In the fast-moving and constantly changing employment market today, ongoing learning is no longer a choice—it's a must. Whether you want to remain competitive, change careers, or just enhance existing skills, Singapore has a series of support schemes to make training more affordable and accessible. Among the most beneficial choices are SSG Funded Courses and the Union Training Assistance Programme (UTAP).

What are SSG Funded Courses?

SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) has a central role in fostering a lifelong learning culture through the provision of a diverse range of funded courses to Singaporeans. SSG Funded Courses span various fields including business management, digital skills, healthcare, engineering, and others. The courses aim to provide people with appropriate and current skills to match industry needs at the time.

SSG subsidies can pay a significant part of course fees, so training will be much less expensive. Singaporeans who are 25 and older also receive SkillsFuture Credit that can help offset the costs of courses further. That allows you to upskill or reskill without it costing a pretty penny.

What is the Union Training Assistance Programme?

The Union Training Assistance Programme (UTAP) is a training allowance for NTUC members that offsets the cost of training. UTAP funds a broad spectrum of training courses endorsed by NTUC's e2i (Employment and Employability Institute), such as numerous SSG Funded Courses.

Qualified NTUC union members can receive up to $250 of course fee funding annually under UTAP. Members who are 40 years and older can also receive additional UTAP support of up to $500 annually until 2025, as part of the government's initiative to assist mid-career workers.

Maximizing Both Schemes

One of the most effective plans for students is to pair SSG Funded Courses with UTAP. Through this two-part funding method, individuals can derive significant savings and acquire industry-related skills. For example, having already benefited from an SSG subsidy on an approved course, union members may make a UTAP claim in order to cover any remaining out-of-pocket costs.

Suppose you register for a $1,000 digital marketing course. With 70% sponsorship from SSG, you are only required to pay $300. Then through UTAP, you might receive up to another $250 top-up—lowering your cost to just $50. Such a modest expenditure for a tremendous career jump. 

Getting Started

Check Eligibility for the Course – For SSG-supported courses by Qualifying Training Partners.

Sign Up as an NTUC Member – If you are not a member, signing up with NTUC makes UTAP available to you.

Apply for UTAP – Once you've finished the course, apply for UTAP online with evidence of payment and completion.

Invest in Your Future

In a world where skills are outdated in no time, being ahead is about continuous learning and evolution. With the Union Training Assistance Programme and SSG Funded Courses, you don't have to sacrifice financial security for self-improvement. Equip yourself with the ability to succeed—start your journey to your future today.