1.    What is SkillsFuture Credit (SFC)?

Launched in 2015, the SFC aims to encourage individual ownership of skills development and lifelong learning. All Singaporeans aged 25 and above will receive an opening SFC of $500 (“Opening SFC”). The opening credit will not expire and individuals can use their credit for a range of eligible courses listed on the MySkillsFuture portal.

On 1 October 2020, the Government provided a one-off SFC top-up of $500 for all eligible Singaporeans aged 25 or above by 31 December 2020. Termed the “One-Off SkillsFuture Credit Top-Up”, these credits will expire on 31 December 2025. At the same time, the Government also provided Singaporeans aged 40 to 60 (inclusive) as of 31 December 2020 an additional $500 credit [“Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support)” which will also expire on 31 December 2025].

From 1 May 2024, the Government will provide Singaporeans aged 40 and above an additional $4,000 credit (“SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career)”). At the same time, the Government lifted the expiry date of the Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support), i.e., it will not expire when it reaches its maturity date on 31 December 2025. The remaining credit balance from the Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support) will merge with the top-up of $4,000 to form the new SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career).

For example, if you are an individual aged 40 and above as of 1 May 2024, if you have used $300 from your Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support) account, your balance of $200 will be brought over to your new SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career) account. Therefore, you will see a total of $4,200 in your SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career).
 

2.    Which government agency is handling SkillsFuture Credit (SFC)?

SFC is administered by SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG).
 

3.    What is the SkillsFuture Level-Up Programme about and what does it include?

The SkillsFuture Level-Up Programme aims to strengthen support for mid-career Singaporeans aged 40 and above to pursue substantive reskilling and upskilling for a career reboot, and to stay relevant amidst a rapidly changing economy.  Under this scheme, Singaporeans aged 40 and above can expect:

a) A further substantial top-up of the SkillsFuture Credit (SFC);

b) Training Allowance to help ease the financial burden for mid-career Singaporeans when they take time off for full-time, long-form training; and

c) Support for Singaporeans who already have a publicly-funded diploma or higher qualification to obtain another publicly-funded diploma qualification.
 

4.    When will I receive my SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career) Top-Up and when can I start to use it? 

Singaporeans aged 40 and above as of 1 Jan 2024 will receive the SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career) top-up by 1 May 2024 and can use it thereafter. 
 

5.    Is SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) a cash account? Will the SFC earn interest?

SFC is not a cash account and it will not earn any interest. SFC can be used to offset out-of-pocket course fees when attending approved courses. You cannot withdraw cash from this account to pay your Training Partner as the transactions will be made directly through MySkillsFuture.
 

6.    Is the opening SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) of $500 enough to cover training costs?

Singaporeans have access to a wide range of funding to support their skills development. Many courses are already highly subsidised by the Government to ensure that training costs are affordable, with up to 90% course fee subsidies under the SkillsFuture Mid-Career Enhanced Subsidy for Singaporeans aged 40 and above. In addition, SFC can be used on top of course fee subsidies provided by the Government to defray out-of-pocket training expenses. SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) also works with approved Training Providers to ensure that course fees remain affordable.
 

7.    Why do lower-income earners receive the same amount of SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) as high-income earners?

SFC is a broad-based initiative that encourages individual ownership of skills development and lifelong learning. Apart from the SFC, SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) also provides substantial course fee subsidies, at up to 50% to 90%, for SSG-supported courses to all Singaporeans in the workforce. Singaporeans who are 40 years old and above can also enjoy higher subsidies of up to 90% of course fees for MOE- and SSG-supported courses under the current SkillsFuture Mid-Career Enhanced Subsidy.
 

8.    What is ‘Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support)’?

The Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support) is a one-off SkillsFuture Credit of $500 provided on 1 October 2020 to every Singapore Citizen aged 40 to 60 (inclusive) as at 31 December 2020. This Additional SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) expires on 31 December 2025. The Additional SFC can be used for courses that fall in the four categories listed below, which are based on industry needs to help equip mid-career individuals with the relevant skills to enhance their employability: SkillsFuture Career Transition Programmes Courses delivered by SSG-appointed CET centres Courses that fulfil training requirements for Progressive Wage Model sectors Full qualification programmes by Institutes of Higher Learning as well as MOE subsidised full qualification courses by Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts and LASALLE College of the Arts.
 

9.    Will my SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) be accrued to my CPF account when I retire?

No. SFC cannot be converted into cash. It can only be used to pay for or offset the out-of-pocket course fees of approved courses.
 

10. Why am I unable to use my SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) at private education institutes?

SFC can only be used for courses offered at selected private education institutes, such as Continuing Education and Training (CET) Centres appointed by SSG or other SSG-approved training organisations, and MOE-funded arts institutions such as LASALLE College of the Arts and Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts.
 

