Planning to apply to Maris Stella High School (Primary) for the 2026 Primary 1 intake? As one of Singapore’s premier boys’ schools, admission is highly competitive, especially in later phases. Our 2022–2024 balloting analysis reveals crucial trends to help you strategize effectively.
Balloting Priority Codes
Understanding admission priorities is key:
| 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
Competitiveness indicator (Applied ÷ Vacancy):
- <1.0:1 = Safe (no balloting)
- >1.0:1 = Competitive (balloting likely)
| Phase | 2022 Ratio | 2023 Ratio | 2024 Ratio | Balloting History |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | 0.39:1 | 0.33:1 | 0.37:1 | Never balloted |
| 2A(1) | 0.83:1 | 0.87:1 | 0.73:1 | Never balloted |
| 2B | 1.67:1 | 1.15:1 | 1.38:1 | SC<1 (2022), SC1-2 (2024) |
| 2C | 1.66:1 | 1.40:1 | 1.51:1 | SC<1 (all years) |
Your Winning Strategy
By Priority Group
✅ SC <1km:
- Phase 1/2A(1): Guaranteed admission
- ⚠️ 2B: Highly competitive (balloted in 2022, 2024)
- ⚠️ 2C: Extremely competitive (balloted yearly)
🎲 SC 1–2km:
- Phase 1/2A(1): Safe
- ⚠️ 2B: Balloted in 2024 (1.38:1)
- ❌ 2C: No vacancies (priority to <1km)
❌ SC >2km:
- Phase 1/2A(1): Safe
- ❌ 2B/2C: No historical vacancies
❌ PR Applicants:
- No vacancies since 2022
Key Observations
✔ 2B & 2C are fiercely competitive, with consistent balloting for <1km applicants.
✔ Phase 1 remains the safest route (ratios consistently <0.4:1).
✔ Distance is critical—<1km status is essential for 2B/2C success.
Pro Tips
1️⃣ Prioritize Early Phases
- Phase 1 is 100% safe for eligible applicants.
- 2A(1) is safer than 2B/2C but becoming tighter.
2️⃣ Relocate for 2B/2C Advantage
- <1km applicants have priority in balloting.
- Consider moving if targeting 2B/2C.
3️⃣ Have Backup Options
- 2B ratios fluctuate—be prepared for balloting.
2025 Prediction
🔹 Phase 1/2A(1): No balloting expected
🔹 2B: Likely to ballot for <1km
🔹 2C: Will remain highly competitive (<1km only)
Key Terminology
- Citizenship Priority: SC > PR
- Distance Priority: <1km → 1–2km → >2km
Note: Total vacancies have remained steady at 270 spots, with 2C offering 55–67 spots annually.
Strategic planning is crucial—optimize your phase and distance to secure a spot at this top boys’ school! 🚀