NAFA WeChat Account

NAFA WeChat Account QR Code

NAFA WeChat Customer Service

NAFA WeChat Customer Service QR Code
search-icon
Back To Main Menu
Overview Modules Entry Requirements Fees How to Apply
Overview Students' Work Modules Entry Requirements Fees How to Apply
Duration: 3 Years
Mode: Full-time

Step Up and Train the Next Generation of Musicians

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

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

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

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


Learn about Both Music and Teaching

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

Understand the Mind of a Musician

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

Future-proof Your Skills

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







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:

  • Administrator for Music School
  • Band Director
  • Choral Director
  • Collaborative Musician
  • Composer/Arranger
  • Conductor
  • Music Reviewer
  • Music Teacher
  • Music Workshop Facilitator
  • Music Producer/Presenter
  • Orchestral Player
  • Solo or Ensemble Performer

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

Pedagogy Studio 1A

In this module, students will be introduced to a diverse range of studies and repertoire with the purpose of developing proficiency and understanding of technical, musical, and pedagogical aspects within their primary area of study.

Students will work on scales, arpeggios, etudes, and carefully selected repertoire, fostering essential skills in instrumental performance and strengthening their technical proficiency. To enhance these efforts, tailored classes and rehearsals will deepen their comprehension of pedagogical principles, enriching their overall musical education.

In addition to instrumental instruction, students will actively participate in performance classes, learning to critique, providing constructive feedback. Participation in ensembles and seminars, structured around faculty guidance, will serve as platforms to apply acquired knowledge, demonstrating effective communication through ensemble performances, collaborative projects, and presentations.

The diverse components in this module aim to equip students with critical skills and knowledge, preparing them for roles as musicians and/or music educators. Furthermore, the module prioritizes musicians’ well-being by offering curated workshops and lectures focused on fostering awareness about health-related aspects within the music community.
30
School Core

Integrated Practitioner 1A

In this module, students are introduced to a range of academic musical studies to be aligned with practical skills learnt, ensuring the holistic growth of a student musician through integrated studies and application.

Students will learn basic theoretical knowledge and aural skills, acquire broad and informed knowledge of selected works and composers from the Age of Common Practice.

Through the skills acquired in this module, students will learn to contextualise the repertoire learnt by demonstrating historical and theoretical understanding in their analyses of the works.
20

TypeTitleCredits
Faculty Core

Professional Development Plan I

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

Pedagogy Studio 1B

In this module, students continue to work on a diverse range of studies and repertoire with the purpose of developing proficiency and understanding of technical, musical, and pedagogical aspects within their primary area of study.

Students will work on scales, arpeggios, etudes, and carefully selected repertoire, fostering essential skills in instrumental performance and strengthening their technical proficiency. To enhance these efforts, tailored classes and rehearsals will deepen their comprehension of pedagogical principles, enriching their overall musical education.

In addition to instrumental instruction, students will actively participate in performance classes, learning to critique, providing constructive feedback. Participation in ensembles and seminars, structured around faculty guidance, will serve as platforms to apply acquired knowledge, demonstrating effective communication through ensemble performances, collaborative projects, and presentations.

The diverse components in this module aim to equip students with critical skills and knowledge, preparing them for roles as musicians and/or music educators. Furthermore, the module prioritizes musicians’ well-being by offering curated workshops and lectures focused on fostering awareness about health-related aspects within the music community.
30
School Core

Integrated Practitioner 1B

In this module, students continue to be introduced to a range of academic musical studies to be aligned with practical skills learnt, ensuring the holistic growth of a student musician through integrated studies and application.

Students will build on basic theoretical knowledge and aural skills, acquire broad and informed knowledge of selected works and composers from the Age of Common Practice.

Through the skills acquired in this module, students will learn to contextualise the repertoire learnt by demonstrating historical and theoretical understanding in the analyses of the works.
20

TypeTitleCredits
Academy Core

Introduction to Interdisciplinary Arts Practice

(also available in Year 2 Semester 2)

The Introduction to Interdisciplinary Arts Practice module introduces interdisciplinarity as an approach to learning. The module provides the opportunity to place and activate respective artistic disciplines in the context of a collaborative creation. It is a platform for appreciating different perspectives, analysing possible connections, and engaging in collective exploration to gain new insights.
10
School Core

Pedagogy Studio 2A

In this module, students continue to work on a diverse range of studies and repertoire with the purpose of developing proficiency and understanding of technical, musical, and pedagogical aspects within their primary area of study. This module builds upon the skills acquired in the preceding Pedagogy Studio 1A and 1B modules.

