
The Edusave Awards are an important part of Singapore’s education system, designed to recognise and reward students for their achievements in various areas, including academics, leadership, and character development. These awards, which are funded by the Edusave Scheme, are aimed at encouraging students to perform their best and helping to nurture well-rounded individuals. By providing both recognition and financial incentives, the Edusave Awards seek to inspire students to excel in their studies while also developing other essential qualities that will serve them well in life.
Edusave Merit Bursary
One of the main types of Edusave Awards is the Edusave Merit Bursary (EMB), which is given to Singaporean students in government or government-aided schools who have demonstrated good academic performance, particularly those from lower-income families. The EMB helps to ease the financial burden of education, ensuring that students from all backgrounds have an equal opportunity to succeed. This bursary is a testament to Singapore’s commitment to providing access to quality education for every student, regardless of their financial situation. It allows students who may face financial constraints to focus on their studies without worrying about the cost of their education.
The Edusave Merit Bursary (EMB) is for students who have demonstrated positive learning dispositions, good conduct, and whose household income is below a certain threshold. For Primary 1 and 2 students, the award is $200, and for Primary 4 to 6 students, it is $250.
Edusave Scholarship
Another significant award is the Edusave Scholarship, which is awarded to the top 10% of students at each academic level based on their performance. This scholarship is meant to recognise students who consistently excel in their academic work, rewarding their dedication and hard work. By offering this scholarship, the government encourages students to maintain a high standard of academic achievement, fostering a culture of excellence in education. The recognition that comes with this award is a powerful motivator for students, showing them that their efforts are not only appreciated but also lead to tangible rewards.
The Edusave Scholarship recognises students who are within the top 10% of their school’s level and course in academic performance and have demonstrated good conduct. The award amount is $350 for Primary 5 to 6 students.
Edusave Character Award
The Edusave Character Award (ECHA) is a unique and valuable part of the Edusave system, as it highlights the importance of character development alongside academic performance. This award is given to students who demonstrate exemplary character, values, and conduct. The ECHA encourages students to develop qualities such as integrity, responsibility, and kindness, which are essential for personal growth and success in life. It reinforces the idea that education is not just about academic achievement, but also about becoming a well-rounded individual who contributes positively to society.
The Edusave Character Award is given to up to 2% of students in each school who display exemplary character and outstanding personal qualities through their actions and behaviour. The award amounts are $200 for Primary 1 to 3 students and $350 for Primary 4 to 6 students.
Edusave Awards for Achievement, Good Leadership, and Service
Additionally, the Edusave Awards for Achievement, Good Leadership, and Service (EAGLES) is designed to recognise students who excel in areas outside the classroom. This award celebrates students who show leadership, engage in community service, and actively participate in co-curricular activities. By awarding students for their contributions to school life and their communities, the EAGLES programme encourages young people to become active citizens and take on leadership roles. It highlights the importance of social responsibility and the impact that students can have on the world around them.
The Edusave Award for Achievement, Good Leadership, and Service (EAGLES) recognises students who demonstrate good conduct and excel in key areas. For Primary 1 to 3 students, up to 5% of each school’s students can receive the award for consistent and exemplary demonstration of 21st Century Competencies, such as critical thinking, communication, and cross-cultural literacy. For Primary 4 to 6 students, up to 15% can receive the award if they show good conduct and exhibit leadership qualities, community service, excellence in non-academic activities, or 21st Century Competencies. The award amounts are $200 for Primary 1 to 3 students and $250 for Primary 4 to 6 students.
Edusave Good Progress Award
The Edusave Good Progress Award (GPA) is designed to recognise students who have made significant improvements in their academic performance. It rewards those who, while not necessarily top achievers, show consistent effort and progress in their studies. This award encourages all students, regardless of their starting point, to continue striving for personal growth and academic success.
The Edusave Good Progress Award (GPA) is for students who have shown the greatest improvement in their learning disposition or academic performance, but did not qualify for the Merit Bursary. The award is $100 for Primary 2 to 3 students and $150 for Primary 4 to 6 students.
Edusave Scholarship for Independent Schools
The Edusave Scholarship for Independent Schools (ESIS) is awarded to students in independent schools who demonstrate exceptional academic performance. This scholarship recognises top-performing students and provides them with both recognition and financial support, motivating them to continue excelling in their studies.
Edusave Skills Award
The Edusave Skills Award (ESA) is intended for students from specialised schools, the Institute of Technical Education (ITE), and polytechnics. This award recognises excellence in vocational and technical skills, celebrating students who excel in fields such as engineering, healthcare, design, and technology. It emphasises the importance of practical skills and encourages students to continue honing their expertise for future careers.
The benefits of the Edusave Awards go beyond the financial support they offer. While the awards help alleviate the cost of education for students, they also serve to motivate and empower students to strive for excellence. Knowing that their efforts are recognised can boost a student’s confidence and encourage them to keep pushing their boundaries. The awards also serve as a reminder that success is not just about academic achievement but also about developing a well-rounded set of skills and qualities that will help students succeed in all aspects of life.
Moreover, the Edusave Awards are inclusive in nature. By offering a range of awards that recognise different types of achievements, the scheme ensures that all students, regardless of their strengths, have an opportunity to shine. Whether a student excels in academics, sports, leadership, or character, there is an award that acknowledges their unique contributions. This inclusivity helps create a positive and supportive learning environment where students are encouraged to explore their strengths and pursue their interests, knowing that their efforts will be valued.
The Edusave Awards play a crucial role in Singapore’s education system by recognising and rewarding students for their achievements in a variety of fields. These awards not only provide financial support to students but also inspire them to strive for excellence in all areas of their lives. By emphasising academic success, character development, leadership, and community involvement, the Edusave Awards encourage students to become well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to society. Through these awards, Singapore continues to invest in its students and foster a culture of excellence that benefits both individuals and the nation as a whole.