How the COMPASS Framework Affects Your EP Eligibility Test Results

If you're a foreign professional planning to work in Singapore, understanding the new Employment Pass eligibility rules is essential. Since 1 September 2023, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) introduced a points-based eligibility framework called the COMPASS framework—a major shift in how employment pass applications are evaluated.

This change affects every stage of the employment pass application process, including how results appear in the EP eligibility test, also known as the Self-Assessment Tool.

🔍 What Is the EP Eligibility Test in Singapore?

The EP eligibility test is an online assessment tool that helps determine if an applicant is eligible for an EP before submitting a formal work pass application. It reflects Singapore’s current employment pass regulations and evaluates both the candidate’s and employer’s profiles.

Since September 2023, the test incorporates the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS), which is required for all new employment pass applications, and from 1 September 2024, for all EP renewals.

🧭 Understanding the COMPASS Framework and EP Eligibility Criteria

The COMPASS framework (Complementarity Assessment Framework) is a structured, points-based eligibility framework introduced to make the system more transparent and aligned with Singapore’s economic needs. To pass, EP applicants must earn at least 40 points across 4 foundational criteria and may gain additional points from two bonus criteria.

📌 The Four Foundational Criteria for EP Applications

Each pass application is evaluated on these four foundational criteria, each worth up to 20 points:

1. Salary – Applicants must meet the minimum qualifying salary, which varies by sector and increases progressively with age, up to age 45. For those aged 45 and above, the required fixed monthly salary remains constant. This ensures fair comparison with local salaries. The salary requirement is reviewed periodically and may change (e.g. new thresholds take effect 1 January 2025).

2. Qualification – This measures the applicant's education level. Degree-equivalent qualifications will score, depending on institution quality and relevance.

3. Diversity – Evaluates the nationality mix within the employer’s workforce. A more diverse team scores better under this criterion.

4. Support for Local Employment – Assesses the employer’s track record of hiring and developing local professionals, based on their share of local PMET employees and alignment with the Fair Consideration Framework.

To meet the eligibility criteria, a candidate must earn at least 40 points across these criteria. If not, bonus points can help.

🌟 Two Bonus Criteria: Strategic Economic Priorities & Shortage Occupation List

Applicants can earn up to 20 bonus points from:

• Shortage Occupation List – Bonus points for roles in sectors facing a known talent shortage, such as tech and sustainability.

• Strategic Economic Priorities Bonus – For employers aligned with Singapore’s strategic economic priorities, including innovation, internationalization, and sustainability efforts.

Each bonus criterion can offer up to 10 points.

Even if a candidate doesn’t meet all foundational criteria, they can still pass COMPASS by earning 40 points from other criteria.

📈 How COMPASS Affects the Employment Pass Application Process

The updated employment pass application process is now more comprehensive. Here’s how the COMPASS framework impacts EP eligibility:

• A high monthly salary and good qualifications are important but not enough on their own.

• Employers must demonstrate support for local employment and diversity in hiring.

• Bonus points offer flexibility for those in high-demand roles or working with forward-looking companies.

• The minimum qualifying salary for new EP applications is rising in 2025, aligning with salaries of local professionals.

• COMPASS applies to both new EP applications and renewals from September 2024 onward.

✅ Tips to Apply for an Employment Pass in Singapore

Whether you're an applicant, an employer, or a licensed employment agent, here’s how to improve your chances:

• Use the Self-Assessment Tool to estimate your score before applying.

• Ensure the fixed monthly salary meets the updated salary threshold.

• Review the company’s performance on diversity and support for local employment.

• Consider applying for roles in shortage sectors listed on the Shortage Occupation List.

• Understand all document requirements before submitting your work pass application.

Final Thoughts on Singapore Employment Pass Eligibility in 2025

The new employment pass regulation in Singapore has raised the bar. It’s no longer just about ticking boxes for salary or qualification—now, the employer’s practices, the role’s alignment with national priorities, and broader eligibility requirements all factor in.

If you're looking to work and live in Singapore, prepare early, understand the full application process, and make sure you and your employer are aligned with the COMPASS framework.