Since 2004, Singapore’s Ministry of Education introduced the Direct School Admission (DSA) scheme for Primary 6 students to apply to a secondary school based on their talent in sports, CCAs and specific academic areas. It aims to recognise students with specific domain talents and achievements instead of general academic ability.
The DSA process officially starts at Primary 6, when students explore school choices, apply, attend interviews or auditions, select their preferred schools and receive the school allocation results. In order to get a head start, students should start as early as Primary 2 to prepare for the DSA Exercise by honing their skills and talents, participating in performances or competitions, and getting certifications.