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
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).