11. Why are courses from the Civil Service College not eligible for SkillsFuture Credit (SFC)?

Civil Service College's courses are not eligible for SFC as they are not open to the general public.
 

12. Why did SSG decide to cease funding for non-certifiable courses?

This change is part of SSG's continuous effort to ensure courses remain industry-relevant, and prioritise funding towards courses that support enterprise transformation and employment and employability objectives such as placement into jobs and wage increase.
 

13. Why does the SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) only support skills-related courses?

Technology and globalisation are changing the nature of jobs. It is important for Singaporeans to upgrade their skills to stay relevant and meet the evolving needs of the economy. We want to support Singaporeans in bridging skills gaps, broaden and deepen skills, and help them advance in their careers. This is in line with the objectives of SkillsFuture.

Besides skills-related courses, there are also lifestyle courses which are eligible for SFC.
 

14. Can I request for an extension of the expiry period of the One-Off SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) Top-Up?

There will be no extension of the expiry period for the time-limited SFC. Singaporeans working overseas can consider utilising their SFC for courses offered by SSG-approved online learning partners.
 

15. What will happen to an individual's SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) when he or she passes away?

The SFC will expire upon an individual's demise.
 

16. What will happen to my SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) if I renounce my citizenship? Can I withdraw my SFC?

Your SFC will lapse if you were to annul your Singapore citizenship. Upon renunciation of Singapore citizenship, your SFC account will be closed. Please be reminded to submit your claims before your account is closed. Withdrawal of SFC is not allowed. 
 

17. Why is there an expiry date for the One-Off SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) Top-Up?

The One-Off SFC Top-Up has an expiry date to urge Singaporeans to take timely action to learn, reskill and seize new career opportunities, especially against the current climate of economic transformation. Aside from these, Singaporeans who turn 25 years old will have access to the opening credit of $500 and those who turn 40 years old will receive their SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career), which does not expire, alongside existing training subsidies. Nonetheless, you are advised to plan your learning and skills development journey early.
 

18. What is the One-Off SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) Top-Up about?

To support Singaporeans to continue learning, the Government provided a One-Off SFC Top-Up of $500 for all eligible Singaporeans on 1 October 2020. This One-Off SFC Top-Up is in addition to the Opening SFC of $500 introduced in 2015 and provided to all Singaporeans aged 25 and above. Any unused credit from the One-Off SFC Top-Up will expire on 31 Dec 2025.
 

19. Will the One-Off SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) Top-Up expire?

Any unused credits from the One-Off SFC Top-Up will expire on 31 December 2025. As such, individuals are encouraged  to plan early for your learning and skills development journey.
 

20. When will the Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support) of $500 expire?

The original expiry of 31 December 2025 for the Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support) will be lifted. Any unused credit from the Additional SkillsFutre Credit (Mid-Career Support) will merged with the $4,000 top-up to form the SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career).
 

21. Does SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career) top-up have an expiry?

No. The SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career) top-up does not expire.
 

22. Why is the PSEA cut-off age brought forward from age 30 to age 25? What will happen to the money in my PSEA account?

Currently, the age of closure for PSEA is still maintained at age 30 to allow individuals more time to plan their learning and use their PSEA balances to pay the fees of approved courses. There are no plans to shift the age of closure at the moment.
 

23. Can I top up my own SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) account or my family's or friend's?

No, you cannot top up the SFC account. The Government will continue to assess the need for SFC top-ups from time to time taking into consideration factors such as Singapore’s fiscal and economic position, the SFC utilisation rates and patterns, economic conditions, and the overall training participation rate.
 

24. Can I transfer my SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) to someone else (e.g., family member or next-of-kin) especially if they have a greater need for skills training)?

No, SFC is meant to support the individual ownership of skills development and lifelong learning of Singaporeans by defraying out-of-pocket course fees. As such, SFC is not transferable. Besides SFC, eligible individuals can access subsidies of up to 90% for MOE- and SSG-supported courses at Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) and approved private training providers.

1.    Are new Singapore Citizens eligible for SkillsFuture Credit (SFC)?

New Singapore Citizens aged 25 and above will be eligible for SFC after they receive their Singapore citizenship. SSG will inform them about their SFC accounts and when they will be able to start using their credit. Citizens who are 25 years old and above will receive an opening SFC of $500 while those who are 40 years old and above will receive their $4,000 SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career).
 

2.    Are Singapore Citizens who turn 25 years old after 1 January 2021 eligible for the One-Off SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) Top-Up?

