No more NS deferment for pre-enlistees to pursue university studies

Mindef is going back to the basics in its policy of allowing deferments from National Service for school leavers. Starting December last year, no more deferments are allowed for those who want to pursue a university degree, be it local or overseas.

Those pursuing basic qualifications like 'A' levels, polytechnic diploma or below, are still allowed to apply for deferment under certain criteria. Male Singaporeans begin their National Service at the earliest opportunity once they turn 18 years old.

But Mindef has been granting deferments to certain categories, like those starting full-time study before 18 years old in the case of local courses and before 17-1/2 years old for overseas courses. Deferment has also been granted for those pursuing 'A' level and polytechnic diploma courses if a person is able to start the course before he turns 19 as at January 1 of the year the course commences.

But now Mindef has decided to rationalise its deferment policy based on operational needs and the primary goal of National Service.

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though i am not servin army or anythin

i tink overall it will benefit most ppl
cause it makes the overall "enrollment grp" more "even out in terms of qualification"
if with overseas deg then come back to serve NS
of course position higher than those who went in NS first then go local UNI
abit unfair i find