Many of you would have heard about SkillsFuture, the national movement aimed at encouraging Singapore citizens to take individual ownership of skills development and learning for life.
But how many of you actually know that the Government has given you $500 to spend on courses for your own personal enrichment or to advance in your career?
Let’s say you know about the $500 SkillsFuture Credit. Do you know what courses you can use the money for, or how to apply to use the funding? We think not.
So, we’ve put together some of the common questions you may have about SkillsFuture Credit so you can finally get started.
When can I start claiming the SkillsFuture Credit?
Once you have turned 25 years old, you will receive your SkillsFuture Credit Account Activation letter by the first quarter of the year. Together with this letter, you will also get a booklet which will have the list of approved courses and how to use the Credit.
Is there an expiry date for the Credit?
The SkillsFuture Credit does not expire. You will receive it even if you are overseas, as long as you are a Singaporean who has turned 25. And remember, the credit amount is for you to use for lifelong learning so you cannot transfer it to others.
Can I use the Credit for other things?
The SkillsFuture Credit can only be used for eligible courses. You can’t exchange the amount for cash, vouchers or other things.
Would I be able to use the Credit to take courses in overseas institutions?
No, the Credit can only be used for approved courses in Singapore or approved online courses.
Can my employer ask me to use my Credit to co-fund fees for a course the company is sending me for?
No, that is not allowed. The Credit supports individual training initiatives. It is not intended to pay for training provided by employers.
How can I claim or use my Credit?
You can use your Credit to offset the course fees of approved courses by applying through http://www.skillsfuture.sg/credit. You can also check your credit balance and transactions via the same website.
When making claims, you should inform your training provider that you intend to utilise your SkillsFuture Credit and request for the relevant amount to be offset against the qualifying course fees.
What is the common feedback from Singaporeans?
According to SkillsFuture Singapore, a key concern is that Singaporeans still find it difficult to look for the course of their choice as more than 20,000 are listed on the MySkillsFuture.sg portal (go check it out). However, not to worry, SSG is working on making it easier you to search for what you want.
What happens if I need more funds for my course after using up my SkillsFuture Credit?
If you are a union member, you can make use of the $250 funding from the Union Training and Assistance Programme (UTAP). But do make sure that the course you have chosen from the SkillsFuture course directory allows you to use UTAP.
For more information on UTAP, email at UTAP@e2i.com.sg or visit the NTUC e2i (Employment and Employability Institute) website https://e2i.com.sg/.