Student Policies

Bad Financial Standing (BFS) is imposed if students have any outstanding fee or charges. When it occurs, BFS is automatically applied to the student’s record. If the student is in BFS, they will not be able to enrol for classes/examinations, access to LMS and self-services (e.g. Kaplan360 mobile app) will also be discontinued and they will not be eligible for graduation and provision of results/academic transcript. 

If students discontinue their unit/module enrolment, unit/module re-enrolment and/or re-admission will be refused until the outstanding balance, including late charges, have been paid in full. The Student Services Director may terminate a student’s enrolment during the teaching period, on the grounds that the student has not paid the outstanding balance of fees or charges. A student whose enrolment has been terminated may be reinstated if the student pays in full the total outstanding fees and charges due.

Policy

Disputes or grievances may arise concerning any aspect of a student’s educational experience, including both academic and non-academic matters.

For issues related to student discipline or academic concerns (e.g. appeals against results or expulsion), the relevant University or Kaplan Student Code of Conduct and its associated procedures will take precedence over this Dispute and Grievance Resolution Policy.

Students must include their Full Name, Student ID, Contact Information, Intake Code, and Programme Title in all communications. Anonymous complaints will not be considered and addressed.

3-Step Procedure

Step 1: Direct Resolution – If a dispute or grievance arises, students are encouraged to first address the issue directly with the relevant department. Alternatively, they may seek assistance from the Student Services (SS) team by referring to the contact list available at: Contact Us | Kaplan (Singapore). In many cases, concerns can be resolved at this stage. The SS staff may help facilitate communication or arrange a meeting to assist in reaching a resolution.

Step 2: Formal Submission for Review – If the issue remains unresolved after this direct interaction, students may submit a formal email to [email protected]. This email will be forwarded to the appropriate department(s) for review. Kaplan Higher Education Academy aims to resolve the issue(s) within 7 working days. However, complex issues involving multiple parties may require additional time and may be escalated to the Head of Student Experience or Executive Dean. 

Step 3: External Escalation – If the dispute or grievance remains unresolved, either party may escalate the matter externally. Student may contact SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG), which may recommend mediation through:

• Private Education Mediation-Arbitration Scheme
• Small Claims Tribunals (SCT), or
• Seeking independent legal counsel.

KHEA has implemented the Early Intervention Policy to assist students in their academic progression through early detection and timely intervention. We closely monitor each student’s academic performance and have implemented various measures, including effective academic tutorials, group sessions, motivational talks, one-on-one sessions, and timely academic intervention reviews, to support their course advancement.

We treat all information provided by students with the strictest confidentiality and in accordance with the Kaplan Privacy Policy. During the course of your study, you may wish to edit your personal information and preferences. This can be done via the Kaplan360 mobile app.

Maximum processing time for issuing a refund is no more than 7 working days from the date of the student’s withdrawal or refund request

Requests for a refund and relevant supporting documents must be submitted in writing to KHEA. Incomplete or inaccurate information will be rejected. All refunds are subject to approval by KHEA Management and the successful bank settlement of student’s invoice payment that was made by bank transfer/cheque/telegraphic transfer/SAM/Flywire, where applicable. Students will be notified of the outcome, refund amount, and mode of refund, if applicable, by email within 7 workings days from the submission of duly completed refund request.

Terms and Conditions

1. Refund for Withdrawal Due to Non-Delivery of Programme:

KHEA will notify the student in writing within three (3) working days after becoming aware of any of the following (each a “Refund Event”):
(a) It cannot commence the provision of the programme on the programme commencement date;
(b) It cannot complete the provision of the programme by the programme completion date; 
(c) The programme will be terminated before the programme completion date;
(d) The student does not meet the programme entry or matriculation requirements as stated in Standard Student Contract Schedule A; or
(e) The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority of Singapore (the “ICA”) rejects the student’s application for the Student’s Pass.

2. Where any of the Refund Events in Clause 1 (a) to (c) above has occurred:

(a) KHEA shall use reasonable efforts to make alternative study arrangements for the student and shall propose such alternative study arrangements in writing to the Contracting Party, within ten (10) working days of informing the Contracting Party of the Refund Event.
(b) If the Contracting Party accepts such alternative study arrangements, KHEA shall set forth such alternative study arrangements in a written contract and this Contract shall automatically terminate on the date that such new written contract comes into effect.
(c) If KHEA does not propose alternative study arrangements to the Contracting Party within the time stipulated in Clause 2 (a) above, or the Contracting Party does not accept such alternative study arrangements, the Contracting Party may forthwith terminate this Contract by way of a written notice to KHEA. 
 

3. Where any of the Refund Events in Clauses 1 (d) to (e) has occurred, KHEA shall forthwith terminate this Contract by way of a written notice to the Contracting Party.

4. If the Contract is terminated pursuant to Clause 2 read with Clause 1(a), KHEA shall refund all Programme Fees and Miscellaneous Fees paid by the Contracting Party within seven (7) working days of the termination.

5. If the Contract is terminated pursuant to Clause 2 (b) read with either Clause 1 (b) or Clause 1 (c), KHEA shall refund the Programme Fees and Miscellaneous Fees in proportion to the uncompleted portion or duration of the Programme, whichever is higher, to the Contracting Party within seven (7) working days of the termination.

