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

Where Your Rhythm Finds its Soul

Grounded in classical and contemporary techniques, this rigorous programme builds versatility and discipline through studio practice, industry learning, collaboration and interdisciplinary projects. It offers a Southeast Asian perspective on dance, nurturing artists who are technically strong, culturally rooted and creatively independent

This three-year diploma develops you as a technically proficient, critically engaged, and creatively versatile dance artist. Through rigorous studio practice, choreographic exploration, collaboration, research, and performance, you will cultivate the physicality, artistry, and imagination essential for today’s evolving dance landscape.


Excellent Technical and Artistic Foundations

OTrain intensively across contemporary, classical, and traditional forms, guided by experienced international faculty who mentor your development as a well-rounded dance artist.

Interdisciplinary and Collaborative Learning

Work with peers from theatre, music, design, and visual arts, gaining new perspectives and expanding the scope of your creative language.

Performance Opportunities and International Exposure

Engage in showcases, collaborations, and festivals that mirror professional dance environments and build real-world confidence.

PA Seamless Pathway to Advanced Study

Progress into the BA (Honours) Performance Making programme or other degree-level training with the foundation needed to grow as a dance professional in creative industries.



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







More Information
Graduation Requirements
Diploma Programmes (AY2025 Intake and After)
In order to graduate from a diploma programme, you are required to attain at least 360 credits (including exempted credits and credits for non-graded modules, but excluding credits associated with repeated attempts), and pass all prescribed core and elective requirements with a minimum Grade D for all modules.
Mode of Instruction
Lessons may be delivered face-to-face on campus or facilitated online. Lecturers employ a variety of teaching strategies and methods according to the needs of each module. Students are expected to attend every lesson as scheduled, either in the form of lectures, tutorials, discussions, demonstrations, case studies, practical exercises, field activities, classroom practice or e-learning.
Assessment Methods
Each module is assessed by either class participation, written assignments, practical performances, portfolio presentations, projects, examinations, or any of these combinations. Assessment methods may vary according to individual module requirements.
Career Pathways

Upon the completion of this programme, dynamic careers in the creative industries await:

  • Artistic Director
  • Art Project Head & Coordinator
  • Backstage Personnel
  • Choreographer & Director
  • Dance Administrator
  • Dance Artist
  • Dance Company Manager
  • Dance Educator/Instructor
  • Somatic Movement Therapist/Instructor
  • Professional Dancer/Performer
  • Project Manager
  • Dance Production Manager/Coordinator
  • Dance Outreach Coordinator
  • Dance Historian/Researcher
  • Dance Stage Manager
  • Studio Owner
  • Dance Critic/Journalist
  • Fitness Instructor
  • Movement Coach/Therapist/Physiotherapist

Students' Work

Modules

The following programme modules are applicable to students enrolled in August 2025 and after. NAFA students enrolled in AY2024/2025 and earlier are to refer to the Diploma Programme and Module Information Booklet on the Student Portal for the programme modules in your respective years of enrolment.

TypeTitleCredits
Academy Core

Introduction to Southeast Asian Arts

The Introduction to Southeast Asian Arts module introduces facets of the artistic traditions of mainland and maritime Southeast Asia from the kingdom to the present. The module approaches Southeast Asia's rich heritage thematically, encouraging interdisciplinary understanding between intersecting geographies and narratives. It offers insights departing from different perspectives and vantages - the evolving role in defining aesthetics, cultural belonging, polities, and intercultural exchanges in the ongoing multiplicities of the region.
10
School Core

Dance and Performance Practices 1A

You will learn to develop technical and artistic proficiency in Ballet and Contemporary Dance forms, while expose to a diversity of dance styles at different levels of competency. You will develop technical assurance, artistic synthesis, movement efficiency, safe practices as well as the concepts across different dance techniques. This module will prepare you to take on the physical challenges of more practice and/or what is currently trending in order to enhance personal dance practice.

