PSLE Achievement Levels (AL) Scoring System 2026

Last updated January 2026 for PSLE 2026 intakes and Secondary 1 posting

smiling primary six student studying for PSLE

Singapore's PSLE grading uses the Achievement Levels (AL) scoring system (in place since 2021) for children taking PSLE in 2026 and beyond.

Compared to the previous T-score system, this new absolute banding approach aims to reduce stress for students by grouping performance into broader levels.

It also simplifies assessments and offers more accessible choices for secondary school placements.

About the AL Point System

Under the new PSLE grading system, each subject is assessed using an eight-band Achievement Level scale. These bands range from AL1 to AL8 (highest to lowest), with each defined by specific score ranges.

This structure replaces the previous alphabetical grading system and provides a clearer indication of a student's understanding and mastery of the subject matter.

Achievement Level (AL)	Score Range (Standard PSLE Subjects)	Score Range (Foundation PSLE Subjects)
AL1	90 - 100	-
AL2	85 - 89	-
AL3	80 - 84	-
AL4	75 - 79	-
AL5	65 - 74	-
AL6	45 - 64	75 - 100 (Grade AL A)
AL7	20 - 44	30 - 74 (Grade AL B)
AL8	<20	<30 (Grade AL C)

Table 1, Breakdown of AL Scoring Range

Fundamentally, the AL point system introduces greater focus on broader performance bands rather than precise scores. In turn, it reduces competition among peers from the minute score differences that previously led to significant variations in secondary school placements.

The total score a student receives is the cumulative sum from all subjects, which will determine their eligibility and placement in secondary schools.

PSLE Score (AL System)	Posting Group(s)	Indicative Level for Most Subjects at Start of Sec 1
4-20	3	G3
21-22	2 or 3	G2 or G3
23-24	2	G2
25	1 or 2	G1 or G2
26-30 (with AL7 or better in EL and MA)	1	G1

Table 2, COP AL Points for Secondary School Placements

Objectives of the AL Point System

The new PSLE scoring system, implemented in 2021, was designed to address multiple aspects of academic assessment and student welfare.

It shifts the focus from competing for marginal score differences to a broader evaluation of students' capabilities, aligning more closely with their learning progress and understanding.

Here’s what the system aims to achieve:

To accurately assess a student's performance relative to the curriculum's learning objectives.
To standardise the PSLE cut-off point (COP) across schools, granting Primary 6 students a wider range of secondary school options with consistent admission standards.
To alleviate stress for students and parents by reducing the emphasis on minute score differences.
To encourage students to focus more on their interests and strengths rather than solely on exam performance.
To diminish the risk of young learners losing confidence due to overly stringent scoring.

These changes are expected to enhance the educational experience by fostering a more supportive and inclusive environment that recognises a broader range of student achievements.

How is the AL Score Calculated?

The calculation of the PSLE AL scores is intuitive and straightforward.

Each raw score that a student earns on an exam is assigned a corresponding AL, ranging from AL1 for the most marks (90-100) to AL8 for the least (below 20).

The total PSLE score is then determined by adding the AL scores for each subject. For instance, a student with AL2 in three subjects and AL1 in one subject will have a PSLE score of 7 (2 + 2 + 2 + 1).

This total score illustrates a student's overall academic standing, foundation, and readiness for secondary education. It effectively captures a broad picture of a student's understanding and learning progress, rather than focusing narrowly on competitive ranks.

Quick Example:

Under the previous T-score system, Student X scores 200 and Student Y scores 201. Though the difference is minor, it would have significant implications on their eligibility for the Express stream.

Meanwhile, under the new AL system, both students might receive an AL score of 4, reflecting a more equitable assessment of their capabilities. This system ensures that students with similar abilities are recognised as such, reducing unnecessary competition and stress.

Use the MOE PSLE score calculator to assess your child’s performance.

PSLE AL Score System vs T-Score System

The primary difference between the AL scoring system and the former T-score system lies in their focus. While the T-score system highlights how a student performs in comparison to their peers, the AL system assesses how a student performs relative to learning objectives.

Scoring Bands

T-Score: Utilised a more complex statistical analysis to rank every minor score difference among students.
AL System: Uses a series of eight broad bands to simplify the scoring system.

Score Calculation

T-Score: Involved a statistical formula that used the mean and standard deviation of student scores, making it heavily reliant on cohort performance.
AL System: Adopts a more straightforward approach by assigning scores to predetermined bands based on exact mark ranges.

Nature of Assessment

T-Score: This system was relative, basing a student's performance on how well they did compared to the entire cohort.
AL System: It is absolute, focusing solely on the individual's marks, thus aligning better with the curriculum objectives and reducing competitive pressure among students.

How Will This Affect Secondary School Admission

Secondary School Full Subject-Based Banding

Under the new AL scoring system, students taking PSLE in 2026 will be grouped into different postings for Secondary 1 based on their total AL score.

This process is part of the Full Subject-Based Banding initiative, which allows students to take subjects at varying levels according to their individual strengths and scores.

Secondary Posting of Tie-Breakers

In cases where students have identical AL scores and preferences for secondary schools, a tie-breaking mechanism is applied. Factors such as citizenship status, school choice order, and participation in specific programmes or affiliations may influence final placements.

Prepare Your Child for PSLE 2026 AL Scoring

a smiling mother and her young daughter pointing at a book

Understanding the new PSLE AL scoring system helps you support your child for the 2026 exams and Secondary 1 posting. This knowledge helps you gauge the demands your child faces and provide the necessary encouragement and support.

If your child needs additional support in preparing for the PSLE, illum.e is here to help. Our dedicated resources and expert guidance are tailored to help students navigate the PSLE with confidence and achieve their best possible results.