How to Choose the Right Secondary School in 2026

Choosing the right secondary school is a pivotal decision for every PSLE graduate. In 2026, this decision is shaped not just by cut-off points, but by the Ministry of Education’s ongoing shift to Full Subject-Based Banding (Full SBB). If you’re a parent navigating this system for the first time, here’s what you need to know.

Understanding AL Scores and School Types

Since the PSLE scoring system shifted from T-scores to Achievement Levels (ALs), schools now use PSLE score ranges for Sec 1 posting. A student’s AL score (from 4 to 32) determines eligibility for Express, Normal (Academic), or Normal (Technical)—though under Full SBB, those streams become more fluid.

Each school publishes indicative ranges based on the previous year’s intake. For example:

• School A: Express AL range 6–12
• School B: Express AL range 9–14

But don’t fixate on cut-off points alone. Use them as a guide, not a guarantee.

What’s New in 2026: Full Subject-Based Banding (SBB)

From 2024 onwards, Full SBB has been progressively rolled out across secondary schools. By 2026, every Sec 1 student (including your child) will be placed in Subject Level Offerings (SLOs) instead of rigid academic streams.

That means:

☑ No more Express, NA, or NT labels
☑ Students take subjects at G1 (N(T)-level), G2 (N(A)-level) or G3 (Express-level)
☑ Placement is based on subject-specific strength, not a fixed stream

Example: A student strong in English but weaker in Maths may take:

• English at G3
• Maths at G2
• Science at G2

This offers a more tailored and inclusive secondary school experience.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Secondary School

While PSLE scores remain an important entry point, here are five key factors parents should weigh:

1. School Culture & Values

Every school has a distinct identity. Visit open houses or read school websites to get a feel for the environment.

2. Location & Commute

Daily travel time influences your child’s energy and independence. Prioritise accessibility.

3. CCAs and Special Programmes

If your child has interests, (sports, music, robotics) check whether the school offers strong programmes or DSA (Direct School Admission) options.

4. Subject Offerings & Language Options

Not every school offers the same Mother Tongue, Applied Learning Programmes, or third-language options. Confirm subject availability.

5. Full SBB Implementation Experience

Although all schools must implement Full SBB by 2026, some are more experienced or better resourced to support mixed-ability subject placements. Ask about their past track record and support systems.

Making Sense of Cut-Off Points (COPs)

MOE no longer publishes a nationwide, official COP list. However, many secondary schools publish indicative AL ranges based on the previous year’s Sec 1 Posting.

Here’s how to interpret and use them wisely:

🟢 Treat COPs as references rather than guarantees
🟢 Apply to a balanced mix of schools: aspirational, realistic, and safe
🟢 Check whether affiliated schools (e.g. primary → secondary) offer priority admission

Also, use MOE’s SchoolFinder portal, which provides detailed school-level data. For example, the Admiralty Secondary School profile includes:

• School name, address, school code
• PSLE score ranges for posting groups
• Subjects offered, including elective and core subjects
• Programmes like ALP (Applied Learning Programme) and LLP (Learning for Life Programme)
• CCAs, DSA talent areas, school sessions, SEN support, and contact details

By checking the SchoolFinder entry for any school, you can compare what each school offers—beyond just cut-off points.

Final Thoughts: A Holistic Decision Beyond Numbers

As Singapore’s education system evolves to nurture every child’s strengths, choosing a secondary school is no longer about chasing brand names or obsessing over scores. It’s about alignment, between your child’s interests, strengths, and the school’s offerings.

At WRITERS AT WORK, we help students build a strong foundation in English, composition, and critical thinking, skills they’ll need in any school. Our Primary 6 and Secondary 1 programmes support smoother transitions into secondary school expectations.

Explore our programmes: Secondary Comprehensive English Programs

FAQs – Choosing Secondary Schools in 2026

Q1: What is Full Subject-Based Banding and how does it affect my child?

Full SBB enables students to take subjects at levels suited to their strengths. By 2026, all secondary schools will fully implement this, allowing more personalised learning paths.

Q2: Are cut-off points still relevant in 2026?

Yes, but only as a guide. They let you estimate your child’s chances, but don’t determine everything. Always weigh interests, school fit, and subject offerings too.

Q3: How can I best prepare my child for the transition?

Focus on strengthening English comprehension, writing, vocabulary, and critical thinking. Our programmes at WRITERS AT WORK are tailored to prepare students for PSLE and secondary school success.