Direct School Admission

Apply for DSA at Ang Mo Kio Secondary School in performing arts or sports. Applications open from 6 May to 2 June 2026.

Last updated 10 July 2026

Ang Mo Kio Secondary School Direct School Admission Exercise - For admission to Secondary 1 in 2027

Direct School Admission (DSA) is an MOE initiative designed to give selected schools greater flexibility in student admission, so that a more diverse range of student achievements and talents can be recognised.

In April 2008, MOE approved the school’s application for niche development in the area of Symphonic Band. Since then, Ang Mo Kio Secondary School (AMKSS) has been offering discretionary admission to talented band students who displayed the passion for band music. With the introduction of the Learning for Life Programme (LLP) in Arts Education, AMKSS has offered DSA places for a wider range of performing arts from 2017. From 2019, we have broadened our DSA offerings to include the area of Sports as well. Up to 20% of the Secondary One vacancies will be offered for DSA places for Concert Band, Choir, Modern Dance, Malay Dance, English Drama, Badminton, Basketball, Football, Netball and Volleyball.

In line with the school’s belief to provide a balanced and holistic education, the Co-Curricular Programmes have been designed to allow our students to experience an enriching learning journey over the four years in school, and to challenge each member to attain greater heights in their chosen interest/talent area in performing arts or sports.

Concert Band

Ang Mo Kio Secondary School Concert Band was first founded in the 1980s as a military band. It was converted to a symphonic band in 2001 and has a current strength of over 100 members. The Band has achieved Gold Awards and Certificates of Distinction for consecutive SYF Arts Presentation since 2005 till present.

Over the years, the band has enthralled the public with different genres of music catering to different audiences at various performance venues such as Esplanade Concert Hall and Victoria Concert Hall, as well as Singapore Botanic Gardens. In 2018, the Band collaborated with NParks to bring arts to the community by performing at the Gardens by the Bay for the Singapore Garden Festival and also at Artists’ Night Out at Dhoby Ghaut Green during the Singapore Night Festival. In addition, the Band had the privilege to perform at Istana during the National Day Open House in 2017 as well as participated in various SYF events, such as the Parade of Bands (2026) and SYF Celebrations - Festival Concert at Esplanade Theatre (2019). In 2022 and 2023, the Band had the opportunity to give back to the surrounding community through their performances at the National Day Observance Ceremony at Kebun Baru Community Club. In 2024 and 2026, as part of Esplanade’s Limelight series, the AMKSS Concert Band was invited to perform at the Esplanade Concert Hall. This series is part of Esplanade’s efforts to recognise some of the best symphonic bands in Singapore. The Band also had the chance to be part of the National Day Parade 2024 and participated alongside several other secondary schools and the Singapore Armed Forces Band in the parade itself. In addition, the band also had the chance to support the community, supporting our alumni, the Ang Mo Kio Social Move in their charity gala in 2025, as well as support younger musicians such as from Anderson Secondary School by mentoring them for their SYF Arts Presentation 2026.

Our comprehensive band programme aims to instil a passion for music-making in every member and inculcate lifelong learning in music appreciation. Besides acquiring the skills of playing an instrument, all band members will undergo music theory lessons such that they complement the learning and playing of band music. Our programme also seeks to provide band members with an enriching band experience through concerts, public performances, band exchanges with local and foreign school bands and appreciating music in general to encourage lifelong learning in arts.

Large youth band in green uniforms posed on a curved wooden concert hall stage with instruments and music stands.

DSA

Concert Band

Pass audition and interview.
Relevant instrumental skills in primary school bands and string ensembles.
For the auditions, all applicants must prepare the following:
- 2 pieces of music (1-2 min each) of his/her choice on the instrument in his/her talent area.
- Major scales of at least 1 octave: Concert F, Bb, Eb and Ab (For all instruments except non-pitched percussion instruments).
Candidates must be able to imitate melodies and rhythms given by the instructor/teacher.
Candidates will also be given a short piece of Sec 1 music to sight-read.
Applicants must bring their own instrument and choice piece of music for the audition. Only keyboard and percussion instruments will be provided by the school.
Exemplify positive character traits, including resilience, motivation and integrity.
*Please note that meeting all the criteria does not guarantee the student will be shortlisted/given an offer

Choir

The 40-strong versatile Ang Mo Kio Secondary School SAB/SATB Choir achieved a Certificate of Distinction and Certificates of Accomplishment in Singapore Youth Festival (SYF) Arts Presentations in 2019, 2023 and 2025 respectively, while participating under Special Consideration in the emerging post-COVID-19 SYF 2021.

