PSLE Cut-Off Points 2026: What Score Does Your Child Need?
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PSLE Cut-Off Points 2026: What Score Does Your Child Need?

By Mr Benjamin Lim·2026-02-28·7 min read

PSLE cut-off points determine which secondary schools your child can attend. This guide explains the new PSLE scoring system and what scores are needed for different school types.

The PSLE (Primary School Leaving Examination) is a pivotal moment in every Singaporean student's academic journey. The results determine which secondary schools students can attend, which in turn affects their educational trajectory. Understanding PSLE cut-off points helps parents and students set realistic goals and plan accordingly.

The New PSLE Scoring System

From 2021 onwards, PSLE no longer uses letter grades (A*, A, B, C) but instead uses an Achievement Level (AL) system: AL1 (highest), AL2, AL3, AL4, AL5, AL6, AL7, AL8 (lowest). Students receive an aggregate score based on their performance across English, Mathematics, Science, and one Mother Tongue Language.

PSLE preparation
Primary students at Sophia Education preparing for PSLE with structured guidance

PSLE Aggregate Score Ranges

  • ✓Score 4-8: Excellent (AL1 in all subjects)
  • ✓Score 9-16: Very Good (mostly AL2-AL3)
  • ✓Score 17-24: Good (mostly AL3-AL4)
  • ✓Score 25-32: Satisfactory (AL4-AL5)

Secondary School Selection by Score

Top-tier secondary schools (RI, HCI, ACSI) typically accept students with aggregate scores of 4-8. Mid-tier schools accept scores of 9-16. Students with scores of 17-24 have access to a wide range of secondary schools. The Secondary 1 Posting System ensures every student gets a secondary school placement based on their PSLE results and school choices.

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Study Tip: Focus on consistent performance across all 4 subjects rather than excelling in just one. A balanced AL2 across all subjects scores better than AL1 in one subject and AL5 in another.

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Sophia Education's PSLE tutors help students achieve their target scores through structured lessons and consistent practice. Book a trial lesson today.

#PSLE Cut-Off#PSLE Admission#Secondary School#PSLE Scoring
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About the Author

Mr Benjamin Lim is a specialist tutor at Sophia Education Singapore, with extensive experience teaching PSLE Admission to students across JC, O-Level, IP, and PSLE levels.

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