Frequently Asked Questions

Aspiring occupational therapists in Singapore

What qualifications do I need to become an occupational therapist in Singapore?

In order to be an occupational therapist practicing in Singapore, you will need qualifications that are found on the AHPC’s list of recognised qualifications. Otherwise, you will be required to sit for the Qualifying Examinations (QE).

 

The minimum qualification that allows you to practice as an occupational therapist in Singapore would be a Diploma in Occupational therapy by Nanyang Polytechnic.

 

Please note that upon registering with AHPC, you will still need to receive a valid licence in order to practice. Licensing procedures and requirements can be found on AHPC website as well.

Where can I study occupational therapy?

You may choose to study locally or overseas.


Locally, the only available occupational therapy course is currently in Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT). For further information on their entry requirement, you may visit the SIT website.

 

If you choose to study overseas, you may want to ensure that the institution is found on the AHPC’s list of recognised qualifications for ease of practicing registration. Otherwise, you will need to sit for the Qualifying Examination (QE).

Do I need to graduate from SIT to be a registered occupational therapist in Singapore?

No, it is not necessary to be a SIT graduate.

What is the difference between Allied Health Professional Council (AHPC) and Singapore Association of Occupational Therapists (SAOT)? Do I need to be registered with both to be an OT in Singapore?

The Allied Health Professional Council (AHPC) is a professional board that governs all the various allied health professionals including occupational therapists. The board ensures that all allied health professionals are regulated under the Allied Health Professions Act 2011 and issues practicing certifications to professionals. The board ensures that all professionals uphold a proper standard of service. To be an occupational therapist in Singapore, you will need to be registered under AHPC in order to practice.

 

Singapore Association of Occupational Therapists (SAOT) on the other hand is an association for occupational therapists. SAOT is the professional body that represents and advocates the diverse community of OTs around Singapore. SAOT is the representing body for occupational therapists not just locally, but internationally. For more information on our history click here. You are highly encouraged to be a member of SAOT as SAOT provides resources for professional development and is the only representing body of occupational therapists in Singapore.

Where can I find out about financial assistance to fund my studies?

You may refer to your respective educational institution for financial assistance schemes offered.

 

You may also consider scholarships or sponsorships found here.

How much does an occupational therapist earn?

The salaries of occupational therapists may vary based on sectors and organisations. To find out the salary guide of occupational therapists working in the social service sector you may refer here.

What are the working hours of an occupational therapist?

The working hours of an occupational therapist may differ depending on the organisation and setting you are in. In general, occupational therapists work approximately 8 hours a day and have a 5 days to 5.5 days work week.

Where can I work as an occupational therapist?

In Singapore, occupational therapists work in a diverse range of settings. You may work in healthcare settings such as acute hospitals, community hospitals or long-term residential care facilities. Whereas in the social service sector, you may work in special education schools, day activity centres, nursing homes to name a few.

 

You may check our Job listing or follow our Instagram page (@SAOTsg) for occupational therapist vacancies. 

How can I progress as an occupational therapist in Singapore?

Progression may vary depending on the organisation you work for. As a general guide, you may refer to the general career pathway track of occupational therapist in Singapore here.

I would like to make a mid-career switch to be an occupational therapist, how do I go about doing so?

In order to be an occupational therapist in Singapore, you will need qualifications that are found on the AHPC’s list of recognised qualifications. Otherwise, you will be required to sit for the Qualifying Examinations (QE), if you have graduated from an OT program. If you are considering a mid-career switch, you may consider applying for the Professional Conversion Programme (PCP). Find out more about the programme here.