Besides dance technique training, you will also be introduced to performance process by rehearsing and performing in dance repertory and work with various choreographers and dance artists. You will learn existing dance works and/or new creative works, honing the dance performance skills and developing the artistry. You will also learn to focus on cultivating professional behaviour and be guided to explore a personal artistic expression.
30
School Core

Body and Movement Studies 1

You will be introduced to a holistic approach to the physical and mental well-being of a dancer, as well as a range of dance wellness and scientific practices to explore various approaches with dance health. You will investigate the development of dance and wellbeing with the reference to a scientific framework to understand the human body, mind and movement, as well as body management, diet and nutrition.

You will also engage in somatic movement practices as the physical conditioning for dancers, and learn how to prevent injury, maintain strength and mobility. The importance of safety, sensitivity and responsibility are emphasized. The range of dance wellness and somatic practices will help you to develop emotional, cognitive, physical and social well-being, grounded on the fundamental principle of dance as a holistic approach to health.
10
School Core

Creative Lab 1

You will learn a range of choreographic approaches and practices in the creation and exploration of short composition, movement scores and choreographies. There will also be opportunities for you to collaborate and work with other disciplines during the creative process. In doing so, their communication skills and professional behaviour are developed to collaborate/work effectively with others and other disciplines.

This module also aims to prepare you for the challenges of various experimentations and/or what is currently trending, as well as how to enhance your personal and multidisciplinary and/or cross-disciplinary dance practices. You will have the opportunity to develop the creative concept and skills through guided explorations.
10

TypeTitleCredits
Faculty Core

Professional Development Plan 1

In this module, students are introduced to the foundational skills and knowledge essential for a successful career in the performing arts, encompassing dance, theatre, and music. You will learn about the multifaceted nature of the performing arts industry, including historical development, career paths, and the integration of multidisciplinary collaboration. The module aims to equip you with the tools necessary for crafting a realistic and personalized career plan, enhancing your professional skills such as communication, CV writing, and interview techniques, as well as fostering an understanding of personal branding and digital literacy in the modern arts landscape.
10
School Core

Dance and Performance Practices 1B

You will learn to develop technical and artistic proficiency in Ballet and Contemporary Dance forms, while expose to a diversity of dance styles at different levels of competency. You will develop technical assurance, artistic synthesis, movement efficiency, safe practices as well as the concepts across different dance techniques. This module will prepare you to take on the physical challenges of more practice and/or what is currently trending in order to enhance personal dance practice.

Besides dance technique training, you will also be introduced to performance process by rehearsing and performing in dance repertory and work with various choreographers and dance artists. You will learn existing dance works and/or new creative works, honing the dance performance skills and developing the artistry. You will also learn to focus on cultivating professional behaviour and be guided to explore a personal artistic expression.
30
School Core

Dance Studies in Context 1

You will learn various aspects of culture and dance history to inform your dance practice and contextual understanding, as well as the exploration of new pathways in dance. This module will investigate the development of dance with a view towards the future and explore the development of dance in Southeast Asia/ Asia. Asian dance practice and movement is informed by or derived from cultural forms, histories, contexts, and practitioners. You will also be guided to explore a personal artistic expression based on the understanding and appreciation of different Asian dance forms, traditions, references, and influences.
10
School Core

Industry and Professional Skills 1

You will learn various aspects of production to support and enhance dance practices and explore new pathways. You will explore the world of dance management, acquiring knowledge and skills that pertain to the planning and execution of dance performances, as well as the organisation and understanding of various production elements.