The One-Off SFC Top-Up is only for Singapore Citizens who are 25 years old or above by 31 December 2020. Citizens turning 25 years old after 1 January 2021 will receive their SFC account activation letter in the first quarter of the same year, informing them of the opening credit of $500, which does not expire.
 

3.    I am a Singapore Citizen turning 25 next year. When will I receive my SkillsFuture Credit (SFC)?

You will receive your SFC account activation letter by the first quarter of the same year you turn 25. You may proceed to make SFC claims upon receipt of your account activation letter.
 

4.    Why is SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) only available to Singaporeans aged 25 and above?

SFC is targeted at Singaporeans who have generally completed their full-time education and are in the workforce or preparing to join the workforce. It encourages working adults to invest in their continued learning journey and be active learners. SFC is just one form of support available to help Singaporeans upskill and reskill. SSG provides substantial course fee subsidies for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents to take up training. Those aged 30 and below can also tap on their Post-Secondary Education Account (PSEA) to defray out-of-pocket fees for skills upgrading through approved courses by the Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs), public agencies and other training partners. 
 

5.    I have been a Singapore Citizen based overseas for the past 10 years. Will I still be eligible for the SkillsFuture Credit (SFC)?

Yes, you will be eligible for Opening SFC of $500 as long as you are a Singaporean aged 25 and above. Singapore Citizens aged 25 years and above as at 31 December 2020 will receive the One-Off SFC Top-Up of $500 and Singapore Citizens aged 40 to 60 (inclusive) as at 31 December 2020 will receive the Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support) of $500. The One-Off SFC Top-Up and the Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support) will both expire on 31 Dec 2025.
 

6.    What is the estimated number of courses eligible for SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career)? 

There are about 7,000 eligible courses across:

a) Full qualification programmes ranging from Higher Nitec/Nitec to Postgraduate degree  programmes offered by Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs);

b) Modular courses offered by IHLs that stack up to a full qualification;

c) MOE-subsidised full-qualifications from University of the Arts or Arts Institutions;

d) SkillsFuture Career Transition Programmes;

e) Courses that are approved under the Progressive Wage Model; and

f) Workplace Literacy and Numeracy courses.
 

7.    What courses are eligible for the Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support)?

The Additional SkillsFuture Credits can be used for courses that fall in the four categories listed below, which are based on industry needs to help equip mid-career individuals with the relevant skills to enhance their employability:

a) SkillsFuture Career Transition Programmes

b) Courses delivered by SSG-appointed CET centres

c) Courses that fulfil training requirements for Progressive Wage Model sectors

d) Full qualification programmes by Institutes of Higher Learning as well as MOE-subsidised full qualification courses by Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts and LASALLE College of the Arts.
 

8.    I am retired. Can I use my SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) for lifestyle courses such as those offered by People’s Association?

Yes, courses offered by the People's Association under SkillsFuture@PA and listed on the MySkillsFuture portal are SFC-eligible. 
 

9.    Why is the SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) only for individuals? Will the Government extend support to employers?

SFC aims to strengthen individuals' ownership of skills development and lifelong learning. 

For employers who are eligible, they can access a one-off $10,000 SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit (SFEC) to cover up to 90% of out-of-pocket expenses for supportable enterprise development and workforce transformation programmes. 

In addition, employers are eligible for course fee subsidies for SSG-supported courses. Under the Enhanced Training Support for SMEs, SMEs receive up to 90% course fee subsidy when they sponsor their employees for training. Employers who sponsor their Singaporean workers aged 40 years and above for training can also receive up to 90% course fee subsidies for SSG-supported courses under the SkillsFuture Mid-Career Enhanced Subsidy. 
 

10. Can I use my SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) to pay for Online Courses such as Coursera or Udemy?

SFC can only be used to pay for Udemy and Coursera courses with effect from 22 Dec 2023, and is only applicable to courses which were completed on or after the effective date.

Individuals must complete their course(s) and submit their claim request within 12 months from the subscription invoice/receipt date directly to SSG through SSG-WSG service portal.

The supporting documents required are:

a) Course/exam invoice/receipt; and

b) Completion of course certificate or proof of exam attendance. 

You will be reimbursed for your out-of-pocket course/exam fees through your available SFC balance upon SSG’s approval of your claim request.
 

11. Who is eligible to use SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) to subscribe to online learning packages?

All Singaporeans aged 25 and above who have received SFC are eligible to use their Opening SFC and the One-Off SFC Top-Up to subscribe to the online learning packages offered by SSG-approved online learning partners. The SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career) cannot be used to subscribe to online learning packages.
 

12. Can I trial the online course and get a refund from SFC if I do not want to pursue it further?

You are advised to check with the online learning partners to see if there are free trials available before subscribing to the package. There is strictly no refund of subscription fees paid from SFC. 
 

