The Admissions Exercise for International Students (AEIS) is one of the most important entry pathways for foreign students seeking admission into Singapore’s mainstream primary and secondary schools. Every year, thousands of international families apply for AEIS, making it a competitive and highly anticipated exam. If you’re preparing your child for AEIS 2025, it’s crucial to understand not just the exam itself but also the registration process. Missing key steps or deadlines can cost your child the opportunity to sit for the exam.
This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough on how to register for AEIS 2025, along with important dates, documents required, and tips for a successful application.
Step 1: Understand What AEIS 2025 Is About
The AEIS is an assessment test conducted by Singapore’s Ministry of Education (MOE). It evaluates international students on their English literacy, numeracy, and reasoning skills to determine their suitability for placement in Singapore schools.
- Target students: Foreign students who want to join Primary 2–5 or Secondary 1–3 in 2026 (based on age and performance).
- Exams offered: AEIS for standard applications and S-AEIS (Supplementary AEIS) for those who missed the main exercise.
- Exam subjects: English and Mathematics.
- Timing: Usually held in September or October, with results released by December.
For AEIS 2025, MOE has announced that applications will be open from 14 July 2025 to 4 September 2025. The exams are expected to take place later in the year.
Step 2: Check Eligibility Criteria
Before registering, ensure your child meets the eligibility requirements set by MOE:
- Age criteria
- Primary: 7 to 12 years old (depending on intended level).
- Secondary: 12 to 16 years old (depending on intended level).
- Academic background
- Students should have completed the previous level in their home country.
- Pass validity
- Children must hold a valid Dependant’s Pass, Immigration Exemption Order, or Student’s Pass (to be applied for later if offered a school place).
If your child falls outside the eligible age range, they may not be allowed to register.
Step 3: Prepare the Necessary Documents
When applying for AEIS 2025, you will need to prepare soft copies of the following documents for submission:
- Child’s passport (bio-data page).
- Birth certificate.
- Parents’ passports or NRIC (if one parent is a Singaporean/PR).
- Academic transcripts from the last two years.
- Passport-sized photograph of the child (digital copy).
Ensure all documents are in English. If not, certified translations are required.
Step 4: Create an MOE Online Account
Applications for AEIS are made through the MOE Online Application Portal.
- Visit the official MOE AEIS registration page.
- Create an account using your email address.
- Log in and start a new application for AEIS 2025.
Step 5: Complete the Online Application Form
The form will require you to fill in:
- Child’s personal details (name, nationality, passport number).
- Intended school level (Primary 2–5 or Secondary 1–3).
- Parent/guardian’s contact details.
- Academic history and school attended previously.
Make sure all details are accurate, as errors can delay processing.
Step 6: Upload Documents and Pay the Exam Fee
Once the form is completed, upload all the necessary documents in PDF or JPEG format. Then proceed to make payment for the exam fee.
- Application fee: Typically around S$672 (non-refundable), payable online via credit card.
- Double-check that payment has gone through, as unpaid applications will not be processed.
Step 7: Receive Your Confirmation Email
After successful payment, you will receive an email confirmation from MOE. This confirmation will include:
- Your child’s AEIS 2025 registration number.
- Details of the exam venue and reporting time (to be released closer to exam date).
- Additional instructions on what to bring on exam day.
Keep this email safe, as it serves as proof of registration.
Step 8: Prepare for the AEIS Exam
Registering for AEIS is just the first step. The real challenge is preparing your child for the test.
- English preparation: Focus on grammar, comprehension, vocabulary, and writing.
- Mathematics preparation: Practice problem-solving, algebra, fractions, geometry, and word problems.
- Mock tests: Simulate exam conditions with past papers and timed practice sessions.
Many parents also choose to enrol their children in AEIS preparation courses offered by tuition centres in Singapore and online platforms.
Step 9: Sit for the AEIS 2025 Exam
On the exam day:
- Arrive at the venue at least 30 minutes early.
- Bring the necessary documents: admission letter, passport, and stationery.
- Follow exam instructions strictly, as the test is invigilated by MOE officers.
Step 10: Wait for Results and Placement
- Results release: Typically in December 2025.
- If successful, your child will be offered a school placement in a suitable primary or secondary school starting January 2026.
- If unsuccessful, you can consider registering for the Supplementary AEIS (S-AEIS) in early 2026.
Pro Tips for Parents Registering for AEIS 2025
- Apply early: Do not wait until September, as slots may fill up quickly.
- Check your documents: Missing or invalid documents can delay registration.
- Practice regularly: Daily practice in English and Mathematics can significantly improve exam performance.
- Explore school choices: While MOE allocates placements, it helps to research different schools in advance.
- Stay updated: Check MOE’s official website for announcements and any changes to exam schedules.
Conclusion
Registering for AEIS 2025 may seem overwhelming, but with proper preparation and timely action, the process is straightforward. Start early, ensure all documents are in order, and give your child enough time to prepare academically. Remember, AEIS is not just about passing a test – it’s about opening doors to quality education in Singapore’s world-class school system.
By following this step-by-step registration guide, you’ll give your child the best chance to secure a spot in Singapore’s primary or secondary schools for 2026.