6. If the Contract is terminated pursuant to Clause 3 or Clause 2 (c) read with Clause 1 (a), KHEA shall refund all Programme Fees and Miscellaneous Fees paid by the Contracting Party within seven (7) working days of the termination. 

7.  If the Contract is terminated pursuant to Clause 2(c) read with either Clause 1(b) or Clause 1(c), KHEA shall refund the Programme Fees and Miscellaneous Fees in proportion to the uncompleted portion or duration of the Programme, whichever is higher, to the Contracting Party within seven (7) working days of the termination.

Refer to standard SSG’s Standard Student Contract Schedule E for Refund Events.
 

8. Refund for Withdrawal During the Cooling-Off Period:

Notwithstanding anything herein contained, the Contracting Party shall be entitled to, without any liability whatsoever to KHEA, forthwith terminate the Contract at any time within the Cooling-Off Period by way of a written notice to KHEA. KHEA shall return all Programme Fees and Miscellaneous Fees paid to it within seven (7) working days of the receipt of the written notice. 

9. Refund for Withdrawal Outside the Cooling-Off Period:  

Without prejudice to Clauses 1 to 8 above, the Contracting Party may terminate the Contract at any time before the Programme Completion Date by providing a written notice to KHEA. Upon receipt of such notice, KHEA shall within seven (7) working days, refund to the Contracting Party such amount (if any) as determined in accordance with Standard Student Contract Schedule D.

10. Non-Refundable Fee:

• The Programme Application Fee is non-refundable under any circumstances. The Programme Application Fee refers to the fee that the student pays to KHEA for the sole purpose of processing the application form submitted so that KHEA can check if the student meets the programme admission requirements. The Programme Application Fee does not have any fee component that is used to offset programme fee payment. Programme Fees are listed in Standard Student Contract Schedule B.
• The International Student Administrative Fee is non-refundable after the commencement of classes except under the circumstance where the Student’s Pass application is rejected by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority of Singapore (ICA). The International Student Administrative Fee refers to the fee which includes application for Student’s Pass, Fee Protection Scheme, Medical Insurance and ICA Issuance Fee. This fee is payable upon the approval of programme application by the respective approving institutions. The International Student Administrative Fee does not have any fee component that is used to offset programme fee payment.
• Kaplan Financial
  - The New International Student Application Fee is non-refundable under any circumstances. The New International Student Application Fee is an administrative fee to cover the ICA assessment fee paid to ICA to process the Student’s Pass application. The New International Student Application Fee does not have any fee component that is used to offset programme fee payment. Programme Fees are listed in Standard Student Contract Schedule B.
  - The New and Existing International Student Administration Fee is non-refundable after the commencement of classes except under the circumstance where the Student’s Pass application is rejected by the ICA. The New (not applicable for Existing) International Student Administration Fee refers to the administrative fee which includes application for Student’s Pass, Fee Protection Scheme, Medical Insurance and ICA Issuance Fee. This fee is payable upon the approval of programme application by the respective approving institutions. The New and Existing International Student Administration Fee does not have any fee component that is used to offset programme fee payment.
  - The computer-based examination fee (applicable only for ACCA and FIA programmes) for Kaplan Financial programmes is non-refundable except where there is a Non-Delivery of Programme as described in Clause 1b.1 above. The relevant fees are found in Standard Student Contract Schedule C of the contract.

11. Refund Amount

% of [the amount of Programme Fees and Miscellaneous Fees paid under Standard Student Contract Schedules B and C]:

• If the Contracting Party’s written notice of withdrawal is received more than 45 working days before the Programme Commencement Date: 80%
• If the Contracting Party’s written notice of withdrawal is received on or before, but not more than 45 working days before the Programme Commencement Date: 50%
• If the Contracting Party’s written notice of withdrawal is received on or after the Programme Commencement Date: 0%

Request for Refund

Students can request for refund by submitting the refund form or emailing to SS. Examples of reason for refund include the following:

• Excess payment
• Exemption
• Rebate
• Company sponsorship
• Transfer of programme or pathway (if applicable)
• Transfer to onshore
• Successful appeal
• Unconsumed fee (if applicable)
• Withdrawal before programme commencement

Platforms to communicate refund policy to prospective and existing students

The refund policy shall be clearly communicated to all prospective and existing students in our student handbook on KHEA’s website and standard student contract as well as during welcome orientation.

The refund policy shall be clearly explained to all prospective and existing students. This is part of the Pre-Course Counselling process.

Students are also made aware that they are required to abide by the refund policy clearly specified on the programme application form and standard student contract. It is part of the student contract execution process that the refund policy be explained to students.

Communicate to students on the computation of the refund amount

Students will be informed on the computation of the refund amount in writing.

KHEA’s student disciplinary policy is reflected in the Student Code of Conduct, which aims to guide the conduct of students in both the academic and non-academic aspects of their student life. Students are expected to always uphold both the spirit and the letter of the Code. The Student Code of Conduct is included in KHEA Student Handbook and communicated to students during the Welcome Orientation (WO) session.

Students who fail to abide by the regulations and guidelines of the KHEA's Student Code of Conduct may be subjected to disciplinary action. This occurs only after escalation if the initial attempts by the Student Services staff have not achieved its desired outcome. 

KHEA’s Non-Academic Disciplinary Committee (NADC) shall convene to hear and rule on any non-academic offence referred to it in accordance with the KHEA Non-Academic Misconduct Matrix.

