It’s surprising, isn’t it? Despite Singapore’s strong push for lifelong learning, seven in ten Singaporeans have yet to use their S$500 SkillsFuture credit, which will expire by the end of 2025.
For some, it’s simply about time — or the lack of it. For others, it’s about not finding the “right” course or not believing that more training will really make a difference in their careers. But here’s the thing — that unspent S$500 could be a missed opportunity to future-proof your job security in a fast-changing economy.
The Curious Case of the Unused Credit
Take the story of Randi Ang, a 34-year-old data analyst. Unlike most, he used his SkillsFuture credits wisely — first to switch from healthcare to tech through a web development course, and later to deepen his expertise in big data management. That S$500 credit literally changed the direction of his life.
Yet, Randi admits it wasn’t easy. Balancing classes three nights a week after work left him exhausted. “I was quite burnt out,” he shared. His experience highlights what many working adults feel — the desire to upgrade is real, but time, energy, and convenience often stand in the way.
Why So Many Haven’t Used Their SkillsFuture Credit
When CNA asked Singaporeans why their credits remain untouched, the same answers kept coming up:
- No time: Between long work hours and family, who has evenings to study?
- Course mismatch: Many can’t find relevant, up-to-date courses for their industries.
- Doubt in returns: Some don’t believe an extra certificate will boost their pay or promotion chances.
Ms N, a 30-something professional, shared how she only managed to use S$150 for a basic home repair course. She wanted to take courses in law or finance but found most relevant ones outside the SkillsFuture system or too time-consuming for full-time employees.
She summed it up perfectly: “SkillsFuture’s flaw is that it doesn’t offer modular, stackable, and current courses that fit working adults’ lives.”
What Happens If You Don’t Use It by 2025
The government has made it clear — no extensions this time. To use the S$500 top-up, your course must begin and your claim must be submitted by 31 December 2025.
That means if you’ve been putting it off, now’s the time to act. You can browse eligible programs on the MySkillsFuture portal, covering everything from coding and digital marketing to culinary arts and financial literacy.
And here’s a silver lining — even if you skip this expiring credit, your base SkillsFuture credit (S$500) and, for those above 40, the S$4,000 mid-career credit, will remain valid without expiry.
A Moment of Reflection
Think about it this way — five years ago, nobody predicted how AI or automation would reshape jobs. The next wave of change is already here. That unused S$500 could open a door to something that secures your next decade.
Even a short, modular course could help you stay competitive, confident, and curious — qualities that no recession or redundancy can take away.
So before the year ends, ask yourself: What skill do I want to build next? Because the clock is ticking — and this small credit could lead to your next big opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When does the S$500 SkillsFuture credit expire?
The one-off SkillsFuture credit top-up expires on 31 December 2025. Your course must start, and claims must be submitted before this date.
2. Can the SkillsFuture credit be extended?
No, SkillsFuture Singapore has confirmed there will be no extensions for this one-off top-up.
3. What if I still have unused base credits?
Don’t worry — your original S$500 base credit and the S$4,000 mid-career top-up (for those 40 and above) will not expire.