26 March 2017
Polytechnics and the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) will admit more students based on their unique talents and interests. The aptitude-based admission scheme, also known as the Early Admissions Exercise (EAE), widens the focus beyond academic grades.
From next year, the EAE will be able to admit up to 15 per cent of the polytechnic intake. The scheme allows students to secure a place in a programme of their choice using course-specific talents and interests, even before they sit the O levels or ITE final exams.
A similar exercise known as the ITE EAE will be put in place for those entering the ITE from next year. It will also be able to admit up to 15 per cent of the intake.
During Parliament, Mr Ang Wei Neng (Jurong GRC) and Dr Lim Wee Kiak (Sembawang GRC) have noted how aptitude-based admissions give those who may not have done well in school a second chance.