Singapore – Qualifying for science courses at Raffles Institution (RI) and Hwa Chong Institution (HCI) remains highly competitive, though both schools recorded some of their lowest cut-off points in recent years. In the 2026 Joint Admissions Exercise (JAE), RI and HCI had net cut-off points of three for their science streams and five for the arts track, after deductions for activities like CCA participation or higher mother tongue qualifications.
Lowered Cut-Offs Reflect Broader Trend
The latest posting results, released on February 3, show HCI’s science cut-off of three is the lowest since 2015, while RI’s score of three has not been seen since 2016. More broadly, entry requirements across junior colleges (JCs) dipped by approximately one point in 2026, ranging from three to 19.
Students have been discussing the perceived intensifying competition for admission to popular JCs on online forums. The cut-off point represents the score of the last student admitted to a JC during the annual exercise for O-level graduates, based on their L1R5 – first language and five relevant subjects. A student’s L1R5 score must not exceed 20 points to enter a JC.
Factors Influencing Admission
The net score used for posting to JCs can be reduced by up to four points for CCA involvement, passing higher mother tongue, or school affiliation. RI and HCI also offer an Integrated Programme, allowing students to bypass O-levels and proceed directly to A-levels after six years. The Ministry of Education (MOE) stated that admission is determined by a combination of factors, including cohort performance and student choices.
Students shared their experiences navigating the JAE process. Valerie Tea, a JC1 student at HCI, chose the school for its China Studies in Chinese programme and benefited from compulsory higher Chinese classes at her previous school, CHIJ St Nicholas Girls’ School. Caleb Ho, a JC2 student at RI, attained a net score of two, despite a C6 in higher mother tongue, and values the challenging environment at RI. Ethel Wee, also a JC2 student at RI, noted that the profile of students entering the school remains consistent despite the lowered cut-off points.
According to Dr. Jason Tan, an associate professor at the National Institute of Education, the dip in cut-off points reflects the demand for spots in top JCs. While polytechnic diplomas are gaining recognition, many students still favor an academic track to prepare for university. MOE encourages students to choose schools that best suit their learning needs and strengths.
Rayne Goh, a JC1 student at Anderson Serangoon Junior College (ASRJC), expressed surprise at the lowered cut-off points, having initially aimed for Nanyang Junior College. She appreciates the balance of work and play at ASRJC and its strong school spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the L1R5 score?
The L1R5 score is the sum of a student’s O-level grades in their first language and five relevant subjects, used to determine eligibility for Junior Colleges.
Can bonus points affect a student’s cut-off score?
Yes, up to four bonus points can be deducted from a student’s L1R5 score for CCA involvement, passing higher mother tongue, or school affiliation.
What did the Ministry of Education say about the cut-off points?
The Ministry of Education stated that admission is determined by a combination of factors, including cohort performance and student choices, and that multiple pathways are available at the post-secondary level.
As junior colleges adapt to evolving student preferences and educational pathways, will the trend of lowered cut-off points continue to shape the landscape of post-secondary education in Singapore?
