20. October 2025
Admin
Maths & English Remain Compulsory for O’Level Students – FG Clarifies
Quick Insight: While the admission criteria for certain programmes have been streamlined, the requirement to take English and Mathematics at the O-Level remains unchanged — ensuring foundational competence for all students.
Key Clarifications
• All senior secondary school students must register for and sit both English Language and Mathematics in their O-Level exams.
• The recent reforms affect only how tertiary institutions admit students (for example, some programmes may now not demand a credit in both subjects), but do **not** remove the requirement to take them.
• The statement emphasises that the move is aimed at fairness and inclusivity in higher-education access, while preserving vital foundational education standards.
Why the Emphasis?
• English and Mathematics are described by the ministry as “vital tools for communication, reasoning and lifelong learning.”
• The clarification addresses concerns that the reforms would allow students to skip sitting or registering for these core subjects — which is not the case.
• The reform instead allows flexibility in **admission criteria** for certain programmes (especially in arts/humanities), without compromising foundational subject requirements.
What Students & Parents Should Note
• Ensure that registration for O-Level examinations includes English Language and Mathematics — this is mandatory.
• Monitor official communications from the ministry or your school for updates on admission requirements, especially if you aim for a programme that may not require a credit in one of these subjects.
• Recognise that taking these core subjects and doing well in them continues to strengthen your academic profile and broaden future opportunities.
Final Thoughts
The clarification from the ministry ensures students understand that the foundational requirement to take English and Mathematics remains in place — even as tertiary-stage admission rules evolve. Students and parents should use this as a reminder to prioritise performance in these subjects and stay updated via official channels.
Tip: Check the specific admission requirements of the tertiary institution and programme you’re interested in, and ensure you meet both the exam-taking and subject-credit expectations.
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