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Ryse Insights
Explore strategies, tips, and thought leadership crafted for ambitious students and discerning parents.
Upcoming Community Education Talk: University Admissions for Singapore-based Students
Join our community talk, "Navigating University Admission: A Guide for Singapore-Based Students and Parents," featuring insights from a former faculty member who served on SUTD and SIT admissions committees. Learn key strategies for local and international admissions, and why starting early benefits younger students building their portfolios. Get practical tips and answers to your questions. Register now via OnePA.


SkillsFuture is Already Here for Our Kids: Building Portfolios for Tomorrow's Success
SkillsFuture is transforming education in Singapore by promoting lifelong learning and skills mastery. For students, portfolio building complements strong academic foundations, helping them demonstrate practical skills alongside grades. This balanced approach prepares them for competitive admissions and future job markets, emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and creative application for holistic success.


Upcoming Community Education Talks: Navigating Singapore's Education Pathways
Join us for two community sessions designed to guide families through critical education decisions. Learn about post-PSLE secondary school selection (AL scores vs DSA pathways) on Nov 1 at Siglap South CC, and university admissions strategies for local, US & UK institutions on Nov 23 at Thomson CC. Open to all parents and students seeking expert guidance on Singapore's education system.


When Leadership Meets Passion: A DSA Success Story in the Making
When Secondary 1 student Ng See Jen found her new school had no chess CCA, she didn’t accept it. She rallied peers, formed a WhatsApp group and pitched a detailed proposal to the principal. That initiative led CHIJ St Nicks impromptu team to become national runners-up and zonal champions, with individual awards for members. This story exemplifies the excellence DSA looks for: leadership, problem-solving, perseverance and chess mastery all rolled into one student-driven succe


Beyond Words: The Real Test of Shifting Singapore’s Grade Culture
Singapore may wish to ease its focus on grades, but the truth is global universities still demand them. For ambitious students, standardised exams like the A-Levels remain a crucial leveller as a way to match brighter peers and reach top institutions. The challenge is not to deny grades, but to expand success to include networks, presence, and purpose as launchpads for lasting careers.


The Final Stretch: Strategic Exam Preparation for Singapore Students
As we approach the crucial final month before major examinations: PSLE, O-levels and A-levels, success lies not in how many hours you study, but in strategic preparation. The most successful candidates understand exactly what each grade requires and focus their energy accordingly. Singapore's system rewards balanced performance over subject mastery, making smart revision strategies essential for optimal results.


US 4-Year Student Visa Cap: Why International Students Need Expert Guidance More than Ever
The US new proposal on 4-year cap on F-1 student visas ends decades of 'duration of status' admissions, creating unprecedented uncertainty for international students. With 80% of Asian students relying on informal guidance, professional educational consultants like Ryse Education become critical for navigating policy volatility and developing strategic alternatives across Asia's rising education destinations.


I am a Judge for the Singapore Engineering Innovation Challenge. This is my Guide for Aspiring Innovators
Engineering Innovation Challenge judge shares key tips: Build a functional prototype, manage budget smartly, master Arduino and IoT app programming, hone soldering skills, and utilize CAD and 3D printing. Leverage makerspaces, build a diverse team, and seek mentorship early. These efforts build impactful projects and strengthen university applications, especially for Ivy League and Oxbridge hopefuls.


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.


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.


From IB Chemistry to Cambridge Admissions Offer: College Admissions Prep Starts Early
Starting early is key for students aiming at top universities like Oxbridge or the Ivy League. Read how I guided my student Jay from Secondary 3 at ACSI, helping him build a strong academic and super-curricular portfolio, win competitions, and grow in confidence, leading to his Cambridge Engineering offer. Discover why early, holistic preparation matters in today’s admissions landscape, and how you can map your child’s journey too.


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.
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