This module aims to amalgamate and strengthen proficiency in the intricate facets of dance production and theatre fundamentals. It involves a unique set of considerations that pertains to the specific requirements of dance performances, as well as the knowledge of theatre and production terminology and workflow. You will gain insight into how dance integrates various elements for proficient support and management in dance productions.
10

TypeTitleCredits
School Core

Dance and Performance Practices 2A

You will learn to develop technical and artistic proficiency in Ballet and Contemporary Dance forms, while expose to a diversity of dance styles at different levels of competency. You will develop technical assurance, artistic synthesis, movement efficiency, safe practices as well as the concepts across different dance techniques. This module will prepare you to take on the physical challenges of more practice and/or what is currently trending in order to enhance personal dance practice.

Besides dance technique training, you will also be introduced to performance process by rehearsing and performing in dance repertory and work with various choreographers and dance artists. You will learn existing dance works and/or new creative works, honing the dance performance skills and developing the artistry. You will also learn to focus on cultivating professional behaviour and be guided to explore a personal artistic expression.
30
School Core

Body and Movement Studies 2

You will learn various aspects of dance science to an embodied understanding of human anatomy through direct sensory experience and movement. Experiential anatomy will provide you with a kinesthetic understanding of the body's structure and function. You will also learn to investigate the development of dance with reference to scientific framework to understand the human body and movement in relation to body awareness. With the transference of basic dance and movement principles, you will be guided through various fundamental concepts that form the basis of movement in dance. This will inform your dance practice and allow you to gain an understanding of how the body moves, the principles that govern movement, and the ways in which these principles can be applied in dance and bodily movement across authentic, relevant, and diverse applications.
10
School Core

Creative Lab 2

You will learn to consolidate dance composition and choreographic skills and understanding towards producing and presenting a contemporary choreography. You will also be introduced to various digital tools/ media and learn how to incorporate technology with the creative experimentation and improvisation strategies. You will also be prepared to take on the challenges of more practice and/or what is currently trending to enhance your personal dance practice with various creative practices. The creation process progresses from conceptualisation to guided exploration to culminate in a dance creative work integrating various digital tools or platforms. You will have the opportunity to rework or create a new dance work towards developing a personal style and creative voice.
10
Academy Core

Creative Career Modules
(Also available in Year 2 semester 2)

The Creative Career Modules equip students with essential professional skills that complement their creative practice. Positioned at the intersection of creativity and industry, the modules develop competencies in communication, project management, design‑led problem solving, and business awareness. Students gain practical experience collaborating with stakeholders, presenting ideas, and managing projects across diverse contexts, strengthening career readiness and adaptability for contemporary creative and professional environments.

Please refer to the link for more details on the modules.

Students are required to select and complete one Creative Career Module, which can be taken in either Year 2 Semester 1 or Semester 2, subject to programme availability
10

TypeTitleCredits
Faculty Core

Professional Development Plan 2

In this module, you are introduced to a comprehensive range of professional skills and digital tools essential for a successful career in the performing arts (Dance, Music, and Theatre). You will learn how to effectively showcase your talents through the creation of ePortfolios, develop compelling curriculum vitae (CV) and cover letters, and enhance your interview skills. The module is designed to expand your career opportunities beyond traditional performing roles, highlighting the transferability of your artistic skills to a variety of professional contexts. By the end of this module, you will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to present yourself effectively to potential employers and collaborators, opening doors to diverse career paths within and outside the performing arts sector.
10
School Core

Dance and Performance Practices 2B

You will learn to develop technical and artistic proficiency in Ballet and Contemporary Dance forms, while expose to a diversity of dance styles at different levels of competency. You will develop technical assurance, artistic synthesis, movement efficiency, safe practices as well as the concepts across different dance techniques. This module will prepare you to take on the physical challenges of more practice and/or what is currently trending in order to enhance personal dance practice.

