The Edusave Merit Award (EMA) and Edusave Scholarship Award (ESA) are part of Singapore’s education system, aimed at recognizing and rewarding students for their academic achievements and personal qualities. These awards serve to motivate students to excel in their studies while also acknowledging their efforts in other areas such as behaviour and attitude. However, confusion often arises about the eligibility criteria for these awards, particularly when it comes to primary school students from Primary 1 to Primary 6. A common question among parents is whether Primary 1 to Primary 4 students are eligible for the Edusave Scholarship Award (ESA), and what the specific criteria for both the EMA and ESA are.
The Edusave Merit Award (EMA) for Primary 1 to Primary 4
The Edusave Merit Award (EMA) is a recognition given to students based on their academic performance and overall conduct. It is typically awarded to the top-performing students in each level, with slight variations depending on the grade. The confusion surrounding EMA often stems from differing eligibility for students in Primary 1 to Primary 4 and those in Primary 5 and Primary 6.
For Primary 1 to Primary 4 students, the EMA is awarded to those who rank in the top 25% of their cohort, which is a distinction for students who perform well academically. This group includes the top 11-25% of students based on their academic achievements and learning attitudes. The EMA is typically not just about grades but also considers a student’s behaviour and attitude towards learning. In some cases, students who demonstrate a positive learning attitude and good behaviour, even if they are not in the top 25%, may still receive the award.
A parent shared their experience where their child, who was in Primary 3 at the time, received the EMA for being in the top 25%. This highlights that while academic excellence is crucial, a good attitude towards learning can also play a role in eligibility.
The Edusave Scholarship Award (ESA) for Primary 5 and Primary 6
The Edusave Scholarship Award (ESA) is a more prestigious award that is typically given to the top 10% of students in Primary 5 and Primary 6. This award is generally more competitive and recognizes students who have excelled in their studies to a greater degree. Unlike the EMA, which is awarded to students in the top 25%, the ESA has a narrower focus on the top 10% of students. Therefore, only students in Primary 5 and Primary 6 are eligible for the ESA, making it a more advanced recognition compared to the EMA.
The ESA is designed to reward outstanding academic performance and is considered a prestigious scholarship that can help students in their educational journey, especially as they transition to secondary school. As one participant mentioned, Primary 5 and Primary 6 students who are in the top 10% of their cohort are eligible for the ESA, whereas EMA recipients in the same grades are those who fall within the top 25%.
Clarifying the Differences Between EMA and ESA
The key difference between the Edusave Merit Award and the Edusave Scholarship Award lies in their eligibility criteria and the level of academic performance required. For Primary 1 to Primary 4 students, the EMA is awarded to those in the top 25% of their cohort. However, for Primary 5 and Primary 6 students, the EMA continues to be awarded to the top 25%, while the ESA is reserved for the top 10%.
A number of parents shared their experiences regarding the EMA and ESA, with one noting that their child, who received the EMA in Primary 2, was recognized for their positive learning attitude and behaviour rather than solely academic performance. This reinforces the idea that EMA considers a range of factors, including personal qualities, while the ESA is more focused on academic excellence.
Understanding the Eligibility for Primary School Awards
The Edusave Merit Award (EMA) and Edusave Scholarship Award (ESA) are essential in recognizing students’ achievements and fostering a sense of academic excellence and personal growth. Primary 1 to Primary 4 students are eligible for the EMA, which is given to the top 25% based on academic performance and behaviour. The ESA, on the other hand, is available only for Primary 5 and Primary 6 students, with a focus on the top 10% of the cohort.
Parents and guardians can refer to official resources, such as the Ministry of Education’s website, to gain a clearer understanding of the specific criteria for these awards. If there is any uncertainty, contacting the Ministry of Education’s hotline can provide direct answers and guidance regarding the eligibility and application process. Regardless of the specific award, these recognitions serve as an encouragement for students to continue striving for excellence in their academic and personal growth.
