Ryse Insights

Ryse declined 2 families this month. Not for interview prep (doable in weeks), but building portfolios from scratch in <6 months. Real depth needs 6-9+ months minimum. Our 12-16 month programmes (P5 for DSA-Sec, S3 for DSA-JC) build authentic narratives, strategic depth, documentation & communication skills that schools value. Last-minute rushes look artificial. Start P4/S2 now for genuine success.

Singapore's secondary school admissions landscape is shifting. For 2025 PSLE, Kuo Chuan Presbyterian Secondary School (non-IP & neighbourhood) offers zero non-DSA non-affiliated G3 placements. Every slot goes to DSA and affiliated applicants. This is no anomaly. Start identifying your child's strengths early: sports, performing arts, communication. Develop a two-pronged strategy: optimize PSLE scores AND build a talent portfolio. DSA is no longer supplementary. It's strategic

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 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

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.

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.

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.