Singapore’s education levels are some of the highest-ranked globally. Singapore is a country that considers education as one of the primary goals. The education system in Singapore is notably one of the toughest for students.
Social Expectation
The government spends around S$13.6 billion (12.2% of the budget) on education in 2024. The governmental policies would have a huge influence on social recognition and attitudes, making Singaporean families pay more attention to their education. The idea of “only diligence makes success” is prevalent in Singaporean society. Singaporean families spent S$1.4 billion on extracurricular tuition for their children in 2018.
The high educational expectations of Asian culture also play a significant role. Asian families would usually allocate a relatively high percentage of their expenses to tuition fees. Compared to other Asian regions such as South Korea, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, Singapore has the strongest tuition industry.
Limitation of Schools
Another point is the limitation of traditional school study. School teachers usually cannot attend to every student’s personal needs, making it difficult to maintain fairness. As a result, students with good grades may continue to excel, while those who struggle may find it increasingly difficult to keep up.
Rigorous Examinations
From primary school, students have to undergo the PSLE which divides them into different streams of Express, Normal (Academic) and Normal (Technical). The GCE ‘O’ Levels and ‘A’ Levels are significant for students as they play a crucial role in university admissions and scholarships. High-stakes exams can impact future career opportunities, as certain professions require specific academic qualifications. For example, the admissions to Singaporean government usually require at least one degree. An fair officer position requires a minimum of 3 ‘N’ level credits.
In terms of the curriculum, there are English, Mathematics, and Science for younger students. After that, students begin to study Additional Mathematics, Humanities courses, A-Level subjects, and so on. The subjects are broad and the examinations are frequent.
In this situation, tuition is seen as a way to prepare more thoroughly for important tests and knowledge. Singapore has a well-developed tuition industry. The accessibility and variety of tuition services make it a common choice for students.
Emotional Support
Given the rigorous societal attitude towards education, tuition centers and agencies often strive to provide motivational and emotional support for students, such as personalized counseling. This can address individual challenges and provide tailored strategies for overcoming obstacles, fostering a more positive and resilient mindset, making students more likely to engage actively and persistently in their studies. Compared to traditional schools, tuition agencies and centers can provide more individualized attention and support, better addressing each student's unique needs.
Summary: Singapore Needs Tuition
Singapore's rigorous education system, coupled with significant governmental investment, underscores the nation's commitment to academic excellence. The pivotal role of examinations in determining future academic and career opportunities. Tuition centers and agencies may provide personalized academic support and emotional guidance, helping students navigate the pressures of the system and achieve their educational goals. The widespread reliance on tuition reflects both the high standards set by the education system and the proactive measures taken by families to meet these demands.