13. Can SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) be used to pay for course registration fees or course materials?

No. SFC can only be used to cover:

a) Course fees payable

b) Assessment fee

c) Certification fee for approved online courses

d) GST imposed on components supported for SFC use  

It cannot be used to offset other charges imposed by Training Partners that are related to course registration, course withdrawals and administration fees.
 

14. Can I use both my SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) and SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career) for the same course?

Yes, if the course is eligible for the SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career). Claims that are approved will first be deducted from the available balance in the time-limited SFCs, before the Opening SFC, which does not expire.
 

15. Are degree and post-graduation courses eligible for SkillsFuture Credit (SFC)?

Yes, selected degree and post-graduation courses offered by MOE and listed on MySkillsFuture portal are SFC-eligible. 
 

16. Can I transfer the SkillsFuture Credit claimed for a course to another course offered by the same Training Partner?

No, you need to cancel your initial claim and submit a new claim.
 

17. Can I use the top-up of $4,000 to enrol in courses which are not eligible?

No, the top-up of $4,000 can only be used for the list of courses which are curated based on industry needs and have stronger manpower-related outcomes, to help enhance mid-career Singaporeans’ job mobility and career resilience.

18. Will SSG top up the SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) for Singaporeans who have used up their SFC? When will the government top up the SFC? Why are future cohorts not eligible for the top-ups?

On 1 October 2020, the Government provided a one-off SFC top-up of $500 for all eligible Singaporeans aged 25 or above by 31 December 2020. Termed as the “One-Off SkillsFuture Credit Top-Up”, these credits will expire on 31 December 2025. At the same time, the Government also provided Singaporeans aged 40 to 60 (inclusive) as of 31 December 2020 an additional $500 credit (“Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support)”).  The top-ups provided in Budget 2020 are one-off and time limited. Younger Singaporeans who are under 25 are not eligible for the top-ups from Budget 2020, but they will receive the opening credit of $500 when they turn 25.

From 1 May 2024, the Government will provide Singaporeans aged 40 above an additional $4,000 credit (“SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career)”). Subsequent cohorts of Singaporeans who turn 40 will receive their SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career) in January of that year. At the same time, the Government lifted the expiry date of the Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support) i.e. it will not expire when it reaches its maturity date on 31 December 2025. The remaining credit balance from the Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support) will merge with the top-up of $4,000 to form the new SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career).

For example, if you are an individual who was aged 40 and above as of 1 May 2024, if you have used $300 from your Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support) account, your balance of $200 will be brought over to your new SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career) account. Therefore, you would have a total of $5,200 SkillsFuture Credits made up of $500 (Opening SkillsFuture Credit), $500 (One-off SkillsFuture Credit Top-Up) and $4,200 SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career).

The Government will continue to assess the need for SFC top-ups from time to time taking into consideration factors such as Singapore’s fiscal and economic position, the SFC utilisation rates and the overall training participation rate. 
 

19. I want to use my Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support) for a course that will not be eligible for SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career) after 1 May 2024. When is the latest I can use my Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support) for such a course?

There will be a transition period, after 1 May, during which the Additional SFC (Mid-Career Support) can be used for courses no longer supported under the SFC (Mid-Career). The conditions are as follows:

1.    you must submit your claim on or before 30 June 2024; and

2.    the course must start on or before 30 June 2024.

Also, in 2020 a one-off SFC top-up of $500 was given to all Singaporeans aged 25 and above, to be used before 31 Dec 2025. SSG will first draw down from this one-off top up, as it has an expiry, before activating the individual’s SFC (Mid-Career) or, during the above transition period, the Additional SFC (Mid-Career Support).

20. Since the Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support) will be merged with the new SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career), why are the courses eligible for SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career) different?

The list of courses eligible under the SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career) is curated based on industry needs and have stronger manpower-related outcomes, to help enhance mid-career Singaporeans’ job mobility and career resilience through substantive reskilling and upskilling. Hence, some courses which were previously supported by the Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support) will no longer be eligible for use with the SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career). For a start, there will about 7,000 courses and the list will be reviewed progressively as new industry and manpower needs emerge.
 

21. Can I use my credit to co-fund the course fees of training that my employer will be sending me for?

No. SkillsFuture Credit is to support individual-initiated training and not for employer-supported training. Training provided by employers should be borne by your employer. SkillsFuture Singapore has been supporting the efforts of employers through the substantial subsidies provided for employer-supported training.

22. Why are IHL stackable modules eligible for the SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career)?

These modules provide adult learners with more flexible upgrading options towards the attainment of full qualifications offered by the Institutes of Higher Learning, such as diplomas, post-diplomas, undergraduate and postgraduate degrees which are well-recognised in the market.