Students will work on etudes, and carefully selected repertoire, fostering essential skills in instrumental performance and strengthening their technical proficiency. To enhance these efforts, tailored classes and rehearsals will deepen their comprehension of pedagogical principles, enriching their overall musical education.

In addition to instrumental instruction, students will actively participate in performance classes, learning to critique, providing constructive feedback. Participation in ensembles and seminars, structured around faculty guidance, will serve as platforms to apply acquired knowledge, demonstrating effective communication through ensemble performances, collaborative projects, and presentations.

The diverse components in this module aim to equip students with critical skills and knowledge, preparing them for roles as musicians and/or music educators. Furthermore through curated lectures and project work, the module introduces students to digital skills, ensuring career-readiness.
30
School Core

Integrated Practitioner 2A

In this module, students continue to build on knowledge acquired in Integrated Practitioner 1A and 1B. Students will continue to be introduced to a range of academic musical studies to be aligned with practical skills learnt, ensuring the holistic growth of a student musician through integrated studies and application.

Students will build on prior theoretical knowledge and aural skills, acquire broad and informed knowledge of selected works and composers from the Age of Common Practice.

Through the skills acquired in this module, students will learn to contextualise the repertoire learnt by demonstrating historical and theoretical understanding in the analyses of the works.
20

TypeTitleCredits
Academy Core

Introduction to Interdisciplinary Arts Practice

(also available in Year 2 Semester 1)

The Introduction to Interdisciplinary Arts Practice module introduces interdisciplinarity as an approach to learning. The module provides the opportunity to place and activate respective artistic disciplines in the context of a collaborative creation. It is a platform for appreciating different perspectives, analysing possible connections, and engaging in collective exploration to gain new insights.
10
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

Pedagogy Studio 2B

In this module, students continue to work on a diverse range of studies and repertoire with the purpose of developing proficiency and understanding of technical, musical, and pedagogical aspects within their primary area of study. This module builds upon the skills acquired in the preceding Pedagogy Studio 1A, 1B and 2A modules.

Students will work on carefully selected repertoire, with key focus on understanding instrumental technique requirements and stylistic practices. To enhance these efforts, tailored classes and rehearsals will deepen their comprehension of pedagogical principles, enriching their overall musical education.
In addition to instrumental instruction, students will actively participate in performance classes, learning to critique, providing constructive feedback. Participation in ensembles and seminars, structured around faculty guidance, will serve as platforms to apply acquired knowledge, demonstrating effective communication through ensemble performances, collaborative projects, and presentations.

The diverse components in this module aim to equip students with critical skills and knowledge, preparing them for roles as musicians and/or music educators. Furthermore through curated lectures and project work, the module further develops students’ digital skills as they build their portfolio, ensuring career-readiness.
30
School Core

Integrated Practitioner 2B

In this module, students continue to build on knowledge acquired in Integrated Practitioner 2A. Students will continue to be introduced to a range of academic musical studies to be aligned with practical skills learnt; ensuring the holistic growth of a student musician through integrated studies and application.

Students will build on prior theoretical knowledge and aural skills, acquire broad and informed knowledge of selected works and composers from the Age of Common Practice.

Through the skills acquired in this module, students will learn to contextualise the repertoire learnt by demonstrating historical and theoretical understanding in the analyses of the works.
20
Elective

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.
10

TypeTitleCredits
School Core

Pedagogy Studio 3A

In this module, students continue to work on a diverse range of repertoire with the purpose of strengthening proficiency and understanding of technical, musical, and pedagogical aspects explored in previous semesters.

Students will work on carefully selected repertoire, with key focus on understanding instrumental technique requirements and stylistic practices. To enhance these efforts, tailored classes and rehearsals will deepen their comprehension of pedagogical principles, enriching their overall musical education.

