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Overview Students' Work Modules Entry Requirements Fees How to Apply
Overview Students' Work Modules Entry Requirements Fees How to Apply
Duration: 3 Years
Mode: Full-time

Put Your Best Foot Forward on the Dance Stage

Embark on your quest to become the best dance artist you can be, mentored by an international faculty of professional artist-educators.

You will train in contemporary, classical and traditional dance techniques, gaining technical excellency and building a strong artistic foundation in dance performance and creation alike. You will also learn somatic practices, dance education, production and science to support your understanding of dance as a whole and enhance your future job prospects.

Armed with a robust understanding of dance and dance making that you will get to put into practice with our application-based theory and industry-based learning curriculum, you will become a highly sought-after dance artist, both locally and around the world.


Be Immersed in the Richness of Asian and Western Dance

Our conservatory-style approach to dance training means you will become versatile in our hallmarks of Ballet and Contemporary Dance as well as be familiarised with an array of Asian dance and movement practices to develop your flexibility in dance performance and diversity in dance creation.

Think Critically and Creatively about Dance Making

You will sharpen your creative and critical thinking skills as you pursue your studies in the dynamic field of dance. These interdisciplinary skills will enable you to collaborate effectively with your peers in other disciplines for a refreshing take on performance making.

Learn from Leading Artist-Educators

Be immersed in our intercultural and vibrant environment, taught by a reputable faculty comprising of respected local and international dance practitioners. Visiting guests from renowned dance companies and leading independent artists will also impart a wealth of knowledge and firsthand experiences at masterclasses, workshops and talks.



Read The Straits Times feature on our transformative programme.
Source: The Straits Times © SPH Media Limited. Permission required for reproduction







More Information
Graduation Requirements
Diploma Programmes (AY2025 Intake and After)
In order to graduate from a diploma programme, you are required to attain at least 360 credits (including exempted credits and credits for non-graded modules, but excluding credits associated with repeated attempts), and pass all prescribed core and elective requirements with a minimum Grade D for all modules.
Mode of Instruction
Lessons may be delivered face-to-face on campus or facilitated online. Lecturers employ a variety of teaching strategies and methods according to the needs of each module. Students are expected to attend every lesson as scheduled, either in the form of lectures, tutorials, discussions, demonstrations, case studies, practical exercises, field activities, classroom practice or e-learning.
Assessment Methods
Each module is assessed by either class participation, written assignments, practical performances, portfolio presentations, projects, examinations, or any of these combinations. Assessment methods may vary according to individual module requirements.
Career Pathways

Upon the completion of this programme, dynamic careers in the creative industries await:

  • Artistic Director
  • Art Project Head & Coordinator
  • Backstage Personnel
  • Choreographer & Director
  • Dance Administrator
  • Dance Artist
  • Dance Company Manager
  • Dance Educator/Instructor
  • Somatic Movement Therapist/Instructor
  • Professional Dancer/Performer
  • Project Manager
  • Dance Production Manager/Coordinator
  • Dance Outreach Coordinator
  • Dance Historian/Researcher
  • Dance Stage Manager
  • Studio Owner
  • Dance Critic/Journalist
  • Fitness Instructor
  • Movement Coach/Therapist/Physiotherapist

Students' Work

Modules

The following programme modules are applicable to students enrolled in August 2025 and after. NAFA students enrolled in AY2024/2025 and earlier are to refer to the Diploma Programme and Module Information Booklet on the Student Portal for the programme modules in your respective years of enrolment.

TypeTitleYear & SemesterCredits
Academy Core

Introduction to Southeast Asian Arts

The Introduction to Southeast Asian Arts module introduces facets of the artistic traditions of mainland and maritime Southeast Asia from the kingdom to the present. The module approaches Southeast Asia's rich heritage thematically, encouraging interdisciplinary understanding between intersecting geographies and narratives. It offers insights departing from different perspectives and vantages - the evolving role in defining aesthetics, cultural belonging, polities, and intercultural exchanges in the ongoing multiplicities of the region.
Year 1 Semester 110
School Core

Dance and Performance Practices 1A

You will learn to develop technical and artistic proficiency in Ballet and Contemporary Dance forms, while expose to a diversity of dance styles at different levels of competency. You will develop technical assurance, artistic synthesis, movement efficiency, safe practices as well as the concepts across different dance techniques. This module will prepare you to take on the physical challenges of more practice and/or what is currently trending in order to enhance personal dance practice.

