Singapore has achieved the third position in a global assessment of the most rigorous education systems worldwide. The thorough index considered multiple factors, such as the structure of the education system, the most demanding examination in the country, the level of tertiary education attainment, the most popular degree, the acceptance rate of the premier college, and the average national IQ scores. Singapore secured its place in the third position due to various reasons. The education system in Singapore is distinguished by its organized approach, beginning with six years of primary schooling, followed by four to six years of secondary education, and concluding with one to three years of post-secondary education.
The system also incorporates the challenging Singapore-Cambridge GCE A-Level exam, recognized for its stringent standards and difficult questions. In the year 2022, a total of 10,930 candidates participated in the examination, and an impressive 93.4% achieved success. Despite the nation boasting an average IQ score of 105.9, reflecting the intellectual rigor of its education system, a survey shed light on the mental health and well-being of Singaporean students. Among respondents aged 16 to 24, 63 percent acknowledged feeling increased stress or anxiety over the past year, highlighting the demanding nature of the education system.
The Ministry of Education, Singapore aims to “help students discover and make the best of their own talents, to help them realise their full potential, and develop a passion for lifelong learning”. The country has opted for a one-of-its-kind approach towards education with the core focus on ensuring holistic personal and professional growth of every individual. Broadly, the Singapore education system is divided into 4 levels, namely, Pre-School, Primary, Secondary and Post Secondary.
