More students from lower- and middle-income families in Singapore will soon receive greater financial support from the Ministry of Education (MOE). Starting from the 2026 academic year, the government will raise income eligibility caps for several key financial aid schemes and increase transport subsidies for students.
The changes are expected to benefit about 31,000 more students, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to roughly 133,000 nationwide.
Table of Contents
Expanded Financial Assistance Coverage
The MOE announced that income eligibility limits for six means-tested schemes will be revised. These include the:
- MOE Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS)
- Special Education (SPED) FAS
- Independent School Bursary (ISB)
- UPLIFT Scholarship
- Edusave Merit Bursary
- Government bursaries for post-secondary institutions (PSEIs)
Under the new criteria:
- The gross monthly household income (GHI) cap for the MOE FAS and SPED FAS will rise from S$3,000 to S$4,000.
- The per capita income (PCI) ceiling will be increased from S$750 to S$1,000.
- The Edusave Merit Bursary income ceiling will go up from S$7,500 to S$9,000.
- The UPLIFT Scholarship income limit will be raised from S$4,400 to S$5,500.
These adjustments aim to help families who previously fell just above the eligibility thresholds, ensuring that more students receive adequate support for schooling expenses.
Bigger Transport Subsidies
Transport assistance for students will also be enhanced:
- Primary school students on the school bus will see their subsidies increase from 65% to 70% of the monthly fare.
- Primary and secondary students using public transport will receive a monthly subsidy increase from S$17 to S$21.
- For pre-university students, transport assistance will be merged into an enhanced annual bursary.
These measures are designed to make daily commuting to school more affordable for families under financial assistance.
Simplified Application Process
To make it easier for families to access aid, MOE will also roll out the Household Means Eligibility System (HOMES). This system will streamline the application process by reducing the number of documents applicants must submit, cutting administrative hassle and processing time.
Supporting Educational Equity
The latest adjustments underline Singapore’s continued commitment to equitable education. By widening eligibility and boosting subsidies, MOE aims to ensure that no student is left behind due to financial hardship.
“Raising these income caps and transport subsidies helps level the playing field and supports students from diverse economic backgrounds,” the ministry said in a statement.
Summary of Key Changes
| Category | Previous Cap | New Cap | Effective Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| FAS / SPED FAS (GHI) | S$3,000 | S$4,000 | 2026 |
| FAS / SPED FAS (PCI) | S$750 | S$1,000 | 2026 |
| Edusave Merit Bursary | S$7,500 | S$9,000 | 2026 |
| UPLIFT Scholarship | S$4,400 | S$5,500 | 2026 |
| Transport Subsidy (Public) | S$17/month | S$21/month | 2026 |
| School Bus Subsidy | 65% | 70% | 2026 |
Conclusion
The Ministry of Education’s latest revisions mark a significant step toward improving educational accessibility and affordability in Singapore. By raising income eligibility caps and enhancing transport subsidies, more students from low- and middle-income households will receive the support they need to thrive in school.
These measures not only reduce the financial burden on families but also reinforce Singapore’s commitment to building an inclusive education system where every child has the opportunity to succeed—regardless of background or income level.