The NADC is authorised to impose the following disciplinary actions:

• Issuance of a formal warning or reprimand letter
• Requirement to sign a letter of undertaking regarding appropriate future conduct while enrolled at KHEA
• Requirement to issue a formal letter of apology
• Payment for damages and/or costs incurred directly or indirectly as a result of the student’s misconduct
• Suspension from studies for a specified period
  - A student may be permitted to complete the current academic term and serve the suspension thereafter.
  - Alternatively, the suspension may take immediate effect, with full academic and financial consequences.
  - For students enrolled in a degree programme, the university will be notified of the suspension.
• Expulsion
  - For degree students, the university will be informed of the expulsion. Depending on the university’s decision, the student may be eligible to continue or complete the degree at the home campus or another affiliated institution.
• Referral to relevant authorities for legal or criminal action
  - For instance, if the student is involved in a criminal offense, the matter may be referred to the Singapore Police Force.

Suspension and Expulsion

While suspension may be applied where temporary removal is warranted, and the decision will specify its duration, any conditions for return (such as an apology, counselling, or remedial action), and a warning that further misconduct may result in expulsion, expulsion will only be applied where the misconduct is serious or repeated, no lesser sanction would be adequate, and the impact on community safety, wellbeing, or integrity is significant. 

Specifically, reasons for suspension and expulsion would include:
1) Violation of the Kaplan Student Code of Conduct
2) Breaking of government regulations eg. ICA regulations or other Singapore laws
3) Expulsion by university partner
4) Academic misconduct 
5) Other reasons arising from Kaplan’s student policies

The NADC shall conduct a hearing with the student and any relevant parties, if necessary, within 14 working days of receiving the escalated case, and provide a written decision with reasons on the outcome within 14 working days of the hearing. 

Should the outcome be a suspension or expulsion, the written decision will state clearly that this means that the student is not allowed to attend classes of all forms of delivery or enter any class or class activities. Should the student wish to appeal the NADC decision, the student remains suspended or expelled. This status remains unless the student receives the written decision from the Non-Academic Appeals Committee (NAAC) that his suspension or expulsion is reversed.

Should it be the case where the Student’s Pass expiry date is before the end of the investigation, the Student’s Pass may be cancelled accordingly upon expiry. If required, the hearing may take place virtually if the student does not hold a valid pass and is required to return to the home country. 

All reasonable care will be taken to protect the student’s legal rights and freedom, and to ensure that the student’s parent/legal guardian is informed as soon as reasonably practicable after it becomes clear that the student may face formal disciplinary action. This applies to students below 18 years old and if necessary, students aged 18 years old and above.

Students whose studies are delayed or terminated as a result of disciplinary action will not be eligible for any refund of programme and other fees paid.

All information related to the alleged violation and investigation shall be kept confidential and shared only with the parties involved in the investigation.

Appeals

Students have the right to appeal disciplinary decisions on specific grounds, including procedural errors, the emergence of new evidence, the disproportionality of the sanction, or bias in the original decision-making process. 

Students who are not satisfied with the decision made may submit a written appeal to the NAAC through their Student Services Coordinator (SSC) within 14 working days of receiving notification of the NADC decision. The NAAC has the authority to uphold, modify or impose a harsher judgement than that issued by the NADC based on their independent assessment and consideration of the case. The student will be notified of the decision of the NAAC within 14 working days from the date of hearing. 

Where the student is still dissatisfied with the result of the appeal, reference can be made from the Dispute and Grievance Resolution Policy for the next course of possible action.

Poor Conduct Intervention

For any suspected poor student conduct, a meeting will be scheduled for the student concerned to understand the issue(s) that the student might be facing.

For minor offences, a warning letter will be issued, while serious or repeated offences will be referred to the KHEA’s NADC for review and decision on a disciplinary action. At any of the stages, KHEA’s Student Counsellor may get involved to provide guidance and counselling support for students. Also, when necessary and/or appropriate, the relevant government authority(s) and/or student’s parent / guardian will be informed for their action(s)/information. Criminal acts which are illegal under Singaporean law will be referred directly to the police.

The table below classifies offences into minor and serious categories and their corresponding intervention actions.

