The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in Singapore has announced major updates to the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) that will take effect on 1 January 2026. These changes will significantly impact how Employment Pass (EP) applications—both new and renewals—are evaluated. The updates specifically target two criteria employers have long relied on to secure passing COMPASS scores: Criterion 2 (Qualifications) and Criterion 5 (Skills Bonus). :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
The adjustments include a fully updated list of recognized qualifications and institutions under C2 and a revised Shortage Occupation List (SOL) under C5, which influences bonus points for high-demand roles. Employers must now ensure strict alignment between job titles, duties, and SOL definitions to avoid losing critical points.
Updated Qualification & Institution List (COMPASS C2)
Starting 1 January 2026, MOM has refreshed the list that determines whether an applicant’s educational qualifications earn 10 or 20 COMPASS points. Key updates include: :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
20-Point Institutions (Top-Tier)
- Institutions are divided into Group A (all faculties eligible) and Group B (only select faculties qualify for 20 points).
- Employers must select the correct institution and faculty during EP submission.
- Incorrect selection—even if the university appears on the list—may result in zero C2 points.
10-Point Degree-Equivalent & Professional Certifications
- MOM has expanded the list of certifications that earn 10 points, especially in engineering, applied sciences, marine, technical fields, and hospitality.
- Many certifications are evaluated as degree-equivalent based on international qualification frameworks.
Major Trends in the New 2026 Qualification List
- Broader recognition of technical, applied, and design-related fields of study
- Greater inclusion of Singapore-based innovative and technical institutions
- Significant reshuffling of universities between Group A and Group B
- Some institutions downgraded from 20 points to 10-point equivalents or removed entirely
If an applicant’s institution has been downgraded or removed, employers must compensate through stronger scores in other COMPASS categories to maintain overall EP eligibility.
Revised Shortage Occupation List (COMPASS C5)
Under Criterion 5 (Skills Bonus), MOM has updated the Shortage Occupation List (SOL), which awards up to 20 bonus points for applicants in recognized in-demand roles. Key changes include: :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- Introduction of new healthcare-related occupations due to rising sector demand
- Removal of several technology and digital roles from the SOL, including:
- Cyber Risk Expert
- Cybersecurity Operations Specialist
- Product Manager (Digital)
To qualify for C5 bonus points, employers must ensure:
- The job’s scope and responsibilities align precisely with MOM’s SOL job description
- The EP job title matches the title used in the MyCareersFuture (MCF) job posting (unless exempt from advertising)
- All role-specific credentials—skills, certifications, industry registrations—are met and fully documented
Updated Self-Assessment Tool (SAT)
MOM has also enhanced its Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) to help employers evaluate eligibility under the revised rules: :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- The updated 2026 qualification criteria are already reflected in the tool.
- The new Shortage Occupation List will appear ahead of the January 2026 rollout for pre-assessment.
Do These Changes Affect Current EP Holders?
Existing Employment Pass holders are not affected by the revised SOL during their current pass validity. The new lists and COMPASS scoring will apply only upon EP renewal on or after 1 January 2026. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Conclusion
Singapore’s COMPASS updates mark a strategic shift toward prioritizing applicants with credentials and skills that match national workforce needs. With revised recognition for qualifications and a revamped Shortage Occupation List, employers must now exercise greater accuracy when entering education details, selecting job titles, and ensuring alignment with SOL requirements.
Preparing ahead—using the updated SAT, reviewing C2 and C5 changes, and verifying qualification eligibility—will be essential for smooth EP submissions in 2026 and beyond.