Besides dance technique training, you will also be introduced to performance process by rehearsing and performing in dance repertory and work with various choreographers and dance artists. You will learn existing dance works and/or new creative works, honing the dance performance skills and developing the artistry. You will also learn to focus on cultivating professional behaviour and be guided to explore a personal artistic expression.
30
School Core

Dance Studies in Context 2

You will gain a comprehensive understanding of the dance landscape in Singapore, covering aspects related to history, current trends, community engagement, and professional opportunities. Personal dance practice is informed by or derived from cultural forms, histories, contexts, and key practitioners. This module will also investigate the development of dance with a view towards the future and explore the development of dance in Southeast Asia. Asian dance practice and movement is informed by or derived from cultural forms, histories, contexts, and practitioners. You will also be guided to explore a personal artistic expression based on the understanding and appreciation of different Asian dance forms, references, and influences.
10
School Core

Industry and Professional Skills 2

You will learn various aspects of production to support and enhance dance practices and explore new pathways. You will explore the world of dance management, acquiring knowledge and skills that pertain to the planning and execution of dance performances, as well as the organisation and understanding of various production elements.

This module aims to amalgamate and strengthen proficiency in the intricate facets of dance production and theatre fundamentals. It involves a unique set of considerations that pertains to the specific requirements of dance performances, as well as the knowledge of theatre and production terminology and workflow. You will gain insight into how dance integrates various elements for proficient support and management in dance productions.
10
Academy Core

Creative Career Modules
(Also available in Year 2 semester 2)

The Creative Career Modules equip students with essential professional skills that complement their creative practice. Positioned at the intersection of creativity and industry, the modules develop competencies in communication, project management, design‑led problem solving, and business awareness. Students gain practical experience collaborating with stakeholders, presenting ideas, and managing projects across diverse contexts, strengthening career readiness and adaptability for contemporary creative and professional environments.

Please refer to the link for more details on the modules.

Students are required to select and complete one Creative Career Module, which can be taken in either Year 2 Semester 1 or Semester 2, subject to programme availability
10

TypeTitleCredits
Faculty Core

Industry-Based Learning

You will learn to immerse yourself in the dance or a related industry in an authentic setting through this module. You will be exposed to the industry/work environment and develop professional skill sets and the appropriate work etiquette. You will learn to consolidate and apply discipline-specific knowledge and skills in an authentic industry/work situation, as well as establish networks and connections with the industry partners and potential employers.

Industry-based learning also provides the opportunity for industry partners to benefit from student talent, skills, knowledge, and perspectives, as well as to play a role in students’ professional development.
20
School Core

Dance and Performance Practices 3A

You will learn to develop technical and artistic proficiency in Ballet and Contemporary Dance forms, while expose to a diversity of dance styles at different levels of competency. You will develop technical assurance, artistic synthesis, movement efficiency, safe practices as well as the concepts across different dance techniques. This module will prepare you to take on the physical challenges of more practice and/or what is currently trending in order to enhance personal dance practice.

Besides dance technique training, you will also be introduced to performance process by rehearsing and performing in dance repertory and work with various choreographers and dance artists. You will learn existing dance works and/or new creative works, honing the dance performance skills and developing the artistry. You will also learn to focus on cultivating professional behaviour and be guided to explore a personal artistic expression.
20
Elective

Option A (Elective)

Electives are classes that students must take in addition to the core curriculum. Students may choose from a list of 40+ modules to explore personal interests, delve into specialised subjects, or in areas that align with their career goals or passions.

Option B (Overseas Immersion Programme)

The Overseas Immersion Programme (OIP) is a 2- to 3-week experience that provides students with the chance to immerse in a different culture and academic environment. Through a blend of classroom learning, hands-on activities, and cultural exploration, the programme fosters academic and professional growth, equipping participants to thrive in our interconnected global landscape.
20

TypeTitleCredits
School Core

Dance and Performance Practices 3B

You will learn to develop technical and artistic proficiency in Ballet and Contemporary Dance forms, while expose to a diversity of dance styles at different levels of competency. You will develop technical assurance, artistic synthesis, movement efficiency, safe practices as well as the concepts across different dance techniques. This module will prepare you to take on the physical challenges of more practice and/or what is currently trending in order to enhance personal dance practice.

