What is AEIS? A guide for families new to Singapore

AEIS — the Admissions Exercise for International Students — is the test international students sit to join Singapore's government and government-aided schools. It assesses English and Mathematics, and a place depends on performance and school vacancies.

What AEIS is for

AEIS is run by Singapore's Ministry of Education for international students who want to enter a national primary or secondary school. Candidates sit a centralised test and, if successful, are placed in a school with vacancies at the appropriate level — which may not be the family's first choice, since posting depends on availability.

Who can sit it, and at what level

It's for international-student applicants across a range of primary and secondary levels (entry is offered at certain levels, not every year group). Candidates take the test pitched at the level they're seeking entry to. Families should check the current eligibility and level details on the MOE website, as specifics are set each cycle.

What it tests

AEIS assesses English and Mathematics. The English component covers vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension, with writing at the secondary levels; the maths is set in English, so language ability affects both papers. Strong English is therefore the highest-leverage area to prepare.

When it's held and how placement works

The main exercise is typically held around September, with a supplementary exercise (sometimes called S-AEIS) early the following year for remaining vacancies. Results follow some weeks later, and successful candidates receive a school posting. Always confirm the current year's dates and rules with MOE — they're set per cycle.