In a move that underscores Singapore’s long-term commitment to education, the Ministry of Education (MOE) has announced a boost in Edusave contributions and award payouts for 2025. This enhancement means eligible Singaporean students could receive up to S$480 annually, helping families ease the burden of school-related expenses. The increase is part of the 2025 national budget, aimed at supporting families amid rising inflation and ensuring every child, regardless of financial background, has access to enrichment opportunities and merit-based incentives.
What Is the Edusave Scheme and Who Qualifies?
The Edusave Scheme is a government initiative that provides annual contributions and performance-based awards to eligible Singaporean students aged 7 to 16. It covers students enrolled in government schools, government-aided schools, full-time MOE-registered madrasahs, or those in approved home-schooling programs. For 2025, the Ministry of Education has increased the annual contributions under the scheme, with primary-level students receiving S$300, up from S$230 in 2024, and secondary-level students receiving S$480, an increase from S$290. These contributions are credited directly into each student’s Edusave account, which is managed by MOE and can be used for approved enrichment programs, educational materials, and other school-related learning activities.
Benefits Families Shouldn’t Miss
Edusave is 100% government-funded, and all eligible Singaporean students are automatically enrolled, no action is required for the basic contribution. Unused funds in the Edusave account are rolled over annually and transferred to the Post-Secondary Education Account (PSEA) once the student turns 17. This system ensures that even students who do not use their Edusave regularly will benefit in the long run, particularly in funding tertiary education.
Key Edusave Awards and Their New Payouts
Apart from the base contributions, students may qualify for Edusave awards based on performance and character. Updated payouts for 2025 include:
| Award Name | Criteria | Amount (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Edusave Merit Bursary (EMB) | Top 25% in academic level, low-income | S$260–S$500 |
| Edusave Good Progress Award (GPA) | Significant academic improvement | S$100–S$200 |
| Edusave Character Award (ECHA) | Exemplary conduct and values | S$200–S$500 |
Awards are given once a year and administered by schools or town councils. Parents are notified via letters or through the Parents Gateway app.
One-Time Digital Top-Up for Edusave Accounts
In addition to the annual contributions, Budget 2025 includes a one-time S$100 top-up to all Edusave accounts, part of a broader national move to promote digital learning. The government aims to support students in acquiring devices, educational software, and online tools, particularly those in secondary and madrasah schools.
Why This Matters in 2025
Singapore’s educational system is one of the most robust in the world, but enrichment costs can add up. From coding bootcamps to outdoor adventure learning, parents often feel the pressure to keep up. The 2025 Edusave boost is a strategic and timely effort to make these opportunities more accessible and to reinforce meritocracy, character development, and digital readiness. It’s also a step toward reducing inequality giving children from lower-income households a better chance to engage in the same learning opportunities as their peers.
How to Track and Use Edusave Funds
Parents and students can check balances and transactions through:
- MOE Edusave Portal
- The Parents Gateway mobile app
- Direct school notifications for award disbursement
Schools will usually seek parental consent before deducting any Edusave funds for school-based enrichment programs.
With increased contributions, enhanced awards, and a one-time digital top-up, the Edusave Scheme 2025 offers substantial financial support to Singaporean families. Whether it’s attending an art workshop, purchasing e-learning tools, or simply easing term fees, the S$480 boost is a timely and practical way to support every child’s learning journey.