Besides dance technique training, you will also be introduced to performance process by rehearsing and performing in dance repertory and work with various choreographers and dance artists. You will learn existing dance works and/or new creative works, honing the dance performance skills and developing the artistry. You will also learn to focus on cultivating professional behaviour and be guided to explore a personal artistic expression.
Year 1 Semester 130
School Core

Body and Movement Studies 1

You will be introduced to a holistic approach to the physical and mental well-being of a dancer, as well as a range of dance wellness and scientific practices to explore various approaches with dance health. You will investigate the development of dance and wellbeing with the reference to a scientific framework to understand the human body, mind and movement, as well as body management, diet and nutrition.

You will also engage in somatic movement practices as the physical conditioning for dancers, and learn how to prevent injury, maintain strength and mobility. The importance of safety, sensitivity and responsibility are emphasized. The range of dance wellness and somatic practices will help you to develop emotional, cognitive, physical and social well-being, grounded on the fundamental principle of dance as a holistic approach to health.
Year 1 Semester 110
School Core

Creative Lab 1

You will learn a range of choreographic approaches and practices in the creation and exploration of short composition, movement scores and choreographies. There will also be opportunities for you to collaborate and work with other disciplines during the creative process. In doing so, their communication skills and professional behaviour are developed to collaborate/work effectively with others and other disciplines.

This module also aims to prepare you for the challenges of various experimentations and/or what is currently trending, as well as how to enhance your personal and multidisciplinary and/or cross-disciplinary dance practices. You will have the opportunity to develop the creative concept and skills through guided explorations.
Year 1 Semester 110
Faculty Core

Professional Development Plan 1

In this module, students are introduced to the foundational skills and knowledge essential for a successful career in the performing arts, encompassing dance, theatre, and music. You will learn about the multifaceted nature of the performing arts industry, including historical development, career paths, and the integration of multidisciplinary collaboration. The module aims to equip you with the tools necessary for crafting a realistic and personalized career plan, enhancing your professional skills such as communication, CV writing, and interview techniques, as well as fostering an understanding of personal branding and digital literacy in the modern arts landscape.
Year 1 Semester 210
School Core

Dance and Performance Practices 1B

You will learn to develop technical and artistic proficiency in Ballet and Contemporary Dance forms, while expose to a diversity of dance styles at different levels of competency. You will develop technical assurance, artistic synthesis, movement efficiency, safe practices as well as the concepts across different dance techniques. This module will prepare you to take on the physical challenges of more practice and/or what is currently trending in order to enhance personal dance practice.

Besides dance technique training, you will also be introduced to performance process by rehearsing and performing in dance repertory and work with various choreographers and dance artists. You will learn existing dance works and/or new creative works, honing the dance performance skills and developing the artistry. You will also learn to focus on cultivating professional behaviour and be guided to explore a personal artistic expression.
Year 1 Semester 230
School Core

Dance Studies in Context 1

You will learn various aspects of culture and dance history to inform your dance practice and contextual understanding, as well as the exploration of new pathways in dance. This module will investigate the development of dance with a view towards the future and explore the development of dance in Southeast Asia/ Asia. Asian dance practice and movement is informed by or derived from cultural forms, histories, contexts, and practitioners. You will also be guided to explore a personal artistic expression based on the understanding and appreciation of different Asian dance forms, traditions, references, and influences.
Year 1 Semester 210
School Core

Industry and Professional Skills 1

You will learn various aspects of production to support and enhance dance practices and explore new pathways. You will explore the world of dance management, acquiring knowledge and skills that pertain to the planning and execution of dance performances, as well as the organisation and understanding of various production elements.

This module aims to amalgamate and strengthen proficiency in the intricate facets of dance production and theatre fundamentals. It involves a unique set of considerations that pertains to the specific requirements of dance performances, as well as the knowledge of theatre and production terminology and workflow. You will gain insight into how dance integrates various elements for proficient support and management in dance productions.
Year 1 Semester 210
Academy Core

Introduction to Interdisciplinary Arts Practice

The Introduction to Interdisciplinary Arts Practice module introduces interdisciplinarity as an approach to learning. The module provides the opportunity to place and activate respective artistic disciplines in the context of a collaborative creation. It is a platform for appreciating different perspectives, analysing possible connections, and engaging in collective exploration to gain new insights.
Year 2 Semester 1 or Semester 210
School Core

Dance and Performance Practices 2A

You will learn to develop technical and artistic proficiency in Ballet and Contemporary Dance forms, while expose to a diversity of dance styles at different levels of competency. You will develop technical assurance, artistic synthesis, movement efficiency, safe practices as well as the concepts across different dance techniques. This module will prepare you to take on the physical challenges of more practice and/or what is currently trending in order to enhance personal dance practice.

