Your Next Chapter: Completing your IGCSEs opens up a world of possibilities. This guide helps you navigate the exciting higher education and career pathways available in Singapore, from A-Levels and IB to polytechnics and direct employment.
Unveiling Your Future After IGCSE
Treading the pathway post the completion of IGCSE presents one with a whole myriad of possibilities, which could be both exciting and exhilarating at the same time. Many students find themselves confused over whether to take a gap year, continue their higher education or start working right away. In this blog, we shall be talking about higher education & career ventures post IGCSE completion for students in Singapore, or planning to study in Singapore.
Career Options in Singapore
Singapore is known for its cultural diversity, food, beautiful landscapes and most importantly, as an important and ever-emerging educational destination. With its strong economy and futuristic approach towards life, Singapore stands to be an attractive option to continue one’s academic journey and/or kickstart one’s professional journey.
The ideal career to be chosen depends on the subjects with which the students have passed their IGCSE qualification. For instance, Science majors students can pursue Medicine, Engineering, Environmental sciences, etc. Other career fields include Finances, Data science, Journalism, Hospitality, Education, Tourism, etc. Singapore is committed to innovation and it highly values the digital economy which offers a path to certain new age fields such as sustainable energy, data analytics, cybersecurity, etc.
Post-IGCSE Pathways
Many students choose to pursue AS and A levels after IGCSE completion. A levels (Advanced) is a two part program, the first part is AS (Advanced Subsidiary), which is a 1 year course and is a qualification on its own. The second part is the A2 level, which provides a higher level of specialization. These are highly specialized courses and students are required to take up only 3 subjects for an in-depth study.
Another road for students is pursuing the IB Diploma, which is also a student-centric and research-based education and backs students with high order thinking skills and an all round independent development.
A-Level Pathway
A direct, specialized route to university, widely recognized by institutions worldwide. Ideal for academic-focused students with clear subject interests.
Polytechnic Education
Practical, industry-focused diplomas preparing you for employment or further university studies, often with exemptions.
International Baccalaureate (IB)
A comprehensive program developing critical thinking, research skills, and a global perspective across six subject groups.
Direct Employment
Enter the workforce with your IGCSE qualifications to gain on-the-job experience and start your career early.
Perks of Studying in Singapore
Firstly, Singapore is filled with high ranking international universities, making it the perfect destination for pursuing higher education. Moreover, it provides a futuristic and innovative environment for nurturing students in all fields of life.
Secondly, Singapore with vast cultural diversity provides a rich experience beyond the classroom and accepts students from every culture with open arms.
Finally, Singapore’s safe and stable environment, along with its high standard of education and living standards makes it the perfect place for students to develop both personally and professionally. Location wise, the students have the rest of Asia at their disposal, making it convenient to explore the landscape.
8 Notable Universities and Colleges in Singapore
- National University of Singapore (NUS)
- Nanyang Technological University (NTU)
- Singapore Management University (SMU)
- Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD)
- INSEAD
- PSB Academy
- James Cook University - Singapore (JCU)
- North London Collegiate School
Moreover, there are some amazing Singapore-based companies which help students ease their educational journeys through online tuitions, study resources, and past paper practices. One such platform is Tutopiya. With experienced teachers, high-standard study resources & personalized study plans, Tutopiya helps students prepare for their A levels and IB exams.
Aids for International Students: Scholarship & Admission
Government Scholarships provided by the Singapore Ministry of Education and private scholarships sponsored by corporations and foundations like Lee Kong Chian Graduate Scholarships, ASEAN Scholarships, GIIS Singapore Global Citizen Scholarship, etc. are available.
The admission process in Singapore is quite simple, but requires careful planning and preparation. It generally involves the following steps:
- Application form and educational certificates
- Submission of test scores such as SAT, ACT, etc.
- Submission of letters of recommendation, and/or a personal statement
Additionally, few courses also include interviews and portfolios. The students must ensure that all academic transcripts and other documents are in English or officially translated. Moreover, international students must obtain a student visa well in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is A-Level better than a polytechnic diploma?
It depends on your learning style and career goals. A-Levels are traditionally more academic and specialized, while polytechnic diplomas are focused on applied skills for the workforce.
Can I go to university after a polytechnic diploma?
Yes, many diploma holders from Singapore's polytechnics go on to local and overseas universities, sometimes with module exemptions.
How can Tutopiya help me decide?
Our education counselors can help you evaluate your options, create a subject plan, and provide 1-to-1 support for admissions tests and transition readiness.
Ready to Plan Your Path After IGCSE?
Get a personalized roadmap for A-Levels, polytechnics, or alternative pathways with our expert guidance.