Direct School Admission (DSA) 2025

Direct School Admission (Background)

The DSA-Sec Exercise was first introduced in 2004 as part of MOE’s move towards a more flexible and broad-based education system. Under the DSA-Sec Exercise, schools will be able to select a percentage of their students for admission outside of the centralised posting system, via their own selection criteria. 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.

Direct School Admission @ Canberra Secondary School

Canberra Secondary School welcomes prospective students who demonstrate talent, passion and potential in the following talent categories:

1. Digital Media and Visual Arts (DMA)  – Media Arts / Film / Photography

2. Robotics

3. Badminton

4. Volleyball

Our Selection Criteria:

• Talent and Aptitude: Applicants should demonstrate strong ability and/or potential in their chosen talent area through past achievements, experience, or during selection trials/auditions.

• Character and Values: Applicants should exhibit good conduct, positive learning attitudes, and strong character traits that align with our school values.

• Leadership Potential: Applicants should show the capacity to lead and serve others, demonstrating initiative and responsibility.

• Academic Readiness: While academic excellence is not the primary criterion, applicants should demonstrate the ability to manage both their talent development and academic studies effectively.

Successful applicants will join Canberra Secondary School in January 2026. Students who are keen to apply should possess a strong level of motivation and commitment to their chosen talent area. While achievement and mastery in their chosen area is important, we are also looking for students who display strong potential for growth. Our DSA talents should demonstrate the mindset and learning disposition to thrive in all aspects of school life at Canberra Secondary.

Students admitted via DSA will benefit from training and guidance by professional coaches and experienced CCA Teachers-in-charge. The school is committed to providing quality programmes, activities and opportunities for DSA students to develop their talents and represent the school in competitions. Beyond talent development, we will closely support and motivate students to achieve academic excellence.

Successful DSA candidates are expected to:

• Honour their commitment to the school from Secondary 1 to 4

• Actively participate in activities related to their talent area

• Maintain good academic progress and conduct

• Contribute to the school community

Parents and students are encouraged to make informed choices based on:

• The student's aptitude and strengths

• The school's academic and non-academic requirements

• The available programmes for talent development

• The student's ability to cope with the school's curriculum

We welcome students who demonstrate not just achievement, but also potential, motivation, and the right learning disposition to grow with us at Canberra Secondary School.