7-year-old prodigy attends classes at top Asian university

With an IQ of 154, 7-year-old Theodore Kwan captivates many as he regularly attends chemistry classes alongside students at Nanyang Technological University (NTU).

Every thursday, amidst a lecture hall of over 400 students at Nanyang Technological University (NTU), the sight of a young boy carrying a tablet, printed materials, and a small water bottle has become familiar. This is Theodore Kwan. He intently follows each general chemistry lecture by Dr Sumod Pullarkat, from the School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology.

Theodore is not an official student; he does not face exam pressure or participate in laboratory practicals. He comes to NTU to satisfy his curiosity, exploring advanced knowledge such as molecular orbital theory – a method using quantum mechanics to explain electron behavior.

The boy began attending classes at NTU last August, with a frequency of about 3 sessions per week, earning the admiration of many students. According to The Straits Times, Theodore frequently and eagerly raises his hand to speak and provides accurate answers to Dr Pullarkat's questions.

With an IQ of 154, Theodore showed a passion for science from an early age. Early last year, at just 6 years and 10 months old, he set a record by becoming the youngest Singaporean candidate to achieve an A in chemistry in the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) examination. To date, this young prodigy holds 5 national records, including the distinction of being the youngest to achieve a perfect score in a science Olympiad.

Professor Christian Wolfrum, Vice President and Academic Director of NTU, stated that the faculty members are very enthusiastic about his eagerness to learn.

"His presence in class with the students also creates a new 'chemical reaction', benefiting everyone", he shared on the NTU website.

NTU leadership emphasized that the university maintains an open spirit in nurturing young talent, regardless of age. It is committed to supporting those ready to explore their potential and create social impact.

Theodore's opportunity to attend NTU stemmed from his mother, Ms Crystal Tang, a PhD candidate at the university's School of Medicine. Dr Sumod Pullarkat accidentally noticed Theodore's passion for science and invited the boy to audit his class.

"I think auditing first-year chemistry lectures will help Theodore verify how much he loves chemistry", Dr Pullarkat said. He views this as an opportunity for the boy to explore higher-level topics without being constrained by exams or evaluations.

For Theodore, this is nothing short of a dream come true. Ms Crystal Tang recounted that immediately after his first class at NTU, Theodore asked: "Can I come here to study every day? Can I live at NTU forever?".

Not only the faculty, but also the students in the class have much affection for the boy. Constance, a freshman studying Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences, shared that Theodore's humor adds to the lively classroom atmosphere, bringing joy to the entire lecture hall after stressful study hours.

"I always look forward to seeing him every week", Constance said.

Nanyang Technological University is currently ranked 12th globally, tied for 3rd in Asia with National University of Singapore in the QS 2026 rankings.