Non-Academic Misconduct Matrix

• Offence: Violation of copyright
  Offence Category: Minor
  Action (1st Offence): Warning Letter
  Action (2nd Offence): Warning Letter
  Action (3rd Offence): Disciplinary Committee
• Offence: Unauthorised entry into school premises
  Offence Category: Minor
  Action (1st Offence): Warning Letter
  Action (2nd Offence): Disciplinary Committee
  Action (3rd Offence): -
• Offence: Misuse of school property
  Offence Category: Minor
  Action (1st Offence): Warning Letter
  Action (2nd Offence): Disciplinary Committee
  Action (3rd Offence): -
• Offence: Unauthorised audio/video recording on school premises
  Offence Category: Minor
  Action (1st Offence): Warning Letter
  Action (2nd Offence): Disciplinary Committee
  Action (3rd Offence): -
• Offence: Falsification/tampering of medical certificates
  Offence Category: Moderate
  Action (1st Offence): Warning Letter 
  Action (2nd Offence): Suspension of studies for next immediate term, subject to university’s policy + prevailing deferment fee
  Action (3rd Offence): Disciplinary Committee
• Offence: Falsification of attendance records
  Offence Category: Moderate
  Action (1st Offence): Warning Letter 
  Action (2nd Offence): Suspension of studies for next immediate term, subject to university’s policy + prevailing deferment fee
  Action (3rd Offence): Disciplinary Committee
• Offence: Disruptive/inappropriate behaviour on school premises
  Offence Category: Moderate
  Action (1st Offence): Warning Letter 
  Action (2nd Offence): Disciplinary Committee
  Action (3rd Offence): -
• Offence: Bullying/cyberbullying
  Offence Category: Moderate
  Action (1st Offence): Warning Letter 
  Action (2nd Offence): Disciplinary Committee
  Action (3rd Offence): -
• Offence: Harassment
  Offence Category: Moderate
  Action (1st Offence): Warning Letter 
  Action (2nd Offence): Disciplinary Committee
  Action (3rd Offence): -
• Offence: Improper cyber activities
  Offence Category: Moderate
  Action (1st Offence): Warning Letter 
  Action (2nd Offence): Disciplinary Committee
  Action (3rd Offence): -
• Offence: Vaping (Note b)
  Offence Category: Serious
  Action (1st Offence): Disciplinary Committee
  Action (2nd Offence): -
  Action (3rd Offence): -
• Offence: Consumption of cigarettes, alcohol or prohibited substances on school premises
  Offence Category: Serious
  Action (1st Offence): Disciplinary Committee
  Action (2nd Offence): -
  Action (3rd Offence): -
• Offence: Gambling on school premises
  Offence Category: Serious
  Action (1st Offence): Disciplinary Committee
  Action (2nd Offence): -
  Action (3rd Offence): -
• Offence: Vandalism/Theft/Damage of school property
  Offence Category: Serious
  Action (1st Offence): Disciplinary Committee
  Action (2nd Offence): -
  Action (3rd Offence): -
• Offence: Violent behaviour on school premises
  Offence Category: Serious
  Action (1st Offence): Disciplinary Committee
  Action (2nd Offence): -
  Action (3rd Offence): -
• Offence: Falsification of qualifications/documents
  Offence Category: Serious
  Action (1st Offence): Disciplinary Committee
  Action (2nd Offence): -
  Action (3rd Offence): -
• Offence: Others
  Disciplinary Committee chairman to decide on the seriousness of the offence and decide on the required punitive measure(s)

Important Notes:

a. Criminal acts illegal under Singaporean law will be referred directly to the police.
b. KHEA enforces a strict zero tolerance policy on vaping. The use, possession, or distribution of e-cigarettes, vape devices, or related products is strictly prohibited on campus and at all school events.

Any student found in violation of this policy will face immediate disciplinary action, which may include suspension or expulsion.

In addition, the incident will be reported to Heath Science Authority (HSA), who may impose further sanctions such as fines and/or referral for rehabilitation. Foreigners, including Student’s Pass holders, caught for possessing or using e-vaporisers or etomidate vapes (Kpods), or who test positive for etomidate, or any other prohibited substances may have their passes revoked, be deported or banned from re-entering Singapore, with repeat offenders facing more severe consequences. More information on vaping, helplines and reporting avenues can be found at the Stop Vaping microsite.

Claims of unawareness will not be accepted. Students are responsible for understanding and complying with this policy at all times.

This policy exists to safeguard the health, safety, and wellbeing of the community and to ensure a learning environment free from harmful substances.

Definitions for transfer, deferment and withdrawal

Transfer
This policy applies when a student changes the programme of their study within the same suite of programme (not applicable to transfers to another university).

Deferment
This policy applies when a student delays or postpones the programme (or module) and remains a student of KHEA.

Withdrawal
This policy applies when a student discontinues their study and ceases to be a student of KHEA.
 
Automatic Withdrawal (Proprietary Programmes only)
A student is deemed to have withdrawn from the programme, if the student fails to do ALL of the following:

• Attend the classes;
• Attempt any assessment items;   
• Respond in writing to the email and/or letter sent by registered post, advising his/her intention to continue studies, within 14 days from the date of the email/registered post;

Or due to ANY of the following reasons:

• Exceeded the Maximum Programme Duration stated in Programme Handbook
• Exceeded the maximum deferment allowed 
• Did not resume study after the approved deferment period has ended 
• Did not make any required payments within 60 days after the payment due date

Upon programme withdrawal or automatic withdrawal, students who wish to resume their studies must re-apply as a new student. Applications will be subject to terms and conditions of approval, including meeting the prevailing Minimum Entry Requirement (MER) and approval of Student’s Pass application (if applicable). 
 

Automatic Withdrawal (External Degree Programmes, if applicable)
Automatic withdrawal may be recommended by KHEA on the same conditions described for proprietary programmes but must be approved by university partners. Universities may have their own student progression monitoring system and may preclude students for non-engagement for a certain period.
 

Platforms to Communicate Transfer/Withdrawal/Deferment Policy

The transfer, deferment and withdrawal policies shall be clearly communicated to all students via the Student Handbook on KHEA’s website, during the pre-course counselling and welcome orientation. 

For proprietary programmes, these requests are subject to SS Director’s approval, while transfer cases also require the approval of Admissions-Assessment (ADM-AA)/Head of School for advance standings.

For external degree programmes, these requests are subject to the university policies and approval.

Students are informed of the Transfer/Deferment Administrative Fees via the miscellaneous fee table in the Standard Student Contract and on KHEA’s website. For withdrawal and deferment cases, students will be required to settle any outstanding fees, including programme fees, resit/remodule fees, and other miscellaneous fees, if applicable, before the withdrawal or deferment process can commence.
 

