What is the main goal of the new Primary 1 registration changes?

The main goal is to widen access for children from different backgrounds and encourage more mixing among students from diverse socio-economic groups.

How will the two-track system work at the 12 selected schools?

Half of the reserved spots in Phase 2C will be for students living within 2km of the school, and the other half will be for students living more than 2km away.

Singapore Ministry of Education Adjusts Primary 1 Registration for Popular Schools

New rules aim to increase socio-economic diversity in 12 popular primary schools by reserving spots for students living further away, while also prioritizing local residents.

Flat illustration of School building, backpack, registration form, clipboard, school sign

2026-10-07 · Updated 2026-10-07

The Ministry of Education (MOE) in Singapore is implementing changes to the Primary 1 registration process for 12 popular schools, starting in 2027. These schools will reserve 60 spots in Phase 2C, an increase from the current 40, for students without prior school connections. This phase prioritizes children living nearby.

A new two-track system will be introduced at these 12 schools, located in neighborhoods with less than 40% public housing. Half of the 60 reserved spots will be for children living within 2km of the school, while the other half will be for those living more than 2km away. This aims to ensure a more diverse mix of applicants.

Education Minister Desmond Lee stated that currently, fewer than 1 in 6 students entering these popular schools through Phase 2C come from public housing, a figure the MOE is monitoring. The changes are intended to widen access for children from various backgrounds and encourage greater mixing among students.

Concerns were raised by Members of Parliament about potential disadvantages for children living close to schools under the new framework. Minister Lee responded that the increased allocation for Phase 2C is specifically designed to favor those living near schools, and the two-track scheme addresses situations where proximity alone does not guarantee socio-economic diversity.

Discussions also touched upon the challenges of expanding popular schools due to infrastructure constraints and the potential impact on smaller schools. The MOE will not be using specific baseline or outcome indicators to assess socio-economic mixing, as each school and neighborhood has unique characteristics.

FAQ

What is the main goal of the new Primary 1 registration changes?: The main goal is to widen access for children from different backgrounds and encourage more mixing among students from diverse socio-economic groups.
How will the two-track system work at the 12 selected schools?: Half of the reserved spots in Phase 2C will be for students living within 2km of the school, and the other half will be for students living more than 2km away.