AEIS Exam 2025
Passing the AEIS (Admissions Exercise for International Students) is a significant milestone for students hoping to enter Singapore’s mainstream education system. However, once your child passes the AEIS, the next big decision is choosing the right school. Many parents wonder, “Which school is best after AEIS?” or “How to choose a suitable school in Singapore for my child?”
While placement is ultimately determined by the Ministry of Education (MOE) based on availability, parents still play a vital role in evaluating the assigned school or deciding whether to request a transfer later. This guide will walk you through the essential considerations in selecting the right school after AEIS—based on location, curriculum strengths, co-curricular activities (CCAs), and your child’s individual needs.
1. Understanding the AEIS School Allocation Process
After your child passes the AEIS, the MOE will offer placement in a local government or government-aided school, depending on:
- The level applied for (Primary 2–5 or Secondary 1–3)
- The student’s performance in the AEIS exam
- Availability of places across schools
You cannot choose any school you want immediately after the AEIS results. However, you can still evaluate the assigned school and, in some cases, request a transfer later—though such requests are subject to MOE’s approval and vacancies.
Even without full choice, understanding school types and differences will help you assess if your child’s placement is suitable.
2. Consider Location and Daily Commute
Singapore’s public transport system is efficient, but long travel times can still drain younger students. When evaluating or accepting a school, ask:
- How far is the school from home?
- Is it accessible by MRT, bus, or school bus?
- Can your child manage the travel independently?
For younger students (Primary 2–4), a shorter commute often translates to more rest and better academic focus. For older students (Secondary 2–3), longer commutes may be manageable but still worth considering.
3. Evaluate Academic Strength and Curriculum Fit
All local schools follow the MOE syllabus, but some schools may have different teaching styles or stronger results in certain areas such as:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Science
- Mother Tongue support
You can find school profiles, academic focus, and performance history on the school’s website or through the MOE SchoolFinder tool. If your child is stronger in Mathematics but weaker in English, you might want to see if the school offers language support programs.
Additionally, at the secondary level, streaming or subject-based banding may apply. Check whether your child will be placed in the Express, Normal Academic, or Normal Technical stream and understand what each entails.
4. Explore Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs)
In Singapore, CCAs are a vital part of holistic development. They build social skills, confidence, and leadership. Each school offers its own range of CCAs, such as:
- Sports (e.g., basketball, swimming, badminton)
- Performing Arts (e.g., choir, drama, band)
- Clubs and Societies (e.g., robotics, photography, chess)
- Uniformed Groups (e.g., NCC, Scouts, Red Cross)
Look at what your child is interested in and what CCAs are available in the assigned school. Participating in CCAs can also help international students integrate into the school culture more quickly.
5. Assess the School Environment and Support Systems
A positive school environment can significantly impact your child’s well-being. When researching or visiting the assigned school, consider:
- Student-teacher ratio
- Support for international students
- Language bridging or foundation classes
- Pastoral care programs
- Peer mentoring or buddy systems
Some schools are more experienced in handling international students and offer structured support during the transition. Others may have multilingual staff or orientation programs to help new students settle in.
You can often find this information in the principal’s message, school handbook, or parent testimonials on the school website.
6. Primary vs. Secondary School Considerations
For Primary Level (P2–P5)
- Focus on foundational English and Mathematics skills
- Ask if there is additional English support for non-native speakers
- Look for schools that are nurturing and emphasize character development
- Consider the presence of a structured daily routine
For Secondary Level (S1–S3)
- Understand the subject streaming system and placement based on AEIS results
- Evaluate whether the school offers elective subjects aligned with your child’s interests
- Review the school’s CCA achievements or niche programs (e.g., STEM, art, media)
- Check graduation pathways, such as whether the school prepares students for O-Level or N-Level exams
7. Ask the Right Questions
When reviewing a school profile or speaking to school staff, consider asking:
- How does the school support international students during their transition?
- What subjects and streaming levels are offered for AEIS entrants?
- What CCAs are active and open to new students?
- Are there remedial or bridging programs available?
- How involved are teachers in student development outside the classroom?
Answers to these questions can help you gauge if your child will thrive in that environment.
8. Managing Expectations: You Can Still Succeed Anywhere
You may not receive your top-choice school. That’s okay.
Every government and government-aided school in Singapore is regulated by the MOE and delivers a high standard of education. What matters most is:
- How your child adjusts to the environment
- Whether they feel supported
- The effort they put into both academic and social life
It’s not uncommon for students to grow to love their assigned school even if it wasn’t their first preference. Focus on helping your child settle in and succeed where they are placed.
9. Internal Resources and Next Steps
To guide you through this journey, we recommend checking out the following resources:
- [Admissions Process for International Students] – A full step-by-step overview of post-AEIS registration and documentation.
- [Selecting Secondary Schools in Singapore] – A guide to understanding different types of secondary schools, subject streaming, and school life.
Additionally, the MOE SchoolFinder tool is an excellent way to browse schools by location, level, or offerings:
https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder
10. Final Checklist
| Criteria | Reviewed? |
|---|---|
| School location and travel time | Yes / No |
| Academic support and strengths | Yes / No |
| Available CCAs and niche areas | Yes / No |
| International student support | Yes / No |
| Facilities and school culture | Yes / No |
| Fit for your child’s needs | Yes / No |
Conclusion
Choosing the right school after passing the AEIS exam is more than just looking at rankings. It’s about finding a place where your child feels safe, supported, and challenged to grow academically and socially.
While you may not be able to select the school directly, you can still play a key role in preparing your child, researching the assigned school, and supporting their transition. With the right mindset and a proactive approach, your child can thrive in Singapore’s education system—no matter where they are placed.
