What PSLE requirements do most IP schools have? For parents with children taking the PSLE this year, I am sure that you have glanced at the cut off score for your ideal schools. For those of you who are aiming to get into an IP school, you might wonder, what is truly a safe score to enter the IP school of your choosing?
 

Let’s talk about the raw score, as I have had many parents asking me about the range of scores. Recently, I have had many parents with children who aspired to enter RVHS, which is probably the only IP school located in the west. Many of them came forward with scores around the range of 250-252. Unfortunately, most of them were rejected, despite the cut off score being at 250.
 

Why is there this discrepancy? Basically, it has to do with demand and supply. Students prefer studying near to their homes for secondary school, due to longer school hours and heavy CCA commitments. Therefore, for all west side dwellers in Singapore who aspire to be in the IP system, it is likely that they would want to enter RVHS due to its proximity to their homes. This drives up the entry grade as more high scorers compete for limited slots. Therefore, as a rule of thumb, try to score maybe 4-5 marks above the cut off score for safe entry.
 

As a parent, you might ask, why do some students get in with grades lower than the cut off? Why can’t my child do the same? This boils down to what the school is looking for or desperately needs. Some schools are in desperate need of certain CCAs, or some schools are SAP schools which will reject you if you have not taken HCL at PSLE. Math and Science Olympiad medalists have a higher chance success in applying to an IP school even with a lower grade, because their proficiency in Maths and Science gives the school an assurance that they will do well in IP curriculum. Find out what CCA or what your dream school likes, plan ahead and work towards it.
 

The A* that you get matters as well. IP schools have notoriously grueling Maths and Science syllabus. Having an A* in either Maths or Science will be preferred, and will go a long way into preparing you for IP school life. Another tip about CCA, would be to focus on either solo achievements or leadership positions. Being the captain of the basketball team, the Head Prefects or the leader of youth scouts will give you a higher success rate in entering an IP school.
 

For parents of children who are still chasing that elusive A*, text me to ask about my PSLE Maths and Science A* Tuition program. I wish you all the best in your studies.
 

Mr Y.S Pang, B.Eng(hons) NUS, graduated IP student

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