Besides dance technique training, you will also be introduced to performance process by rehearsing and performing in dance repertory and work with various choreographers and dance artists. You will learn existing dance works and/or new creative works, honing the dance performance skills and developing the artistry. You will also learn to focus on cultivating professional behaviour and be guided to explore a personal artistic expression.
Year 2 Semester 130
School Core

Body and Movement Studies 2

You will learn various aspects of dance science to an embodied understanding of human anatomy through direct sensory experience and movement. Experiential anatomy will provide you with a kinesthetic understanding of the body's structure and function. You will also learn to investigate the development of dance with reference to scientific framework to understand the human body and movement in relation to body awareness. With the transference of basic dance and movement principles, you will be guided through various fundamental concepts that form the basis of movement in dance. This will inform your dance practice and allow you to gain an understanding of how the body moves, the principles that govern movement, and the ways in which these principles can be applied in dance and bodily movement across authentic, relevant, and diverse applications.
Year 2 Semester 110
School Core

Creative Lab 2

You will learn to consolidate dance composition and choreographic skills and understanding towards producing and presenting a contemporary choreography. You will also be introduced to various digital tools/ media and learn how to incorporate technology with the creative experimentation and improvisation strategies. You will also be prepared to take on the challenges of more practice and/or what is currently trending to enhance your personal dance practice with various creative practices. The creation process progresses from conceptualisation to guided exploration to culminate in a dance creative work integrating various digital tools or platforms. You will have the opportunity to rework or create a new dance work towards developing a personal style and creative voice.
Year 2 Semester 110
Faculty Core

Professional Development Plan 2

In this module, you are introduced to a comprehensive range of professional skills and digital tools essential for a successful career in the performing arts (Dance, Music, and Theatre). You will learn how to effectively showcase your talents through the creation of ePortfolios, develop compelling curriculum vitae (CV) and cover letters, and enhance your interview skills. The module is designed to expand your career opportunities beyond traditional performing roles, highlighting the transferability of your artistic skills to a variety of professional contexts. By the end of this module, you will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to present yourself effectively to potential employers and collaborators, opening doors to diverse career paths within and outside the performing arts sector.
Year 2 Semester 210
School Core

Dance Studies in Context 2

You will gain a comprehensive understanding of the dance landscape in Singapore, covering aspects related to history, current trends, community engagement, and professional opportunities. Personal dance practice is informed by or derived from cultural forms, histories, contexts, and key practitioners. This module will also investigate the development of dance with a view towards the future and explore the development of dance in Southeast Asia. Asian dance practice and movement is informed by or derived from cultural forms, histories, contexts, and practitioners. You will also be guided to explore a personal artistic expression based on the understanding and appreciation of different Asian dance forms, references, and influences.
Year 2 Semester 210
School Core

Industry and Professional Skills 2

You will learn various aspects of dance education to support and enhance the dance practice through the application of fundamental pedagogical concepts and practices, as well as in the planning and the organisation of a dance class. In addition, you will also learn to establish the role, responsibilities and limitations of a person teaching or helping others through movement/dance; and prepare well-planned, relevant and thoughtful lessons.
Year 2 Semester 210
Faculty Core

Industry-Based Learning

You will learn to immerse yourself in the dance or a related industry in an authentic setting through this module. You will be exposed to the industry/work environment and develop professional skill sets and the appropriate work etiquette. You will learn to consolidate and apply discipline-specific knowledge and skills in an authentic industry/work situation, as well as establish networks and connections with the industry partners and potential employers.

Industry-based learning also provides the opportunity for industry partners to benefit from student talent, skills, knowledge, and perspectives, as well as to play a role in students’ professional development.
Year 3 Semester 130
School Core

Dance and Performance Practices 3A

You will learn to develop technical and artistic proficiency in Ballet and Contemporary Dance forms, while expose to a diversity of dance styles at different levels of competency. You will develop technical assurance, artistic synthesis, movement efficiency, safe practices as well as the concepts across different dance techniques. This module will prepare you to take on the physical challenges of more practice and/or what is currently trending in order to enhance personal dance practice.