In addition to instrumental instruction, students will actively participate in performance classes, learning to critique, providing constructive feedback. Participation in ensembles and seminars, structured around faculty guidance, will serve as platforms to apply acquired knowledge, demonstrating effective communication through ensemble performances, collaborative projects, and presentations.

The diverse components in this module aim to equip students with critical skills and knowledge, preparing them for roles as musicians and/or music educators. Furthermore, the module continues to develop students’ digital skills as they expand their portfolio, ensuring career-readiness.
30
School Core

Integrated Practitioner 3A

In this module, students continue to build on knowledge acquired in previous Integrated Practitioner modules. Students will continue to work through a range of academic musical studies to be aligned with practical skills learnt, ensuring the holistic growth of a student musician through integrated studies and application.

Students will further expand on their theoretical knowledge and aural skills, acquire broad and informed knowledge of selected works and composers from the Age of Common Practice.

By completing this module, students will be able to demonstrate their abilities as integrated practitioners through historical and theoretical understanding of works analysed.
10
Elective

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.
20

TypeTitleCredits
School Core

Pedagogy Studio 3B

In this module, students will work on applying the skills acquired over the semesters as they prepare the repertoire to be presented in their graduating recital.

Students will work on carefully selected repertoire, with key focus on understanding instrumental technique requirements and stylistic practices. To enhance these efforts, tailored classes and rehearsals will deepen their comprehension of pedagogical principles, enriching their overall musical education.

In addition to instrumental instruction, students will actively participate in performance classes, learning to critique, providing constructive feedback. Participation in ensembles and seminars, structured around faculty guidance, will serve as platforms to apply acquired knowledge, demonstrating effective communication through ensemble performances, collaborative projects, and presentations.

The diverse components in this module aim to equip students with critical skills and knowledge, preparing them for roles as musicians and/or music educators. Furthermore, the module develops students’ digital skills as they build their portfolio, ensuring career-readiness.
30
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
Elective

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.
10
Show More

entry requirements

Selection is competitive and is subject to the availability of places. However, the Academy may give consideration to talented applicants who excel in Artistic Talent and Creativity, but have not fully met the education qualification stated.

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 prepare Snare Drum, Mallets, and Timpani for audition)
Chinese Instrumental StudiesGaohu, Erhu,
Liuqin, Pipa, Ruan
Guqin, Sanxian
Yangqin
Guzheng
Dizi, Sheng, Suona, Guanzi
Vocal StudiesVoice (Classical)

The audition process consists of TWO (2) parts:

  1. Pre-Screening
  2. Final Audition

  1. Pre-Screening
    Applicants will be pre-screened through video submission 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

    You are to submit a video fulfilling the following requirements for Pre-Screening:

    • Duration: total performance duration of at least 12 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.

    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.


  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:

    • Live performance of all pieces in the video recording (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.

    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 the same repertoire and submit it within TWO (2) weeks of our notification of your shortlisting.

    The online audition will consist of the following:
    • 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 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): 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)
C65504280480

  • 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.

NAFA has the Early Admissions Exercise (EAE) that allows graduating 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 to apply and receive conditional admission prior to receiving their final grades.

Early Admissions Exercise (EAE) August 2026 intake

The Diploma EAE application window for the August 2026 intake is from 16 June to 30 June 2025. Please check your application eligibility and apply online here for free.

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.

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


ProcessPeriod
Application16 June to 30 June 2025
Portfolio Submission
(for School of 3D Design, Design & Media, Fashion Studies, Fine Art)
By 14 July 2025
Personal Statement Submission. Submission of a Testimonial is optional
(for School of Arts Management)
By 14 July 2025
Audition
(for School of Music, Dance, Theatre)
14 to 18 July 2025
Offer & Acceptance31 July to 14 August 2025

Applicants to:
  1. Apply online here from 16 June to 30 June 2025 for free. Submit the required documents for verification within 5 working days from the application date or by 7 July 2025, whichever is earlier.

  2. Submit Portfolio for programmes under the Faculty of Art & Design by 14 July 2025 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 14 July 2025 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 14 to 18 July 2025. 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 31 July to 14 August 2025. 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 2026 intake, ITE students who complete their Nitec course in June or December 2025 and Higher Nitec course in September 2025 or March 2026 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.
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.

You are 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! Your career as a music educator begins here.

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.