1.     Can I combine the Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support) with my existing SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) to pay for training programmes?

Yes, the Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support) can be used with existing SFC for courses that fall in the four categories listed below, which are based on industry needs to help equip mid-career individuals with the relevant skills to enhance their employability: 

a) SkillsFuture Career Transition Programmes 

b) Courses delivered by SSG-appointed CET centres 

c) Courses that fulfil training requirements for Progressive Wage Model sectors 

d) Full qualification programmes by Institutes of Higher Learning as well as MOE subsidised full qualification courses by Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts and LASALLE College of the Arts. 

Any unused credit from the Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support) will merged with the $4000 top-up to form the SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career) from 1 May 2024.  The list of courses eligible under the SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career) is curated based on industry needs and has stronger manpower-related outcomes, to help enhance mid-career Singaporeans’ job mobility and career resilience through substantive reskilling and upskilling. Hence, some courses which were previously supported by the Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support) will no longer be eligible for use with the SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career).

2.     Can I share my online learning subscription plan with others?

Each online learning partner will have its own Terms of Use concerning account management. Please check with the online learning partner.
 

3.     Can I sign up and use my SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) for multiple subscription plans offered under SFC for Learning Subscription?

Yes, you can sign up and use your SFC for multiple subscription plans.

4.     Can I trial the online course and get a refund from SFC if I do not want to pursue it further?

You are advised to check with the online learning partner to see if there are free trials available before subscribing to the package. There is strictly no refund of subscription fees paid from from SFC upon subscription.

5.     Can I use the “SkillsFuture” brand or SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) logo to market my courses that qualify for the use of SkillsFuture Credit?

SkillsFuture and SSG logo are trademarked. You must seek SSG’s approval for the use of SSG or/and SkillsFuture logos in your marketing.

6.     How do I find the list of SkillsFuture Credit (SFC)-eligible courses offered by SSG-approved online learning partners?

You can find the list of courses on NTUC LearningHub, Gnowbe and ZilLearn platforms. These are SSG's approved online learning partners.

7.     I already have an existing paid online learning subscription account with an SSG-approved learning partner. Can I claim the subscription fees retrospectively?

No, you can only claim SkillsFuture Credit prior to the start of your subscription plan. Retrospective SFC claims are not allowed.
 

8.     I would like to use my SkillsFuture Credit on a course that is not listed on MySkillsFuture portal.  How can I do so?

If you have identified a good course that supports your employment but it is not found on MySkillsFuture portal, you could send your request to us via our service portal SSG-WSG service portal.  We will evaluate your request and inform you of the outcome within 10 working days. 

9.     What happens to my SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) if I did not attend a single course during the online learning subscription period? Will I be penalised?

There is no penalty incurred, and strictly no refund of the SFC used. However, we encourage you to make full use of your SFC and do not let your subscription go to waste.
 

10. What is the SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) claim submission period for the online learning subscription?

You will need to submit the claim for SFC prior to the start of your online learning subscription. At the point of registration and payment for the subscription, you will be asked to indicate the amount of SFC you wish to use to offset the subscription fee. Upon successful registration and payment, the subscription period will commence.

11.  When must I submit my claim for SkillsFuture Credit (SFC)?

At the point of course registration, you should inform your Training Partner that you intend to use your SFC in part or in full for the qualifying course fee. You should then submit your claim via MySkillsFuture within 60 days before the course start date (date inclusive).

12. Why was my SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) claim cancelled by the system the next day?

If you had submitted an SFC claim but did not make any balance payment within 24 hours, the claim will be cancelled the following day. Please proceed to resubmit the claim.
 

13. Will mid-career individuals be given any guidance so that they know which skillsets or courses they should go for?

SkillsFuture Singapore has various resources to help Singaporeans make more informed choices about their training plans. The MySkillsFuture portal has improved the course search engine to help individuals narrow the search for suitable training programmes. 

In addition, the CET Centres also provide career advisory services for individuals who participate in the SkillsFuture Career Transition Programmes (SCTP). You may contact the relevant CET Centres offering SCTP courses for further enquiries.  

If you wish to speak with our Skills Ambassadors for a free 30 to 45 minute 1-to-1 personalised consultation, you could sign up at https://www.myskillsfuture.gov.sg/content/portal/en/career-resources/career-resources/education-career-personal-development/skills-training-advice.html

1.     Can I get a refund for the credit that I have used for a course if I am unable to attend the course or did not complete the course?

If you are unable to attend the course, please cancel your claim submission at least 1 day before the course start date. If your claim has been paid, please contact your Training Provider (TP) to make the refund to SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG). SSG will reinstate the refunded amount back into your SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) account. If your course has started and you are unable to complete it, please contact the Training Provider TP for information about the TP's refund policy.