Besides dance technique training, you will also be introduced to performance process by rehearsing and performing in dance repertory and work with various choreographers and dance artists. You will learn existing dance works and/or new creative works, honing the dance performance skills and developing the artistry. You will also learn to focus on cultivating professional behaviour and be guided to explore a personal artistic expression.
Year 3 Semester 110
Elective

Option A (Elective)

Electives are classes that students must take in addition to the core curriculum. Students may choose from a list of 40+ modules to explore personal interests, delve into specialised subjects, or in areas that align with their career goals or passions.

Option B (Overseas Immersion Programme)

The Overseas Immersion Programme (OIP) is a 2- to 3-week experience that provides students with the chance to immerse in a different culture and academic environment. Through a blend of classroom learning, hands-on activities, and cultural exploration, the programme fosters academic and professional growth, equipping participants to thrive in our interconnected global landscape.
Year 3 Semester 120
School Core

Dance and Performance Practices 3B

You will learn to develop technical and artistic proficiency in Ballet and Contemporary Dance forms, while expose to a diversity of dance styles at different levels of competency. You will develop technical assurance, artistic synthesis, movement efficiency, safe practices as well as the concepts across different dance techniques. This module will prepare you to take on the physical challenges of more practice and/or what is currently trending in order to enhance personal dance practice.

Besides dance technique training, you will also be introduced to performance process by rehearsing and performing in dance repertory and work with various choreographers and dance artists. You will learn existing dance works and/or new creative works, honing the dance performance skills and developing the artistry. You will also learn to focus on cultivating professional behaviour and be guided to explore a personal artistic expression.
Year 3 Semester 230
School Core

Community Dance and Outreach

You will learn look at your own practice with the view to contribute to the development of dance; establish the role, responsibilities and limitations of a person teaching or helping others through movement/dance; and apply assessment strategies to promote learning. You will also learn about the outreach effort and how to conduct an outreach project to various target participants in the community using dance and movement as a tool and as an art form.

This module aims to provide students the opportunity to participate in the conceptualisation, planning and execution a dance project by employing various dance pedagogy skills and strategies. You will collaborate with an external organisation under the supervision of a module lecturer and/or guest artist, and consolidate the dance knowledge, skills and interests in an authentic experience.
Year 3 Semester 210
School Core

Professional and Digital Project

You will learn to be involved in a dance project that integrates various aspects of specialisation. You will learn the intricacies of production management, and dive into the world of proposal, scheduling, budgeting, contracts, and agreements. Discover the principles and practices that make dance management an art in itself. Explore digital tools and strategies that enhance the creativity of dance production and backstage management.

With this module, there will be an opportunity for you to experience the journey from guiding a production team to executing and managing a dance production and performance. Implement measures to assure the quality of the dance production and refine aspects of the performance to meet artistic and professional standards.
Year 3 Semester 220
Show More

entry requirements

NAFA hopes to attract applicants with the potential to become excellent arts practitioners. Applicants are selected by merit, based on the following criteria:

  • Audition/Interview Requirements
  • Educational Qualification
  • English Language Proficiency
  • Special Factor

Selection is competitive and is subject to the availability of places. However, the Academy may give consideration to talented applicants who excel in Artistic Talent and Creativity, but have not fully met the education qualification stated.
Find out about the specific entry requirements that apply to you.


Audition Instructions
You will receive a confirmation email containing the audition details nearer to your assigned audition date.

You will be required to attend an audition.
  • The audition consists of two sections - Practical Assessment and Interview.
  • You are required to report to the audition venue 30 minutes earlier to register, warm up and change into appropriate attire for dancing. You must bring your own attire.
  • The audition may take up to 2 hours.

Audition Date
23 October 2024
6 November 2024
22 January 2025
19 February 2025
19 March 2025
23 April 2025

Applicants will be notified of the exact date and time via email one week before the audition.

Note: You will be notified of the outcome of your application 4 to 6 weeks after your portfolio interview or audition. Some application outcomes may take longer than expected.

Practical Assessment
You are expected to prepare and perform two contrasting solos of any dance genre/style (e.g. Ballet and Cultural Dance; Chinese classical dance and Chinese folk dance).
  • Each dance should not exceed 90 seconds. The solo dance can be choreographed by yourself or by someone else (e.g. your dance teacher).
  • You are required to bring your own music which can played from your own media device (e.g. phone, tablet, or other audio device).
  • A costume (e.g. tutu for female ballet classical solo) may be worn.
  • Through your performance, assessors will evaluate your:
    • Technique - coordination, control and alignment
    • Artistry - spatial awareness, musicality, dynamic range and performance quality
    • Fitness - strength, control, flexibility, coordination, speed, stamina and stretch
Interview
You are expected to discuss why you want to study dance during the interview. You will be evaluated based on your:
  • Existing knowledge of and experience in dance performance
  • Dance-related interests and career aspirations
  • Dance proclivity and learning attitude
  • Any medical or health concerns
Applicants who are unable to attend a live audition may request for an online audition. Both options will be followed by an online interview with the applicant alone and without the assistance of any other person.

