DS graduated last year with CS honours, so I hope I could contribute some numbers (beyond what can be read from the Programme of Studies) for all who are interested in NUS High CS programme.


Only CS1131 is compulsory for all students, one needs to get a “C” grade to take CS2***. Only CS CAP>=4.0 can take CS as 4th Major in Yr 4. And fewer can proceed to honours programme.

For DS cohort, it was 166 (Yr1), 129 (Yr2), 76 (Yr3), 24 (Yr4-6 – CS Major) and I think less than 10 took CS honours. (these numbers are for reference only, it varies from year to year).

It is true that only NUS High can offer an early start for CS studies (up to 2/3 modules at Uni Yr1/2 level). This is the same for all other Science subjects (Math, Physics, Biology & Chemistry). Just let your DS/DD explore and follow their passion.

First of all, promotion CAP of 2.5 is an average of Core and Elective Modules. For one not to be promoted (to repeat), this student is scoring less than C+ (Grade Point 2.5) on the average for all modules.


I have not seen it on paper that Grade C+ (Grade Point 2.5) is 65%. I think it is too high. Based on earlier postings, working downwards, 80-85% score is A, 5% each grade, C+ should be 55-60%. But no one knows for sure.

NUS High doesn’t release overall student’s performance data. You can only get a peek from the convocation booklet listing of High Distinction, Distinction & so on. As you can see, most of them did well and they are some didn’t do so well. This is expected as this happened in all schools.

There are students who won multiple International & National Olympiads, won almost all the possible book prizes, took more than 1 honours program, awarded scholarships, and still exhibit strong student leadership and super active in CCAs. But there are also a number of students who need to repeat, these numbers are small (0 to a few). We only know when these seniors join class at the beginning of the year.

For those who have gotten COs, you should know by now NUS High selects students based on their keenness in Math & Science, because without that, the students may find it tough to take such high dosage of Math & Science syllabus for the next 6 years. You should trust NUS High judgement and take up the offer.

NUS High assessment of student performance is accumulative, regularly tested and assessed and all goes into the computation of their CAP. And it is an average score, if you didn’t do so well now, you will be spurred to work harder. If a student is in trouble, it will be picked up very early. As compared to O & A Levels track, where your final assessment is based on 1 sitting.

Depending on your DS/DD situation, parents must keep a close watch, and if necessary work closely with the school to resolve any problem faced by your DS/DD.

NUS High program of study is also very flexible, you can take a minimal 1 Math & 2 Sciences up to multiple honours. The trick is not to take more than what you can swallow and ended up suffer with poor performance.

My DS dislikes Olympiad, doesn’t want that much of Physics, not anywhere among the top, but he found his niche in Comp Sc. and he can dig deep into what he is keen, much more than other schools can offer. He found somewhere, something he can shine.

NUS High is about “Experiments -> Explores -> Excels”.

Average Graduation CAP scores for the past several years:

High Distinction (CAP = 4.5 – 5.0) = 50%
Distinction (CAP = 4.0 – 4.4) = 29%
Merit (CAP = 3.0 – 3.9) & Pass (CAP = 2.5 – 2.9) = 21%

myrick88\" post_id=\"1949076\" time=\"1574661635\" user_id=\"6175:

Racing Mario\" post_id=\"1949051\" time=\"1574659542\" user_id=\"137103:[quote=\"Racing Mario\" post_id=1949051 time=1574659542 user_id=137103]For NUS High \"In-house\" 3rd Lang, Chinese & Malay is free. French & Japanese is payable.

Ok, actually I am interested in Malay.

But will the marks pull down his score? Is it counted toward his year end result?[/quote]

It cuts both ways as the CAP (Cumulative Average Point) is an accumulative score of all subjects taken.
If you can score better in 3rd Lang than other subject(s), it will pull up your overall CAP score.
If you score lower in 3rd Lang compared to other subject(s), it will pull down overall CAP score.
Advice: test out for Year 1 and decide later if you want to continue.

For NUS High "In-house" 3rd Lang, Chinese & Malay is free. French & Japanese is payable.

Year 1 Physics Textbook for sale:

Good as new condition Glencoe Physics (Principles and Problems) McGraw-Hill (ISBN: 9780021419517) for $40 (Original Price $85)
PM me if interested.

I have come across a similar case. The student was rejected by NUSH during DSA round 1 but was subsequently accepted via SIE. The outcome after one year of study at NUSH - he did better than many selected through DSA.


I daresay what is more important is a student’s attitude (willingness to learn & interest in Math & Science) as well as consistency whilst going through the NUSH programme. Also, there are many paths (electives, 3rd Lang., Olympiads, CCAs, subject majors, honours & etc) to choose from. One has to choose wisely, seek advice, don’t take more than he/she can handle. All the best to your DS.

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Don't miss out on NUS High School of Math & Science Open House this coming Saturday (9-Apr-16)