Maximum processing time of not more than 4 weeks from student’s request to written outcome

Students who wish to transfer, defer or withdraw shall inform KHEA in writing (form, email or letter) and state the reason(s). Verbal notice is not acceptable. 

RT/SS will inform the student in writing within 3 working days from the date the outcome is available and follow up with the necessary arrangements.

KHEA will take no more than 4 weeks or within University’s timeline, where applicable, from student’s request to informing student of the outcome in writing (letter or email). The procedure is developed with clear timeline for every step, so that it does not exceed 4 weeks or is within the University’s timeline.

If the approval may take longer than 4 weeks for any reason, SS will advise students on the estimated approval date.

During this process, students must continue with their current programme, where applicable, and stay in contact with SS. Failure to do so will be deemed as withdrawal from the respective programme.
 

Conditions for which a transfer or deferment application (stating the maximum deferment period) will be granted

The following are conditions for which a transfer and deferment application will be granted.

1b.1 Transfer

• Transfers will only be allowed if the student fulfils the academic and experience requirements.
• Students who transfer from the current programme to another programme (not within the same suite of programmes within the same university) shall be considered to have transitioned from the current programme. If the transfer is not within the same university, it will be considered as a withdrawal. The refund policy shall apply as per the Standard Student Contract.
• Unconsumed fees that are approved for a refund will be transferred to the new programme. Students will need to pay the remaining balance of the programme fees for the new programme.
• Students who wish to transfer to another programme within KHEA may be eligible to apply for exemption/s, according to KHEA/University exemption policy. 
• Students will not be able to receive any further exemptions unless approved by KHEA/University once their programme commences.
• Transfer requests must be submitted before the commencement of the respective term. Submissions made after the term start date will apply to the next term instead of the current term. 
• When transferred to a new programme, the original programme tenure remains unchanged, i.e. maximum period to complete the programme is according to the original programme start date (not applicable to transfers to another university).
• Transfer of Classes (Applicable to KF only)

  • Transferring to the Same Module (Preparatory Course for the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Examination / Preparatory Course for the ACCA Examination - Certified Accounting Technician (CAT) 

    Transfers before the commencement of classes are free of charge and subject to seat availability. 

    Transfers made after the commencement of classes will incur an administrative fee for each permanent transfer of class for the same module conducted by the same lecturer. 

    KF does not encourage students to transfer to classes conducted by a different lecturer. However, if a student has a valid reason to do so, an administrative fee is payable.

  • Transferring to a Different Module

    There will be no refunds for students transferring to a lower-valued module.

    Students need to pay the difference in module fee when transferring to a higher-valued module.

    Students need to pay an administrative fee when transferring to a same-valued module, regardless of whether it is conducted by same lecturer.

1b.2 Deferment

Students are permitted to defer on the following basis:

• Poor academic performance
• Illness supported by a medical certificate from a recognised clinic/hospital
• Compassionate or compelling circumstances beyond the control of student such as bankruptcy, a bereavement, declared natural disaster, financial issue, overseas work commitment, etc.

Deferment requests are not granted automatically unless approved by the SS Director/University and approvals of deferment do not guarantee the relevant programme/module(s) to be run upon student’s return.

The maximum deferment period for proprietary programmes is 6 months. Students who need a deferment of more than 6 months and can still complete their study within the programme tenure, may apply for an extension, subject to SS Director’s approval. For external degree programmes, it is subject to the universities’ policies. Students who fail to report back to SS after the deferment period shall be deemed to have been withdrawn automatically. This may not apply to some external degree programmes.
 

Notification to Immigration & Checkpoints Authority of Singapore (ICA) of Changes to the Student’s Pass (STP) Status (if applicable)

Processes are in place to ensure that KHEA informs ICA of any changes a students’ status that may affect the issued Student’s Pass. 

RT and SS shall clearly explain to students the implications on the status of the Student’s Pass if international students withdraw from the school or are required to do so (e.g. caught for breaking Singapore’s law).

International students may apply for a deferment or transfer, both of which require the cancellation of the Student’s Pass. For deferment, the Student’s Pass needs to be reapplied upon return; for transfer, the Student’s Pass under the new programme will need to be applied. In both cases, it is subject to ICA’s approval. Charges will be imposed by ICA and KHEA for re-application/new application of Student’s Pass.

The ADM-ENR will ensure that ICA is informed of any change to the Student’s Pass status. 
 

Obtaining the parent’s/legal guardian’s written consent if student is under 18 years old

It is clearly indicated on respective forms that students under 18 years old require parent/legal guardian’s consent for the application of withdrawal, transfer, or deferment, and must obtain their written consent via email or sign on the respective request form for withdrawal, transfer, or deferment.
 

Signing a new contract or issuing an addendum to the existing contract when a programme deferment or transfer request has been approved

The signing of a new student contract or addendum is part of the process upon the resumption from a programme deferment or approved transfer request. Programme fees of the new programme will apply. For deferment cases, students will only sign a new contract or addendum when they resume studies and are subject to the programme fees of the new intake.

