Zipply – Ignite Inspired Learning!
As parents, navigating Singapore’s ever-evolving education landscape can feel overwhelming—especially during key transitions like the Secondary 1 (S1) posting process. Since the implementation of the PSLE Achievement Level (AL) scoring system in 2021, the Ministry of Education (MOE) has made several refinements to help students make informed school choices with less stress.
Here’s a clear breakdown of the key updates—and what you should consider when guiding your child through this important milestone.
1. Choice Patterns Remain Largely the Same
Even with the shift from the T-score to the AL system, student and parent choice patterns have not changed much. Families still tend to select a mix of schools with different Cut-Off Points (COPs) to ensure strong placement chances.
✅ What this means for you:
- Continue choosing a blend of schools—stretch, match, and safe choices
- Research school COPs, programmes, and values—not just academics
- Make choices aligned with your child’s strengths and interests
➡️ Read how to help your child take more ownership of their learning
2. What Determines a School’s Cut-Off Point (COP)?
A COP reflects the PSLE Score of the last student placed in a school the previous year. It is not set in stone by MOE and changes each year based on demand.
🧠 Key takeaway:
Use COPs as a guide, but don’t obsess over minor fluctuations.
3. Choice Order Now Matters More
Under the AL system, tie-breakers now consider school choice order. If two students with the same PSLE Score apply to the same school, priority goes to the student who listed it higher.
🎯 What to do:
- Place your child’s preferred schools at the top
- Talk through factors like CCAs, culture, distance, and school vibes—not just prestige
- Make the first few choices count
4. What If My Child Doesn’t Get Any of Their 6 Choices?
If a student doesn’t secure a spot in any of their six choices, they’ll be placed in the nearest school with vacancies, based on their PSLE Score and home address.
📌 How to reduce the risk:
- Fill in all six school choices
- Include 2–3 schools where your child’s score exceeds the school’s COP
5. Why Do So Many Schools Have the Same COP?
With only 29 possible PSLE scores (vs. over 200 under the T-score system), more schools now share similar COPs. This gives families a broader range of realistic options.
💡 Don’t just chase COPs. Also look at:
- Applied Learning Programmes (ALPs)
- Learning for Life Programmes (LLPs)
- Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs)
- School values, niche areas, and distance from home
6. SAP Schools & Higher Chinese Language (HCL)
Planning for a Special Assistance Plan (SAP) school?
Your child doesn’t need to take HCL to enter, but it provides a posting advantage if they do.
💬 Pro Tip:
If your child enjoys Chinese and qualifies for HCL, it’s a bonus—not a must.
How Zipply Can Support Your Child’s Transition
Choosing the right secondary school is just the beginning. Supporting your child through academic changes and increased independence is just as important.
At Zipply, we make learning personal with: ✔️ Tailored tuition for subjects like English, Math, Science, and Mother Tongue
✔️ A convenient way to match your child with tutors who fit their learning style and goals
📘 Want more tips for PSLE prep?
➡️ Explore our PSLE Prep Plan for Busy Families
Final Thoughts: Help Your Child Step Forward with Confidence
Change can be daunting—but with knowledge, strategy, and support, you and your child can face the Secondary 1 posting process with clarity and confidence.
👉 Ready to support your child’s next chapter?
Find a tutor on Zipply today and take the guesswork out of school transitions.
Zipply – Ignite Inspired Learning! ✨