Besides dance technique training, you will also be introduced to performance process by rehearsing and performing in dance repertory and work with various choreographers and dance artists. You will learn existing dance works and/or new creative works, honing the dance performance skills and developing the artistry. You will also learn to focus on cultivating professional behaviour and be guided to explore a personal artistic expression.
30
School Core

Community Dance and Outreach

You will learn look at your own practice with the view to contribute to the development of dance; establish the role, responsibilities and limitations of a person teaching or helping others through movement/dance; and apply assessment strategies to promote learning. You will also learn about the outreach effort and how to conduct an outreach project to various target participants in the community using dance and movement as a tool and as an art form.

This module aims to provide students the opportunity to participate in the conceptualisation, planning and execution a dance project by employing various dance pedagogy skills and strategies. You will collaborate with an external organisation under the supervision of a module lecturer and/or guest artist, and consolidate the dance knowledge, skills and interests in an authentic experience.
10
School Core

Professional and Digital Project

You will learn to be involved in a dance project that integrates various aspects of specialisation. You will learn the intricacies of production management, and dive into the world of proposal, scheduling, budgeting, contracts, and agreements. Discover the principles and practices that make dance management an art in itself. Explore digital tools and strategies that enhance the creativity of dance production and backstage management.

With this module, there will be an opportunity for you to experience the journey from guiding a production team to executing and managing a dance production and performance. Implement measures to assure the quality of the dance production and refine aspects of the performance to meet artistic and professional standards.
10
ElectiveElectives are the classes that the students must take in addition to the core curriculum. Students may choose from a list of elective modules to explore personal interests and further develop their specializations that align with their career goals and professional development. 10
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entry requirements

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)

The audition process consists of TWO (2) parts:

  1. Pre-Screening
  2. Final Audition

  1. Pre-Screening
    Applicants will be pre-screened through (A) video submission (for instrumentalists and vocalists) or (B) composition portfolio submission for composers, to be shortlisted for a final audition. Only shortlisted applicants will be invited to a final audition.

    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

    (A) Video (for instrumentalists and vocalists)
    You are to submit a video fulfilling the following requirements for Pre-Screening:

    • Duration: total performance duration of at least 5 minutes
    • Pieces: 2 contrasting works
    • Pieces must be written by different composers
    • Pieces must demonstrate a broad range of styles, historical periods, and character, reflecting both maturity 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.
    • You are encouraged to perform with an accompanist if the chosen works require accompaniment.
    • 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.

    Guidelines for video recording:
    • Performance of the two contrasting pieces must be recorded in a single take without edits.
    • The camera must be stationary for the entire performance.
    • The video should show the performer in full body if possible.
    • The video is to be recorded no more than three months prior to the submission date.
    • Concert and competition recordings are not allowed.
    • You are required to come to the front of the camera (where your face can be seen clearly) and state your name and the titles of the pieces before the performance.

    (B) Composition Portfolio (for composition applicants only)
    You are to submit a composition portfolio fulfilling the following requirements for Pre-Screening:

    • 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.


  2. Final Audition
    Following the pre-screening, shortlisted applicants will be invited to:
    (A) an in-person audition
    OR
    (B) an online audition (for applicants unable to attend the in-person audition in Singapore and other locations)

    (A) In-person audition in Singapore
    If you are residing in Singapore, you are required to attend an in-person audition if you pass the pre-screening. You will be notified of the exact date and time via email one week before the audition.

    The in-person audition will consist of the following:

    • Performance of 2 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

    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.

    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 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.

    In-person audition dates

    Singapore

    Audition Date
    9 January 2026
    2 – 6 March 2026
    27 – 30 Apr 2026

    China

    Audition Date
    15 – 16 November 2025 (Beijing)
    7 – 14 March 2026 (Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai)
    16 – 17 May 2026 (Beijing)

    Note:
    • You will be notified of the exact date and time via email one week before the audition, if you pass the pre-screening.
    • Audition dates are accurate at the time of publishing and will be subject to changes.
    • Applicants who wish to attend the audition in China will be notified of more information by Student Admissions Office closer to date.


