What Is the Gifted Education Programme (GEP)?
The Gifted Education Programme (GEP) is a specialised programme offered at selected Singapore primary schools for students who demonstrate exceptional intellectual ability. Managed by MOE, the GEP aims to develop the potential of academically gifted students through a more challenging and enriched curriculum.
GEP students are not in a separate school — they attend the same school as their peers but are taught in dedicated GEP classes with an enriched syllabus in English, Mathematics, and General Studies.
Which Primary Schools Offer GEP?
The GEP is currently available at 9 primary schools in Singapore:
- Anglo-Chinese School (Primary)
- Catholic High School (Primary Section)
- Henry Park Primary School
- Nan Hua Primary School
- Nanyang Primary School
- Raffles Girls' Primary School
- Rosyth School
- Tao Nan School
- St. Hilda's Primary School
You can filter by GEP school on SGSchool's school search.
How Are GEP Students Selected?
GEP selection does not happen at P1 registration — it takes place later, when children are in Primary 3 (age 9). The process is:
- Screening Test (P3, September): All P3 students in Singapore take a general screening test. The top 250–300 scorers from each GEP school's catchment area are invited to the main selection.
- Selection Test (P3, October): The invited students sit a more rigorous set of tests in English, Mathematics, and General Ability. The top ~1% of all P3 students — roughly 500 students nationally — are selected for GEP.
- GEP Placement: Selected students are placed in GEP classes at their existing school (if it's a GEP school) or transferred to a nearby GEP school in Primary 4.
Parents do not need to apply for GEP selection — it is automatically administered to all Primary 3 students.
What Is the GEP Curriculum Like?
GEP students follow the standard MOE syllabus but with enriched content and a faster pace. Key differences include:
- Greater depth and breadth in English, Maths, and General Studies
- Emphasis on creative and critical thinking
- Research projects and independent learning
- Higher-order problem-solving challenges
- Exposure to arts, culture, and leadership opportunities
GEP is not simply a faster version of the standard curriculum — it goes deeper and wider, encouraging intellectual curiosity and a love of learning.
Should I Choose a GEP School for P1 Registration?
Here's the key insight: you should not choose a school specifically to access GEP at the P1 stage. Selection only happens in P3, and by then, your child's school can transfer them to a GEP school if needed.
That said, there are good reasons to enrol at a GEP school anyway:
- If the school is the right fit for your family on other dimensions (proximity, culture, SAP)
- If your child gets into GEP, they'll remain at their current school rather than transferring
- GEP schools tend to have strong academic cultures that benefit all students, not just GEP ones
What Are the Benefits of GEP?
Students who complete GEP tend to perform strongly in PSLE and are well-prepared for independent secondary school and JC curricula. Beyond academics, GEP develops intellectual independence, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning that benefits students throughout their education.
How to Find GEP Schools Near You
Use Schools Near Me to find GEP-offering schools in your postal district, or filter by GEP on the school search page. You can also use the School Finder Quiz to find schools that match your GEP preference alongside other criteria.