For international students aiming to enter public schools in Singapore, the AEIS (Admission Exercise for International Students) exam is a crucial step toward accessing high-quality education. However, passing this exam successfully is not an easy task. This article will provide a detailed overview of the AEIS exam conditions and preparation strategies, offering essential knowledge and advice to help students succeed in their preparation.

I. AEIS Exam Conditions

1.1 Age and Grade Requirements

The AEIS exam has specific age requirements, and applicants must fall within a certain age range to take the exam and be placed in the appropriate grade:

• Primary 2 to 5: Suitable for students aged 7 to 12.
• Secondary 1 to 3: Suitable for students aged 12 to 16.

Students must meet the age requirements for the grade they are applying for; otherwise, their application may be rejected or they may be placed in a different grade.

1.2 English and Mathematics Proficiency

The AEIS exam primarily assesses students’ English and mathematics abilities. For non-native English speakers, it is essential to have a strong foundation in both subjects:

• English Proficiency: The exam includes reading comprehension, writing, and grammar tests, requiring students to demonstrate understanding, analysis, and expression skills. Non-native English speakers may face significant challenges in this section and need to focus on strengthening their English skills.
• Mathematics Proficiency: The mathematics exam assesses students’ logical thinking and problem-solving abilities, with questions presented in English. Students need to master mathematical concepts and understand mathematical terminology in English.

1.3 AEIS Exam Registration Process

• Registration Period: The registration for AEIS typically occurs from July to August each year, with the exam held in September. Parents should monitor the relevant information on the Singapore Ministry of Education’s official website.
• Registration Documents: Includes the student’s birth certificate, passport copy, recent academic transcripts from the past two years, and a completed AEIS registration form.

II. AEIS Exam Preparation Strategies

2.1 Advance Planning and Time Management

Successful AEIS exam preparation requires thorough planning and effective time management:

• Develop a Study Plan: Allocate study time according to the exam date, ensuring balanced preparation for English and mathematics. Set specific weekly learning goals and regularly assess progress.
• Adapt to Exam Rhythm: Familiarize yourself with the AEIS exam’s time allocation and question types. Practice answering questions under timed conditions to adapt to the exam’s pace.

2.2 Enhancing English Proficiency

Given the high demands of the English section in the AEIS exam, non-native English speakers should pay special attention to this part:

• Expand Vocabulary: Building vocabulary is crucial for improving reading comprehension and writing skills. Memorize and review a set number of words daily, and reinforce vocabulary through reading English books, newspapers, or articles.
• Improve Reading and Writing Skills: Engage in extensive reading practice with materials of varying difficulty and topics to enhance reading speed and comprehension. For writing, practice different types of essays, familiarize yourself with common essay structures, and focus on expression.
• Attend English Training Classes: Consider enrolling in AEIS-specific English training classes for systematic guidance and practice to further enhance English proficiency.

2.3 Improving Mathematics Skills

Although the inherent difficulty of mathematics is manageable for most students, solving problems in English can be challenging for non-native speakers:

• Familiarize with Mathematical Terms: Students should master common mathematical terms and problem statements to quickly understand questions during the exam.
• Practice Problems: Regularly practice different types of math problems, especially past AEIS exam papers, to improve familiarity with question types and problem-solving speed.
• Attend Mathematics Tutoring Classes: If necessary, join AEIS-focused math tutoring classes to address specific issues and improve math performance.

2.4 Mock Exams and Exam Techniques

Mock exams are a crucial part of preparation:

• Regular Mock Exams: Conduct regular mock exams to become familiar with the exam format and rhythm. Practice time management and handling pressure in an exam-like environment.
• Master Exam Techniques: Learn and apply exam techniques, such as prioritizing easier questions and managing time effectively, to maximize performance during the exam.

2.5 Psychological Preparation and Coping Strategies

Psychological readiness is crucial for exam performance:

• Maintain a Positive Mindset: Stay positive and confident during preparation. Parents should provide support and encouragement to help build the child’s self-confidence.
• Manage Exam Stress: Relax before the exam and avoid excessive tension. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation to reduce psychological pressure.

III. Preparation Resources and Support

3.1 Online Resources and Learning Platforms

There are many online resources and learning platforms to help students prepare for the AEIS exam:

• AEIS Preparation Websites: Some websites specializing in AEIS provide extensive preparation materials and practice questions. Students can access these sites for the latest exam information and resources.

3.2 Professional Tutoring and Coaching

• Select Suitable Tutoring Classes: Many tutoring centers offer AEIS-specific classes. Choose a course that meets your needs for professional guidance and personalized support.
• Utilize School Resources: If attending an international school in Singapore, use the school’s library and learning resources to access more preparation materials and support. iWorld Learning is a prominent language school in Singapore specializing in AEIS and related language exams. The school offers comprehensive courses designed to enhance students’ English proficiency and academic abilities, ensuring excellent results in the AEIS exam. With an experienced teaching team and advanced teaching methods, iWorld Learning provides personalized guidance and support. Whether students are beginners or have some foundation, they can find suitable learning paths here to build a solid foundation for entering Singapore’s top schools.

3.3 Parental Support

Parents play a crucial role in the preparation process:

• Provide Emotional Support: Parents should pay attention to the child’s psychological state, offer support and encouragement, and help manage exam-related stress.
• Create a Conducive Learning Environment: Provide a quiet, distraction-free study environment to help the child focus fully on preparation.

The AEIS exam is a vital gateway for international students to enter public schools in Singapore. Understanding the exam conditions and developing effective preparation strategies are key to passing the AEIS exam successfully. Through advance planning, systematic study, mock exams, and psychological preparation, students can excel in this challenge and take a significant step toward high-quality education in Singapore. Parents and students should make full use of available resources and maintain a positive attitude to face the AEIS exam challenge effectively.