026
AY2026/2027


TrimesterWeekFrom (Monday)To (Sunday)
Trimester 2Week 1 - 1517 August 202629 November 2026
Mid-Trimester Week^Week 85 October 202611 October 2026
Assessment WeekWeek 1523 November 202629 November 2026
Vacation30 November 202610 January 2027
AY2026/2027


TrimesterWeekFrom (Monday)To (Sunday)
Trimester 3Week 1 - 811 January 20277 March 2027
Assessment WeekWeek 81 March 20277 March 2027

Note:
Students may be required to take part in projects, activities and events during Mid-Trimester Week and/or vacation period.

^ Programme may conduct academic-related activities such as make-up classes during the Mid-Trimester Week.
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entry requirements

  • Singapore-Cambridge GCE N (Academic)-Level
An aggregate ELMAB3 (English Language, Mathematics, Best 3 other subjects) score of 15 points or better, excluding CCA Bonus Points.

The NFP is also available to you if you are a Secondary 4 Normal (Academic) student who has taken GCE O-Level subjects. You may combine your N(A) and O-Level examination results to determine your eligibility. If you have taken the same subject at both levels, only the better grade will be used in your aggregate score.

The following GCE O-Level Grade conversion matrix will be adopted during the computation of aggregates.

O-Level GradeAggregate Point for NFP
A1 - B31
B4 - C62
D73
E84

Note:
O-Level grade of F9 does not count towards your ELMAB3 aggregate score. If you have taken the same subject at both the N-Level and O-Level examinations, the better grade will be used to compute your ELMAB3 aggregate score to determine eligibility.

Please note that combination of the GCE N-Level results from different years for ELMAB3 aggregate computation is not allowed. The computation of ELMAB3 aggregate will only include the results from the GCE N-Level or GCE O-Level examinations in the academic year that immediately precedes your applications.

  • Singapore-Cambridge Secondary Education Certificate (SEC) – applicable from 2028 intake onwards
An aggregate ELMAB3 (English Language, Mathematics, Best 3 other subjects) score of 15 points or better, which is computed with G2 subjects, excluding CCA points.

If you have taken subjects at G3, they will be mapped from G3 to G2.

Grade Mapping Table (G3 to G2)

G3G2
A1, A2, B31
B4, C5, C62
D73
E84
95
-6

In addition to meeting the educational qualification requirements, applicants must submit a portfolio, attend an admission test or audition, depending on their selected course of study. Applicants may be asked to attend an interview.

Successful applicants will be given a conditional offer of admission to the diploma programmes. Upon the successful completion of the NFP, students will be offered a place in their chosen diploma programme.
Successful completion of at least 10 years of formal education. You are required to attend an interview where you are expected to communicate your motivations in applying for the NFP.

If you have not completed a national or international examination after 10 years of formal education, you are required to submit a certified academic transcript from your most recent school examination or preliminary results.

If you are successful in your portfolio interview or audition, you will receive a conditional offer. However, you must still submit your final year-end examination results and meet the admission requirements of the respective programme. Failure to meet these requirements will result in the revocation of your conditional offer.

Upon the successful completion of the NFP, students will be offered a place in their chosen diploma programme.
The English Language proficiency requirement for admission is a minimum of Grade 3 in the Singapore-Cambridge GCE N (A)-Level and SEC; or the following for international applicants:

IELTS AcademicTOEFL - iBTPTE AcademicDuolingo English TestSAT (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing component)
550 or 2.54280480

Any qualifications equivalent to any of the above

If you score a Grade 4 or 5 in GCE N (A)-Level English, you are still eligible to apply. However, you will be required to attend an interview and your application will be considered on a case-by-case basis.


Portfolio/Admission test/Audition Requirements

You will need to submit a portfolio or attend an admission test

(A) Portfolio Submission
You will need to submit 10-15 pieces of recent art or design original work from at least two of the following categories: paintings, drawings, collages, posters, sculptures, digital illustrations, photographs, and/or short videos. These works should demonstrate your creative development and process and be created solely by you (not copied from the internet, magazines or reproduced from another source) and not be generated by AI tools.

You are required to label each work as follows and submit your portfolio here.

  1. Title of your work (if any)
  2. Medium used
  3. Month/year created
  4. Description
(Allowed image file types: .pdf,.jpg,.jpeg,.png,.gif,.tif,.tiff,.bmp. Maximum image file size: 10 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.

Guidelines on taking photographs of artworks:

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

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

Submit Portfolio
19 December 2025 to 5 January 2026
(B) Admission Test

The duration of the admission test is 2 hours 15 minutes.

Part 1: Drawing from Observation (90 minutes) Part 2: Written Ability (45 minutes)

Please bring along these materials for the Admission Test:

  • Any type of drawing/colouring materials, e.g. 2B pencils, colour pencils, water colour, poster colour, markers, etc.
  • Blue/black pens, pencils and eraser
  • Set Square
  • Drawing Board (Optional)

Admission Test Date
8 January 2026
Personal Statement and optional Testimonial
You are required to submit a 500-word personal statement here. Submission of a Testimonial is optional.

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 (optional)
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)

Submit Personal Statement and/or optional Testimonial
19 December 2025 to 5 January 2026
Audition
You will receive a confirmation email containing the audition details nearer to your assigned audition date.

You will be required to attend an audition.

  • The audition consists of two sections - Practical Assessment and Interview.
  • You are required to report to the audition venue 30 minutes earlier to register, warm up and change into appropriate attire for dancing. You must bring your own attire.
  • The audition may take up to 2 hours.

