The Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) is a significant milestone for students in Singapore. It determines their placement in secondary schools and plays a crucial role in their educational journey. In recent years, the PSLE new scoring system has replaced the traditional T-score system, bringing a more holistic and fair assessment of students’ academic performance.
In this guide, we will explore the new PSLE scoring system, how it works, its benefits, and what parents and students need to know.
What is the PSLE New Scoring System?
The new PSLE scoring system, introduced by Singapore’s Ministry of Education (MOE) in 2021, replaces the T-score system with an Achievement Level (AL) grading system. This change aims to reduce excessive competition and encourage students to focus on their learning rather than chasing a high aggregate score.
Under the new PSLE scoring system, students receive Achievement Level (AL) scores for each subject instead of numerical scores. The final PSLE score is the sum of the AL scores from all four subjects.
How Does the New PSLE Scoring System Work?
The new PSLE scoring system is based on Achievement Levels (ALs), ranging from AL1 to AL8 for each subject. The table below outlines the AL grading scale:
| Achievement Level (AL) | Marks Range |
|---|---|
| AL1 | 90 – 100 |
| AL2 | 85 – 89 |
| AL3 | 80 – 84 |
| AL4 | 75 – 79 |
| AL5 | 65 – 74 |
| AL6 | 45 – 64 |
| AL7 | 20 – 44 |
| AL8 | Below 20 |
The final PSLE score is the sum of the ALs for all four subjects (English, Mathematics, Science, and Mother Tongue). The lowest possible PSLE score is 4 (best performance), and the highest is 32.
How is the Secondary School Posting Process Affected?
With the new PSLE scoring system, the secondary school selection process is based on PSLE scores and school choice order rather than raw marks. Here’s how it works:
- Students are placed in different streams based on their PSLE scores:
- Express Stream: 4 – 20 points
- Normal (Academic) Stream: 21 – 24 points
- Normal (Technical) Stream: 25 – 30 points
- Tie-breaking criteria: If multiple students have the same PSLE score, the following factors are considered:
- Choice Order: Students who ranked a school higher in their list get priority.
- Citizenship: Singapore Citizens get priority over Permanent Residents and International Students.
- Computerized Balloting: If a tie remains after applying the above criteria, a computerized balloting system is used.
Benefits of the New PSLE Scoring System
The PSLE new scoring system brings several advantages:
- Reduces Excessive Competition – Students are no longer judged by decimal differences in scores, reducing stress levels.
- Encourages Holistic Learning – The focus shifts from scoring high marks to understanding subjects deeply.
- Greater Choice of Schools – More students with similar PSLE scores now have a fair chance at their preferred schools.
- Less Pressure on Perfection – Since students fall into broader Achievement Levels, there’s less pressure to score near-perfect marks.
Challenges and Concerns
While the new PSLE scoring system has many advantages, it also presents some challenges:
- Parents and Students Need to Adjust – Many are accustomed to the old T-score system, so understanding the AL system requires adaptation.
- More Emphasis on School Choice – Since school choice order now plays a role in admission, students must make thoughtful decisions.
- Still Competitive for Top Schools – Popular schools may still face high demand, making the tie-breaking process crucial.
How to Prepare for the PSLE Under the New System?
For students and parents navigating the new PSLE scoring system, here are some useful tips:
- Understand the AL System – Focus on maintaining consistency across subjects rather than aiming for perfection in just one.
- Choose Secondary Schools Wisely – Research schools based on curriculum, location, and personal preferences.
- Emphasize Holistic Development – Encourage participation in extracurricular activities alongside academics.
- Practice Stress Management – Balance study time with recreational activities to reduce pressure.
- Use MOE Resources – The Ministry of Education provides practice papers and guidelines to help students prepare effectively.
Conclusion
The PSLE new scoring system aims to foster a more balanced and student-friendly approach to education. By focusing on Achievement Levels (ALs) instead of raw scores, this system reduces unnecessary competition while maintaining academic excellence.
Students and parents should embrace this change with a positive mindset, understanding that education is not just about scoring high but about developing a lifelong love for learning. With the right preparation and mindset, every student can excel under the new PSLE scoring system and find a secondary school that best suits their abilities and aspirations.
