Many Permanent Residents (PRs) in Singapore wonder if they can use SkillsFuture Credit to upskill. The short answer? No—SkillsFuture Credit is only available to Singapore citizens aged 25 and above. However, PRs are not left out of the SkillsFuture movement.
While PRs do not receive SkillsFuture Credit, they can still benefit from SkillsFuture initiatives like the SkillsFuture Career Transition Programme (SCTP). This programme offers industry-relevant courses to help professionals switch careers. Additionally, PRs are eligible for course fee subsidies of up to 70% for approved courses under SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG), making upskilling more affordable.
So, how can PRs leverage SkillsFuture subsidies for career growth? Whether you’re looking to acquire new skills, explore a different industry, or future-proof your career, there are still many ways to offset training costs and invest in lifelong learning.
Let’s break down how PRs in Singapore can maximise their training opportunities without SkillsFuture Credit.
Related Article: 5 Ways to Maximise Singapore’s Course Subsidies For Your Career Growth
What are SkillsFuture Credit?
SkillsFuture Credit refers to credits an individual can use to fund out-of-pocket course fees for skills-related courses. These credits can also be used on top of existing course fee subsidies provided by the government, such as the IBF subsidy.
What SkillsFuture-Approved Courses Are Available for PRs
Enrolling in high-demand courses is a great way to make the most of SkillsFuture subsidies. At Vertical Institute, PRs and Singaporeans can access beginner-friendly courses that equip them with in-demand skills for career growth.
Here are some of the most popular courses you can sign up for today:
1. Data Analytics Course
Vertical Institute’s Data Analytics is designed to equip individuals with the most in-demand skills and best practices in data analytics. It covers industry tools such as Excel, SQL, and Tableau. Participants will culminate their learning by developing a capstone project to solve a real-world big data problem in the fintech industry.
Data Analytics Course
Turn data to practical insights Using SQL, Excel & Tableau.
2. Digital Marketing Course
Vertical Institute’s Digital Marketing will explore everything you need about digital marketing: social media, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Search Engine Marketing (SEM), Google Analytics, content marketing, email marketing, and more. Participants will gain hands-on experience by executing their digital marketing campaign, all while receiving expert guidance.
Digital Marketing Course
Gain digital marketing skills in SEO, SEM, social media & more.
3. UI/UX Design Course
Vertical Institute’s UI/UX Design course will supercharge your career with end-to-end UX skills. Learn new tools and concepts and demonstrate all stages of the UX process, from user research and information architecture to prototyping and wireframing with Figma. Students will culminate their learning by developing a UX portfolio project in fintech, and they will receive expert feedback along the way.
UI / UX Design Course
Design impactful digital experiences, enrich your portfolio.
4. Cybersecurity Course
Vertical Institute offers a comprehensive Cybersecurity course. Firstly, this course delves into essential cybersecurity knowledge. It covers protection against online threats and scams, among other topics. Furthermore, participants will actively engage in hands-on cybersecurity activities. Expert guidance is also provided throughout the learning process.
Cybersecurity Course
Acquire key Cybersecurity skills and tools for a career boost.
5. Blockchain & Cryptocurrency Course
Vertical Institute offers a detailed course on Blockchain & Cryptocurrency. Notably, it delves into the historical, theoretical, and technical aspects of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies. Next, it provides knowledge about Bitcoin, which is an essential part of the course. Further, it includes understanding other cryptocurrencies and blockchains. Also, it explores the world of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) and decentralised finance. Lastly, the program ensures practical learning with in-class activities and real-world examples. This comprehensive approach provides a thorough understanding of the subject.
Blockchain & Crypto Course
Learn blockchain, Bitcoin, cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and more.
6. Generative AI Course
Vertical Institute’s Generative AI course equips individuals with the most in-demand AI skills and best practices. Participants will learn to leverage AI-powered tools like ChatGPT and other OpenAI tools. The course covers essential concepts in AI model training, prompt engineering, and automation. Learners will apply their knowledge by developing a capstone project and solving real-world AI challenges in finance, healthcare, and marketing.
Generative AI Course
Boost efficiency and enhance productivity using Generative AI.
7. Data Science & AI Course
Vertical Institute’s Data Science & AI course helps individuals build essential skills in data analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. Participants will gain hands-on experience with Python, data visualisation tools, and AI-powered techniques. The course covers key topics such as data wrangling, predictive modelling, and deep learning. Learners will apply their knowledge through a capstone project, solving real-world challenges in finance, healthcare, and e-commerce industries.
