Understanding the PSLE Grading System and AL Score: A Complete Guide

The Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) is a crucial national examination taken by students at the end of their primary school education. It is a significant milestone in a student’s academic journey, as it determines their eligibility for different secondary schools. Understanding the PSLE grading system and the Achievement Level (AL) score is essential for students and parents to prepare effectively and set realistic expectations.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explain the PSLE grading system, how AL scores are calculated, and how they affect secondary school placement.

What is the PSLE?

The PSLE is an important academic assessment that tests students on four core subjects:

• English Language

• Mother Tongue Language (MTL)

• Mathematics

• Science

The exam evaluates the knowledge and skills students have developed over six years of primary education. The results from the PSLE help determine the secondary school stream—Express, Normal (Academic), or Normal (Technical)—into which students are placed.

Introduction to the PSLE Grading System

Previously, PSLE scores were presented as a T-score aggregate, which compared students against their peers. However, to reduce the excessive focus on competition and fine differentiation, a new Achievement Level (AL) system has been introduced.

The PSLE grading system now focuses on measuring how well a student has learned a subject, rather than how they perform relative to others.

What is the PSLE Achievement Level (AL) Score?

The Achievement Level (AL) score is a subject-based grading system, where each subject is graded from AL 1 to AL 8.

• AL 1 is the highest grade, representing excellent performance.

• AL 8 is the lowest grade, indicating that the student needs significant improvement in that subject.

Each subject receives an AL score, and these are combined to form the PSLE total score.

Detailed Breakdown of AL Scores

Here’s a general explanation of what each AL grade represents:

Each subject (English, Mother Tongue, Mathematics, Science) is awarded an AL grade based on the student's performance.

How is the PSLE AL Score Calculated?

The PSLE AL score is the sum of the AL scores obtained in all four subjects. Since each subject is graded from AL 1 to AL 8, the best possible total PSLE score is 4 (if a student scores AL 1 in all subjects), and the highest possible score is 32.

Example of PSLE AL Score Calculation:

In this example, the student’s total PSLE AL score is 8, which reflects their overall academic achievement.

What Does the PSLE Score Mean for Secondary School Placement?

The total PSLE AL score determines which secondary school stream the student is eligible for:

• Express Stream: For students with lower total AL scores (indicating stronger academic performance).

• Normal (Academic) Stream: For students with higher total AL scores but who still demonstrate the ability to handle an academic curriculum.

• Normal (Technical) Stream: For students who may need more hands-on learning approaches and who have higher AL scores.

Schools set cut-off points based on students’ PSLE scores. Hence, knowing how the AL system works helps students and parents set achievable goals for preferred schools.

Why the Shift to AL Grading System?

The shift from T-score to AL grading in the PSLE aims to:

• Reduce Fine Differentiation: By having broader bands, students are not compared on tiny score differences, reducing unnecessary pressure.

• Encourage Holistic Learning: The focus moves away from "beating the competition" to mastering subjects.

• Promote Multiple Success Pathways: The system acknowledges that students learn differently and can succeed in various educational paths.

Benefits of the PSLE AL Scoring System

✅ Less Stressful for Students: The AL system reduces the fine differentiation of scores, which means less academic pressure.

✅ Focus on Individual Performance: Students are graded based on what they know, not how they perform compared to peers.

✅ Fairer Placement for Secondary Schools: Schools can assess students based on more realistic grading, making placements more balanced.

✅ Encourages Comprehensive Learning: Students are motivated to understand subjects deeply rather than focusing only on scoring slightly higher marks.

Key Tips for Students and Parents to Prepare for PSLE

1. Understand the AL Scoring System Well

Students should be aware of what is expected to achieve each AL grade. Knowing this helps set clear targets for study.

2. Focus on Conceptual Understanding

Since the PSLE now emphasizes mastery rather than competition, students should aim to understand concepts thoroughly, especially in subjects like Mathematics and Science.

3. Regular Practice and Revision

Consistent practice and revision are critical. Using past-year questions, mock tests, and self-assessment helps students gauge their readiness.

4. Balance Study with Well-being

Parents should ensure that students maintain a healthy balance between study and rest. Mental well-being is crucial for exam performance.

5. Stay Informed

Parents should stay updated on the latest PSLE guidelines, subject syllabuses, and grading practices to support their children better.

Conclusion

The PSLE grading system and AL score are significant components of Singapore’s education system, determining secondary school placement and shaping students’ academic futures. Understanding how the Achievement Level system works can help students aim for appropriate goals, reduce unnecessary stress, and focus on meaningful learning.