Do you have a passion for technology, problem-solving, and protecting the digital world? The Sentinel Programme invites 2026 Secondary 1 and Secondary 2 students to apply for a fully sponsored national talent development programme in cybersecurity, digital skills, and AI.
Organised by the Digital and Intelligence Service (DIS) in collaboration with the Defence Technology Community, the Sentinel Programme is supported by MINDEF/SAF and aims to develop Singapore’s next generation of cybersecurity professionals.
What is the Sentinel Programme?
The Sentinel Programme is a long-term national talent development pathway designed to groom students with strong aptitude and interest in cybersecurity and digital technologies.
Cybersecurity and digital skills workshops
Hands-on classes and competitions
Exposure to real-world defence cybersecurity operations
Mentorships, visits and internships
Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications in cybersecurity (from 2026 onwards)
The programme provides a structured learning journey from Secondary school to Pre-University level, preparing students for future careers in the cybersecurity and defence technology sectors.
Who Can Apply?
2026 Secondary 1 Intake
Open to:
Students entering Secondary 1 in 2026
Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents
No prior programming experience required (but useful)
Students will attend:
Holiday workshops
Experiential learning activities
Online learning modules
Programme starts: 2 June 2026
2027 Secondary 3 Intake (for current Secondary 2 students)
For students who develop an interest in cybersecurity during lower secondary, there is a special intake to join at Secondary 3 in 2027.
Open to:
Students entering Secondary 2 in 2026
Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents
Preferred: basic knowledge of web development and networking
Selected students will attend a bridging workshop in December 2026 before joining the programme in January 2027.
Application Process and Dates
All applications are submitted online via: https://go.gov.sg/sentinel
Applicants will be required to complete:
An online aptitude-based selection test
A short self-introduction video
2026 Secondary 1 Intake
Application Deadline: 15 March 2026
Selection Test: 2 – 29 March 2026
Programme Starts: 2 June 2026
2027 Secondary 3 Intake (for 2026 Sec 2 students)
Application Deadline: 18 October 2026
Bridging Workshop: 1 – 3 December 2026
Programme Starts: 23 January 2027
Students should apply using their school-issued email address (ending with @student.edu.sg).
If unavailable, email sentinel@defence.gov.sg for assistance.
Learn More
Visit the official Sentinel Programme website: https://www.dis.gov.sg/sentinel-programme/about/
For enquiries: sentinel@defence.gov.sg