2.     Can I get a refund for the credit that I have used for a course, which has been cancelled by the Training Provider?

Where possible, please cancel your claim submission at least 1 day before the course start date. If your SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) has already been paid out, please contact SSG at 6785 5785 or through SkillFuture Singapore's Service Portal.
 

3.     Can I initiate a refund?

You can initiate a refund only if your course is cancelled and the claim has been disbursed to your PayNow account.

4.    How do I initiate a refund?

To initiate a refund:

a) Under "Claim Application", select the claim that you wish to initiate a refund.

b) Click "View More".

c) Click "Refund" to initiate a refund.

d) Select the appropriate refund reason from the dropdown option.

e) Make payment via eNets.

Please note that once you have submitted your refund payment successfully, you can no longer make a refund for that same claim.

5.     How do Training Providers (TPs) refund the SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) to the individual, if required?

TPs should initiate a refund request via Training Partners Gateway. Reinstatement of refunded SFC to individuals will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. TPs should not refund the SFC in cash to the individual under any circumstances after course start date.
 

6.     How do I view and make payment for a refund request made by SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG)?

To view and make payment for a refund request made by SSG, Under 'Refunds', navigate to the refund for which you would like to make payment for. Click 'View More'. Click 'Proceed to Pay'. Select the appropriate refund reason from the dropdown option Accept the Terms and Conditions. Proceed to make payment via e-Nets or offline payment.

7.     The individual cancels the course with the Training Provider (TP) but did not cancel the SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) claim in his/her MySkillsFuture Portal before the course start date. What should the TP do if the SFC claim has been disbursed?

TP should remind the individual to cancel his/her SFC claim before the course start date when he/she submits the course cancellation request. If the individual does not cancel his/her SFC claim before the course date and the amount is disbursed to the TP despite the reminder, TP would have to initiate a refund request via Training Partners Gateway. If you face difficulties, kindly contact SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) via the SSG Service Portal to facilitate the refund process.

8.     What are the payment modes available for me to do a refund?

For Individual-Initiated refunds, payment can only be made via eNets.

a) Log in to MySkillsFuture Portal and select the claim that you wish to make a refund for.

b) Indicate the refund reason.

c) Select "Pay via eNets"

d) You will be redirected to the eNets page to input your credit/debit card details.

 

For SkillsFuture Singapore triggered refunds, payment can be made via eNets or offline payment.

a) eNets Under 'Refunds', navigate to the refund for which you would like to make payment for

b) Click 'View More' Click 'Proceed to Pay' Select the appropriate refund reason from the dropdown option

c) Accept the Terms and Conditions Proceed to make payment via offline payment or e-Nets

 

For offline payment, the following payment modes are available: Offline Payment - PayNow and PayNow to UEN T16GB0003CNPF

 

Offline Payment - Bank Transfer Transfer the funds based on the details below:

Transfer payment to bank account: 451-302-849-5

Bank Account Name: SkillsFuture Singapore Agency - NPF

Bank Code: 7375 (UOB)

Branch Code: 001 (Main)

Swift Code: UOVBSGSG

9.     What do the 'Pending Payment' status and 'Pending Payment Confirmation' statuses mean?

Pending Payment - This means that a refund request has been triggered by SkillsFuture Singapore to the individual and is currently pending the individual to make payment.

Pending Payment Confirmation - It is an indication that the refund request has been triggered by the individual. The payment made by the individual is awaiting confirmation from the SkillsFuture Singapore.

10. What if the individual fails the assessment? Does the Training Provider (TP) need to refund the SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) to the individual?

Training Providers do not need to refund SFC to the individual if he/she has attended the course, regardless of whether the individual completes the course or fails the assessment.

11. What is a refund request?

A refund request is when the Agency (SkillsFuture Singapore) is asking for a refund from you to return the SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) to the Agency.

12. What is the difference between a refund request and a refund that I initiated myself?

A refund request happens when the Agency (SkillsFuture Singapore) asks you for a refund. On the other hand, a refund that you initiated is triggered by yourself to return the SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) to the Agency.

1.     Can I submit a claim without registering for a course?

No. Please register for a course with a Training Provider (TP) before submitting a claim. You will need the course details (for example: course start date, course ID, name of TP, etc) before you can submit a claim. Please note that an individual who provides false claims without attending or signing up for any course is in breach of Section 58 of the SkillsFuture Singapore Agency Act, which carries a maximum penalty of a $10,000 fine and imprisonment of up to 12 months, or both.

2.     Can I submit multiple claims amounting to more than my SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) balance before the claims are approved?

