When it comes to Primary 1 (P1) registration in Singapore, Catholic High School is often at the top of many parents’ lists. Known for its strong academic tradition and holistic education approach, the school sees strong demand every year. In this article, we dive into the balloting history and admission odds for Catholic High School from 2022 to 2024, helping you better understand your chances at each phase.
Balloting History (2022–2024)
Over the past three years, Catholic High School has experienced varying levels of demand across different registration phases — Phase 1, Phase 2A, Phase 2B, and Phase 2C.
Phase 1: Always 100% Admission
In every year from 2022 to 2024, Phase 1 applicants enjoyed a 100% admission rate. Every child with a sibling currently studying in the school secured a spot without any need for balloting.
- Vacancy available: 180 each year
- Applications: Around 64–70 annually
Takeaway: If you qualify for Phase 1, your child is virtually guaranteed a place.
Phase 2A: Competitive, but Manageable
Phase 2A covers children whose parents or siblings are alumni or members of the Catholic High School Alumni Association. Here’s how it fared:
| Year | Vacancy | Applied | Admission Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 110 | 149 | 74% |
| 2023 | 116 | 135 | 86% |
| 2024 | 110 | 131 | 84% |
- Balloting required each year.
- SC>2: There were more Singapore Citizen (SC) applicants than available vacancies, often leading to balloting among SCs.
Takeaway: Phase 2A is highly competitive. If you’re applying under Phase 2A, be prepared for balloting even as a Singapore Citizen.
Phase 2B: Very Low Odds
Phase 2B typically involves parents who are endorsed by church affiliations, or are active community leaders. Here’s the trend:
| Year | Vacancy | Applied | Admission Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 20 | 43 | 47% |
| 2023 | 20 | 29 | 69% |
| 2024 | 20 | 38 | 53% |
- SC<1: Fewer applicants than vacancies at times, but balloting was still needed.
- Odds: Better than Phase 2C but still risky.
Takeaway: Phase 2B gives you a shot, but it does not guarantee a place at Catholic High School.
Phase 2C: High Demand, Tight Balloting
Phase 2C is open to children who have no prior connections to the school. As expected, this phase is extremely competitive:
| Year | Vacancy | Applied | Admission Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 40 | 68 | 59% |
| 2023 | 40 | 52 | 77% |
| 2024 | 46 | 54 | 85% |
- SC<1: Supply was less than the number of applicants, requiring balloting for Singapore Citizens.
- Improvements in 2023–2024 were likely due to slight increases in vacancy numbers and fewer applicants.
Takeaway: Phase 2C at Catholic High remains highly challenging. If this is your intended phase, consider strategic backup plans.
Summary of P1 Admission Odds
| Phase | Odds of Admission | Balloting Likelihood |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | 100% guaranteed | No balloting |
| Phase 2A | 74%-86% | Balloting required |
| Phase 2B | 47%-69% | Likely balloting |
| Phase 2C | 59%-85% | Highly competitive balloting |
Detailed Statistics Table (2022–2024)
For those who like a closer look at the numbers, here’s the detailed data:
| Year | Phase | Vacancy | Applied | Admission Rate | Balloting Situation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 1 | 180 | 70 | 100% | No balloting |
| 2022 | 2A | 110 | 149 | 74% | SC>2, balloting required |
| 2022 | 2B | 20 | 43 | 47% | SC<1, balloting |
| 2022 | 2C | 40 | 68 | 59% | SC<1, balloting |
| 2023 | 1 | 180 | 64 | 100% | No balloting |
| 2023 | 2A | 116 | 135 | 86% | SC>2, balloting required |
| 2023 | 2B | 20 | 29 | 69% | SC<1, balloting |
| 2023 | 2C | 40 | 52 | 77% | SC<1, balloting |
| 2024 | 1 | 180 | 70 | 100% | No balloting |
| 2024 | 2A | 110 | 131 | 84% | SC>2, balloting required |
| 2024 | 2B | 20 | 38 | 53% | SC<1, balloting |
| 2024 | 2C | 46 | 54 | 85% | SC<1, balloting |
Final Thoughts
Catholic High School continues to be a top choice for many families, but getting a seat is far from easy — especially beyond Phase 1. Knowing the historical admission odds helps parents make more informed decisions when planning for their child’s P1 registration.
If you’re serious about Catholic High School, your best bet is qualifying for Phase 1 or Phase 2A. For others, especially Phase 2B and Phase 2C applicants, preparation, volunteering efforts, and backup school options are critical.