To hone our students’ public skills and enable them to share their love of music with the community, the choir enthusiastically volunteers to perform on various platforms; including choral exchanges with other schools, community and school events. Opportunities to upskill are explored through vocal workshops, master classes, musical performances and concerts every year.

The Choir shares its talents in support of various school events such as Awards Day, AMKsian Showcase and our school’s biennial event, the Night of Music, Arts and Dance (NOMAD). Prior to the COVID-19 years, the Choir held joint concert performances at public venues, such as “The Reason We Sing” and “The Reason We Sing II” with other school choirs as well as the Voices of Singapore Festival at CHIJmes in 2019.

Besides singing, the Choir’s Executive Committee, under the guidance of the Choir Teachers and Mistresses, organises activities to instill, develop and promote self-discipline, teamwork, confidence and commitment in our choristers. Every chorister has a responsibility to serve both the Choir and the community; as led by the Choir's Executive Committee based on our philosophy that every AMKsian Chorister "Ever Strives Upwards - Semper Superne Nitens!"

DSA

Choir

Pass audition and interview.
For the auditions, applicants must prepare the following:
- Sing one piece of music (1-2 min) of his/her choice, from the choral, classical or musical theatre genres - to be sung with/ without accompaniment.
- Sing ‘Happy Birthday’ acapella (without accompaniment).
Candidates must be able to imitate or respond to notes and rhythms according to instructions given by the instructor/ teacher.
Representation in SYF Arts Choral Presentation or representation in choral festival competitions.
A background in music theory (preferably at Grade 3 level or higher), or other musical qualifications (such as playing instruments like the piano or violin).
Member of school choir
Exemplify positive character traits, including resilience, motivation and integrity.
*Please note that meeting all the criteria does not guarantee the student will be shortlisted/given an offer

Dance Club

The Dance Club specialises in two categories of dance: Modern and Malay Dance. There are two instructors who coach the students in the technical and artistic aspects of dance. Through our yearly dance auditions conducted at the start of the year, we hope to recruit members who are passionate about dance and are committed to undergoing rigorous training to build their flexibility, physical strength, and stamina.

The Modern Dance group strives to nurture and develop versatile performers. Through dance, students are empowered to express their emotions and personal stories through movement and rhythm. The dance group achieved the Certificate of Distinction in 2015, 2019, 2021, and 2023, and the Certificate of Accomplishment in 2017 at the Singapore Youth Festival (SYF) Arts Presentation. The group also had the honour of performing at the SYF Opening Concert at Esplanade in 2016, the Istana Open House in 2022, the Kebun Baru National Day Observance Ceremony in 2023 and SENSES 2024: The Dance Phenomenon at Sentosa Sensoryscape in 2024.

The Malay Dance group consists of an exuberant group of students with a passion for Malay Dance. We provide opportunities for students to learn and appreciate Malay dance and culture. We aim to develop our students into graceful dancers and disciplined individuals. The group achieved the Certificate of Distinction in 2015, 2017, 2023 and 2025, and the Certificate of Accomplishment in 2019 and 2021 at the SYF Arts Presentation.

Through our dance programmes such as Schools Dance Exchange, we provide our students with opportunities to learn from other instructors as well as dancers from other schools. These programmes help build confidence in our students when performing on stage. Besides showcasing their skills to a variety of audiences, they are also trained to think critically about artistic works; relate aesthetically, affectively, and cognitively to the dance art form and its contexts; and explore and experiment with the art form.

Large dance group in matching gray outfits posing together, holding colorful signs reading "We Love Dance."

Group of performers in gold and purple traditional costumes with ornate headwear dancing on a stage.

DSA

Modern Dance

All applicants will go through an audition and interview session.
For the audition, all applicants will be required to prepare a solo piece of not more than 2 minutes. Please ensure that the music for audition is saved in a thumb drive or handphone. Applicants may choose to perform a piece from any dance genre. E.g. ballet, contemporary, jazz, street, lyrical, swing, tap, hip-hop, fusion.
In the second segment, shortlisted applicants will then be invited to follow our resident choreographer through a short piece of choreography
- All applicants should audition in the dance gear and footwear suitable to their dance genre for the first segment. Applicants are required to bring their own music to accompany the dance. Audio can be played through mobile phones. Props are allowed if necessary.
- For the second segment of the audition, applicants are required to be in leotards and tights for girls; and T-shirt and track pants for boys.
Preferably a member of a dance club in primary school
Representation in SYF Arts Presentation / Accomplishment at National level
Exemplify positive character traits, including resilience, motivation and integrity
*Please note that meeting all the criteria does not guarantee the student will be shortlisted/given an offer

