The Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) is one of the most important academic milestones in a student’s journey in Singapore. Over the years, the system has evolved to better support students in their learning. One of the most significant changes in recent years is the shift from the traditional T-score system to the new Achievement Level (AL) system. This article explores the PSLE AL score, how the new PSLE scoring system works, and what it means for students and parents.

Why the Scoring System Was Changed

The shift from the old T-score system to the AL system was implemented to reduce excessive academic pressure. The old system ranked students relative to one another, which created unnecessary competition. With the introduction of the new PSLE scoring system, the focus has moved towards encouraging students to master subjects based on their individual strengths, instead of comparing them against their peers.

This change was not just about scoring it was about reshaping the entire education philosophy towards more holistic development.

What is the PSLE AL Score?

The PSLE AL score stands for the Achievement Level score. It is a simplified grading system that assigns a level from AL1 to AL8 for each subject based on the student’s performance.

Here’s a breakdown of the AL grades:

AL1: 90–100
AL2: 85–89
AL3: 80–84
AL4: 75–79
AL5: 65–74
AL6: 45–64
AL7: 20–44
AL8: Below 20

Each subject English, Mother Tongue, Mathematics, and Science is scored individually using this scale. The PSLE AL score is the sum of the AL grades from all four subjects, giving a total score that ranges from 4 (best possible) to 32 (weakest).

How the New PSLE Scoring System Works

Under the new PSLE scoring system, there is no longer a need to compete with other students for better T-scores. Instead, the system uses eight scoring bands that reflect a student’s actual understanding of the subject.

This means two students can get the same AL score even if they scored differently in raw marks, as long as they fall within the same band. This encourages students to focus on learning the subject well, rather than just aiming to beat others.

Let’s look at an example:

English: AL2
Math: AL1
Science: AL3
Mother Tongue: AL2

Total PSLE AL score = 2 + 1 + 3 + 2 = 8

In the old system, minor differences in marks could affect a student's entire posting outcome. The new PSLE scoring system gives students more breathing room by grouping performance into broader levels.

Impact on Secondary School Posting

The PSLE AL score now directly affects secondary school posting, but the way students are placed has also changed. Here's how:

Students with a lower total AL score are posted first.
If two students have the same AL score, the tiebreakers are:
Citizenship
Order of school choices
Computerised balloting

So while the new PSLE scoring system simplifies scoring, it also puts more importance on making smart school choices in the order of preference.

Advantages of the New PSLE Scoring System

Reduces stress
The AL system reduces pressure on students because small differences in marks no longer impact rankings as harshly as before.
Encourages holistic development
Students are motivated to develop their interests and strengths beyond academics, as the narrow focus on raw scores is reduced.
Supports mastery
The broader scoring bands in the PSLE AL score allow students to focus on subject mastery rather than perfection.
More transparency
Parents and students find the new system easier to understand and use when planning for secondary school placement.

Common Misunderstandings About the PSLE AL Score

Many parents still believe that the AL score is similar to the old T-score and try to calculate it based on raw marks. But the new PSLE scoring system works very differently. Instead of precise marks, what matters is the performance band a student falls into. For example, a student scoring 86 and one scoring 89 will both receive AL2, and there’s no further ranking within that band.

This shift is intended to move away from micromanaging every mark and instead look at the bigger picture of a student’s capabilities.

Tips for Students and Parents Under the New System

Focus on understanding, not just marks
Since the AL system rewards consistent performance across subjects, students should aim for deeper understanding rather than short-term exam tactics.
Choose schools wisely
With the new posting process, the order of school choices matters. Discuss your preferences and goals carefully before listing your options.
Monitor overall balance
As the PSLE AL score is based on the total of four subjects, it's important to balance strengths across all areas rather than focusing on just one.
Stay updated
MOE guidelines and updates about the new PSLE scoring system are released periodically. Stay informed through official channels.

Conclusion

The introduction of the new PSLE scoring system marks a major step towards a more student-friendly education landscape in Singapore. The PSLE AL score system promotes a healthier mindset around exams, reduces excessive competition, and helps students grow at their own pace.

Instead of chasing after decimal point differences, students can now focus on understanding their subjects and developing their strengths. The system also encourages better communication between parents and children when it comes to choosing the right secondary school.

Understanding the PSLE AL Score and the New PSLE Scoring System

New PSLE Scoring System