Understanding the Shift to the 70 RP University Admission Score

The Singapore higher education landscape underwent a significant change for the Academic Year 2026 admissions cycle. Local autonomous universities, including the National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), and Singapore Management University (SMU), transitioned to a revised University Admission Score (UAS) computation capped at a maximum of 70 rank points. This replaced the previous 90-point scale that had been in place for many years.

The new system bases the UAS primarily on a student’s three best H2 content-based subjects and General Paper (GP). Project Work is now assessed on a pass/fail basis and no longer contributes points. H1 subjects or Mother Tongue Language may be included only if they improve the overall score, with the total then rebased to the 70-point scale. This compression of the scoring range has altered how applicants are ranked and compared.

Why the 70 RP System Has Led to Heightened Competition at NUS

With the maximum score reduced from 90 to 70, the distribution of applicants has become more tightly clustered at the upper end. Students who previously might have been distinguished by finer gradations on the old scale now compete within a narrower band. NUS, as one of Singapore’s most sought-after institutions, has seen a noticeable increase in rejections for popular programmes even among those achieving high scores under the new metric.

Indicative Grade Profiles (IGPs) published by NUS for the AY2026/2027 exercise provide benchmarks based on the 10th and 90th percentiles of successful A-Level applicants. These profiles reflect the competitive reality where even strong performers may not secure offers in oversubscribed courses without additional strengths in portfolios, interviews, or demonstrated course fit.

Student Discussions and Reactions on Platforms Like Reddit

Following the release of A-Level results and subsequent NUS offers, online forums have been active with threads analysing outcomes. Students have shared experiences of receiving rejections despite scores in the upper 60s or at the maximum 70 RP, prompting questions about the role of non-academic factors. Discussions often centre on the unpredictability of the first year under the revised system and the need for strategic application choices across multiple universities.

Many applicants note that the change has shifted emphasis toward holistic elements such as personal statements, co-curricular achievements, and alignment with specific programme requirements. This has sparked broader conversations about preparation strategies for future cycles.

Official Guidance from NUS and the Ministry of Education

NUS admissions pages detail the requirements for Singapore-Cambridge GCE A-Level holders applying from AY2026 onwards. The university continues to use IGPs as reference points while stressing that meeting a particular percentile does not guarantee admission due to limited places and the holistic review process.

The Ministry of Education has provided FAQs on the revised UAS computation, clarifying rules for different cohorts and confirming that the 70-point scale applies uniformly for AY2026 and AY2027 admissions. Applicants from earlier examination years have their scores proportionately adjusted where necessary.

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Impact on Popular Programmes and Alternative Pathways

High-demand courses at NUS, such as those in business, law, medicine, and engineering, have seen particularly intense competition. The compressed scoring has meant that marginal differences in subject combinations or the inclusion of additional subjects can influence outcomes more visibly than before.

Students who do not receive NUS offers have explored options at NTU, SMU, Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT), Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS), and Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD). Polytechnic pathways and direct admissions exercises also remain viable routes for those seeking to strengthen their profiles through work experience or further qualifications.

The Role of Portfolios, Interviews, and Course Fit

Under the new framework, universities place greater weight on elements beyond raw UAS. NUS and peer institutions evaluate applicants on demonstrated interest in the chosen field, leadership experiences, research involvement, and performance in interviews or aptitude tests where required. This approach aims to identify candidates who will thrive in the programme and contribute to the university community.

Applicants are encouraged to research programme-specific requirements early and prepare supporting materials that highlight relevant skills and motivations. Many successful candidates in the 2026 cycle combined strong academic results with compelling evidence of fit.

Broader Implications for Singapore’s Higher Education Sector

The introduction of the 70 RP system is part of ongoing efforts to refine admissions processes in response to evolving educational landscapes. It aligns with a move toward more holistic evaluation while maintaining academic rigour. Other autonomous universities have adopted similar UAS computations, creating a more consistent framework across institutions.

Stakeholders, including educators and career counsellors, are observing how the change affects student well-being, application strategies, and long-term planning. Early feedback suggests increased awareness of the importance of diversified university choices and supplementary strengths.

Advice for Future Applicants and Current Students

Those preparing for upcoming A-Level examinations or planning applications should familiarise themselves with the UAS formula and consult official IGP data from NUS and other universities. Building a strong portfolio through meaningful co-curricular activities, internships, or community involvement can differentiate applications.

Strategic use of the Joint Admissions Exercise and consideration of less competitive but high-quality programmes at various institutions can improve outcomes. Resources such as university admissions websites and counselling services provide detailed guidance on subject selection and application timelines.

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Looking Ahead: Refinements and Future Cycles

As the 70 RP system matures beyond its inaugural year, universities are expected to refine selection criteria based on data from the 2026 cycle. Continued transparency through updated IGPs and applicant feedback will help clarify expectations.

The Ministry of Education and institutions like NUS remain committed to fair, merit-based admissions that support Singapore’s knowledge economy. Students, parents, and educators are advised to stay informed through official channels as policies evolve.

Resources for Further Information

Prospective students can access detailed admissions criteria, scholarship information, and IGP tables directly from university portals. Career guidance offices in junior colleges and polytechnics also offer support tailored to the revised system.