What is DSA-Sec?
DSA-Sec provides a pathway for students to gain admission to secondary schools based on their interests, aptitude and potential, beyond their performance at the PSLE.
However, DSA-Sec is not a pathway that suits every student. To determine if DSA-Sec is an appropriate pathway for your child, you are encouraged to discuss with your child and make this decision together. You should carefully consider your child's strengths and interests, and the school's programmes and their ability to develop specific talents.
Important considerations
If your child is admitted through DSA-Sec, they must honour this commitment for the duration of the programme. They are not allowed to:
- Submit school choices during Secondary One (S1) Posting
- Transfer to another school after the release of the PSLE results
Learn more on DSA-Sec Commitment.
Explore the list of schools and programmes for DSA-Sec using SchoolFinder.
View DSA-Sec schools
Who can apply
P6 students can apply for DSA-Sec based on a wide range of talents, including:
- Sports and games
- Visual, literary and performing arts
- Debate and public speaking
- Science, mathematics and engineering
- Languages and humanities
- Uniformed groups
- Leadership
How to apply
Students can apply through the DSA-Sec Portal. There are no application fees.
If you need assistance:
- Contact your child's primary school if you are unable to apply online
- Use this proxy form to nominate another adult to apply or submit school preference on your behalf (optional) if necessary
KEY DATES
Jan to May
Explore school choices
Schools offer different talent areas and each has its own selection process and schedule. Schools' websites will be updated with more information by late April.
Wed, 6 May to Tue, 2 Jun 2026
Apply
Once you have explored and shortlisted the schools, submit your child's application online through the DSA-Sec Portal by 4.30pm on Tuesday, 2 Jun 2026.
By Fri, 28 Aug 2026
Attend interviews, auditions or trials
Different schools have different selection processes. Check schools' websites for details. If shortlisted, your child will have to attend interviews, auditions or trials conducted by DSA-Sec schools.
Students will receive DSA-Sec outcomes directly from schools by Friday, 28 August 2026.
Mon, 19 Oct to Fri, 23 Oct 2026
Select preferred schools
Choose up to 3 school choices in order of preference using the DSA-Sec Portal by 4.30pm on Friday, 23 October 2026.
Tue, 24 Nov or Wed, 25 Nov 2026 (Tentative)
Receive school allocation results
Receive school allocation along with PSLE results.