If you’re wondering whether to bring your child to a Direct School Admission (DSA) open house this year, the answer is yes — even if you haven’t decided whether to apply. These open houses, usually held in April and May, give families a chance to explore schools beyond websites and rankings. Integrated Programme (IP) schools typically lead the way in hosting open house events during this season, and some mainstream secondary schools also open their doors to welcome prospective students and parents.
Many assume that open houses are only for students who are planning to apply via DSA, but that’s not the case. These events are open to all, and they offer a valuable opportunity to better understand a school’s culture, community, and focus areas. We encourage parents and students to visit any school they’re curious about, even those that may seem “out of reach.” There is value in seeing the school in action — meeting teachers, hearing from current students, and getting a feel for the environment. Sometimes, one visit is enough to shift perspectives and spark new possibilities.
Attending a DSA open house can be especially encouraging for children who may not be academically inclined. Seeing that a school values more than just grades — and welcomes students with talents in sports, the arts, or leadership — can be an empowering experience. It helps children realise that there are different pathways to enter a school where they can thrive. For those who feel intimidated by so-called “top” schools, an open house visit offers a clearer and more balanced picture. It allows students to ask questions, gather insights, and consider whether the school could be a good fit for their strengths and interests.
Even if your child is unsure about applying through DSA, visiting a school may inspire them to take that first step. It helps in decision-making and gives your child a sense of ownership over their educational journey.
How to Shortlist and Approach Secondary Schools
To begin your search, the Ministry of Education’s SchoolFinder website is a good place to start. By selecting “Secondary” and filtering for “DSA” under “Admission Type,” you can view schools that offer DSA admission and explore the different talent areas available — from performing arts and sports to leadership and STEM. This can help you and your child identify schools that align with their interests or strengths.
Once you’ve shortlisted a few schools, visit their websites or contact them directly to find out if they’re hosting an open house. While IP schools often host these events in April or May, many mainstream schools may only have open houses later in the year, around the release of PSLE results. If a school you’re interested in isn’t having an open house, you could reach out to request a private visit. However, these may be less informative if there’s no one available to give you a tour or answer questions. If possible, try to speak with the teacher in charge of your child’s talent area or request a short meeting with the principal.
It’s important to check the MOE website regularly, as the list of DSA talent areas offered in 2025 may not be fully updated yet. Schools may also provide more specific information if you reach out directly.
Making the Most of Your Visit
To get the most value from an open house, plan ahead. Identify any talks or presentations relevant to your child — for example, a session on sports or performing arts — and decide which booths or departments to visit. These events can be crowded, especially at popular schools, so having a plan ensures that your child gets to interact with the right people and gather useful information.
Be prepared to ask thoughtful questions. This might include asking what qualities the school looks for in DSA applicants, whether students without competition experience will be considered, or how the school supports students who fall behind academically. You can also ask how the school balances DSA commitments with academic demands, and what happens if a student changes their mind about continuing in their DSA area.
If your child is applying through a specific talent area, tailor your questions accordingly. For sports, ask about training schedules, competition commitments, injury management, and opportunities for higher-level development. For the arts, you might want to know what kind of portfolio or audition is expected, how the school supports creative growth, and whether students can explore multiple art forms. For leadership, ask about the roles available, the kind of training provided, and how leadership potential is assessed during the application process.
Talking to Students: Real Insights from Real Experiences
One of the most valuable parts of an open house is the chance to speak with current students. These conversations can provide honest insights that go beyond official presentations. Ask students why they chose the school, what they enjoy most, and what challenges they’ve faced. Find out how the school supports them in their DSA area and academics, whether they rely on private tutoring, and whether they would make the same choice again. These stories help your child imagine themselves in the school — and reflect on whether it’s the right place for them.
Hearing from students who’ve entered through DSA can also help your child set more realistic expectations. They’ll understand what kind of commitment is required, how DSA students are treated, and what they might have to sacrifice or adapt to thrive in the school.
2025 DSA Secondary School Open House Dates
Planning to explore your DSA options? Here are the secondary schools that have announced their open house dates for 2025. This list will be updated as more schools release their event details—stay tuned!
DSA open houses are more than just a way to scout for schools — they are a window into possibilities. They help children realise that their strengths matter, even if those strengths don’t show up in their grades. They allow families to make informed decisions based on experience, not assumptions.
So take the time to explore. Be open. And trust that discovering the right fit for your child is one of the most important steps you can take in shaping their educational journey.
