In a rapidly evolving job market, staying relevant and competitive in our careers has become a top priority. As such, continuous learning and upskilling have come to the forefront, encouraging individuals and corporate professionals to adapt to the ever-changing demands of the workforce.
This is precisely where SkillsFuture and Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ) courses come into play. Singaporeans have access to these invaluable resources for their professional development, achieving personal growth, adaptability, and resilience even in the face of change.
In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the ins and outs of SkillsFuture WSQ SkillsFuture courses, from understanding the basics to claiming your SkillsFuture Credits. Keep reading to find out more.
What is SkillsFuture and WSQ?
What is SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG)?
SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) is the government agency driving this little red dot’s lifelong learning initiative. At its core, SSG is a catalyst for change. Its mission is to shape a society that values the pursuit of knowledge, the honing of skills, and the unrelenting quest for excellence.
SSG’s role goes beyond just promoting learning; it is about creating a holistic system that encompasses vocational training, industry-specific certifications, and a wide array of WSQ courses.
It is also your go-to source for information on available courses, eligibility criteria, and funding support.
What is Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ)?
WSQ is a national credential system that plays a pivotal role in training, developing, assessing, and certifying the skills of Singapore’s workforce. Thus, WSQ-accredited courses are rooted in the Skills Frameworks, a dynamic reference that outlines the essential job roles and skills required for various professions. The frameworks serve as a compass, guiding individuals toward the skills that are not only relevant today but also transferable across different job tasks and sectors.
Every aspect of the WSQ system, from the development of Technical Skills and Competencies to the approval of training providers and the awarding of WSQ qualifications, is subject to stringent criteria. This commitment to excellence is not negotiable in order to meet the diverse needs of learners and employers alike.
How it works:
- It is a system meticulously crafted to nurture skills and competencies tailored to specific job roles, including those vital core skills and competencies that transcend job boundaries.
- No formal academic prerequisites are required when it comes to entry as they offer bite-sized modules.
- It provides accessible routes for skills and qualification advancement that align seamlessly with the Skills Framework for various sectors, ensuring a clear path for professional growth.
- Statements of Attainment (SOA) and qualifications are rigorously quality-assured and conferred by SSG and/or established awarding bodies through collaborative partnerships.
After successfully finishing each module, you will receive an SOA. By accumulating the relevant SOAs, you can work towards attaining WSQ Qualifications.
The different levels of WSQ qualifications are as follows (from minimum qualification level to highest qualification level):
- WSQ Certificate
- WSQ Higher Certificate
- WSQ Advanced Certificate
- WSQ Diploma
- WSQ Specialist Diploma
- WSQ Graduate Diploma
Understanding the Differences Between SkillsFuture and WSQ
While both initiatives aim to enhance skills and empower individuals, they have distinct roles and features.
SkillsFuture is a comprehensive national movement that encompasses a wide range of learning opportunities, including academic courses, vocational training, and short courses. It focuses on holistic skills development and lifelong learning, catering to diverse learning needs.
WSQ, on the other hand, is a subset of SkillsFuture that is specifically designed to address industry-specific skills and competencies. It concentrates on developing skills relevant to job roles within various sectors.
While SkillsFuture courses are diverse, they may not always be closely aligned with specific industry needs as they cater to a broader spectrum of interests and career goals.
WSQ courses are directly aligned with industry requirements. For example, an SEO specialist seeking to enhance their skills may opt for a digital marketing course within the WSQ framework. These courses are tailored to meet the skill demands of specific job roles, ensuring that attendees can contribute effectively to their chosen fields.
Who is Eligible for WSQ Funding?
Singaporeans and Permanent Residents (PRs) aged 21 years old and above are eligible for WSQ Funding. Here is a detailed breakdown on the amount of subsidy that individuals and corporates can receive.
Individual Funding
| Eligibility | Funding |
| Singaporeans & PRs (21 to 39 years old) | Up to 50% of course fees |
| Singaporeans (40 years old & above) | Up to 70% of course fees |
For Singaporeans aged 25 and above, the remaining fees can be conveniently offset using SkillsFuture credits.
