Ryse Insights

As November's open house season approaches, families can visit many secondary schools over the next four weekends. These are more than tours. They are opportunities to experience each school's culture firsthand. Parents should ask critical questions about subject availability at upper secondary levels and CCAs, as these choices will impact eligibility for JC subjects, polytechnic courses and university majors.

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

DSA was designed to recognise genuine talents beyond exam results, but many parents already use it to "try their luck," especially as AL scoring makes entry to selective IP schools harder. Allowing post-PSLE acceptance of DSA offers will worsen this trend, turning DSA into a free-for-all gaming system, increasing inequality and undermining the scheme’s original purpose.

A Primary 5 student from Maris Stella became a medallist at the International History Olympiad even though history isn’t taught in primary schools in Singapore. This highlights how educational consultants help students access and prepare for prestigious global competitions. With the timeline right, this student is well-positioned for P6 DSA next year under the humanities track, showcasing how competitions complement self-initiated projects in DSA preparation.

Singapore's new School-Based Gifted Education (SBGE) programme expands gifted education to the top 10% in every school, using a holistic approach including screening tests, teacher observations, student work, and recommendations. While more inclusive, concerns remain about fairness, potential favoritism, and how the majority outside SBGE will be supported. The shift also raises questions about coaching pressures and maintaining quality across all schools.

A Primary 6 student’s proudest achievement was serving as chief editor of his class magazine. This simulated case study shows how to turn that experience into a compelling DSA portfolio. We highlight leadership, creativity, and teamwork to prove that authentic storytelling will make any application stand out.

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.

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.

Join us this Saturday at Siglap South CC for a focused, strategy-led conversation on the DSA journey and how it can shape more than school placement. This isn’t just about admissions. It’s about rising with clarity, confidence, and long-term purpose.