Data Science & AI Course
Stay Relevant: Learn Python, AI, Machine Learning & More.
8. Advanced Data Analytics Course
Vertical Institute’s Advanced Data Analytics course enables individuals to strengthen their skills in data analysis, machine learning, and automation. Participants will gain hands-on experience with Python, SQL, and advanced data visualisation tools to extract insights and drive business decisions. The course covers key areas such as big data processing, predictive analytics, and AI-driven automation. Learners will apply their knowledge through a capstone project, tackling real-world challenges in finance, healthcare, and e-commerce industries.
Advanced Data Analytics
Master advanced Excel, SQL, Tableau with industry experts.
How Much SkillsFuture Credit Do I Get?
The amount of SkillsFuture Credit an individual has depends on the date they became eligible.
1. Opening SkillsFuture Credit of $500
All Singapore citizens aged 25 and above in 2016 would have received an opening credit of $500. Singapore citizens below 25 in 2016 will similarly receive credits worth $500 when they turn 25. This opening credit does not have an expiry date.
2. One-Off SkillsFuture Credit Top-Up
All Singapore citizens aged 25 and above, as of 31 December 2020, received a one-time SkillsFuture Credit top-up of $500 to support lifelong learning and career growth.
This $500 top-up can be used for any SkillsFuture Credit-eligible courses, but unused credits expire on 31 December 2025.
3. Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support)
Lastly, to support individuals’ access to career transition programmes, another one-off SkillsFuture Credit top-up of $500 was provided to all Singapore citizens aged 40 to 60 as of 31 December 2020.
It is important to note that eligible individuals can only use the Additional SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career Support) on about 200 SkillsFuture Career Transition Programmes offered by the Continuing Education and Training (CET) Centres.
Similarly, the unused credits under this package will expire on 31 December 2025. No extension of the expiry period is allowed.
4. How to Check Your SkillsFuture Credit Balance
To check your SkillsFuture Credit balance, follow the steps below:
- Go to the MySkillsFuture Portal and click login
- Proceed to log in with your SingPass
- Go to the SkillsFuture Credit page
- Check your SkillsFuture Credit balance in the box on the top left of the page.
Permanent Residents (PRs) in Singapore can still enrol in SkillsFuture-approved courses at a subsidised rate, covering only a portion of the total fee.
Here is an example of the course fee computation from Vertical Institute.
Permanent Residents | |
Course Fee | $1798.5 |
50% SSG Subsidy 🎉 | -$825 |
Amount to Pay | $973.5 |
- The total course fee is set at a standard rate.
- PRs receive a 50% SSG subsidy, significantly reducing costs.
- After applying the subsidy, the remaining amount to pay is lower, making upskilling more affordable.
This initiative helps PRs stay competitive in the job market and advance their careers while benefiting from government-supported training.
Related Article: How To Check Your SkillsFuture Credit: A Comprehensive Guide in 2025
How to Claim SkillsFuture Credit
After selecting a course, register with the training provider. Once enrolled, follow these steps to submit a claim for SkillsFuture Credit:
1. Log in to the MySkillsFuture portal with SingPass.
2. Navigate to the SkillsFuture Credit page.
3. Click Proceed to Submit a Claim.
4. Select View More under enrolled courses and choose the course you want to claim for.
5. Click Submit Claim.
6. Enter your payment details and upload the required supporting documents.
7. Submit your claim.
Your claim will be processed, and you will be notified of its status through the portal.
Frequently Asked Questions About SkillsFuture Credit for PR
PRs can check subsidy eligibility on the MySkillsFuture portal or contact training providers directly to confirm available funding options. If you’re enrolling in any of our SkillsFuture-approved courses, please contact our admissions team at Vertical Institute for assistance.
PRs can explore high-demand courses in Data Science, Cybersecurity, Blockchain, and Generative AI.
Yes, PRs can benefit from employer-sponsored training, where employers apply for Absentee Payroll funding and course fee subsidies through SSG grants.
Simply visit our courses, select a programme, and register. Contact our admissions team for SkillsFuture Credit claims or subsidy support, and we’ll guide you through the process.
Yes, upon successful completion, learners will receive a certification of completion, which can be added to their resume and LinkedIn profile to showcase their new skills.
Free Course Subsidy Calculator – Check Your Eligibility Instantly!
Wondering how much subsidy you can get for your course? Use our free Course Subsidy Calculator to check how much you can save on course fees. Invest in your future today!
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