DSA

Malay Dance

All applicants will go through an audition and interview session.
For the auditions, all applicants must prepare a 1-2 min dance solo(s). Applicants must choose a music that suits the dance piece. Please ensure that the music for audition is saved in a thumb drive or handphone. Applicants may choose to perform a piece from any of the 5 basic Malay dance genres. e.g. Inang, Asli, Joget, Zapin, Masri.
Students may perform dance(s) learnt in school (e.g. CCA, LLP) or self-choreographed pieces and should be in PE t-shirt and track pants. Props are allowed if necessary.
In the second segment, applicants will then be invited to follow our resident choreographer through a short piece of choreography. Students will be taught a very brief dance sequence by the instructor and have him/her reproduce it or perform a personal interpretation of it.
Preferably a member of a dance club in primary school.
Representation in SYF Arts Presentation / Accomplishment at National level
Exemplify positive character traits, including resilience, motivation and integrity
*Please note that meeting all the criteria does not guarantee the student will be shortlisted/given an offer

English Drama

The Ang Mo Kio Secondary School Drama Club provides students with a platform to express their creativity, imagination, and teamwork through performance and stagecraft. Members learn to take on both acting and backstage roles, gaining valuable skills in communication, collaboration, and problem-solving.

In 2025, the club had an eventful and meaningful year. Members showcased their talents at the Singapore Youth Festival (SYF), earning a Certificate of Accomplishment for their hard work, discipline, and creativity. They also performed during the school’s National Day celebration, presenting a heartfelt piece inspired by the legend of Redhill, which highlighted themes of courage and sacrifice.

Beyond the school, members performed at the Ang Mo Kio Public Library, where they brought to life well-loved Singaporean myths such as Kusu Island, Sang Nila Utama, Redhill, and Radin Mas. Through these performances, students deepened their appreciation of local culture while sharing meaningful stories with the community.

Three performers in costumes act on a small stage before a seated audience, with "NLB 30" letters on the wall.

A group of young performers on a dark stage, with one person standing center while others pose around them.

DSA

English Drama

All applications will be required to go through an interview and audition. The following will be tested:
- Acting & Characterisation,
- Voice,
- Improvisation,
- Stage Presence.

Please prepare a 3 to 5 minutes solo performance of either:
- a piece meant for only 1 performer (i.e. a monologue) OR
- a piece meant for 2 or more performers but- with only 1 character chosen for the performance OR
- a piece meant for 2 or more performers but with the same student performing different characters.
- Students may perform something scripted, devised, or improvised, and can be something learnt in school (in class or CCA). Students preparing their own performance can search for scripts of fairy tale or folk tale adaptations online or create these themselves.

For the second part of the audition, students are to respond to a task which involves taking up a character role in a relatable scenario (eg meeting a schoolmate at the supermarket) with brief preparation time given (max 5 mins). Feedback will be given after the students’ first attempt for them to attempt a second time.

Applicants with drama background and performance experience will be preferred. Do reference prior performance experience, or theatre performance you have watched.

Exemplify positive character traits, including resilience, motivation and integrity.
*Please note that meeting all the criteria does not guarantee the student will be shortlisted/given an offer

Badminton

Badminton – referred to by some as ‘The Fastest Racquet Sport in the World’ – requires agility, power, mental and physical prowess as well as endurance. Badminton places tremendous demands on those who practise the sport.

Ang Mo Kio Secondary School has made a name for herself in this tough but satisfying sport which hones delicate wrist-work skills, nimble footwork, and perseverance. Team AMKSS trains thrice a week in order to help the students build badminton skills as well as their grit and persistence in getting things right.

Over the years, our team has consistently made our presence felt in the South Zone Inter School Badminton Tournament. In 2018, our B Division Boys and Girls fought hard to clinch third position. The following year, our B Division Girls achieved fourth position. In 2021, our B Girls finished third and in 2022, emerged second in the South Zone Badminton Competition. In 2024, the B Division team fought hard, and the boys made it into the quarter-finals of the National School Games (NSG) South Zone Championship. In 2025, we are proud to announce that both the C Division Boys and Girls Badminton Teams have emerged as champions of League 4 and League 3, respectively. Despite facing challenges along the way, the teams’ determination and perseverance shone through, resulting in commendable achievements. Against a group of strong opponents, the boys learnt perseverance and resilience as they stood their ground and gave their best. The experience was an enriching and meaningful one for them.

