Understanding the New PSLE Scoring System
The New PSLE Scoring System in Singapore was introduced to create a fairer, more holistic assessment for primary school students. Replacing the traditional T-score system, the Achievement Level (AL) Banding PSLE Scoring System focuses on individual mastery rather than relative performance. However, many parents and students still find it challenging to navigate.
Understanding how the New PSLE Scoring System works is crucial for setting realistic expectations and preparing effectively. At WRITERS AT WORK, we provide expert tuition programs to help students excel under this new system, ensuring they achieve their best possible scores.
What is the New PSLE Scoring System?
Instead of using a T-score based on relative ranking, the AL Banding PSLE Scoring System assigns students Achievement Levels (ALs) based on their raw scores. This means students are assessed based on their individual performance rather than how they compare to their peers.
Key Features of the New PSLE Scoring System:
- Achievement Levels (ALs) – Students receive an AL score from 1 to 8 for each subject based on their marks.
- Total PSLE Score Calculation – The sum of the four subject ALs determines the student’s overall PSLE score (ranging from 4 to 32).
- Secondary School Posting System – Students are placed in secondary schools based on their total PSLE score and school choices, with tie-breakers applied when necessary.
AL Banding PSLE Scoring System: How Are Marks Converted?
The Achievement Level (AL) bands categorize student performance into eight levels, each covering a specific range of marks:
AL Score | Marks Range |
AL1 | 90 – 100 |
AL2 | 85 – 89 |
AL3 | 80 – 84 |
AL4 | 75 – 79 |
AL5 | 65 – 74 |
AL6 | 45 – 64 |
AL7 | 20 – 44 |
AL8 | 0 – 19 |
A student’s total PSLE score is the sum of their four subject ALs (English, Math, Science, and Mother Tongue). For example, if a student scores AL2 in English, AL3 in Math, AL4 in Science, and AL2 in Mother Tongue, their total score would be 2 + 3 + 4 + 2 = 11 points.
How Does the New PSLE Scoring System Affect Secondary School Admission?
With the new system, secondary school placements are determined by:
- Total AL Score – Lower scores indicate better performance, as the best possible score is 4 (AL1 for all subjects).
- Choice Order of Schools – If two students have the same total AL score, priority is given based on school choice ranking.
- Tie-breakers – If students still have the same score and school ranking, tie-breakers such as citizenship status and computer balloting may be applied.
Challenges Students Face Under the New PSLE Scoring System
While the system aims to reduce stress, some students still struggle with:
- Scoring within narrow AL bands – A few marks can shift a student’s AL score, impacting their total PSLE score significantly.
- Increased emphasis on subject mastery – Every subject counts equally, making it essential to perform consistently well across all subjects.
- Choosing the right secondary school – Parents and students need to strategize their school choices wisely to maximize admission chances.
How WRITERS AT WORK Helps Students Excel Under the New PSLE Scoring System
At WRITERS AT WORK, we equip students with the essential skills needed to excel in English, composition writing, comprehension, and oral communication—key components of the PSLE exam. Our programs focus on strengthening core English skills, helping students master grammar, vocabulary, and sentence structuring for high-scoring compositions and comprehension answers. Through structured exam techniques, including practice papers, timed exercises, and expert feedback, we ensure that students are fully prepared for the PSLE.
Tips to Prepare for PSLE English Under the New Scoring System
Students aiming for AL1-AL3 in PSLE English should focus on:
- Practicing comprehension regularly – Develop reading comprehension skills by identifying main ideas, inference clues, and key details.
- Enhancing writing skills – Use descriptive vocabulary, varied sentence structures, and clear organization in composition writing.
- Improving oral communication – Speak fluently and confidently by practicing reading aloud and expressing opinions on various topics.
- Managing time effectively – Practice under timed conditions to improve speed and accuracy in answering PSLE English Paper 2.
Prepare Your Child for PSLE Success with WRITERS AT WORK!
The New PSLE Scoring System in Singapore requires students to demonstrate strong subject mastery and consistent performance across all subjects. With expert guidance from WRITERS AT WORK, students gain the confidence and skills needed to excel in their exams.
Want to learn more about how WRITERS AT WORK can help your child ace the PSLE English Oral 2025? For more information about how WRITERS AT WORK makes a difference, feel free to explore our website, watch our YouTube videos and catch us LIVE on TikTok!
If you are looking for primary English tuition in Singapore, WRITERS AT WORK has expanded to 9 convenient locations. To find the centre nearest to you or to learn more about our programs and class schedules, feel free to contact us today!
Commonly Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How Long Should You Study for PSLE?
Parents should take around a year or two to prepare for PSLE as learning about subjects like English requires a long-term effort, as opposed to short cramming.
2. Is PSLE Compulsory?
PSLE is compulsory for everyone to enter secondary school in Singapore.
3. How to Study for PSLE?
Parents should make a list of everything a child should study for all their PSLE subjects. Engaging a tuition teacher or practising with workbooks and past year papers may help students tackle the exam format of PSLE and feel more confident taking the exam.
4. How Do I Motivate My Child to Do PSLE?
Children should be motivated to do PSLE by being taught that it is important for their future. Explaining to them the reasons to do the exam may work better than forcing them to study.
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