Academic Misconduct and Penalties

In order for the integrity of reported academic achievements of students to be upheld, Kaplan takes a serious and interested view of occurrences of academic misconduct. Over and above cheating during the examinations, academic misconduct refers to any form of dishonesty committed by a student in relation to summative assessment. It includes the following offences:
 

Plagiarism

In essence, plagiarism is the theft of someone else’s ideas and work. Copying work or written text from a student, the Internet, or any document without giving due credit to the source of the information is plagiarism regardless of whether a student copies verbatim or rephrases the idea. 

Paraphrasing the information taken from sources without referencing is insufficient. In the preparation of work submitted to meet module requirements, whether a draft or a final version of a paper or project, students must take great care to distinguish their own original work from ideas, language, and information derived from other sources. Sources include published primary and secondary materials, electronic media, and information and opinions gathered directly from other people or self.
 

Self-plagiarism

Submitting the same assignment for more than one class without significantly rewriting the assignment and/or demonstrating sufficient further development of the intellectual ideas expressed therein and without first receiving instructor permission constitutes self-plagiarism. In cases where previous assignments are allowed to be submitted for another class, it is the responsibility of the student to enhance the assignment with additional research such that it is a sufficiently new piece of work. Findings of plagiarism will remain on a student’s record permanently.
 

Plagiarism is a serious offence and may result in the following sanctions:

• 1st Offence – No Academic Offence will be recorded
  Student will receive notification letter that plagiarism has been committed. Student should study the Writing & Referencing guides and online resources made available for them.
   
• 2nd Offence – Warning Letter
  The student is required to attend a Writing and Referencing Session (WRS). The student will be allowed to resubmit the paper after appropriate intervention. Re-submission paper marks will be capped at Pass grade. Re-module is required, if the student failed to attend the WRS.
   
• 3rd Offence – Failure of the module in which the action occurred
  The student is required to re-module.
   
• 4th Offence – Termination of enrolment
  For Student’s Pass holders, ICA will be notified to terminate the Student’s Pass.
   

Collusion

Students must assume that collaboration in the completion of written assignments is prohibited unless explicitly permitted by the instructor. Students must acknowledge any collaboration and its extent in all submitted assignments. Students are subject to disciplinary action if they:

• submit as their own work a paper purchased from a term paper company, an individual or multiple individuals or download from the Internet
• submit an assignment that was partially or wholly completed by another individual or other individuals
• assist another student wherein the other student intends to commit any act of academic dishonesty. This offence would include, but is not limited to, providing an assignment to another student to submit as his or her own work or allowing another student to copy answers to any test, examination, or assignment.
   

Collusion is a serious offence and may result in the following sanctions:

• 1st Offence
  Failure in the assessment item in which the offence occurred and student is required to re-module.
• 2nd Offence
  Kaplan in Singapore will issue a written statement to notify the student that his or her enrolment has been terminated for violation of the academic policy; i.e. the student will be expelled from Kaplan, with notification to the ICA for Student’s Pass holders.
   

Examination Misconduct

Examination misconduct refers to the breaching of KHEA’s regulations during the Examination. Examples of examination misconduct are listed as follows: 

Cheating

• Communicating with or copying from any other student during examination except in so far as the examination regulations may specifically permit this, e.g. group assessments. 
• Communicating during an examination with any person other than a properly authorised invigilator or another authorised member of staff. 
• Possession of any written, printed materials or electronically stored information during examination unless expressly permitted by the examination or programme regulations.

Falsification

• The falsification of data. The presentation of data in laboratory reports, projects or other forms of assessment based on experimental or other work falsely purported to have been carried out by the student or obtained by unfair means.
• The falsification of references, including the invention of references and/or false claims. 
• The falsification of any information with a view to gaining unfair academic advantage.

Personation 

• Personation refers to the assumption by one person of the identity of another person with intent to deceive or to gain unfair advantage. It may exist where: 
• One person assumes the identity of a student, with the intention of gaining unfair advantage for that student. 
• The student is knowingly and willingly impersonated by another with the intention of gaining unfair advantage for himself/herself.

Ghosting including Contract Cheating 

• Ghosting exists where student submits as their own, work which has been produced in whole or part by another person on their behalf, e.g. the use of a ‘ghost writing’ service or similar. This is also often referred to as ‘contract cheating’ and covers the purchase of services from on-line essay writing sites. 
• A student will also be guilty of academic misconduct if he/she deliberately makes available or seeks to make available material to another student (of this university or elsewhere) whether in exchange for financial gain or otherwise with the intention that the material is to be used by the other student to commit academic misconduct.

Any other form of examination misconduct not identified in the above examples.

• Examination misconduct cases are reported through Examination Incident Reports by Examination Invigilators or emails by final assessment markers to Exam Office for investigation and warning letter preparation. 

Examination misconduct is a serious offence and may result in the following sanctions:

• 1st Offence
  Failure in the assessment item in which the offence occurred and student is required to re-module; or Suspension/Expulsion for serious academic misconduct determined by Examination Board, such as impersonation of another student.
   
• 2nd Offence
  Kaplan will issue a written statement to notify the student that his or her enrolment has been terminated for violation of the academic policy; i.e. the student will be expelled from Kaplan, with notification to the ICA for student pass holders.

The appeal procedure will apply if student wishes to appeal on the penalty or determination. Findings of academic misconduct will remain on a student’s record permanently.

Appeal on penalty or determination

The appeal procedure will apply if student wishes to appeal on the penalty or determination. Findings of academic misconduct will remain on a student’s record permanently.

University Partner Programmes

Penalties for university partner programmes on academic misconduct offences will be in accordance to the university partners’ respective policies.

