SkillsFuture Work-Study Programmes
The SkillsFuture Work-Study Programmes (WSPs) are offered by Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) and SkillsFuture-appointed private training providers. WSPs provide fresh graduates and mid-career individuals a head-start in careers related to their discipline of study through work-study arrangements within organisations. Employers participate as host employers by opening their workplace and offering structured training to WSP trainees. Take-up has increased steadily: enrolled trainees in Work-Study Diploma programmes (ITE) increased from 500 in 2021 to around 1,300 in 2024, while Work-Study Degree programmes grew from 300 in 2021 to around 800 in 2023. Based on recent surveys, approximately 7 in 10 graduates stayed with the company that hired and trained them, demonstrating strong retention outcomes.
Eligibility Criteria
- 01
Companies, societies, and non-profit organisations registered or incorporated in Singapore
- 02
Must provide full-time employment with defined job role and competitive starting salary
- 03
Must assign mentor for quality mentorship and provide structured on-the-job training
- 04
Must provide 2-year career development plan with career advancement pathway
- 05
Must provide full sponsorship of course fees (for WSPostDip/WSDip programmes)
- 06
Trainees must be Singapore Citizens or Singapore Permanent Residents
- 07
Fresh graduates: Within 3 years of graduation from ITE/Polytechnics or ORD
How to Apply
For employers: 1. Express interest — Contact the relevant IHL or training provider offering the WSP in your sector 2. Open your workplace — Agree to provide structured training, mentorship, and career development 3. Recruit trainees — Suitable candidates are matched with jobs related to their field of study 4. Provide structured training — Including on-the-job training, work-based projects, and mentorship 5. Claim grants — Submit claims to SSG for the applicable employer grants
For trainees: 1. Apply through the IHL or training provider offering the programme 2. Go through the recruitment screening process 3. Be matched with a participating employer 4. Start full-time employment combined with structured learning
Claims and Disbursement
Employers submit claims to SSG for grants upon successful placement and completion of programme milestones. Grants are disbursed based on Terms and Conditions set by SSG. Specific claim timelines and documentation requirements vary by programme type — consult the relevant IHL or training provider for detailed procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Up to $15,000 per eligible trainee (Singapore Citizen or PR) — comprising mentor grant ($5,000), OJT blueprint development grant ($5,000), administrative grant ($2,000), and overseas attachment training grant (up to $8,000).
Trainees (WSCert Modular/WSQ, WSDip, WSPostDip) receive a $5,000 sign-on incentive.
WSCert: 12–18 months; WSDip: 36 months; WSPostDip: 12–18 months; WSDeg: 3–4 years (varies by university programme).
Based on recent MOE surveys, approximately 7 in 10 graduates stayed with the company that hired and trained them.
Yes. Suitable candidates are matched by the IHL/training provider, but the employer makes the final hiring decision.
WSCert short programmes (Digital Marketing, Engineer 4.0, Customer Service Associate) are specifically designed for mid-career individuals. WSDeg also accepts working adults.
For WSPostDip and WSDip, yes — employers typically provide full sponsorship of course fees. For WSDeg, sponsorship packages vary by company and may include tuition, stipends, and sign-on bonuses.
Full-time employment, competitive salary, assigned mentor, structured OJT, a 2-year career development plan, and full course fee sponsorship (for WSPostDip/WSDip).