REVIEW OF ALTERNATIVE PATHWAYS AND BRIDGING NURSING PROGRAMMES FOR QUALIFIED SINGAPOREAN APPLICANTS

NOTICE PAPER NO. 519

NOTICE OF QUESTION FOR WRITTEN ANSWER

FOR THE SITTING OF PARLIAMENT ON 26 FEBRUARY 2026

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament

Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat

MP for Aljunied GRC

Question No. 1041

To ask the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health (a) whether stringent academic criteria for nursing diplomas have resulted in otherwise qualified Singaporeans with strong interest in nursing being denied places; and (b) whether the Ministry will review these criteria and provide alternative pathways, such as bridging programmes, to meet healthcare needs.

Answer

1        Having the passion to serve in healthcare is always the topmost criteria for nursing education programmes. At the same time, we need to ensure that nursing students are able to cope with the rigour of the programme. The current entry requirements try to ensure that, without being too stringent. The O-level cut-off point for the polytechnic nursing diploma programmes is ELR2B2 aggregate of 28 points. Through the Early Admissions Exercise, the polytechnics also take in applicants primarily based on their aptitude, motivation and a strong interest in nursing. There are also alternate pathways, such as going to ITE to be trained as an Enrolled Nurse, before working and upgrading to become a Registered Nurse; or mid-career switches, through our skills redevelopment programmes.