Latest 2025 DSA News: What Parents Need to Know

Latest 2025 DSA News: What Parents Need to Know

The Ministry of Education (MOE) has announced the launch of the 2025 Direct School Admission (DSA) Exercise, providing Primary 6 and O-Level students an opportunity to gain early admission to secondary schools and junior colleges (JCs) based on their talents, interests, and aptitudes, not just academic results.

Read the official MOE press release here for the full details on the DSA and Early Admissions Exercise timelines.

Key DSA Dates to Note

1. DSA-Sec (for Secondary 1 admission in 2026):
Application opens from 7 May 2025, 11am to 3 June 2025, 3pm via www.moe.gov.sg/dsa-sec

2. DSA-JC (for JC1 admission in 2026):
Application dates vary by college. Check individual JC websites or www.moe.gov.sg/dsa-jc for more details.

3. Early Admissions Exercise (EAE):
For students applying to ITE or polytechnics, EAE application windows are as follows:

• ITE: 20 – 26 May 2025
• Polytechnic (O-Level students): 26 June – 2 July 2025
• Polytechnic (ITE students): 12 – 18 June 2025
• Working adults (ITE): 20 – 26 May 2025
• Working adults (Polytechnics): 2 – 29 June 2025

This summary is based on the recent update from The Straits Times article published on 6 May 2025, which outlines what parents and students should be aware of during this year’s DSA application period.

What Is the DSA Scheme?

The DSA pathway enables students to apply to schools that align with their unique strengths, be it in sports, the arts, science, or leadership, well before national exam results are released. Participating schools can admit up to 20% of their Secondary 1 or JC1 cohort via DSA.

Applicants may choose up to three schools and talent areas in their application. Once a student accepts a DSA offer and meets the school’s minimum academic requirement, they are guaranteed a place in that school. However, they must commit to that school and cannot participate in the general posting exercises or transfer after receiving exam results.

Where Speech Academy Asia Comes In

While many families focus heavily on showcasing a child’s achievements, one critical component of the DSA process is often underestimated: the interview.

At Speech Academy Asia, we specialise in preparing children for DSA interviews, ensuring they stand out not only through their accomplishments but also through confident communication.

Our DSA coaching programme equips your child with:

✅ 81 of the most commonly asked DSA questions, covering school-specific and open-ended topics
✅ Personalised coaching in interview speech, clarity, confidence, and articulation
✅ Training in public speaking, storytelling, and presentation delivery
✅ Constructive feedback on diction, posture, and eye contact

Our experienced communication coaches have successfully guided students into top Integrated Programme (IP) and Special Assistance Plan (SAP) schools, including those with highly competitive DSA talent areas.

Why Interview Skills Matter in DSA

MOE has reiterated its commitment to a holistic and inclusive selection process. Schools now evaluate applicants not only on their talent portfolios but also on personal qualities like confidence, authenticity, and clarity—qualities best demonstrated during interviews.

Additionally, all coaches involved in preparing students for DSA are now expected to adhere to MOE’s Conflict of Interest (COI) guidelines, ensuring fairness and transparency in the process.

Final Thoughts for Parents

If your child is considering the DSA route in 2025, don’t wait until the last minute. Beyond a strong portfolio, schools are increasingly looking for students who can communicate their passions convincingly and present themselves with poise.

With a focused, nurturing approach and a track record of success, Speech Academy Asia is here to support your child in securing a place in their dream school, not just on paper, but in person.

👉 Enrol your child in our DSA Coaching Programme today and let them shine where it matters most.

📞 Call us at 9061 1715
📧 Email us at info@speechacademyasia.com
📍 Visit us at JEM, 52 Jurong Gateway Road, #06-01, Singapore 608550