Committee of Supply 2025 debate, Day 5: Chan Chun Sing on revised JC admission criteria and JC rejuvenation

From 2028, students seeking admission into junior colleges (JCs) will be assessed based on five O-Level subjects instead of six. This will allow them to take fewer subjects or opt for some at a less demanding level, freeing up time to pursue their own interests and discover new strengths. Education Minister Chan Chun Sing made the announcement in parliament on Thursday (Mar 6). He assured the House that this does not mean the criteria for JC admission is being loosened. The requirement for language and three subjects in the humanities, mathematics and science is being retained. Nor are the criteria being tightened. Students will need a gross aggregate score of 16 points, rather than 20, to get into JC. Mr Chan said that based on his ministry’s simulations, a similar proportion of students will continue to qualify for JC. Meanwhile, four more old JCs - Anglo-Chinese, Catholic, National and Victoria - are to be rejuvenated, which may include moving them to new locations. The minister also revealed that the new campus of the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) will be at the former site of Rochor Centre. To be ready by the mid-2030s, this consolidated city campus will accommodate SUSS’ growing enrolment and be easily accessible to learners of all ages.