The PSLE (Primary School Leaving Examination) is a major milestone for every Singaporean student. In 2021, MOE replaced the old T-score system with the new Achievement Level (AL) system, changing how students are scored and how they qualify for secondary school posting.
If you’re a parent wondering “How does the AL system work, and what does it mean for my child?”, this guide is for you.
Why the Change?
The old T-score system compared students to each other, meaning even a small mark difference could change overall ranking.
The new AL system:
- Focuses on a child’s individual performance instead of relative ranking.
- Reduces unnecessary competition.
- Encourages learning for mastery, not just chasing marks.
How the Achievement Level (AL) System Works
Each subject is scored into Achievement Levels (AL1–AL8) instead of exact marks.
| AL Band | Marks Range |
| AL1 | 90 – 100 |
| AL2 | 85 – 89 |
| AL3 | 80 – 84 |
| AL4 | 75 – 79 |
| AL5 | 65 – 74 |
| AL6 | 45 – 64 |
| AL7 | 20 – 44 |
| AL8 | < 20 |
A child’s PSLE score is the sum of the ALs from 4 subjects (English, Math, Science, Mother Tongue).
👉 Lowest (best) possible score: 4
👉 Highest score: 32
Example of PSLE Scoring
Let’s say a student gets:
- English: 82 (AL3)
- Math: 91 (AL1)
- Science: 77 (AL4)
- Mother Tongue: 68 (AL5)
Total PSLE Score = 3 + 1 + 4 + 5 = 13
This score will be used for secondary school posting.
Secondary School Posting with AL Scores
Secondary school admission now depends on:
- PSLE Score (lower = better).
- School’s Cut-Off Point (COP) for that year.
- Choice order of schools (parents must rank schools carefully).
- Tie-breakers if needed:
- Citizenship (Singaporean > PR > International)
- Choice order (higher preference first)
- Computerised ballot (if still tied)
What This Means for Parents and Students
- A few marks difference (e.g., 83 vs 82) no longer shifts ranking dramatically, since both fall under the same AL band.
- Emphasis is on consistent performance across subjects, not perfection in just one.
- Parents should focus less on chasing that “extra 1 mark” and more on overall mastery, confidence and well-being.
Common Parent Concerns
Q: Does the AL system make PSLE easier?
👉 Not necessarily. The standard of questions is the same. What changed is how results are reported.
Q: Will competition for top schools still be high?
👉 Yes, but COPs now reflect AL scores (e.g., Raffles Girls’ might have 4–6, while neighborhood schools may be 18–22).
Q: What if my child scores the same as others?
👉 Tie-breakers (citizenship, school choice, then ballot) will decide placement.
✨ Conclusion
The AL scoring system is designed to make PSLE less of a high-stakes “ranking game” and more about each child’s own learning journey.
Instead of stressing over single marks, parents can now support their children by building strong fundamentals, healthy study habits and confidence.
At Curious Mindz, we guide students not only to aim for better AL scores, but also to develop the skills and resilience they need for secondary school and beyond.
About Curious Mindz
Curious Mindz offers expert-led online tuition programmes in Singapore for Primary and Secondary students, covering English, Math and Science.
Our small-group live classes are designed to help your child build strong academic foundations, develop confidence and achieve success in school and national exams. Whether your child is preparing for PSLE, O-Levels or N-Levels, or simply needs academic support, we’re here to help.
Book your Free Trial Class today and experience the difference with Curious Mindz!