What Is KiFAS and How Do I Apply for It?
The Kindergarten Financial Assistance Scheme covers nearly all K1 and K2 fees for qualifying Singapore families. Here is everything you need to know.
What KiFAS Covers
KiFAS stands for Kindergarten Financial Assistance Scheme. It is a government subsidy designed to ensure that no Singapore family is priced out of kindergarten education. KiFAS is means-tested and covers fees at K1 and K2 level.
| Monthly Household Income Per Capita | KiFAS Coverage | What You Pay |
|---|---|---|
| S$625 and below | 99% of fees | Almost nothing |
| S$626 to S$1,250 | Tiered partial subsidy | Reduced fee (varies) |
| Above S$3,000 household income | Not eligible | Full fee applies |
The per capita income is calculated by dividing the total gross monthly household income by the number of family members living in the same household. A family of four with a combined income of S$2,400 would have a per capita income of S$600, qualifying them for near-full coverage.
Which kindergartens qualify: KiFAS applies at MOE Kindergartens and ECDA-licensed kindergartens under Anchor Operators (such as PCF Sparkletots K1 and K2, and My First Skool). It does not apply at most private kindergartens.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for KiFAS, all of the following must apply:
- The child is a Singapore Citizen enrolled in K1 or K2
- The child attends an eligible MOE or ECDA-licensed kindergarten (AO kindergartens)
- The gross monthly household income per capita is at or below S$3,000 (household total must be assessed)
- The child is not enrolled in a private kindergarten or special education school (separate schemes apply)
KiFAS can be combined with other childcare subsidies if the child is in a full-day programme that includes both childcare and kindergarten components. In such cases, the childcare subsidy (basic and additional) applies to the full-day care portion, and KiFAS covers the kindergarten (K1/K2 programme) fees.
How to Apply for KiFAS
Applications are submitted through the kindergarten your child attends. You do not apply to ECDA or MSF directly. Here is the process:
- Enrol your child at an eligible MOE or AO kindergarten
- Request the KiFAS application form from the school administration
- Complete the form with household income details for all earning members
- Submit supporting documents: latest one to three months of payslips for all working household members, or the most recent IRAS Notice of Assessment for self-employed individuals
- The kindergarten submits the application to ECDA on your behalf
- Receive notification of KiFAS outcome, typically within 4 to 6 weeks
Annual review: KiFAS eligibility is reviewed annually. You will need to resubmit income documents each year for reassessment. If your income changes significantly, inform the school so your tier can be updated promptly.
What KiFAS Does Not Cover
KiFAS covers the standard kindergarten programme fees. There are several items that are not included:
Not Covered by KiFAS
- Optional enrichment classes (music, art, speech)
- School meals (some centres charge separately)
- Uniforms and school bags
- Annual registration or activity fees
- School excursions and field trips
Covered by KiFAS
- Standard K1 and K2 programme fees
- Core curriculum materials
- Structured learning time
- Basic learning materials included in standard programme
Medical disclaimer: this content is for general informational purposes only. KiFAS eligibility criteria and coverage amounts are set by ECDA and MSF and are subject to change. Always verify current details at ecda.gov.sg or through your child's kindergarten.