How DSA Math Talent Selection Works: What Schools Actually Publish

Q: Is there one standard DSA-Sec Mathematics test and interview format? A: No. MOE says that selection processes and timelines differ across schools and talent areas. A school may use a test, interview, trial, camp, portfolio information, or another published selection step. Check the target school's current page instead of relying on a generic format.[1][3]

TL;DR Do not assume that every school sets a 90-minute paper, asks the same topics, awards marks using the same rubric, or conducts a Mathematics interview. In 2026, NUS High used Mathematics and Science tests followed by a camp for shortlisted applicants, Hwa Chong published an interview and/or selection-test stage for shortlisted applicants, and Raffles Institution did not publicly disclose its detailed selection process.[5][7][8]

Last reviewed: 4 September 2026 against the current MOE, NUS High, Hwa Chong Institution, Raffles Institution, NYGH, and MGS pages, with community discussions checked separately for parent questions and conflicting anecdotes.

What MOE publishes nationally

P6 students may apply for DSA-Sec under talent areas that include science, mathematics, and engineering.[2]

MOE sets several important boundaries:

• schools use different selection processes and schedules;
• shortlisted applicants may be asked to attend interviews, auditions, or trials;
• applicants without prior experience may still apply because schools may assess potential; and
• meeting published criteria does not guarantee a shortlist or offer.[2][3]

MOE does not publish one national Mathematics test paper, question count, topic list, interview script, or scoring rubric. Any page that presents one fixed format for all schools is going beyond the national guidance.

What three schools published for 2026

NUS High School

NUS High required applicants to register once under either Mathematics or Science through the MOE central portal. All applicants sat selection tests in both Mathematics and Science on 4 July 2026. Only shortlisted applicants attended the selection camp on 24 or 25 July.[5]

The school's FAQ says shortlisting may consider selection-test performance, primary school results, participation and achievements in related competitions and programmes, and related CCA accomplishments. It also says that the selection looks for problem-solving ability, passion, motivation, independence, creativity, and communication. Olympiad participation is described as only one platform through which a child may show passion and strength.[6]

The published Year 1 process lists tests and a camp. It does not list a separate Year 1 interview.[5][6]

Hwa Chong Institution

Hwa Chong placed Mathematics under its STEM talent area and described suitable applicants as students who demonstrate strong logical reasoning and mathematical problem-solving skills.[7]