Useful tips for your polytechnic application
Most ‘O’ Level students applying to polytechnics will go through either the Joint Admissions Exercise (JAE) or the Joint Polytechnic Special Admissions Exercise (JPSAE). Besides, there are also admissions exercises like Direct Polytechnic Admission (DPA), Direct Admissions Exercise (DAE) and Joint Polytechnic Admissions Exercise (JPAE).
How do I apply through the JAE?
On the day your ‘O’ Level results are released, you will receive from your school FORM A. This document will tell you what your aggregate is and will list all the courses you can apply for. Here’s what it will look like:
I have 12 choices for JAE. How can I maximise them?
- Your first 3 to 4 choices: Go for what you are most passionate about even if you don’t meet the past year’s cut-off points. Cut-off points are just a guide and may vary from year to year.
- Your next 3 to 4 choices: Choose what you are interested in and stand a good chance of getting into.
- Your last few choices: Include less competitive courses which you can clearly get into. Remember to fill up all 12 choices even if you are really confident of getting into your desired course.
How do I take full advantage of my CCA?
As CCA bonus points have not been taken into consideration in the computation of the aggregates printed on Form A, you can deduct 2 bonus points from your aggregate if you get a CCA grade of A1 or A2, or 1 point if you get a CCA grade of B3 to C6.
If I don’t meet the cut-off point, can I still apply for the course?
Yes, you can. As cut-off points are just a guide and may change every year, you should still put the course you are most passionate about as your first choice in the JAE.
In addition to that, if you have a special talent or a strong passion/aptitude in a certain area, you should also apply through the JPSAE at the same time. This will enhance your chance of getting into your desired course at Ngee Ann Poly. To find out more, come visit us during our JAE course counselling or call us at 1800 460 7333.
What is the JPSAE? How do I apply through the JPSAE?
The JPSAE (or Joint Polytechnic Special Admissions Exercise) is meant for current GCE 'O' Level holders with outstanding talent / achievements or a strong passion / aptitude. These could be in areas such as leadership, entrepreneurship, sports, the arts, community service and academic-related activities.
If you apply through the JPSAE, you should concurrently put in your application for JAE.