The Ministry of Education (MOE) in Singapore has announced significant changes to the A-level examinations, which will give students more control over their education and promote lifelong learning. These changes will be implemented from 2026 for students enrolling in Junior College (JC) in 2025.
One of the key changes is that the fourth content-based subject for JC students will not be counted in university admissions, unless it improves their score. This means that students can take up subjects of their interest without worrying about the impact on their university admission chances.
Another major change is the removal of Project Work from the university admission score calculation. Currently, students must complete a project that counts towards their university admission score, but this will now be pass/fail only.
MOE has also announced the gradual phasing out of mid-year exams for JC and Millennia Institute (MI) students from 2024. Instead, students will have more time to focus on their studies and personal growth, such as taking up internships, engaging in community service, and pursuing other interests.
To prevent JCs from implementing additional school-based assessments after the removal of mid-year exams, MOE has issued a clarification. The aim is to ensure that students are not overwhelmed by multiple assessments and are given more time to focus on their studies and overall development.
According to MOE, these changes are intended to provide students with greater flexibility to explore their interests, pursue their passions, and develop important life skills. The reforms will also benefit adults who want to pursue lifelong learning by allowing them to choose courses that cater to their interests and goals.
The MOE’s Joint Committee on the A-Level Curriculum (JCAC) reviewed the changes, and extensive consultations with education stakeholders took place. The ministry has emphasized that the changes are part of an ongoing effort to provide a more holistic and well-rounded education system in Singapore.
These changes are a significant step towards a more student-centric education system, giving students more control over their education and promoting lifelong learning. The MOE’s efforts to provide a more holistic and well-rounded education system are commendable, and the changes will undoubtedly benefit students in Singapore.