No, the claimed amount is earmarked under 'Open Claims' in your MySkillsFuture portal until the claim is cancelled/rejected.
 

3.     Can I submit my claim on the course start date?

Yes, you are still able to submit a claim on the course start date.

4.     Can I use my SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) for a course which has commenced or a course which I have already attended?

You cannot claim SFC if you have already commenced or completed training.

5.     Do I have to submit supporting documents when I submit a claim? How do I know whether the supporting documents are sufficient?

Please submit supporting documents with the following details when submitting a claim:

a) Course fee;

b) Government subsidy;

c) Receipt/net course fee payable [inclusive of GST];

d) Your name as per NRIC
 

6.     How can I claim or use my SkillsFuture Credit (SFC)? How can I check my SFC balance and transactions?

To submit a claim,

a) Go to www.myskillsfuture.gov.sg

b) Click on ‘Submit SkillsFuture Credit Claim’ on the homepage and login via Singpass.

Note:

• At the point of course registration, you should inform your Training Provider of your intention to utilise your SkillsFuture Credit in part or in full against the qualifying course fees.

• If this is the first time that you are applying to use your credit, you will be prompted to update your profile information.
 

You will be able to see your SkillsFuture Credit balance upon login via Singpass. To view claim transactions, click on ‘Claim Status’ to view claim applications and credit transaction history.

7.     How do Training Providers (TPs) know if the individual has sufficient SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) for course payment?

TPs may request for the individuals to log in to their SFC account via MySkillsFuture portal or LifeSG to verify their credit SFC balance. Alternatively, TPs may request for the individuals to print out their account summary for verification.  If individual has sufficient SFC to pay for the course fees, TP can login to Training Partners Gateway and access the 'SkillsFuture Credit' icon to check on the approved use of SFC, which will be made available on the same day as individual's SFC claim submission. 

8.     How do I submit a claim?

To submit a claim

a) Go to www.myskillsfuture.gov.sg

b) Click on ‘Submit SkillsFuture Credit Claim’ on the homepage and login via Singpass.

c) Click on ‘Course Enrolment’ to check if your Training Provider has submitted your enrolment data. If yes, select the course that you are enrolled for to submit a SkillsFuture Credit claim.

d) If there is no enrolment data, click ‘Submit a Claim’ tab.

e) Select course by keying in either the Course Reference Number, Course Title or Training Provider.

f) Select either ‘Course Run’ (if available) or manually enter the ‘Course Start Date’.

g) Key in all fields and upload all supporting documents (e.g. Official invoices, proof of payment, receipts, confirmation of course registration).

h) Click ‘Review’.

i) Agree to T&Cs and click ‘Submit’.

9.     How will the SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) claim processes affect individuals who are IT-illiterate and require manual claims?

These individuals will not be affected. They will still be allowed to make SFC claims by visiting designated touchpoints such as NTUC's Employment and Employability (e2i) Career Centres and WSG Careers Connect.

10. I have registered for a course that I found on the course directory on MySkillsFuture.gov.sg with the Training Provider. However, I am unable to find this course when I try to submit a claim in MySkillsFuture. What should I do?

Please ensure that you have entered the course details (for example: course ID, course name or Training Provider) accurately in the course search field. If you are still unable to find your course, please submit your query via the SkillsFuture Singapore's Service Portal.

11. I have submitted the wrong claim details (for example, Training Provider, course name, course fee amount, claim amount, supporting documents). Can I edit the claim submission?

If you have submitted the wrong claim details, please cancel the claim submission and submit a new one with the correct details, no later than 1 day before the course start date.

12. If I have submitted a claim, when will I receive the claim amount?

With effect from 19 May 2017, the default payment mode for all courses is for individuals to pay their SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) directly to the Training Providers within 60 days before the course start date (date inclusive).

If you have sought SSG’s approval for reimbursement of your SFC to yourself, you will receive your claim disbursement via the PayNow account that is tagged to your NRIC[JL(1] c. If you do not have a PayNow account tagged to your NRIC, you will receive an error message upon claim submission. Please contact your bank to set up a PayNow account before attempting to re-submit your claim. If you do not receive the amount within 30 days from the claim submission date, please contact SkillsFuture Singapore through the Service Portal.

13. In my "Profile" page, there is a field to enter my latest employment details. Do I enter my previous or current job? What if I am unemployed at the moment?

Please enter the details of your current/ last held job, whichever is applicable.

14. The Training Provider has offered to give me cash or vouchers in exchange for using my SkillsFuture Credit. Am I allowed to sell or exchange my credit?

No. Please contact SkillsFuture Singapore at 6785 5785 or through the Service Portal if you come across such Training Providers.