This policy broadly outlines your obligations whenever information technology resources are used, in order to protect individual personal data, the systems which store and process it, and ensure that Kaplan can meet its obligations to provide quality, timely resources to support the successful execution and completion of academic programmes and examinations.

Students acting in accordance with this policy can use official Kaplan apps, use Kaplan-provided electronic data storage, and communicate electronically via tools such as email, chat, text or video conferencing.

Policy

Student Responsibility

• Kaplan reserves the right to amend any stipulation of this policy in whole or in part at any time. 
• The rules and obligations described in this policy apply to all students of KHEA IT resources. The use of KHEA IT Resources has been made available for the purpose of supporting teaching, learning, research, professional development and administration within KHEA. It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure that Kaplan’s information technology resources are availed responsibly, professionally, ethically, lawfully and to conduct their activities accordingly. 
• Use of Kaplan IT resources is a privilege, not a right. Violations of this policy can result in immediate withdrawal or suspension of information technology resource privileges and disciplinary action may be taken in accordance with relevant Kaplan policies and procedures. If a criminal offense has been committed, Kaplan reserves the right to advise law enforcement agencies. 
   

General Use of Computer, Network and Applications

• All usage of campus computers, network (including WiFi) and applications must be for Kaplan programme-related or examination-related purposes only. Do not attempt to gain unauthorized access to Kaplan IT resources. 
• All data residing on Kaplan IT infrastructure is subject to backup at the sole discretion of Kaplan. 
• Don’t harass or intentionally deny or degrade another person’s legitimate access to computer, network and application services. Do not delete, alter or otherwise tamper with other students’ files or electronic media. 
• Don’t develop, introduce or use any software or hardware device that is designed to avoid or override security settings, proxies, system logs or utility programmes; bypass copyright, licensing, or other legal restrictions; or mask online identity and activity. 
• Files and electronic media provided in support of official coursework are the property of Kaplan. Do not make alterations to these files/media unless instructed or required to do so in the context of your expected coursework. 
• Don’t allow third parties to access Kaplan IT resources without written consent from the IT department head. 
• Don’t use campus computing resources (desktops, laptops, notebooks, net books, servers, network devices, tablets, PDAs, etc.) to participate in any activity that adversely affects other students, the reputation of Kaplan, or that poses a security threat either to the campus or to external entities.

Such threats include, but are not limited to: 

• password cracking
• port scanning
• DOS (Denial of Service) attacks
• introducing or propagating malware
• spamming

• access to “dark web” sites, dubious “business” dealing, “flaming”, etc.

   

• This also includes violations of copyright law (such as Copyright Act (Chapter 63) and national security laws (such as Cybersecurity Act 2018 and Sedition Act (Chapter 290). 
• You are responsible for ensuring that no copyrighted material (including music, film, podcasts, books, games and/or software) is downloaded using, published on, or distributed from KHEA’s network without the copyright holder’s permission. Note that in some instances and depending on the type of contents, your usage may be subjected to the laws of a foreign jurisdiction. 
• In the event that a computer system connected to Kaplan’s network is suspected of abnormal behaviour (for example, spreading of computer viruses or generating unusual amount of traffic), the device will be disconnected from Kaplan’s network immediately. The IT Department reserves the right to execute the network disconnection without prior notice. This is to isolate and prevent the infected system from propagating throughout the whole network. 
• You are not to tamper with, remove, install or intentionally damage cabling or other components relating to Kaplan IT or telephone infrastructure. 
• Failure to observe any aspects of this policy may result in Kaplan being involved with claims and/or suffering damages, files or other losses and You will indemnify Kaplan and its officers from such claims, damages, losses and expenses resulting from intentional failure to observe policies. You must understand that Kaplan will cooperate with any official investigations resulting from a breach of policy, and may decide to furnish relevant information to the relevant authorities/parties. Your consent to any such disclosure will be made by your acceptance of this policy. 
• Kaplan also accepts no responsibility for any damage to or loss of data, hardware or software arising directly or indirectly from the use of its IT resources, or for any consequential loss or Kaplan makes no warranty, express or implied, regarding facilities offered or their fitness for any particular purpose. 
• Understand that Kaplan disclaims any liability that may arise as a result of the unlawful use of Kaplan’s information technology resources. Students shall also understand that any alleged violations of this policy will be thoroughly investigated and if proven conclusive, will result in disciplinary actions being taken against the person(s) involved by the appropriate authority. 
• When restrictions in the policy interfere with the educational, research or service missions of Kaplan, you may request for a written waiver from the IT department head or his designee. 
   

Privacy

• Anonymous access to Kaplan IT resources is not allowed. Kaplan has the right to request that users produce valid Kaplan-issued identification or other evidence for authorised use. 
• You are not to store personal confidential information on Kaplan IT resources. 
• Data stored on Kaplan IT resources may be disclosed if required in the context of disciplinary proceedings, court order, law enforcement, government regulation, or other official mandate. 
• Deletion of electronic data does not necessarily render it untraceable or unrecoverable. 
• No Expectation of Privacy. While personal data is afforded certain protection under the Personal Data Protection Act 2012 (PDPA), you should have no expectation of privacy in anything created, stored, sent or received via Kaplan’s IT Systems. Login credentials for accounts relating to self- service applications should not be publicised nor shared with others. You are responsible for ensuring that the collection, use and disclosure of personal data are in compliance with Singapore’s Personal Data Protection Act 2012 (PDPA). Generally, you should obtain valid consent before you collect, use or disclose personal data, unless any exception applies. 
• Use may be monitored. Kaplan’s Divisional IT and Management have access to and may review any information that you create, store, send or receive via Kaplan’s IT Systems, including e-mails and instant messages and communicate such information to authorised personnel. Deleting e-mails and instant messages does not remove such information from the IT Systems Kaplan may monitor its students for any reason within its sole discretion, including but not limited to preventing or investigating allegations of abuse, assuring compliance with intellectual property laws, conducting technology audits or complying with legal or regulatory requests. 

