🎓 Top 20 JC Schools Ranked By Cut-Off Points — Which JC Is Hardest To Enter In 2025? 📊

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🎓 Top 20 JC Schools Ranked by Cut-Off Points — Which JC is Hardest to Enter in 2025? 📊

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Are you a Secondary 4 or IP Year 4 student aiming for Junior College next year? 🤔 Or a parent wondering which JC your child should target? With the latest 2025 JC cut-off points released, we’ve ranked the Top 20 JCs in Singapore based on the latest entry requirements. 📈

This guide will help you understand:

Which JC is the hardest to get into in 2025 🏆
What the cut-off points (COPs) are for each JC
How to choose a JC that fits your academic level and personal goals 🎯
Why your subject combination matters more than you think!

📌 What Are JC Cut-Off Points (COPs)?

Before we dive into rankings, let’s clarify what JC cut-off points mean.

Each year, MOE releases the Joint Admissions Exercise (JAE) COPs, which represent the lowest L1R5 score admitted into each JC for that year’s intake. The lower the score, the more competitive the school.

🔍 Note:

L1R5 stands for 1 Language (usually English) + 5 relevant subjects
Bonus points from CCA or Higher Mother Tongue can further reduce your net score.

🏫 Top 20 JC Schools Ranked by Cut-Off Points in 2025

Here’s the latest JC ranking based on the 2025 intake for Arts and Science streams:

Rank	Junior College	Arts COP (2025)	Science COP (2025)
🥇 1	Raffles Institution (RI)	3	2
🥈 2	Hwa Chong Institution (HCI)	3	2
🥉 3	Nanyang JC (NYJC)	5	4
4️⃣	Eunoia JC (EJC)	6	5
5️⃣	Victoria JC (VJC)	7	6
6️⃣	National JC (NJC)	8	7
7️⃣	Temasek JC (TJC)	9	8
8️⃣	Anderson Serangoon JC (ASRJC)	10	9
9️⃣	River Valley High School (RVHS)	10	9
🔟	Dunman High School (DHS)	10	9
11	Anglo-Chinese JC (ACJC)	11	10
12	Jurong Pioneer JC (JPJC)	13	12
13	Tampines Meridian JC (TMJC)	13	12
14	Yishun Innova JC (YIJC)	14	13
15	Millennia Institute (MI)	20 (3-year prog)	20
16	Catholic JC (CJC)	14	13
17	St. Andrew’s JC (SAJC)	12	11
18	Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) – IB	N/A	N/A
19	School of the Arts (SOTA) – IB	N/A	N/A
20	Singapore Sports School – IB	N/A	N/A

⚠️ Note: IB Schools like ACS(I), SOTA, and Sports School are not ranked by L1R5 COP.

🔥 The Hardest JCs to Enter in 2025

Unsurprisingly, the battle for the top 2 JCs remains fierce:

🥇 Raffles Institution (RI)

Science COP: 2 | Arts COP: 3
Home to academic excellence and Olympiad winners, RI remains the hardest JC to enter in 2025.
Famous alumni include top scholars, ministers, and business leaders.

🥈 Hwa Chong Institution (HCI)

Science COP: 2 | Arts COP: 3
Known for its strong Chinese culture and global exchange opportunities 🌏
Preferred by many IP students from the HCI Sec side.

If you’re targeting either of these JCs, you’re aiming for the elite! 💯

🧠 JC Cut-Off Point Trends in Recent Years

Understanding how JC cut-off points (COPs) have changed over time can help students and parents predict future trends, set realistic targets, and prepare more effectively. Below is a comparison of COPs from 2022 to 2025 for the Top 12 JCs in Singapore, showcasing the Arts and Science stream entry scores, along with insightful trend notes. 🔍

