Planning to apply to Maha Bodhi School for the 2026 Primary 1 intake? This popular Buddhist co-ed school shows rising demand in Phase 2C, with competitive odds for certain priority groups. Our 2022–2024 admission analysis reveals key trends to help you strategize.
Balloting Priority Codes
Before diving into trends, here’s a quick reference for priority groups:
| 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 |
Admission Odds (2022–2024 Data)
Applicant-to-Vacancy Ratios
How competitive is your phase?
- Example: 100 applicants for 50 spots → 2.0:1 (balloting likely)
- Low ratio (0.5:1): No balloting (fewer applicants than spots)
| Phase | 2022 Ratio | 2023 Ratio | 2024 Ratio | Balloting History |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | 0.49:1 | 0.52:1 | 0.48:1 | Never balloted |
| 2A(1) | 0.64:1 | 0.77:1 | 0.62:1 | Never balloted |
| 2B | 0.89:1 | 1.40:1 | 1.00:1 | SC>2km (2023) |
| 2C | 1.44:1 | 1.30:1 | 1.26:1 | SC<1km (all years) |
Ratios calculated as Applied ÷ Vacancy
Your Winning Strategy
By Priority Group
✅ SC <1km:
- Phase 1/2A(1): Guaranteed admission
- 2B: Safe (except 2023, SC>2km balloted)
- ⚠️ 2C: Highly competitive (balloted yearly)
🎲 SC 1–2km:
- Phase 1/2A(1): Safe
- 2B: Risky (1.40:1 in 2023)
- ❌ 2C: No vacancies (priority to <1km)
❌ SC >2km:
- Phase 1/2A(1): Safe
- ⚠️ 2B: Balloted in 2023 (1.40:1)
- ❌ 2C: No chance
❌ PR Applicants:
- No vacancies since 2022
Key Observations
✔ Phase 2C is the most competitive, with consistent balloting for <1km applicants.
✔ 2B saw a spike in 2023 (1.40:1), making it risky for SC>2km.
✔ Distance is critical—<1km gives the best odds in 2C.
Pro Tips
1️⃣ Target Early Phases First
- Phase 1 & 2A(1) are safest (ratios <1:1).
- 2B is volatile—have a backup plan.
2️⃣ Optimize Distance for 2C
- <1km is essential for 2C success.
- Consider relocating if applying in 2C.
3️⃣ Monitor 2B Trends
- 2023 was unusually competitive—could repeat in 2025.
2025 Prediction
🔹 Phase 1/2A(1): No balloting expected
🔹 2B: Could tighten again (watch SC>2km)
🔹 2C: Will remain competitive (<1km only)
Key Terminology
- Citizenship Priority: SC > PR
- Distance Priority: <1km → 1–2km → >2km
Note: Total vacancies have remained steady at 330 spots, with 2C offering 63–79 spots annually.
Strategic planning is key—secure your child’s spot at Maha Bodhi School! 🚀