From January 2004, every citizen pupil in school (between 6 and 16 years old) will be eligible for an Edusave account and an annual Edusave Pupils Fund contribution.

With this change, pupils who are the fourth or higher birth order children will have an Edusave account like the rest of his siblings.

This will allow parents the flexibility to manage the funds appropriately for each of their children. It will also reinforce our efforts to develop an education system that will help our young people meet the challenges of a more competitive and rapidly changing future.

The Edusave funds will open up new choices for them, adding value and diversity to their education experience, and helping to maximise their potential.

Background:

The Edusave Scheme was set up in 1993 to provide additional opportunities for Singaporean children to improve themselves through education. The Edusave Pupils Fund is one way in which Singapore pupils benefit from the Edusave Scheme.

Currently, a citizen pupil is eligible for an Edusave account and contribution if he is between 6 and 16 years old, and is the first, second or third child of his natural or adoptive mother.

This is in line with the national population policy which encourages parents to have three children, or more if they can afford it. The current Edusave Pupils Fund contribution is $160 per year.

Besides the Edusave Pupils Fund, schools and technical institutes are given grants to run enrichment programmes for their pupils. Edusave Scholarships, Merit Bursaries and Good Progress Awards are also awarded to citizen pupils who have done well academically or shown significant academic progress. All citizen pupils, regardless of birth order, can enjoy these benefits and awards, provided they meet the awards criteria.

FAQ on Edusave Scheme on MOE's Web site

Source: Ministry of Education News Release 27 Dec 2003