top of page
Ryse Insights
Explore strategies, tips, and thought leadership crafted for ambitious students and discerning parents.

Parent Guides
Clarity and reassurance for every stage of your child’s educational journey. Topics include admissions trends, academic stress, mentorship, and navigating Singapore’s competitive education landscape. For parents who want trusted insight, not just advice.


Why SkillsFuture Needs to Empower Future Founders, Not Just Workers in the Age of GenAI
Singapore’s SkillsFuture initiative is vital, but upskilling alone isn’t enough in the GenAI era. In a globally competitive market, local workers still face challenges, making it crucial to pair new skills with entrepreneurship and portfolio building. Empower individuals to create value and own their future careers.


Rethinking Success: Holistic Development and the Singapore Scholarship
Singapore’s educational philosophy now goes far beyond grades, focusing on character, values, and holistic growth. Scholarship boards and universities increasingly seek students who show leadership, resilience, and a commitment to serving others. Key qualities for thriving in today’s volatile, complex world. At Ryse Education, we train future-ready students by nurturing character and whole-person development, preparing them to excel and lead with purpose.


Example of Building an Outstanding Portfolio for University Admissions
A student stands out by launching a science journalism contest funded from his own high school scholarship award, empowering youth and boosting science literacy. His initiative exemplifies authentic leadership and community impact. This are qualities that top universities like MIT and Harvard seek in outstanding student portfolios. It’s a powerful example of how real-world action and generosity create lasting impressions beyond grades or accolades.


As Singapore Rolls Out Mandarin-Taught Programmes, the Context of Global Student Flows Comes Into Focus
As Singapore launches Mandarin-taught university programmes to attract Chinese postgraduate students, local undergraduates increasingly head overseas for broader networks and opportunities. This post unpacks how context and ambition shape educational choices in both directions, reminding us that smart decisions are about finding the right fit, not just following the crowd.


PSC Scholarships and the Case for Overseas Study
Singapore's brightest students, including PSC scholars, choose top overseas universities over NUS and NTU. Discover how global exposure, powerful networks, and strategic portfolio-building give them the edge in securing elite scholarships and international careers. Ambitious parents and students: learn why stepping beyond local shores is the secret to world-class success.


Behind the Glitter and Glam: The Shadows of Singapore’s Bonded Scholarships
Discover the untold issues behind Singapore’s glittering scholarship award ceremonies. Learn why guarantors face huge risks, how xenophobia erupts when foreign scholars abscond, and what happens when the spotlight fades. Think twice before you sign. Read the fine print and see the shadows behind the glamour.


DSA Prep Strategy Example 2: Bringing History to Life with Scale Modelling for JC Humanities Programme Applications
A 16-year-old’s DSA-JC Humanities journey: blending scale modelling, history book prizes, and WWII research. My 1/72 Eastern Front diorama and essay showcase passion, creativity, and deep historical understanding. Ideal for a unique DSA portfolio.


Future-Proofing Students' Careers: AI-Resilient Skills for the Next Generation
Discover AI-resilient skills like investment coaching, martial arts and financial literacy. These future-proof abilities help students stand out in a changing job market and create unique, monetizable opportunities beyond traditional education.


Singapore's Rising Competitiveness Mirrors Global Shift Away from US Universities
Singapore’s universities are more competitive than ever, with 36,800 applicants vying for 18,500 places in 2024, a 2:1 ratio, and NUS College seeing 10,000 applicants for just 400 spots. Holistic admissions now require portfolios showcasing achievements beyond grades: research projects, leadership roles, creative and technical works, and personal statements. Early preparation, diverse experiences, and DSA-style practice are essential to stand out in this selective landscape.


Dream School or Detour? What Every Parent Should Know Before Accepting a DSA Offer
As DSA season heats up, many parents and students dream of entering top schools. But the journey isn’t always as smooth as it seems. Real stories reveal hidden pressures and unexpected challenges. Before accepting a DSA offer, find out what you’re really signing up for and how expert, objective guidance can make all the difference.


The Importance of College Visits: Giving Our Students the Dream
At Ryse Education, we believe college visits help students see themselves as future scholars and leaders, whether through school trips, parental support, or personal initiative. One visit can turn dreams into real plans.


Building Strong Teacher Relationships for Outstanding Recommendation Letters: A Guide for Singaporean Students
In Singapore’s competitive academic scene, standout recommendation letters make a difference. Start early, be upfront with teachers, and have backup options so you secure strong, personal endorsements for your university application.


Why Singapore Parents Want the ‘Best’ Schools for Their Kids
The Chinese High School Clock Tower Building is the icon of the oldest Chinese-medium high school in Singapore. It serves as a reminder of the local Chinese community’s commitment to quality education.


Getting admitted to Singapore Universities: Insider tips for Polytechnic Students by ex-SUTD and ex-SIT professor
Discover insider tips from an ex-SUTD and ex-SIT professor on how polytechnic students can boost their chances of getting into Singapore’s top universities. Learn about GPA cut-offs, diploma relevance, the role of portfolios and interviews, and why early planning with educational consultants like Ryse can make all the difference.


What Would Help Your Family Most Right Now?
We recently explored how DSA and EAE shape more than admissions; they shape identity. Now, we’d love to hear from you: what guidance would serve your family best next? Vote in our quick poll and help us design future Ryse talks around your real questions and goals.


Why Singapore Students Need a Personal Educational Strategy Consultant After O-Levels
O-Levels open doors, but strategy determines which ones you walk through. Here’s why engaging a personal educational strategist can transform your JC or Polytechnic journey — and your future.


Why Top Leaders Come from a Few Universities, And How Your Child Can Rise Among Them
Elite universities don’t just teach. They launch leaders. Here’s what the latest research reveals — and how strategic admissions coaching can help your child join the ranks.
bottom of page