The Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) is a crucial milestone for students in Singapore, as it determines their secondary school placement. Understanding the PSLE scoring system and PSLE AL score is essential for parents and students to plan effectively for their academic journey. This guide explains the AL (Achievement Level) scoring system, how it differs from the previous T-score system, and what it means for students’ future educational pathways.
Understanding the PSLE Scoring System
The PSLE scoring system has evolved to focus on students’ individual performance rather than relative performance. Under the current system, introduced in 2021, students are graded based on the AL scale instead of the previous T-score method.
What is the AL Score?
The AL (Achievement Level) score is a numerical grade assigned to each subject based on a student’s performance. The scores range from AL1 to AL8, with AL1 being the highest grade and AL8 the lowest. Here is the breakdown:
| AL Score | Mark Range |
| AL1 | 90-100 |
| AL2 | 85-89 |
| AL3 | 80-84 |
| AL4 | 75-79 |
| AL5 | 65-74 |
| AL6 | 45-64 |
| AL7 | 20-44 |
| AL8 | Below 20 |
Each student receives an AL score for English, Mathematics, Science, and Mother Tongue, which are then added together to form the overall PSLE score.
How the PSLE AL Score is Calculated
The PSLE AL score is derived by summing up the AL scores of the four subjects. The best possible score is 4 (AL1 for all subjects), while the lowest is 32 (AL8 for all subjects). Unlike the previous system, where scores were bell-curved, the AL system provides a more structured and transparent way to assess student performance.
Why Was the AL Scoring System Introduced?
The AL system was introduced to reduce excessive competition among students by shifting the focus from fine differentiation to broader achievement levels. The key benefits of this system include:
- Less Stress: The new system reduces pressure as minor differences in marks do not significantly impact secondary school placement.
- Encourages Mastery: Students are encouraged to understand concepts rather than chase a higher T-score.
- More Secondary School Choices: Broader scoring bands mean students have more options when selecting their secondary school.
Secondary School Placement Based on PSLE AL Score
Secondary school placement is determined by the total PSLE AL score. The placement process follows these key principles:
- Choice Order Matters: If two students have the same PSLE score, the one who listed the school higher on their preference list gets priority.
- Citizenship Priority: Singapore citizens are given priority over Permanent Residents and international students.
- Tie-breaking Criteria: In case of a tie, factors like citizenship, choice ranking, and computerized balloting may be considered.
Express, Normal (Academic), and Normal (Technical) Streams
Based on the AL score, students qualify for different academic streams:
- Express Stream: Typically for students with an AL score of 4 to 20.
- Normal (Academic) Stream: For students scoring between 21 to 24.
- Normal (Technical) Stream: Generally for students scoring 25 and above.
Impact of the PSLE Scoring System on Students
1. Subject-Based Banding (SBB)
With the AL system, Subject-Based Banding (SBB) allows students to take subjects at different levels (G1, G2, or G3) based on their strengths. This flexible approach ensures students can learn at a pace suitable to their abilities.
2. More Holistic Development
The new scoring system emphasizes overall understanding rather than competition, fostering a healthier learning environment.
3. Parents’ Role in the New System
Parents should encourage children to focus on understanding subjects rather than aiming for an AL1 score in every subject. Supporting their learning process, reducing stress, and making informed school choices based on interests rather than just academic scores can contribute to a positive education experience.
Conclusion
Understanding the PSLE scoring system and PSLE AL score is crucial for parents and students. The AL scoring system offers a fairer and more transparent way of assessing students, emphasizing learning over competition. By knowing how the system works, parents can better guide their children in making informed academic decisions and selecting suitable secondary schools.