    (B) Online audition
    Though in-person auditions are preferred, you may request to attend an online audition via Zoom if you reside overseas.

    You will be required to record a new video of 2 contrasting works and submit it within TWO (2) weeks of our notification of your shortlisting. You will be given a unique audition number to be printed out and placed in sight of the recording. More instructions will be provided to shortlisted applicants.

    The online audition will consist of the following:
    • Sight-reading
    • Aural awareness
    • Music theory*
    • Reviewing of composition portfolio (for composition applicants)
    • Short interview with the audition panel about your musical experiences, interests and ambitions for future studies and career

    Important notes on preparing for your online audition
    • You must be alone in a quiet room.

    • Instrumentalists are required to have their principal study instrument ready during the audition.

    • You are to join the Zoom meeting with a large screen device (e.g. Tablet/Laptop) to read the music score for the segment on sight-reading. You are to prepare an earpiece to facilitate the segment on aural awareness.

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

    *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

Minimum Educational Qualifications Required

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

  • Singapore-Cambridge Secondary Education Certificate (SEC) – applicable from 2028 intake onwards: An aggregate score of 21 points or better in 4 subjects (3 subjects at G3 and 1 subject at G2), excluding English.

    If you have all four subjects at G3, the subject with the lowest grade will be mapped from G3 to G2*.

    *Grade Mapping Table

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

    Bonus points for admission

    The bonus points are subtracted from your aggregate scores to obtain the net aggregate scores for application:

    You can get a maximum of 2 bonus points from CCA grade.

    Types of bonus pointsNo. of bonus points awarded
    Grades of A1–A2/Excellent2 points
    Grades of B3–C6/Good1 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
    • Part-time ITE certificate, with a minimum GPA of ≥ 2.0 for Higher NITEC holders or ≥ 3.5 for NITEC holders
Successful completion of at least 10 years of formal education.

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.
The minimum English Language proficiency requirement:

GCE O-Level/SEC at G3 EnglishIELTS AcademicTOEFL - iBTPTE AcademicDuolingo English TestSAT (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing component)
C6550 or 2.54280480

  • Qualifications equivalent to any of the above
  • Applicants with Higher NITEC or NITEC qualifications are deemed to have met the English Language proficiency requirement.
  • Applicants from countries where English is not the first language, or whose qualifications are obtained from institutions where English is not the medium of instruction, NAFA will consider the English Language proficiency attained through the above-mentioned English Language qualifications.

The EAE is open to graduating GCE O-Level students, final-year Nitec and Higher Nitec students from the Institute of Technical Education and graduating Integrated Programme (IP)/International Baccaularette (IB) Year 4 students.

The Diploma EAE application window for the August 2027 intake is from 15 June to 30 June 2026. Please check your application eligibility and apply online HERE for free.

💡Want to learn more before applying?
Join us for our Diploma EAE Virtual Info Day on 15 June 2026!
Explore our programmes, meet our friendly lecturers, and get all your questions answered.

👉 Register here

Programme highlights
NAFA offers a diverse selection of Diploma programmes in the visual arts, design, media, and performing arts, tailored to meet the evolving demands of the creative industries in Singapore and beyond. With a strong emphasis on artistic excellence and industry relevance, our curriculum blends technical mastery with conceptual development, encouraging students to explore, innovate, and refine their creative voice.

Discover how the NAFA Diploma empowers you to unlock your creative potential and build a strong foundation for diploma-level studies. Hear more from our faculty to find out more our programmes!

