FAQ
常问问题

1. How do I apply for Direct School Admission for Secondary Schools?

Application for DSA-Sec can be submitted through the online MOE DSA-Sec Portal.

https://www.dsa-is.moe.gov.sg/login/mainstreamapplicant

The application is free-of-charge.

Each P6 student can only submit a total of three (3) DSA choices for all schools and categories offered for DSA. The MOE DSA-Sec Portal is open from 06 May 2026 (11:00 AM) to 02 June 2026 (4:30 PM)

2. Can my son apply for DSA if he is not studying in an MOE school?

Singaporean Students

Students who are currently home-schooled must contact MOE to obtain a registration number before applying for DSA.

Returning Singaporeans

Students who are not taking the PSLE should contact MOE to obtain a registration number before applying for DSA. They may take the MOE SPERS for English and Mathematics.

International Students

International students must contact MOE to obtain a registration number before applying for DSA. They would need to take part in the Admissions Exercise for International Students (AEIS) conducted by MOE and be accepted before they can apply for DSA.

Permanent Residents (who are not taking PSLE) do not need to take AEIS.

3. What are the DSA categories in HCI?

• Art Elective Programme (AEP)

• Bilingualism

• Chinese Language

• Entrepreneurship

• Humanities

• Leadership

• STEM (Science/Mathematics & Info-Comm)

• Sports

4.  My son is talented in areas that are not in the DSA categories. How can my son join HCI?

Our range of programmes develop all who join us either via DSA or the post-PSLE posting exercise. We nurture and stretch strengths, interests and passions in all our students. 

5. My son is talented in more than one field. Can he apply for more than one DSA category?

Yes. Your son may choose up to two categories for DSA from one school. It will count as two of his three choices. If he is shortlisted for two categories from HCI, arrangements will be made for him to attend interviews in both categories.

6. My son has talents and achievements in other areas (e.g. triathlon, dance, golf). Will these be considered?

Our focus during the DSA exercise is to spot and develop specific talents that are related to our DSA categories. If there is information you deem relevant, please include them in the section “Non School-based Awards and Achievements”. Each applicant is restricted to 10 entries in this section.

7. After submitting my son’s DSA application, what is the process like?

Only shortlisted students will be invited for interviews and selection tests. Sports trials will also be conducted for applicants in the DSA (Sports) category.

8. How should I prepare my son for the DSA Interview? What is the DSA interview panel looking out for?

Candidates should be comfortable speaking up in a group interview and should ideally be bilingually conversant. Each category has the associated approaches relevant to the talent domain. The interview panel is primarily looking out for a good fit with HCI’s culture and values and our Integrated Programme.