Team AMKSS seeks opportunities that enable our players and leaders to plan, organise and implement a variety of programmes to benefit both the school and community. Annually, we organise a primary school badminton competition, the “AMKSS Invitational”, to promote the sport, encourage friendly sparring and help raise the standards of the sport amongst primary school students. In addition, players assist in the coaching of students in Ang Mo Kio Primary School as part of our partnership and outreach efforts with our community.

Group of students in red uniforms holding gold medals and an Ang Mo Kio Secondary School flag in a gymnasium.

Group of boys in blue uniforms holding gold medals and a trophy, posing with an Ang Mo Kio Secondary School flag.

Volleyball

Established in 1999, the Ang Mo Kio Volleyball Team has grown from humble beginnings into a formidable force in both the South Zone and National competitions. Over the years, our teams have consistently outperformed expectations, earning a reputation for grit, skill, and determination.

In 2019, our B Division Girls and Boys emerged 2nd and 4th respectively in the Zonal Championships. Our B Division Girls clinched 3rd place in 2021 and went on to become runners-up in the 2022 South Zone Championships. In 2023, our C Division Boys secured a 4th place finish in the South Zone, while in 2024, both our C Division Boys and C Division Girls emerged as runners-up in their respective leagues at the National School Games.

The success of our programme extends beyond the school level. Over the years, AMKSS has proudly nurtured players who have gone on to don national colours. In 2018, Seah Yun Zhen Desiree was selected to represent Singapore at the ASEAN Schools Games, while Alicia Tan Kai Yun (Class of 2017) represented Singapore at the Asian U19 Beach Volleyball Championships in Thailand. Most recently, in 2023, Nadja Kim Schmidt (Class of 2021) competed in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games as part of the national team.

Volleyball at AMKSS is more than just training and competition. We are committed to developing our students’ skills, passion, and love for the game, while instilling core values of teamwork, discipline, and resilience. Our goal is to build not only strong players, but strong individuals who carry these values with them both on and off the court.

A youth volleyball team in red jerseys poses with medals and a trophy inside a sports hall.

A large group of students in sports uniforms form a heart shape on an indoor basketball court.

A girls volleyball team in black uniforms poses indoors holding medals and a trophy on a wooden court.

Football (Boys)

Football, often known as “The Beautiful Game”, is enjoyed by millions around the world—and this passion is equally evident at Ang Mo Kio Secondary School (AMKSS). Over the years, AMKSS Football has grown from strength to strength, building a strong reputation for nurturing talented players who have gone on to compete at the highest levels both locally and overseas. Notable alumni include Singapore National Team players Shakir Hamzah and Zulfahmi Arifin, who began their football journeys at AMKSS. Both were part of the Young Lions squad in 2009 and 2010 respectively, and have since progressed to represent the Singapore National Team, as well as play in professional leagues across the region.

At AMKSS, the Football programme places strong emphasis on discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship in every aspect of training. These core values form the foundation of the programme, as the team firmly believes that character development is just as important as athletic performance.

For the C Division team, the focus is on developing and sharpening technical skills. This stage allows athletes to build on the fundamentals acquired in primary school through structured drills and purposeful practice sessions.

Over the years, the B Division Football team has consistently performed well, achieving Top 4 placings in the South Zone Competitions 2016 and 2019. In 2026, the team continued this strong tradition by progressing all the way to the Finals of the League 3 Championship, further affirming their competitive strength and resilience.

Beyond competitions, AMKSS Football actively collaborates with partner primary schools such as Anderson Primary School. Through joint training sessions and clinics conducted by school coaches, AMKSS players mentor and guide younger students. This initiative not only strengthens leadership and communication skills among our players but also fosters meaningful connections and inspires the next generation. It also serves as a valuable opportunity for our students to give back to the community.

The team trains up to three times a week, focusing on developing both technical competencies and mental resilience. The AMKSS Football programme aims to nurture well-rounded student-athletes while sustaining their passion for the sport, with the hope of inspiring a lifelong interest in football.

Twelve teenage boys in dark red soccer uniforms pose together on a green turf field near school buildings.

A group of young male soccer players posing together on a green field with school buildings in the background.

Basketball (Boys)

Basketball was reinstated as a full CCA in 2016. Having previously been offered as a second CCA for many years, the school began developing players from Secondary 1 due to the overwhelming interest shown by students.

The Basketball CCA emphasises the values of sportsmanship, fair play, respect and excellence, equipping our student-athletes with the mindset and character needed to perform both on and off the court. Through training sessions held twice a week, students develop fundamental basketball skills, physical fitness, tactical awareness and mental resilience to overcome challenges in competition and in life.

