When establishing a tuition centre in Singapore, adhering to the stringent licensing requirements is crucial for legality and operational smoothness. The process involves several key steps and adherence to specific regulations laid down by various government bodies.
Opting for a Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd) is highly recommended when setting up a tuition centre in Singapore. This structure provides limited liability protection, meaning personal assets are protected in the event of financial trouble or lawsuits. It also facilitates easier capital raising and lends credibility to the business, which can be crucial for attracting students and teachers.
The first step is registering your business with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA). This registration confirms the legal identity of your business and is essential for further steps in the licensing process. Upon successful registration, ACRA will issue a business profile, which will be needed for the subsequent licensing procedures.
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Following registration, the next crucial step is obtaining a tuition centre licence from the Council for Private Education (CPE), a statutory board under the Ministry of Education. The CPE regulates private education institutions to ensure high standards in the education sector.
Key CPE Requirements Include:
It is also essential to adhere to space utilisation norms such as student-to-space ratios, which are regulated to ensure a conducive learning environment. These standards are available on the CPE’s website and must be strictly followed to avoid penalties.
The tuition centre licence is not a one-time requirement. It needs annual renewal through the submission of updated documents such as teacher details, course curricula, and other operational data. Regular inspections and audits by CPE ensure compliance with educational and safety standards.
Alongside the licensing requirements, tuition centres must also:
By following these steps and ensuring ongoing compliance with CPE regulations and other legal requirements, your tuition centre will not only uphold legal standards but also gain reputation and trust in Singapore’s competitive educational landscape. This foundation is crucial for long-term success and growth in the education sector.
1. Do I need to apply for a licence to operate a tuition centre in Singapore?
A: Yes, you are required to register with the Ministry of Education (MOE) if you operate a private school in Singapore. According to the Education Act (Chapter 87) Section 21, no school can operate unless it is registered. A school is defined as a place where 10 or more persons are being or are habitually taught, whether in one or more classes.
2. What conditions must I fulfil to register a tuition centre?
A: To apply for a private school, you must be a company, business, or limited liability partnership (LLP) registered with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA). Additionally, you need fire safety clearance from the Fire Safety & Shelter Department (FSSD) or the Housing & Development Board (HDB) for your premises. If applicable, you must also apply for the Written Permission for Change-of-Use of the premises to “school” use from the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA). More details are available on the MOE’s website.
3. What supporting documents are required for the application?
A: You do not need to submit any documents online through the MOE website. However, supporting documents must be submitted in hardcopy to the MOE Private Schools Section after the online application through GoBusiness Licensing. The MOE Private Schools Section will contact you after receiving and assessing the documents.
4. How long does it take to process my application?
A: The service standard for completing the registration of a school is 14 working days after all correct required documents are received. Any incomplete or incorrect submissions may delay the processing.
5. How much does the licence cost and how long is it valid?
A: Upon approval, a successful applicant will need to make a once-off payment of $420 (inclusive of GST) per transaction online in GoBusiness Licensing. The Certificate of Registration of School does not require renewal, but private schools must update information on teachers, courses, school name, and address as necessary.
6. Who can I contact for further details?
A: For more information about private schools, visit MOE’s website for private education. For further assistance, you can contact their customer service at 6872-2220, or email [email protected].
Setting up a company in Singapore can be challenging, but with professional support, it can be simple, Counto’s mission is to support your new business, take away the complexities of compliance, and save you time and money throughout the year. Speak to us directly on our chatbot, email us at [email protected], or contact us using this form.
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