Commentary: As the DSA scheme turns 20, is it rivalling the PSLE in importance?

SINGAPORE: As the Direct School Admission (DSA) selection process gets underway this year, it marks a significant milestone – 20 years since the inaugural exercise in 2004.

The DSA scheme allows students to use their talents in areas such as sports, music and leadership, among others, to secure admission into secondary schools or junior colleges (JCs) before they even sit for the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) or O-Level examinations. 

This alternative pathway has gained popularity, especially among students who may not excel academically, as it offers them a chance to get into their desired schools.

However, the DSA scheme has not been without controversy. Critics argue that the DSA scheme benefits children from wealthier households who can afford private coaching and preparatory classes.

It is also highly competitive. Last year, 38,088 Primary 6 students sat for the PSLE. Nearly 40 per cent of the cohort, or 14,500 students, submitted a record 38,000 DSA applications. Of those, only about one-third, or 4,400 students (about 11 per cent of the cohort), succeeded in their applications.

Why is the DSA programme so popular? Is it becoming almost as important as the PSLE in the transition from primary to secondary school?