Guidelines for the pre-recorded solos are as follows:
  • You cannot perform/ dance with any make up in the audition videos, although you can tie your hair according to what's necessary.
  • You have to come to the front of the camera (where your face can be seen clearly) and do a brief introduction of yourself. You will then proceed to move into the space and start dancing your solos after the introduction. * Please note that the video has to be shot in one take and not being edited in any way. Otherwise, the audition videos will not be considered.
  • This applies to both male and female applicants.
  • The photo that you send in should be the one that resembles how you look like now.
  • For the online interview, no interpreter should be around, or the interview could be disqualified.
Minimum Educational Qualifications Required
  • Singapore-Cambridge GCE ‘O’ Level: Aggregate score of 25 points or better in 4 GCE ‘O’ Level subjects, excluding English.
    Applicants who are active in their Secondary Schools’ Co-curricular Activities (CCA) may gain up to 2 CCA points. The CCA points can be used to improve their EQ aggregate score for admission consideration.
    Types of bonus pointsNo. of bonus points awarded
    Grades of A1–A22 points
    Grades of B3–C61 point
  • Singapore Integrated Programme: Successful completion of Year 4 or higher.
  • School of The Arts (SOTA): Successful completion of Year 4 or higher.
  • Institute of Technical Education (ITE):
    • Full-time Higher Nitec or Nitec
    • Part-time ITE certificate, with a minimum GPA of ≥ 2.0 for Higher NITEC holders or ≥ 3.5 for NITEC holders
Successful completion of at least 10 years of education.

Eligible international students will be able to use their mid-year examination results to apply for diploma programmes at NAFA. Applicants will be given conditional offer if they are successful in their portfolio interview/audition selection. Applicants are still required to submit their year-end examination results and meet the admission requirements of the respective programmes. Any applicant who does not meet the admission requirements will have his/her conditional offer revoked.
The minimum English Language proficiency requirement:
  • Grade C6 at GCE ‘O’ Levels
  • TOEFL iBT 50
  • IELTS Academic Band 5
  • SAT score of 480 (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing component)
  • Duolingo score of 80
  • Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) score of 42
  • Qualifications equivalent to any of the above
Applicants with Higher NITEC or NITEC qualifications are deemed to have met the English Language proficiency requirement.
Recognition is accorded for prior achievements in areas relevant to intended studies.
NAFA has the Early Admissions Exercise (EAE) that allows graduating O-Level students, final-year Nitec and Higher Nitec students from the Institute of Technical Education and graduating Integrated Programme (IP)/ International Baccaularette (IB) Year 4 students to apply and receive conditional admission prior to receiving their final grades.

The application will commence in June for the following year’s intake. Please check this page again in June.

Applicants may receive module exemptions if they have taken and passed the same or similar modules in another institution. The granting of exemption and advanced standing may be subject to applicants passing a Portfolio Interview, Audition or Admission Test.

Applicants with the following qualifications are eligible to apply for module exemption:

Full-time NITEC or Higher NITEC
School of the Arts Singapore (SOTA) Year 4 or 5 or 6
GCE A-Level
International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma/IB Career-Related Certificate (IBCC)
NAFA School of Young Talents (SYT)

Please refer to the module exemption here for details.


How to Apply

Take the leap! A promising future in dance awaits.

Apply online
Apply online here along with your application fees. Applications are open from October each year for the following year’s August intake.

For all programmes except Diploma in Arts Management ^, select either Portfolio Submission or Admission Test in the application portal.

Applicants may be asked to attend an interview in person or online.
Keep the Application Acknowledgement for your reference and submit the required documents
Send documents listed in the checklist to [email protected] for verification within five working days from the application date.

Make payment of the Application Fee (non-refundable) online
Make payment of the Application Fee (non-refundable) online at https://payment.nafa.edu.sg/Students.
Attend the audition at NAFA
Attend the audition at NAFA with the required materials as indicated in the test advisory.
Application outcome
Receive the outcome of your application via email within 4 – 6 weeks after your Portfolio Submission/Interview/Audition or Admission Test.