Programme Date: Monday, 15 June 2026
Time
School of Design & Media 2:00 to 3:00 pm
School of Arts Management 2:00 to 3:00 pm
School of Fine Art 3:00 to 4:00 pm
School of Dance 3:00 to 4:00 pm
School of Fashion Studies 4:00 to 5:00 pm
School of Theatre 4:00 to 5:00 pm
School of 3D Design 5:00 to 6:00 pm
School of Music 5:00 to 6:00 pm

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

Process Period
Application 15 June to 30 June 2026
Portfolio Submission
(for School of 3D Design, Design & Media, Fashion Studies, Fine Art)
By 20 July 2026
Personal Statement Submission. Submission of a Testimonial is optional
(for School of Arts Management)
By 20 July 2026
Audition
(for School of Music, Dance, Theatre)
20 to 24 July 2026
Offer & Acceptance 7 to 14 August 2026

Applicants to:
  1. Apply online here from 15 June to 30 June 2026 for free. Submit the required documents for verification within 5 working days from the application date or by 7 July 2026, whichever is earlier.

  2. Submit Portfolio for programmes under the Faculty of Art & Design by 20 July 2026 online here (3D Design/Design & Media/ Fashion Studies/Fine Art). There is no Admission Test for EAE.

  3. Submit Personal Statement for Diploma in Arts Management by 20 July 2026 online here. Submission of a Testimonial is optional.

  4. Attend Audition for programmes under the Faculty of Performing Arts (Dance/Music/Theatre). Audition dates are from 20 to 24 July 2026. More information on the audition will be sent to you via email a week before the audition date.

Offer and Acceptance
  • Applicants will receive notification of the application outcome via email from 7 to 14 August 2026. Successful applicants should confirm acceptance of their offers by the deadline stipulated
  • Applicants who accept their offers at this stage will be guaranteed a place, as long as they meet the criteria stated under Entry Requirement for each programme

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

Entry Requirements for EAE

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

For ITE Students
ITE students who are in their final year of study of their Nitec or Higher Nitec courses. For the August 2027 intake, ITE students who complete their Nitec course in June or December 2026 and Higher Nitec course in September 2026 or March 2027 will be eligible to apply for admission.

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

Confirmation of Conditional Offers for Diploma Admission
Successful applicants for the EAE will be given conditional offers and are still required to submit the following document, as applicable:

  • GCE O-Level results with an aggregate of not more than 25 points for 4 subjects excluding English
  • Certificate and Academic Transcript for Nitec or Higher Nitec
  • Completion of IP Year 4 (End-Year Examination Results)
  • Completion of IB Year 4 (End-Year Examination Results)

Applicant who fails to provide documentary evidence of having met the admission requirements by the deadline stipulated by NAFA will have his/her conditional offer withdrawn.
  1. You may be granted module/credit exemption if you have taken and passed the same or similar modules in another institution or previously at NAFA (for re-admitted applicants) or if you have relevant industry experience.

  2. You are also eligible to apply for module exemption if you hold any of the following qualifications:

    Full-time NITEC or Higher NITEC
    School of the Arts Singapore (SOTA) Year 4 or 5 or 6
    GCE A-Level
    International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma/IB Career-Related Certificate (IBCC)
    NAFA School of Young Talents (SYT)
    From selected Schools in China and Malaysia

    Please refer to the module exemption here for details.


How to Apply

Take the leap! A promising future in dance awaits.

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 programme(s) – Choose up to two programmes 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 along with your application fees. Applications are open from October each year for the following year’s August intake.

For all programmes except Diploma in Arts Management ^, select either Portfolio Submission or Admission Test in the application portal.

Applicants may be asked to attend an interview in person or online.
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 ResidentsInternational Students
Application feeS$75.00S$120.00

Application fee is inclusive of prevailing GST.

Attend the audition at NAFA
Attend the audition at NAFA with the required materials as indicated in the test advisory.
Application outcome
Receive the outcome of your application via email within 4 – 6 weeks after your Portfolio Submission/Interview/Audition or Admission Test.