Corporate Funding
| Eligibility | Funding |
| Non-SMEs | Up to 50% of course fees |
| SMEs | Up to 70% of course fees |
Businesses with the SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit (SFEC) can leverage this to secure a 90% additional subsidy, effectively reducing the remaining fees substantially.
Additionally, companies can benefit from additional support through Absentee Payroll which is capped at a maximum of $100,000 per enterprise per calendar year.
Delving Deeper Into SkillsFuture Credits
What Are SkillsFuture Credits?
These credits are financial incentives the Singaporean government provides to support individuals in their pursuit of learning and skills development. They are designed to equip individuals with the resources they need to continually upgrade their skills and stay relevant in today’s rapidly evolving job market.
As part of this commitment, Singaporeans aged 25 and above have been granted an initial SkillsFuture Credit of $500 since 2015 which can be used to further offset the fees of attending WSQ courses.
In essence, SkillsFuture Credits make learning more affordable, reducing the financial barriers to acquiring new skills and knowledge. Beyond career benefits, SkillsFuture Credits also enable personal growth and fulfilment by supporting learning in areas of interest.
Are New Singapore Citizens Eligible for Skillsfuture Credit?
Yes, new Singapore citizens aged 25 and above can look forward to receiving an initial $500 credits while those aged 40 and above will be eligible for the $500 Mid-Career Support SkillsFuture Credit, bringing their total to $1,000.
Upon obtaining their citizenship, SkillsFuture Singapore will inform them about their accounts and when they can start utilising their SkillsFuture credits to enrol for WSQ courses.
How to Check Your SkillsFuture Credits Balance
Here is an overview of the SkillsFuture Credit Top-Ups you will receive:
| SkillsFuture Credits | Amount | Eligibility | Expiry Date |
| Opening SkillsFuture Credits | $500 | Singaporeans aged 25 and above | NA |
| One-off SkillsFuture Credit Top-Up | $500 | Singaporeans aged 25 and above as of 2020 | 31 December 2025 |
| Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support) | $500 | Singaporeans aged 40-60 as of 2020 | 31 December 2025 |
Checking your SkillsFuture Credits before you sign up for a SkillsFuture or WSQ course is a straightforward process. The following is a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the SkillsFuture website to access the SkillsFuture Credit portal.
- Use your SingPass ID and password to log into the portal.
- Once logged in, you will be directed to your SkillsFuture Credit account. Here, you can view your available credit balance and transaction history.
SkillsFuture Courses to Empower Your Learning
Courses Eligible for Utilising SkillsFuture Credits
Navigating the vast landscape of learning opportunities made possible by SkillsFuture may be overwhelming at first. The ecosystem encompasses a vast and diverse array of courses that cater to a wide spectrum of interests, career aspirations, and skill development needs.
However, the SkillsFuture portal’s course page has all the information you need, including the types of SkillsFuture and WSQ courses available that will take you a step closer to achieving your goals.
Browse a range of courses designed for various industries from accounting to engineering, fashion and healthcare.
If you want to learn about digital marketing, OOm’s courses are a good stepping stone. With 17 years of industry expertise as our foundation, our digital marketing courses are thoughtfully tailored to meet individual requirements as well as corporate goals, ensuring you and your employees’ success in the digital age.
When selecting a course, it is advisable to thoroughly explore the range of offerings and carefully review the detailed course descriptions. This will enable you to identify the course that best suits your requirements. Take into account factors such as course content, duration, delivery method, and the expertise of the instructors. If you have inquiries or need guidance, do not hesitate to reach out to the training providers for assistance.
Benefits of Attending WSQ Courses
Furthermore, attending WSQ courses offers a multitude of advantages, whether you are an individual looking to enhance your skills or an employer seeking to upskill your workforce.
Key benefits for individuals:
- Strategically plan their careers and acquire the necessary skills for transitioning into new sectors or job roles.
- Elevate their skill sets and enhance their career progression opportunities.
- Obtain recognised qualifications and certifications, effectively showcasing their skillsets to potential employers.
- Evaluate and validate their skills and competencies according to industry-established work standards.