JC Name	2022 COP (Arts / Sci)	2023 COP (Arts / Sci)	2024 COP (Arts / Sci)	2025 COP (Arts / Sci)	📈 Trend Notes
Raffles Institution (RI)	4 / 3	4 / 3	3 / 2	3 / 2	🔒 Remains the most competitive JC in SG; consistent top scorer intake.
Hwa Chong Institution (HCI)	4 / 3	3 / 2	3 / 2	3 / 2	🔁 Stable; maintains ultra-high standards, especially in Science.
Nanyang JC (NYJC)	6 / 5	5 / 4	5 / 4	5 / 4	📈 Slight improvement in competitiveness; strong Science programme demand.
Eunoia JC (EJC)	8 / 7	7 / 6	6 / 5	6 / 5	📉 COPs getting tighter; Arts stream seeing increased demand.
Victoria JC (VJC)	8 / 7	7 / 6	7 / 6	7 / 6	🔄 Stable entry points; known for holistic development and CCAs.
National JC (NJC)	9 / 8	8 / 7	8 / 7	8 / 7	🧭 IP students secure spots early; slight COP tightening over years.
Temasek JC (TJC)	10 / 9	9 / 8	9 / 8	9 / 8	🔂 Constant demand; COPs unchanged for 2 years.
Anderson Serangoon JC (ASRJC)	11 / 10	10 / 9	10 / 9	10 / 9	🔼 Slightly more competitive post-JC merger consolidation.
River Valley High School (RVHS)	11 / 10	10 / 9	10 / 9	10 / 9	🔄 Stable intake; popular among bilingual and IP students.
Dunman High School (DHS)	11 / 10	10 / 9	10 / 9	10 / 9	🀄 Strong Chinese stream; IP-secured intake reduces JAE slots.
ACJC (Anglo-Chinese JC)	12 / 11	11 / 10	11 / 10	11 / 10	📉 Slight rise in competitiveness due to arts/music niche growth.
St. Andrew’s JC (SAJC)	13 / 12	12 / 11	12 / 11	12 / 11	🏉 Strong for sports-CCA students; steady COP improvements.

🧐 Key Observations from 2022–2025 JC Trends

🔹 1. Top Tier (RI, HCI, NYJC) Holding Steady

These JCs have consistently ranked among the top with unchanging low COPs.
The Science stream is more competitive across all top-tier schools.
IP students occupy majority of slots, leaving fewer open places for JAE students.

🔹 2. EJC and NYJC on the Rise

Both JCs have grown in reputation and now rival long-standing JCs like VJC.
EJC’s Arts stream COP improved from 8 to 6 from 2022 to 2025.
NYJC’s stable COP of 4 (Science) shows it’s a strong backup for RI/HCI applicants.

🔹 3. Mid-Tier JCs See Slight Tightening

JCs like TJC, ASRJC, DHS, RVHS maintain similar cut-off points year-on-year, but their intake quality is improving.
Mergers (e.g., Anderson + Serangoon) have enhanced academic and CCA offerings, boosting attractiveness.

🔹 4. No Major Shifts in COPs Since 2023

After pandemic-era fluctuations, 2024 and 2025 show stabilised trends.
Students and schools are adjusting to the new JC normal, with competition levelling out.

📊 What Does This Mean for You in 2025?

✅ If you’re targeting a top JC (RI, HCI) – Your L1R5 must be 2–3 or lower (even after bonus points).
✅ For mid-range JCs like VJC, EJC, NYJC – Aim for an L1R5 of 4–6 to stay competitive.
✅ If you’re aiming for consistent and holistic education – JCs like TJC, SAJC, and ACJC offer strong academics with vibrant student life.

And remember, COPs may not reflect school culture, teacher quality, or subject offerings — so it’s important to dig deeper than the numbers. 📚

🎯 How to Choose the Right JC for You (Not Just Based on COP)

While JC cut-off points are a useful benchmark, they don’t tell the full story. 🧐 Every JC has its own strengths, whether in teaching style, subject offerings, or student support. Use the table below to consider 7 key criteria that can guide your decision beyond academic scores.

