PSLE AL Score Chart: Understanding the PSLE Grading System & School Placement

The Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) is a crucial milestone for students in Singapore, determining their placement into secondary schools. In 2021, the Ministry of Education (MOE) introduced a new PSLE grading system based on the Achievement Level (AL) score to provide a fairer and more holistic assessment of students’ abilities.

This guide will explain the PSLE AL score chart, how grades affect school placement, and how the new system impacts students and parents.

Understanding the PSLE Grading System

The PSLE grading system has shifted from a T-score model to an Achievement Level (AL) score model. Under the AL system, students are graded based on their absolute performance rather than being ranked against their peers.

???? PSLE AL Score Chart

Each subject is graded separately, and the total PSLE AL score is calculated by adding the AL scores of four subjects:

• English Language

• Mathematics

• Science

• Mother Tongue Language (MTL)

A lower PSLE AL score indicates better academic performance, with 4 being the best possible score (AL1 in all subjects).

How is the PSLE AL Score Used for School Placement?

The total PSLE AL score determines a student’s eligibility for different secondary school pathways.

Students with a lower AL score have a higher priority in the school selection process.

Cut-Off Points (COP) for Secondary Schools

Each secondary school has a cut-off point (COP), which is the PSLE AL score of the last student admitted in previous years. Schools with higher demand tend to have lower COPs, meaning students need better AL scores to secure a place.

How Secondary School Posting Works

Once PSLE results are released, students must select up to six secondary schools in order of preference. The secondary school posting process is determined by:

1. Total PSLE AL Score – Students with lower AL scores get priority.

2. Choice Order – If students have the same AL score, those who ranked a school higher get priority.

3. Singapore Citizenship – Singapore Citizens (SC) are prioritized over Permanent Residents (PR) and international students.

4. Balloting – If multiple students have the same score and choice order, computerized balloting is used as a tie-breaker.

Example of School Selection:

• Student A: AL 8 (1st choice: School X)

• Student B: AL 8 (1st choice: School Y)

• Student C: AL 8 (1st choice: School X)

If School X has only one available slot, priority will be given based on the school ranking and balloting.

Comparison: Old vs. New PSLE Grading System

The AL system reduces stress by allowing students to focus on mastery of subjects rather than small mark differences.

Advantages of the PSLE AL Score System

✅ Fairer Assessment – Students are graded based on their actual performance instead of being compared to peers. ✅ Reduced Competition – Broader AL bands prevent unnecessary stress over small mark differences. ✅ Clearer Secondary School Admission Process – Parents and students can make informed decisions based on school cut-off points. ✅ Encourages Holistic Learning – The focus shifts from pure academic performance to overall development.

Important PSLE Timeline & Key Dates

• PSLE Exams – September to October

• Results Release – November

• Secondary School Selection – Shortly after results are announced

• Posting Results Announcement – December

Tips for Parents & Students Preparing for PSLE

???? Understand the PSLE AL Score Chart – Be aware of how scores impact secondary school selection. ???? Practice Past Year Papers – Familiarize with the exam format and improve time management. ???? Make Informed School Choices – Consider cut-off points, school culture, and learning pathways. ???? Manage Stress – Encourage a balanced lifestyle with adequate rest and recreation.

Conclusion

The PSLE AL scoring system has transformed the way students are assessed and placed into secondary schools. By understanding the PSLE AL score chart, parents and students can navigate the system more effectively and make informed choices about secondary school options.