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

  • Each dance should not exceed 90 seconds. The solo dance can be choreographed by yourself or by someone else (e.g. your dance teacher).
  • You are required to bring your own music which can played from your own media device (e.g. phone, tablet, or other audio device).
  • A costume (e.g. tutu for female ballet classical solo) may be worn.
  • Through your performance, assessors will evaluate your:

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

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

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

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

Guidelines for the pre-recorded solos are as follows:

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

Dance Audition Date
14 January 2026
You are required to attend an audition. The audition consists of three sections — Workshop, Audition Monologue and Interview.

  • You will be given three audition monologues at least one week prior to the audition and you will need to choose one. You are expected to memorise or be very prepared with your chosen piece
  • You are required to report to the audition venue 30 minutes earlier to register
  • The audition may take up to three hours
  • Wear comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement

Workshop
You are expected to participate enthusiastically in the improvisation exercises and theatre games during 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
During the audition, you will be asked to perform one of the three pieces of dramatic texts. You are expected to arrive with your chosen monologue memorised. 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 reviewed based on your:

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

Theatre Audition Date
14 January 2026
The list of principal study instruments offered by School of Music is as follows:

Keyboard Studies Piano
Strings StudiesViolin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass
Harp
Winds StudiesFlute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon
Horn, Trumpet, Euphonium, Tuba

*Saxophone (applicants can play either two contrasting works on Alto saxophone or one on Alto and one on Tenor/Baritone)

*Trombone (applicants must perform with Tenor Trombone)
Percussion StudiesPercussion
(applicants must perform one work each on snare drum and mallets)
Chinese Instrumental StudiesGaohu, Erhu,
Liuqin, Pipa, Ruan
Guqin, Sanxian
Yangqin
Guzheng
Dizi, Sheng, Suona, Guanzi
Vocal StudiesVoice (Classical)
Composition Studies Composition (Diploma in Music ONLY)

Please see below for instructions to the audition process for (A) instrumentalists and vocalists, or (B) composers.

(A) Instrumentalists and vocalists
You are to attend an in-person audition fulfilling the following requirements:

  • Duration: total performance duration of at least 10 minutes
  • Pieces: 2 contrasting works
  • Pieces must be written by different composers
  • Pieces must demonstrate contrast in style, character, and technical command
  • Suggested repertoire include:

    • Instrumentalists: sonata, concerto, étude, or solo works
    • Vocalists: operatic repertoire, art songs, or works from other established classical genres
Note:

  • Works from popular music genres (e.g. pop songs or contemporary commercial music) will not be accepted.
  • Only acoustic instruments are permitted. Electric instruments are not allowed.

Accompaniment Requirements
  • You are encouraged to perform with an accompanist if the chosen works require accompaniment.
  • If a live accompanist is not available, you may use a backing track with your own device and speaker.


(B) Composers
You are to submit a composition portfolio fulfilling the following requirements:

  • Portfolio to include 2 – 5 contrasting compositions
  • Compositions must be written scores using composition software such as Sibelius, Finale, MuseScore, etc.
  • Compositions must be submitted in PDF format. Recording of compositions (live or midi) is optional.
  • The written music must be clear and legible with full information of instrumentation, scoring and performance details.

Audition Requirements
The in-person audition will consist of the following:

  • Performance of two contrasting works (for instrumentalists and vocalists)
  • Reviewing of composition portfolio (for composition applicants)
  • Sight-reading
  • Aural awareness
  • Music theory*
  • Short interview with the audition panel about your musical experiences, interests and ambitions for future studies and career

Important notes on preparing for your in-person audition

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

  • You are encouraged to perform with an accompanist if the chosen works require accompaniment. If a live accompanist is not available, you may use a backing track with your own device and speaker.

  • You 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 you, the accompanist and the audition panel.

  • As our programmes are taught in English, you will be expected to communicate in English at the audition.

  • The audition panel reserves the right to hear only part of the programme overall.

  • The audition will be recorded for evaluation purposes and used solely for the selection process.

*Music Theory Test

During the music theory test (approximately 60 minutes), you will be tested on various areas at a level comparable to ABRSM Grade V.

You will be exempted from the music theory test if you submit any of the following documentary evidence before the audition:

  • ABRSM Grade V Music Theory or its equivalent
  • Pass in GCE ‘O’ Level or GCE ‘A’ Level Music
  • Pass in SOTA Music Year 4 and above
  • Pass in Music Theory subject in a specialist music school

You are also required to submit the following documents to the Student Admissions Office at least ONE (1) day before the scheduled audition:

  • ABRSM/Trinity Practical and Theory Certificates and Transcripts
  • Form 5B: Background and References

Music Audition Date
14 January 2026


How to Apply

Get started on your quest to become an art & design professional today!

We have simplified our application process so you can focus on showcasing your strengths.

Here’s a quick overview of what you need to do.

  • Shortlist your intended diploma programme – Choose the programme towards your interests and abilities
  • Check if you have the required application documents - Here is the checklist for your quick reference

 

Apply online
Apply online here from 19 December to 26 December 2025.
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.
Submit your portfolio, personal statement, attend audition or receive test advisory
For programmes under Faculty of Art & Design
Applicants may select either (A) Portfolio Submission or (B) Admission Test

For Diploma in Arts Management
You are required to submit a 500-word personal here. Submission of a Testimonial is optional.

For Diploma in Dance
For Diploma in Theatre
For Diploma in Music

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

Applicants with English Language score 4 or 5 will be required to attend an interview at a later date.
Application outcome
Receive the outcome of your application via email within 4 – 6 weeks after your Portfolio Submission/Interview/Audition or Admission Test.

*Admission test is only applicable for programmes under Faculty of Art and Design.