Singapore Opens Doors to American Students Interested in Asia

SINGAPORE, Jan. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Students and recent graduates of American colleges and universities have a new opportunity to experience first-hand the culture and work ethic of Singapore -- the gateway to Asia. The Ministry of Manpower has introduced the Work Holiday Program (WHP), allowing students and graduates ages 17 to 30 to live and work in Singapore for up to six months.

The WHP was created for the well-qualified scholar interested in traveling abroad to Asia and experiencing diverse cultures in Singapore. The program allows participants to discover the spectrum of career opportunities available and encourages students to supplement their education with real-world job experience in an international setting.

Singapore's hospitality and services sector has long been of great interest to visiting students. In addition, employers in banking and finance, communications and media, electronics and precision engineering, chemicals and info-communications technology also offer competitive holiday work and internship opportunities. For a list of WHP employer partners and Singapore job sites visit www.contactsingapore.org.sg/whpsingapore.

All full-time students and graduates from accredited American colleges and universities are encouraged to apply. Full-time students who have gained admission to a college or university but have not yet commenced studies are also eligible.

Applicants do not need to secure employment before applying for the WHP. As part of the application process, prospective participants must declare their access to sufficient funds for stay, maintenance and departure. Interested students and graduates must complete the application form available at www.contactsingapore.org.sg/whpsingapore/applyform.

Successful applicants will receive a six-month work pass. Participants will not be restricted to specific types of work and will not need to meet a minimum salary requirement. Participants will not be permitted to extend their WHP stay. Those who wish to spend more than the allotted six months in Singapore may apply for other work passes offered by the Ministry of Manpower.

Beyond enhancing Singapore's reputation as a talent destination for future professionals, the WHP exposes participants to the fascinating island-nation that has become a favorite of world travelers and also gives students an opportunity to explore the rest of Asia Pacific. For more information on the Work Holiday Program and full-time career opportunities in Singapore: Contact Singapore: 130 Bishop Allen Drive, 5th Floor, Cambridge, MA 02139. Tel: (617) 492-9843.