O-Level and N-Level to SEC: What Changes in 2027?
Study guide
Clear comparison of Singapore's O-Level and N-Level transition to the Singapore-Cambridge Secondary Education Certificate (SEC) from 2027, with G1/G2/G3 and science practical li...
O-Level and N-Level search terms still matter in 2026. From 2027, the national secondary examination certificate is the Singapore-Cambridge Secondary Education Certificate (SEC). SEAB says the GCE N(T), N(A), and O-Level examinations will be combined and renamed as SEC, with subjects taken at G1, G2, or G3 levels.
The practical takeaway is simple: keep using O-Level and N-Level pages for 2026 dates, results, subject codes, and practical prep. Use SEC wording for younger cohorts preparing for the 2027 system.
- O-Level and N-Level names are being replaced by SEC from 2027: Do not rename your 2026 revision plan if you are sitting the 2026 exams.
- SEC uses G1, G2, and G3 subject levels, with one certificate showing the subjects and levels taken: Learn the new terms, but keep the current O-Level or N-Level page for current-year dates.
- The transition affects wording, certificate structure, results timing, and how families search: Use this comparison, then read the full SEC explainer: https://eclatinstitute.sg/blog/secondary-education-certificate-sec-singapore-2027.
Before 2027 Vs From 2027
| Question | 2026 and before | From 2027 |
| What do families call the exams? | GCE N(T)-Level, GCE N(A)-Level, and GCE O-Level. | Singapore-Cambridge Secondary Education Certificate (SEC). |
| What subject levels appear? | Families usually think in N(T), N(A), and O-Level route labels. | Students sit subjects at G1, G2, or G3 levels. |
| What certificate do students receive? | Current certificates are tied to the existing examination labels. | SEAB says candidates receive one SEC certificate reflecting all subjects and subject levels taken. |
Reviewed by
Marcus Pang·Managing Director (Maths)