Use of Kaplan Furnished Computer System

• This refers to equipment in labs, Synergy Pods, library, and other areas that students and/or lecturers commonly access. 
• Do not attempt to change system settings on equipment provided by Kaplan. 
• Do not install any additional software unless directed to do so in the context of coursework or exams. 
• Do not use Kaplan equipment to engage in illegal activity. 
• Do not steal, misappropriate, vandalise, or cause any other intentional loss or damage to any Kaplan IT equipment. 
   

Use of Non-Kaplan Furnished Computer System

• Personal IT equipment, such as smartphones, tablets, portable storage devices and laptops owned by students should not be left unattended. Kaplan is not responsible for the loss, theft, vandalism, or unauthorised use of personal IT equipment. 
• Personal IT equipment should be kept up to date with the latest anti-malware protection, system patches and so forth. 
• The IT helpdesk does not provide support to personal computer systems. However, it can assist with certain requests for password resets to existing Kaplan-based account access. 
   

Use of Kaplan’s Internet Service

• Do not use the Internet service for any unlawful purpose. 
• Do not transmit any material to the Internet that is in violation of Singapore’s laws and regulations. This includes but is not limited to threatening or obscene material or material protected by intellectual property rights or trade secrets. 
• Do not access or download materials from the internet which are inappropriate, offensive, illegal, or which jeopardize security. 
• Do not use instant messaging for any unlawful purpose. 
• Exercise caution when downloading information and files from the internet to safeguard against both malicious code and inappropriate material. 
• Understand that any commercial transactions for purchases over the internet are carried out at your own risk. Kaplan will not be held accountable for any unauthorised or failed commercial transactions, or any complications arising out of any such commercial transactions. 

Use of Kaplan’s Network and Server

• Do not use the campus network – including WiFi – to gain unauthorised access to any other computer systems, nor to gain access to information that you are not authorised to know, read, or possess. 
• Do not perform network scanning of any devices (e.g. computer systems, servers, network switches) in the network. 
• Do not attempt to establish a network connection to other students’ computer systems without the prior approval of the student(s) concerned. 
• Do not use the campus network – including WiFi – to engage in any other illegal and/or malicious cyber activities.
• Do not use or install pirated software on Kaplan’s IT network. University licensed software, third-party services and subscriptions must be used in the context of their intended purpose. Limitations associated with such software and services must not be overridden. 
• Use of TOR (or any similar anonymous browsing tool or platform) and access to “dark web” sites are strictly prohibited.  

Malware Prevention

• Do not intentionally introduce computer viruses, worms, Trojan horses, “phishing” links, or any other malware into any computer or the network. Do not deliberately try to cause damage or degradation of performance to Kaplan IT resources in any way. 
• Do not distribute ’chain letters’ or other dubious or nuisance emails. 
• If you are connected to the campus network and your device is found or suspected to be infected, it must be disconnected immediately. 
   

Student Account and Password

• Do not use a computer system account that you are not authorised to use. 
• Protect your login credentials, and do not disclose them to another person. Otherwise, you may be held accountable for any actions that may arise which are associated with your account. Do not allow other people to use your account. 
   

Computer Security Incident Reporting

• Report all IT security incidents. Immediately report any confirmed or suspected security  incidents throughStudnet Services. Security incidents that must be reported include, but are not limited to, any disclosure of Confidential or Highly Sensitive Information, suspected hacking, malware, unauthorised use of the Kaplan IT Systems, loss or theft of any computer equipment. 

• Reporting paths. You may report such incidents through your programme manager. Please clearly identify that you are reporting a suspected breach of information security. Be prepared to give the time and date of the incident, who is involved, and a detailed description of the events.

  - Dedicated Email Address. Alternatively, please send an e-mail message to [email protected].  
  
  - If you are unable to use e-mail to communicate, you may call 6496 5699 and leave a message.

Definitions

• ’Computer System’ refers to workstations, desktops, laptops, notebooks, netbooks, network computers, tablets and personal digital assistants (PDAs). 
• ’Student’ refers to all Kaplan students using a computer system to create, store, process or accessing Kaplan’s resources. 
• ’Kaplan Resources’ refers to all information data, hardware or software implemented for internal use by the Kaplan. 
• ’Malware’ refers to software codes that can cause harm and damage to computing resources. Examples include computer viruses, worms, Trojan Horses, root-kits, bots, spyware. 
• ’Portable Storage Devices (PSDs)’ The term ‘storage devices’ covers any medium that is capable of storing computerised data. The term “portable” means the medium may be connected to a different computer where data may be transferred, copied, read, amended or deleted. Examples of PSDs are USB flash memory drives, USB removable hard disk drives, memory cards, smart phones with storage capabilities, etc.