Options after O-level
What To Do After O-Levels In Singapore?
Completing your O-Levels is a major accomplishment, opening doors to a future brimming with possibilities. Whether you’re eyeing a Junior College, Polytechnic, or private education path, rest assured that your journey after O-Levels presents multiple meaningful options to help you specialise your skills, pursue a fulfilling career, and become the best version of yourself.
With so many choices ahead, let’s take a look at the various avenues available to you.
Polytechnic Diploma
The Polytechnic Diploma is a well-established route for those seeking a balance of theory and practical application. This option after O-levels equips you with the industry-relevant skills needed for a fulfilling career. It prepares Polytechnic graduates for diverse roles in sectors like engineering and business, while also providing a strong foundation to pursue a Bachelor's Degree at a university, often with advanced standing. This pathway is perfect if you have a clear interest in a specific field and are ready to apply your knowledge from day one.
Institute of Technical Education (ITE)
For those who prefer a hands-on, skills-focused approach, the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) is a meaningful path. An ITE Higher Nitec or Nitec provides specialised technical skills and knowledge for a wide array of industries, including infocomm technology and hospitality. After ITE, the skills you gain can be your gateway to the workforce, a Polytechnic Diploma, or even a Degree through different admission schemes. This is excellent if you enjoy applied learning and want to quickly gain a recognised qualification for career entry.
Junior College
A Junior College (JC) is suitable if you have a strong academic foundation and wish to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in a more traditional setting. This two-year path, which culminates in the A-Level examinations, focuses on broad-based subjects and rigorous academic preparation. A good A-Level result is the primary route for entry into local universities, and is a key qualification for admission to many reputable institutions worldwide.
Foundation Diploma
A Foundation Diploma is an ideal option for students who do not meet the minimum entry requirements for a Polytechnic Diploma. It helps bridge the gap, providing you with the necessary academic foundation to progress to a private Diploma.
At Kaplan, our six-month Foundation Diploma for O-Level graduates leads directly to a standard eight-month Diploma programme that features a wide range of disciplines like Accounting, Banking & Finance, Communication & Media, and Education & Social Sciences. It can be taken full-time, part-time, or 100% online, providing a powerful springboard for your career and unlocking valuable options after Diploma, such as a Bachelor's Degree.
Foundation Diplomas at Kaplan
- Foundation Diploma
- Foundation Diploma (E-Learning)
- Foundation Diploma in Computing and IT
- Foundation Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science
Not Sure Of Where To Go?
Your journey after O-Levels is unique, and it’s okay to feel unsure. If you're wondering where to go or what to do, our dedicated education consultants are here to help. They provide personalised guidance to find a suitable course that aligns with your passions and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Options After O-Level
What are the main education pathways available after O-Levels?
After completing your O-Levels, you have several main education pathways. These include Junior Colleges for A-Levels, Polytechnics for a more practical Diploma, and Institute of Technical Education (ITE) for hands-on, technical skills. Private education providers like Kaplan also offer flexible Diploma and Foundation Diploma programmes that can lead to a Bachelor's Degree.
What are the entry requirements for these post-O-Level options?
Entry requirements for post-O-Level options vary greatly depending on the institution and programme. For Junior College, requirements are based on your L1R5 score, while Polytechnic Diploma courses use an ELR2B2-C aggregate score. Private education providers like Kaplan have their own admission criteria, which often provide more flexible entry for students who may not meet public institution requirements.
What if my O-Level results are not ideal — are there alternatives?
Yes, there are meaningful alternatives if your O-Level results are not ideal. If you are wondering, "What can I do after O-Levels to continue my education?", a Foundation Diploma is an excellent choice. These programmes, like those at Kaplan, help bridge the academic gap, providing you with the necessary foundation to progress to a full Diploma.
Can I progress from Kaplan’s Diploma courses to a Bachelor’s Degree?
Yes. The Diploma programmes at Kaplan are designed to provide a direct and seamless pathway to a Bachelor's Degree. Our strong partnerships with reputable international Universities allow you to pursue a Degree directly upon completion of your Kaplan Diploma, saving you time and giving you a globally recognised qualification.
How long does it take to complete the Foundation Diploma and Diploma programmes?
At Kaplan, our Foundation Diploma is a six-month course designed to prepare you for further studies. It leads directly to our standard eight-month Diploma programme. Completing these programmes efficiently allows you to take a clear, strategic path towards your Bachelor's Degree.
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Please do not hesitate to get in touch with our dedicated consultant for this programme for more information.
Kevin Chow