Key benefits for employers:
- Access high-quality, industry-relevant training options that are quality-assured.
- Assist in the formulation of training and development strategies.
- Facilitate performance management processes effectively.
- Strengthen in-house training capabilities.
- Simplify the recruitment process by hiring certified and skilled personnel with the required competencies.
Enrolling in WSQ courses
The steps to enrolling in a WSQ course may vary depending on the training centre you choose. At OOm, we are committed to making the process a breeze with our simplified enrolment procedure and friendly team that is always ready to assist.
Reach out by submitting our enquiry form, sending an email to training@oom.com.sg, or calling us at + 65 6391 0930 to speak directly with our team. Be sure to include your name, contact information, and details about the course you are interested in.
Upon contacting OOm, our team will promptly get in touch with you to assist you in navigating the course application process. You can expect them to provide information on course availability, prerequisites, fees, and any other relevant details.
Remember that the specific enrolment process depends on the training provider you choose, so it is important to follow the steps and guidance provided. This ensures a smooth and successful experience as you embark on your journey to acquire valuable skills and qualifications.
How To Claim SkillsFuture Credits
When enrolling in a WSQ course, it is advisable to notify your training provider of your intent to utilise your SkillsFuture Credit.
You can submit your SkillsFuture claim for any course up to 60 days prior to the course’s start date.
Make sure to prepare the following before submitting your claim to ensure a smooth process:
- Complete your SkillsFuture profile (if it is your first time submitting a claim)
- Enrol in a course through a training provider
- Retrieve an electronic receipt with your name matching your NRIC, the training provider’s name, course title, the paid course fee amount, and the course’s commencement date.
These are the steps to submitting a claim:
- Visit the MySkillsFuture website then click on ‘Submit SkillsFuture Credit Claims’
- Log in with SingPass
- Click on ‘Submit A Claim’
- Search for your training provider and the course you will be attending
- Select the Course Run Date
- Key in all relevant information and upload the necessary documents
- Submit the claim
Achieving Your WSQ Certification
Embracing Digital Credentials
Gone are the days of traditional hardcopy certificates. The WSQ certification process has evolved to a digital era, with electronic certificates (e-Certs) taking centre stage. Here’s what you need to know about obtaining your WSQ certification:
- e-Certs for Streamlined Processes
They are the new standard for certifying your competency in WSQ training modules or obtaining full WSQ qualifications. This streamlines the certification process, making it more efficient and accessible. - User-Friendly Access
Trainees who are Singaporeans and PRs can easily access their e-Certs. All it takes is a login to the MySkillsFuture portal using Singpass, and you can swiftly download your electronic certificate. For trainees who are foreigners without Singpass, the process remains straightforward. They can approach their respective Approved Training Organisations (ATOs) to download their e-Certs. - Verification for Employers
Employers benefit significantly from this digital shift. They can conveniently and securely verify the authenticity of e-Certs when considering potential employees. - Enhanced Convenience
With e-Certs, the certification process becomes more convenient and accessible to all stakeholders, ensuring a smooth transition to the digital age of credentialing.
How to Access Your e-Certs
Accessing your e-Certs is easy and here’s a simple guide:
- Visit the MySkillsFuture portal and log in using your Singpass credentials.
- Once logged in, navigate to ‘View Skills Passport’ in the dropdown menu.
- Select ‘Qualifications and Certifications’ and click on the e-Cert to download it.
If you are a foreigner with no Singpass, approach your training provider for assistance.
Embracing Lifelong Learning Today
SkillsFuture and WSQ courses are powerful tools for personal and professional growth in Singapore. By understanding the landscape, eligibility criteria, and how to make the most of SkillsFuture Credits, you can embark on a successful journey toward upskilling and career advancement.
OOm boasts expertise and innovation in the field of digital marketing in Singapore. Not only do we lead the way in delivering top-notch digital marketing services, but we also extend our dedication to knowledge sharing through our digital marketing institute. This institute, open to individuals from diverse backgrounds and aspirations, offers a gateway to thrive in the dynamic world of digital marketing.
