Understanding the 2025 PSLE Scoring and Grading System for Parents

Singapore’s Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) has undergone significant changes to shift focus from intense competition to meaningful learning. Here’s a clear breakdown of the updated system:

The Achievement Level (AL) scoring system

The Achievement Level (AL) scoring system for PSLE was first introduced in 2021, replacing the previous T-score system. Here’s a concise timeline:

Key Milestones:

1. Announcement Date:

   • Officially revealed by MOE on 25 July 2019.

2. Implementation:

   • Rolled out for Primary 4 students in 2019 (who took PSLE in 2021).

   • Affects all PSLE cohorts from 2021 onward, including 2025.

3. Purpose:

   • Reduce excessive competition by eliminating T-scores.

   • Simplify grading with 8 AL bands (AL1 to AL8) per subject.

   
   

Why It Matters for 2025 Students:

• The AL system remains unchanged since 2021.

• Your child’s PSLE score will be the sum of ALs (4–32 range), with 4 being the best.

4. Key Changes & Benefits

• Reduced Competition: No more T-score comparisons; ALs reflect individual achievement.

• Priority for SAP Schools: Higher Mother Tongue (HMT) students gain admission priority (no bonus points).

• School Choice Matters: Ties in scores are resolved by preference order in school applications.

5. Philosophy Behind the Reforms

The updated system aims to:

• Minimize stress by reducing mark-focused competition.

• Encourage holistic learning over “exam tactics.”

• Support diverse learners (e.g., foundation subject students aren’t penalized for weaker subjects).

Final Note: While scores remain important, the emphasis is now on mastery and application—aligning with Singapore’s vision of nurturing adaptable, lifelong learners.

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1. Achievement Levels (ALs): A Simpler Grading Approach

• Instead of the previous T-scores, students now receive Achievement Levels (ALs) ranging from 1 to 8 for each subject, based on raw marks:

  Raw Score Range Achievement Level (AL)

Raw Score Range	Achievement Level (AL)
90+	AL1 (Highest)
85–89	AL2
80–84	AL3
75–79	AL4
65–74	AL5
45–64	AL6
20–44	AL7
<20	AL8

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Foundation Subjects follow a different scale (A/B/C) but convert to AL6–8 for score calculation.

• 1. Foundation Subject Scoring

  Foundation-level subjects (e.g., Foundation Math/Science) use a 3-band scale (A/B/C), converted to standard ALs:

Foundation Raw Score	Foundation Grade	Converted to Standard AL
75–100	A	AL6
30–74	B	AL7
<30	C	AL8

Example:

• A student scoring 82 in Foundation Math gets Grade A → AL6.

• This AL6 is added to their total PSLE score (range: 4–32).

2. Calculating the Total PSLE Score

• Add ALs from all 4 subjects (English, Math, Science, Mother Tongue).

• Best possible score: 4 (AL1 in all subjects).

• Example: A student with AL3 (Math), AL2 (Science), and AL1 (English/Mother Tongue) = PSLE scores 7 (3+2+1+1).

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PSLE Explained: Key Questions from Parents

Many parents seek clarity on how the PSLE works, especially with recent updates to the system. Below are answers to some of the most common questions:

1) How is the PSLE score calculated?

The PSLE assesses students based on their individual performance rather than ranking them against peers. Each subject (English, Mathematics, Mother Tongue, and Science) is graded using Achievement Levels (ALs), with AL1 being the highest and AL8 the lowest. The total PSLE score is the sum of these ALs—ranging from a best possible score of 4 (AL1 in all subjects) to a maximum of 32 (AL8 in all subjects).

This scoring method aims to reduce excessive competition, allowing students to focus on their own learning progress.

2) Are there advantages to taking Higher Mother Tongue (HMT)?

HMT can be beneficial for students applying to Special Assistance Plan (SAP) schools, as it provides a posting advantage—but only if they achieve a PSLE score of 15 or below. Singapore has nine SAP schools, and HMT does not offer bonus points for general admission.

Since HMT requires extra effort, students should only take it if they are confident in managing the additional workload without compromising their overall performance.

3) When is the PSLE taken, and how long is the exam period?

The PSLE is held annually in September–October, spanning about 3–4 weeks (written papers). Oral and listening comprehension exams are typically completed earlier, in July–August.

4) How does the PSLE affect secondary school admission?

The PSLE score determines eligibility for secondary school streams:

• (G3) Express: Score of 4–20

• (G2) NA (Normal Academic): 21–25

• (G1) NT (Normal Technical): 26–30, with ≥AL7 in English/Math Students are posted to schools based on merit, choice order, and availability.

  
  

5) What’s the difference between Foundation and Standard subjects?

• Standard: Covers the full syllabus (max AL1–AL8).

• Foundation: Simplified content (max AL6–AL8, converted to AL A–C).Taking Foundation subjects limits eligibility for Express stream.

  
  

6) Can students retake the PSLE?

No, the PSLE cannot be retaken. Students who wish to improve their scores may consider repeating Primary 6 (with school approval) or progressing to secondary school and transferring streams later.

7) How are ties in PSLE scores resolved for school posting?

If students have identical scores, priority is given in this order:

1. Citizenship (Singaporeans > PRs > international students)

2. School choice order (e.g., 1st choice > 2nd choice)

3. Computerized ballot (rare).

   
   

8) Are there exemptions for Mother Tongue?

Yes, students with learning difficulties (e.g., dyslexia) or overseas-born backgrounds may apply for Mother Tongue exemption or take replacement subjects (e.g., Basic MTL, Foreign Language).

9) How much does PSLE weigh in DSA (Direct School Admission)?

For DSA, schools assess talents (sports, arts, academics) first. Successful applicants must still meet the PSLE score cutoff for their posted school’s stream (e.g., ≤22 for Express via DSA).

10) What if my child misses an exam due to illness?

With a valid medical certificate, the student may receive a calculated grade based on school exams and cohort performance. Appeals are handled by MOE/SEAB.

11) How can parents support PSLE preparation?

• Focus on weak areas using past papers.

• Encourage time management (e.g., timed practice).

• Monitor stress levels—balance study with breaks.

12) Where can I find official PSLE updates?

Refer to the Singapore Examinations and Assessment Board (SEAB) or MOE’s website for announcements, syllabus changes, and scoring details.

Secondary School Placement

• 2. Secondary School Streaming (G1/G2/G3)

  Post-PSLE placement is based on total AL score and subject requirements:

Course (2024+)	PSLE AL Score Range	Subject Requirements
G3 (Express)	4–20	- No foundation subjects or up to 2 foundation subjects (if total score ≤20).
G2 (NA)	21–24	- May include foundation subjects.
G1 (NT)	25–30	- Must achieve ≥AL7 in English + Math (standard or foundation).

Key Notes:

• G3 (Express): Students with AL6–8 in foundation subjects can still qualify if their total score is ≤20.

• G1 (NT): Requires AL7 or better in both English and Math (e.g., Foundation Math Grade B + Standard English AL7).

• Higher Mother Tongue (HMT): No bonus points, but prioritizes SAP school admission.

• Flexible Options: Students with foundation subjects can still qualify for Express if their total score meets the cutoff.