DSA-only schools: NUS High, SST and SOTA
NUS High, the School of Science and Technology (SST), and the School of the Arts (SOTA) admit their Secondary 1 intake through DSA-Sec rather than the regular S1 Posting exercise. Each has a different focus, and SOTA uses its own application process.
| School | Main focus | Application route |
|---|---|---|
| NUS High | Mathematics and science | MOE DSA-Sec portal |
| SST | Applied learning in science, technology, engineering, aesthetics and mathematics | MOE DSA-Sec portal |
| SOTA | Arts alongside academic studies | SOTA’s Talent Academy application |
NUS High School of Mathematics and Science
NUS High looks for students with interest and aptitude in mathematics and science. Its six-year programme leads to the NUS High School Diploma, with opportunities to study these subjects in depth.
For 2027 Year 1 admission, applications go through the MOE DSA-Sec portal. The school’s selection considers academic work, evidence of interest in mathematics or science, and performance in its selection tests and camp. Its DSA talent areas are mathematics and science, rather than sports.
See the school’s admissions overview and admissions FAQ for eligibility, the selection process and current instructions.
School of Science and Technology, Singapore
SST focuses on applying knowledge to real-world problems. Its DSA talent area is STEAM: science, technology, engineering, aesthetics and mathematics. Selection considers academic and cognitive abilities alongside aptitude for applied learning.
Applications go through the MOE DSA-Sec portal. In the 2026 exercise, shortlisted applicants progress through a written test and then a group STEAM Challenge. The challenge gives students an opportunity to work together on practical problems.
Read SST’s DSA admissions guide and selection criteria for the school’s requirements.
School of the Arts, Singapore
SOTA combines arts and academic study in a six-year curriculum leading to the International Baccalaureate Diploma or Career-related Programme. Year 1 arts options include dance, literary arts, music, theatre and visual arts. Film is offered from Year 5.
SOTA’s DSA-Sec applicants apply through the school’s Talent Academy process, not the MOE DSA-Sec application portal. Check the preparation requirements for the chosen art form, including any portfolio or audition material, before submitting an application. Applicants who receive an offer or wait-list place still need to indicate their school preferences through the MOE DSA-Sec portal at the later preference stage.
Read SOTA’s DSA-Sec admissions guide, preparation notes and curriculum FAQ.
After PSLE results: supplementary intake
These schools may offer a Supplementary Intake Exercise if vacancies remain. It isn’t a guaranteed second application window, and availability can differ between schools and years.
Check NUS High’s admissions FAQ, SST’s supplementary intake page and SOTA’s Talent Academy updates for the relevant intake. Pay attention to the admission year: an older vacancy notice doesn’t establish availability for 2027.