⚙️ Factor	💡 What It Means	❓ Questions to Ask	🏫 JC Examples	📝 Pro Tips
1. Subject Combinations	Different JCs offer varied subject combos, especially in humanities, sciences & languages.	• Does this JC offer your preferred subject combo? • Are niche subjects like China Studies, Literature, or KI offered? • What are the H2 vs H1 subject offerings?	📘 HCI – strong in Chinese Studies 📐 RI – wide variety of humanities & sciences 🌍 NJC – unique subjects like Philosophy & SUSS modules	Always check each JC’s subject booklet or open house prospectus. Some subject combos have limited slots.
2. Strength in Particular Subjects	Some JCs are known for excellence in specific subjects.	• Is the JC strong in your weakest subject? • Are their science/math departments well-regarded? • Do they have experienced GP tutors?	🧪 NYJC – Excellent in Math & Chemistry 📘 ACJC – Known for strong English & Literature 🧬 TJC – Popular for Bio & Chem combi	Ask about subject-specific results and teaching approaches. Get tuition support (like Science tuition or GP tuition) early if needed!
3. Teaching Style & School Culture	Some JCs are academically intense, while others are more holistic.	• Do you prefer fast-paced or nurturing environments? • Is there peer support or high-pressure competition? • How do teachers support academically weaker students?	📚 RI/HCI – Competitive, fast-paced 🌱 SAJC – Strong pastoral care 🌈 EJC – Balanced, community-driven	Visit JC open houses to feel the culture firsthand. Speak to current students when possible.
4. Distance from Home 🚇	Long commutes can sap your energy and time.	• How long is the daily commute? • Will this affect your sleep, tuition schedules, or CCAs? • Is the JC near an MRT or requires multiple transfers?	🏠 NYJC – Convenient (Lorong Chuan MRT) 📍 VJC – East side access (Marine Parade) ⏳ YIJC – Farther for many West/North dwellers	Ideally, keep your commute under 45 mins each way. Use the time saved for revision or rest. 💤
5. CCA Offerings & Opportunities	CCAs build your portfolio and affect DSA and scholarship chances.	• Does the JC offer your CCA? • What is the competition level like? • Do they offer leadership or overseas CCA trips?	⚽ SAJC – Strong in sports 🎭 VJC – Award-winning performing arts 🪐 RI/HCI – Olympiad and niche CCAs	CCA participation can boost your portfolio and university applications. Balance passion with academics!
6. IP vs O-Level Intake	Some JCs have large Integrated Programme (IP) student intakes.	• How many slots are left for JAE students? • Will I be able to integrate with existing IP cohorts? • Will I feel disadvantaged academically or socially?	🎓 RI, HCI, NJC – High IP intake 🆓 EJC – Mixed IP and JAE 💬 ACJC, SAJC – Fully JAE-based	In high-IP JCs, expect a steeper initial adjustment. Boost with tuition for JC-level readiness.
7. JC Track Record & Uni Admissions	Some JCs consistently produce high-performing grads.	• What is their % of students entering local universities? • How many secure scholarships or overseas placements? • What’s the school’s average rank points (RP)?	🏆 RI, HCI – High PSC scholarship acceptance 🎓 VJC, NYJC – Strong A-Level performers 🌟 ACJC – Strong alumni support	Track record reflects not just student calibre, but also teacher quality and system support. Look at RP trends, not just one-off top scorers.

✅ Summary: How to Make the Right JC Decision in 2025

Here’s a quick checklist to guide your JC decision-making beyond just numbers:

🔍 Review subject combinations and their availability
👩‍🏫 Consider academic strengths vs. your learning needs
🏫 Visit JC open houses and get a feel for the school environment
🚆 Think realistically about commute and location
🎭 Weigh CCA options and your passion involvement
🧠 Plan ahead for tuition support in challenging subjects
🎯 Choose the JC that aligns with your university or scholarship goals

📚 Pro Tips for Getting Into Your Dream JC in 2025

Landing a spot in your top-choice JC — especially the most competitive ones like RI, HCI, VJC, or NYJC — takes smart preparation, time management, and the right support systems. Whether you’re an O-Level student or coming from an IP school, these expert-backed tips will help you boost your scores, strengthen your portfolio, and walk confidently into your JC of choice this year! 🏆📚

1️⃣ Start Early and Know the Target 🎯

Many students only start preparing seriously after their mid-year exams. Big mistake! 🙅‍♂️

✅ What to Do Instead:

Begin goal-setting as early as Sec 3 or Term 1 of Sec 4/IP4.
Find out the COPs of your dream JC and set a target L1R5 or GPA.
Break it down: If you want a COP of 6, aim for distinctions in at least 4–5 subjects including English and Math.

📌 Pro Tip: Write your dream JC’s name on your study desk or make it your phone wallpaper — it keeps you focused and motivated daily. 🧘‍♀️

2️⃣ Master the Core Subjects First 💪

Some subjects carry more weight when it comes to JC admission and performance:

💥 Top Priority Subjects:

English: Heavily weighted; affects both L1R5 and future GP scores.
E Math & A Math: Essential for Science stream aspirants.
Sciences (Chem, Bio, Physics): Need solid foundational understanding for JC H2 sciences.

🧠 If you’re struggling in any of these, consider getting help early through tuition or peer study groups.

👩‍🏫 At Sophia Education, our students often improve by 2–3 grades in 3–6 months through personalized subject tuition in English, Math, Chemistry, and Biology.

3️⃣ Use Exam Smart Strategies, Not Just Hard Work 📘⚙️

Success isn’t about studying more, but studying strategically.

📚 Smart Strategies Include:

Studying past-year O-Level and school prelim papers
Practicing structured answering techniques for subjects like Science and Humanities
Using summary notes, mind maps, and formula sheets
Timing yourself during practice papers to build exam stamina

🧾 Pro Tip: Create a revision plan that mixes active recall, spaced repetition, and weekly mock exams.