15. The Training Provider insists that I pay cash up-front for a course that is eligible for SkillsFuture Credit (SFC). Is this allowed?

No. Individuals have the sole discretion to decide whether to use SFC to offset the payment for the course. TPs are not allowed to collect from individuals any amount meant to be paid using SkillsFuture Credits (SFC) unless:

·        SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) had not informed the TP on the approval of the individual’s application to use SFC by course start date;

·        SSG had informed the TP on approval, but the application was cancelled thereafter; or

·        The amount of SFC approved by SSG is less than the amount the individual had indicated that he would apply to use to pay the course fees (in which case, the TP may collect the difference in amount from the individual).

Please contact SSG at 6785 5785 or through the Service Portal if you come across TPs who do not comply with the above.

16.  What happens if an individual has already paid for a course in full and wishes to use SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) subsequently?

You will not be able to use your SkillsFuture Credit SFC for the course if you have already paid for it in full yourself. You may use your SkillsFuture Credit for subsequent courses.
 

17. What is the claim submission period for me to submit claims via SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) Pay APIs?

You have 60 days before your course start date to submit your claim (course start date inclusive) via the SFC Payment Gateway. Submission of your SFC claims via this mode will not be possible after the course start date.
 

18. When can I submit a claim to use my SkillsFuture Credit (SFC)?

a) You have 60 days before your course start date to submit your claim in MySkillsFuture Portal (course start date inclusive).

b) Inform your Training Provider of your intention to use your SFC either in part or in full for the qualifying course fee.

c) You will need an invoice from your Training Provider indicating the SFC to be utilised.

d) Upload the invoice before submitting the claim.
 

19. Why did I receive this error message 'Available balance is less than claim amount' when I submit a claim?

The amount that you have submitted in the claim is more than your available SkillsFuture Credit balance.

20. Why does SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) disburse my SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) directly to the Training Provider (TP)?

There have been instances of individuals making fraudulent SFC claims without attending or signing up for any course. To mitigate and manage the risk of such claims, SSG will disburse SFC payment directly to TPs for courses that the individual has signed up for.

21. Why is the credit set to pay to Training Providers default payment mode?

There have been instances of individuals making fraudulent claims without attending or signing up for any course. To mitigate and manage the risks of such claims, the SkillsFuture Credit payment will be disbursed directly to the Training Providers for courses that you have signed up for.

22. Will submitted claims be automatically approved by SSG?

No, all claims will be processed as per the current process before they are approved or rejected.

 

23. What is course enrolment or enrolled course?

Enrolment records are details that your training provider submits to SkillsFuture Singapore after you have registered for the course successfully. The record includes information such as your name, course title, course run date etc. After the record has been submitted, it will be reflected in your claim submission page under ‘Account Details’, ‘View Course Enrolments’ for up to 120 days after your course has started. The enrolment record is to facilitate your claim submission. You can select the course from 'View Course Enrolments' to make an SFC claim directly, instead of keying in your course details from scratch.

1.     What are the different statuses of my claims?

The different statuses are:

a) Approved - The submitted claim has been processed successfully

b) Pending - The submitted claim is under review

c) Cancelled - The submitted claim has been cancelled

d) Suspended - The submitted claim is under further review

e) Rejected - The submitted claim is not approved

f) Paid to TP - The claim amount has been disbursed to the Training Provider (TP)

g) Paid - The claim amount has been paid out to you

2.     What should I do if I do not have an email account and/or handphone number? How will I receive notification on my claim?

No SMS/email notification will be sent. Individuals have to login to their MySkillsFuture portal to view the status of their claim.

3.     Why was my claim rejected?

The reason for rejecting your claim is indicated under the claim details page in your SkillsFuture Credit account.

4.     Will I receive SMSes about my claim approval?

No SMS will be sent. Please log in to MySkillsFuture portal to view the status of your claim.

1.     Can I cancel my claim on the course start date?

You can cancel your claim if the claim status shows any of the following statuses:

- Submitted

- Pending Approval

2.     Can I edit my existing claim submission?

No, please cancel the claim and submit a new one with the revised details.

3.     How do I cancel a claim?

To cancel a claim,

a) Under 'Claim Application', select the claim that you wish to cancel.

b) Click 'View More'

c) Click 'Cancel Claims'

d) Select the appropriate cancellation reason from the dropdown option

4.     Under what circumstances can I cancel a claim?

There are only 5 scenarios in which you are allowed to cancel a claim:

a) You do not wish to use your SFC credit.

b) You were not enrolled for the course.

c) The course has been cancelled.

d) The course has been postponed.

e) You wish to resubmit a new claim.

5.     When can I cancel my SkillsFuture Credit claim submission?

Please cancel your claim submission no later than 1 day before the course start date.