Our basketball programme provides students with numerous opportunities to grow through friendly matches, mini-competitions and inter-school engagements, fostering camaraderie within the basketball community while sharpening our players’ competitive edge.

Since the introduction of the national league system in 2024, our C Division Boys have demonstrated remarkable progress and determination. Beginning in League 5 in 2024, the team achieved an impressive 4th place finish in their debut season. In 2025, they earned promotion to League 4 and emerged as league champions, securing another promotion to League 3 for the 2026 season. The team also added to their achievements by being crowned champions of the 2025 Yuying Cup.

As we continue striving for excellence, our basketball programme remains committed to developing skilled players, confident leaders and resilient individuals with a lifelong passion for the sport.

A youth basketball team in black uniforms poses with medals on an indoor court, with the Singapore flag visible behind them.

A youth basketball team in white uniforms poses with medals, a trophy, and coaches inside an indoor court.

Netball (Girls)

At Ang Mo Kio Secondary School, netball is not just a sport but it strives to nurture students in personal growth in terms of character building and technical skills.

Our Netball CCA emphasises the values of sportsmanship, fair play, and respect above all else. We believe in nurturing not only talented athletes but also responsible and resilient individuals who embody these principles on and off the court.

In recent years, our netballers have clinched top positions in a very challenging South Zone National School Games (Netball) which boasts many of the netball powerhouses in Singapore. In 2023, our C Division team emerged as second runner up and in 2024, the B Division team secured fourth position in the South Zone competition.

Beyond competitive play, our netball programme is committed to giving back to the community. We expose our girls to planning and organising outreach initiatives such as school partnerships through netball carnivals and coaching of primary school students from Mayflower Primary School.

Our training programme goes beyond skills acquisition; it encourages players to think independently and creatively. By empowering them to express their opinions and explore alternative strategies, we foster a sense of confidence and adaptability that translates into effective decision-making on the court and in life. One can benefit from expert coaching, rigorous training sessions and competitive opportunities such as carnivals, friendlies with other schools that elevate students’ potential on court. Our CCA hopes to develop fine young ladies who are ready to meet the challenges they will face in life long after they leave the court.

Group of school girls in green skirts and white shirts posing with a trophy and medals outside a school building.

DSA

Badminton, Basketball, Football, Netball & Volleyball

School team Players or its equivalent in primary school
Applicants must pass a sports specific selection test
- Applicants must display necessary game specific skills (Technique, agility, speed) required for the chosen sport.
- Applicants must also display tactical awareness in game situations.
Show the ability to work in teams.
Awards/Accomplishments in relevant areas.
Good track record of performance in CCA or relevant external involvement.
Participation in inter-school and/or International Competitions.
Applicants must also pass an interview.
Exemplify positive character traits, including resilience, motivation and integrity.
*Please note that meeting all the criteria does not guarantee the student will be shortlisted/given an offer

Application Procedure

1. Application for DSA-Sec can be submitted through the online DSA-Sec Portal. The application is free-of-charge and will be open from 6 May 2026, 11.00 am to 2 June 2026, 4.30pm. For more details, please refer to MOE Website (opens in new tab).

2. Parents and students are encouraged to choose schools wisely based on the student’s aptitudes and strengths, bearing in mind the schools’ academic and non-academic requirements, and the programmes available to develop the area of talent.

3. Applicants who do not have prior experience may also apply and will be assessed based on their potential.

4. You will receive notification from the school by 31 July 2026 if your child has been shortlisted to undergo Direct School Admission (DSA) selection. The shortlisted applicants will be informed of the day and time of their trial session at least 2 weeks in advance and latest by 31 July 2026. .

5. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for a one-day face-to-face interview and audition/trial in our school from 20 July 2026 to 14 August 2026.

6. All applicants will receive their application outcomes between 17 and 28 Aug 2026.

7. Students who are successfully admitted to the school via DSA are expected to honour their commitment to the school and participate in the activities related to the talent they are selected for from year 1-4.

8. Meeting all the criteria does not guarantee the student will be shortlisted/given an offer.

For further clarifications, you may contact any of the following staff:

For Sports matters:

Mr. K Thanaraj
thanaraj_kalliya_perumal@moe.edu.sg (opens in new tab)
Tel: 64548605 (Ext 811)

For Performing Arts matters:

Ms Cheryl Ang
cheryl_ang@moe.edu.sg (opens in new tab)
Tel: 64548605 (Ext 863)

For Admin matters:

Ms Leona Cheong
Leona_CHEONG@schools.gov.sg (opens in new tab)
Tel: 64548605 (Ext 803)