4️⃣ Take Advantage of Bonus Points 🏅

You might not need a perfect raw score if you’re clever about bonus points.

⭐️ Here’s how you can earn bonus L1R5 points:

Type	Bonus Points	Example
CCA (Grade A1–B3)	-2 points	School Band, NPCC, Scouts, Sports
Higher Mother Tongue	-1 point	HCL, HML, HTL distinction
School affiliation	-2 points	For students from affiliated secondary schools
Special language electives	-1 to -2 points	CL/ML/TL Elective Programme (CLEP, MLEP, TLEP)

🧠 Pro Tip: If you’re scoring L1R5 of 8–10, those bonus points can push you into a better JC bracket!

5️⃣ Don’t Neglect Your Portfolio and Character 📜🌟

Believe it or not, your attitude and commitment matter too, especially if you’re going the DSA-JC route or planning to apply for scholarships later on.

📁 Build your personal profile with:

Leadership roles (e.g. prefect, class chair, CCA exco)
Academic competitions or Olympiads 🏆
CIP and community involvement 🧤
School awards and conduct grades

📌 JCs with strong character-building focus — like SAJC, ACJC, and NJC — appreciate students who go beyond academics.

6️⃣ Manage Your Mental Health & Stay Balanced 🧘‍♂️🫶

You’re not a robot 🤖 — and stress management is just as important as academics.

🧠 Mental wellness strategies:

Take breaks every 45–60 minutes
Use apps like Forest or Notion to manage tasks & distractions
Practice deep breathing, journaling, or light exercise daily
Talk to someone (friend, teacher, or counsellor) if you’re overwhelmed

📌 Pro Tip: JC life is fast-paced. Building healthy routines now will prepare you better for the challenges ahead.

7️⃣ Get the Right Tuition Support 🎓✨

If you’re aiming for RI, HCI, NYJC, or VJC, your competition is intense. You need targeted support from teachers who know what works.

👩‍🏫 At Sophia Education, we specialise in:

🔬 Science tuition (Chem, Bio, Physics)
📐 Math tuition (E Math, A Math)
📖 English tuition (Comprehension & Essay Writing)
🌍 Geography and History tuition (for Sec 3/4 Humanities)

With our personalized tuition in Singapore, students benefit from:

Small group or 1-to-1 attention
Exam-focused strategies
Weekly tracking and feedback
Engaging, experienced tutors with proven results

📈 Our students regularly enter Top 5 JCs with ease!

8️⃣ Use Your Holidays & Free Time Wisely 📅🚀

💡 Use June and December breaks not just to rest, but to get ahead.

🔹 What to do during holidays:

Attend crash courses or bootcamps
Consolidate Sec 3/4 topics with a tutor
Practice full papers under timed conditions
Learn JC concepts in advance to reduce Year 1 stress

📌 Early exposure to JC subjects (especially Math & Chemistry) helps ease the transition and boosts confidence. 🧬

🧾 JC FAQs – What Parents and Students Ask Most

Q: Can I enter RI or HCI if I score L1R5 of 4?

👉 You might stand a chance with bonus points (e.g., CCA, HMT distinction) — but competition is tight.

Q: Do IP students get priority?

Yes. IP students from the same school (e.g., RI Sec to RI JC) typically have direct promotion, reducing slots for O-Level students.

Q: Can I switch to Poly after JC?

Yes. Some JC students realise they prefer hands-on learning and switch after Year 1.

Q: What if I don’t meet any JC COP?

👉 You can consider:

Millennia Institute (3-year A-Level path)
Polytechnic courses
Private diploma routes

🧠 Final Thoughts: Choose the JC That Matches YOU 🎯

The Top JC in Singapore isn’t always the best for everyone. It’s about finding the place where:

Your learning style thrives 📖
You feel challenged but supported
You can enjoy your 2 years of JC life 💃🎭

Remember, whether you’re aiming for RI or MI, your journey is your own. And with the right support — like JC tuition from Sophia Education — your goals are within reach! 🌟

📞 Ready to Beat the JC COPs in 2025?

Join our high-performing students today at Sophia Education – Singapore’s trusted name in personalized tuition since 2011!

🚀 Sign up now for:

Targeted subject help 🎯
Flexible 1-to-1 or small group sessions 👩‍🏫
Boosted exam confidence 💪

📍Visit our centres or call us for a free academic consultation!

👉 Sophia Education: Personalized Tuition in Singapore
📱 WhatsApp: +65 8875 044

💡 Pro Tip:

Bookmark this blog and share it with your friends! 📩 Stay ahead with more updates on JC life, A-Level strategies, and subject-specific tuition tips for 2025! 🔥