Planning to apply to Kong Hwa Primary School for the 2026 Primary 1 intake? As one of Singapore’s most popular SAP schools, Kong Hwa attracts strong demand from parents. Our analysis of 2022-2024 admission data reveals key trends to help you strategize your application.
This guide examines:
✔️ Phase-by-phase competitiveness
✔️ Balloting patterns by priority group
✔️ Actionable strategies for 2025 applicants
✔️ 2025 admission predictions
Balloting Priority Codes
First, understand these key terms used in admissions:
| Code | Definition |
|---|---|
| SC<1 | Singapore Citizens living <1km |
| SC1-2 | Singapore Citizens living 1-2km |
| SC>2 | Singapore Citizens living >2km |
| PR<1 | Permanent Residents living <1km |
| PR1-2 | Permanent Residents living 1-2km |
| PR>2 | Permanent Residents living >2km |
| # | Special cases (context-dependent) |
Admission Odds (2022–2024 Data)
Applicant-to-Vacancy Ratios
How competitive is your phase?
- Example: 100 applicants for 50 spots → 100 ÷ 50 = 2.0:1 (balloting likely).
- Low ratio (e.g., 0.5:1): No balloting (fewer applicants than spots).
| Phase | 2022 Ratio | 2023 Ratio | 2024 Ratio | Balloting History |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | 0.47:1 | 0.52:1 | 0.48:1 | Never balloted |
| 2A(1) | 0.68:1 | 0.74:1 | 0.55:1 | Never balloted |
| 2B | 2.03:1 | 1.97:1 | 1.97:1 | SC<1 (all years) |
| 2C | 2.02:1 | 1.47:1 | 1.49:1 | SC<1 (all years) |
| Phase 3 | 0:1 | 0:1 | 0:1 | No vacancies since 2022 |
How to read ratios:
- Below 1.0: Fewer applicants than spots → No balloting
- Above 1.0: More applicants than spots → Balloting likely
Phase-by-Phase Analysis
1. Phase 1 (Children of Alumni)
- Ratio: Consistently below 0.6:1 (very safe)
- Trend: Stable demand year-to-year
- Strategy: Guaranteed admission if eligible
2. 2A(1) (Parents/Siblings Alumni)
- Ratio: Improved from 0.74:1 (2023) to 0.55:1 (2024)
- Trend: Becoming less competitive
- Strategy: Safe option for alumni families
3. 2B (Community/Parent Volunteers)
- Ratio: Steady at ~2:1 (highly competitive)
- Balloting: SC<1 applicants every year
- Strategy: Only viable for SC<1 families
4. 2C (Public Ballot)
- Ratio: Improved from 2.02:1 (2022) to 1.49:1 (2024)
- Balloting: SC<1 applicants every year
- Strategy: Prepare backup options
5. Phase 3 (PR/International)
- Status: No vacancies since 2022
- Prediction: Unlikely to reopen in 2025
Your Winning Strategy
By Priority Group
SC<1 Applicants:
✅ Phase 1/2A(1): Guaranteed admission
⚠️ 2B/2C: Competitive but prioritized (prepare for balloting)
SC1-2 Applicants:
✅ Phase 1/2A(1): Safe options
❌ 2B/2C: Not available (ballots only SC<1)
SC>2 Applicants:
✅ Phase 1/2A(1): Safe options
❌ Other phases: Not available
PR Applicants:
❌ No vacancies in any phase
Pro Tips for 2025 Applicants
- Distance is Key: SC<1 status gives you ballot priority in 2B/2C
- Alumni Advantage: Phase 1 and 2A(1) remain safest routes
- Volunteer Early: For 2B, complete parent volunteer requirements
- Have Backup Plans: 2C remains competitive despite ratio improvements
- Monitor Updates: Check MOE announcements for 2025 vacancies
2025 Predictions
- Phase 1/2A(1): Will remain safe for eligible applicants
- 2B: Likely to maintain ~2:1 ratio (SC<1 only)
- 2C: May see increased demand (prepare for balloting)
- Phase 3: Expected to remain closed
Strategic Insight: Kong Hwa’s 2C has become slightly less competitive since 2022, but still requires balloting for SC<1 applicants.
Key Takeaways
✔️ Alumni-related phases (1 & 2A1) offer guaranteed admission
✔️ 2B/2C remain competitive but manageable for SC<1 families
✔️ PR applicants should consider alternative schools
✔️ Early planning improves success chances
Final Advice: If you’re SC<1, apply through Phase 1 or 2A(1) first before trying competitive phases. For others, focus on improving your priority status through alumni connections or relocation.
Plan smart and secure your child’s place at Kong Hwa Primary! 🎓