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Singapore offers two major post-secondary routes into higher education: the A-Level pathway through JC and Polytechnic diploma pathway. While A-Levels emphasise academic theory over two to three years, Polytechnic programmes focus on applied learning, projects and industry attachments over three years. These differences shape how students are admitted into SIM, a leading private education institution. Polytechnic graduates often benefit from advanced standing and credit exemptions, depending on how relevant their diploma is to the degree programme. Some IT-related poly diplomas from local polytechnics can receive up to two years of exemptions for certain University of Wollongong degrees, provided GPA requirements (usually 2.0 or above) are met. Other diplomas may receive partial exemptions. These credits can shorten study duration and lower tuition costs, making SIM a strong option for poly graduates wanting to extend their practical foundation. MOE’s 2021 data shows that while four in five A-Level/IB students progress to local autonomous universities, only about one in three poly graduates do. This highlights the importance of alternative pathways like SIM, which provides opportunities for poly graduates to obtain globally recognised degrees and enhance their career prospects. SIM showcases the strengths of both routes. A-Level graduate Ashley Ong used SIM’s internships, hackathons and networking to build industry-ready skills in the University at Buffalo Business programme. SP graduate Violet Weng leveraged SIM’s credit exemptions in the RMIT Business (Economics and Finance) programme to shorten her study time, save on fees, work full-time and advance her career simultaneously. Both paths—A-Levels and poly—can lead to success, and SIM offers the flexibility for students to tailor their journey based on their background and aspirations.

[Daging News]