Temasek Junior College at a Glance

Temasek Junior College was established in 1976 and admitted its first batch of students in 1977, making it one of Singapore’s earliest government junior colleges. Its name draws from Temasek, the ancient Malay name for Singapore meaning “Sea Town,” a nod to the nation’s heritage that the college carries proudly in its motto: “For College, For Nation.” The school is co-educational, operates as a full-day government school, and sits within the East zone of Singapore’s school network.

TJC offers two main student populations under one roof: a standard two-year Junior College programme leading to the GCE A-Level examinations, and a six-year Integrated Programme (IP) that accepts students directly after PSLE, bypassing the O-Level examinations. Combined, the college accommodates approximately 1,600 students across both tracks. The current principal is Liu Earnler.

Since 2024, TJC has been operating from a temporary campus at the former Tampines Junior College site while its original Bedok South campus undergoes a full rebuild under MOE’s JC Rejuvenation Programme. The college is expected to return to its permanent home at 22 Bedok South Road in December 2027. Parents researching schools in the East will find TJC conveniently accessible — more on location and transport below.

TJC Cut-Off Points: Latest & Historical Trends

The cut-off point (COP) for a junior college is the highest L1R5 net aggregate score among students successfully posted to that JC in a given year. A lower aggregate indicates stronger O-Level performance, so a COP of 7 is more competitive than a COP of 9. MOE publishes these figures annually after the JAE posting results, and they serve as the primary benchmark families use when assessing eligibility.

For the 2026 JAE (based on 2025 O-Level results), Temasek Junior College’s indicative L1R5 net aggregate cut-off points are Science: 7 and Arts: 7. The table below tracks TJC’s cut-off points over six years so you can see the trend clearly.

Source: MOE JAE data via sgschooling.com and zenitheducationstudio.com. COP figures reflect the net L1R5 aggregate (after bonus points).

The trend shows a gradual improvement in TJC’s competitiveness over recent years, with both Science and Arts stream COPs tightening since 2021. This reflects growing demand for TJC places, particularly in the Science stream. It is also worth noting that the cut-off point represents the last student admitted — many students gain entry with scores well below (i.e., stronger than) the published COP, so the figures indicate a ceiling rather than a target.

Understanding the L1R5 Score

The L1R5 gross aggregate is calculated as your First Language (L1) grade plus five relevant subjects (R5). To be eligible for any JC via the JAE, a student’s L1R5 gross aggregate must not exceed 20. The net aggregate — which is what the cut-off point reflects — is the gross score minus any applicable bonus points. Students can earn up to 2 CCA bonus points (“Excellent” grade = 2 points, “Good” grade = 1 point). Additionally, if a student is enrolled in a Language Elective Programme, their score may be reduced by up to 6 bonus points; otherwise, the maximum reduction is 4 points.

How to Apply: JAE, DSA-JC & IP Pathways

There are three distinct admission pathways into Temasek Junior College, each suited to different student profiles. Understanding which route applies to your child — and the key timelines involved — is the first step in planning your application strategy.

1. Joint Admissions Exercise (JAE) — Main Pathway

The JAE is the primary route for students entering JC Year 1 after receiving their O-Level results. Applications are submitted online via the JAE Internet System using Singpass, typically in January each year after results are released. Students rank up to 12 choices, and postings are made based on their net L1R5 aggregate. To be eligible, your net aggregate must fall at or below that year’s published cut-off point for your chosen stream at TJC.

2. Direct School Admission for JC (DSA-JC) — Talent Pathway

DSA-JC allows Secondary 4 Express and Secondary 5 Normal students to apply to TJC before sitting their O-Levels, based on demonstrated talents in specific areas. TJC participates in DSA-JC across both Phase 1 and Phase 2, targeting students with strengths in academics, leadership, performing arts, and sports. The performing arts categories include Choir, Concert Band, Guitar Ensemble, Modern Dance, String Ensemble, Chinese Drama, and English Drama, while sports options include Basketball, Taekwondo, and others. Successful DSA-JC applicants receive a Confirmed Offer and are guaranteed a place at TJC as long as they meet the basic JC eligibility criteria — regardless of that year’s JAE cut-off. Applications for DSA-JC typically open in June or July, ahead of the O-Level examinations.

3. The Six-Year Integrated Programme (IP) — For P6 Students

TJC’s Integrated Programme began as the Temasek Academy in 2005 and was expanded in 2013 to a full six-year track starting after PSLE. Primary 6 students can apply for IP Year 1 entry through the DSA-Sec exercise, which typically opens in May each year. Talent areas for DSA-Sec include academics (Chinese Language, English Language, Mathematics, Science), Music Elective Programme, Concert Band, sports (Badminton, Basketball, Bowling, Taekwondo), and Leadership. Shortlisted candidates undergo written tests, auditions or trials, and interviews. Successful applicants commit to remaining in their talent area throughout IP Years 1 to 4 and progress through to TJC’s JC programme for Years 5 and 6 — completing their A-Levels without ever sitting the O-Level examinations.

Whether you are planning for a child approaching PSLE or preparing a Secondary 4 student for JAE or DSA, having a clear picture of all available school options is key. Skoolopedia’s tools for finding enrichment centres near MRT stations can help you identify the right academic support close to home or school as your child prepares their application.

Subjects & Special Programmes

At the JC level, TJC students choose from Science or Arts stream subject combinations. Most students take three or four H2 content subjects alongside compulsory H1 General Paper, H1 Project Work, and a Mother Tongue language. TJC offers a broad range of A-Level subjects including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Economics, Geography, History, Literature in English, Computing, and Knowledge and Inquiry. H2 Music is also available for eligible students.

What makes TJC distinctive is its slate of special programmes that go beyond standard A-Level offerings:

• Music Elective Programme (MEP): Students enrolled in MEP offer H2 Music as one of their A-Level examination subjects. Applicants must have offered Music or Higher Music at O-Level and pass a selection test and audition demonstrating adequate proficiency in performance or composition.
• Chinese Language Elective Programme (CLEP): An enriched programme for students with strong Chinese Language backgrounds, providing deeper engagement with the language and literature at the pre-university level.
• Temasek Humanities Programme (THP): Designed to develop leaders in the Humanities, THP nurtures independent, inquiry-driven students who can navigate complex global issues — an ideal fit for students considering law, social sciences, or policy at university.
• Temasek STEM Programme: Tailored for students with a passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, this programme provides extended opportunities in research and applied learning beyond the standard curriculum.

The IP curriculum at the secondary level follows an enriched model that integrates subjects such as Language Arts, Fundamental Humanities, and Green Science, blending disciplines to develop interdisciplinary problem-solvers. The Temasek Academy provides further enrichment through five subject strands, while cohort-wide Signature Programmes offer experiences that build leadership and character across all IP year groups.

For families planning ahead, exploring the right enrichment support early makes a real difference. You can use Skoolopedia to browse student care centres near MRT stations to find after-school support conveniently located for your family’s commute.

Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs)

CCA participation at TJC is not just about enrichment — it directly affects your JAE eligibility through bonus points. An “Excellent” CCA grade reduces your net L1R5 aggregate by 2 points, and a “Good” grade reduces it by 1 point. Beyond admissions strategy, CCAs at TJC are genuinely wide-ranging and have earned strong national results in recent years.

TJC’s CCA offerings span four broad categories:

• Physical Sports: Badminton, Basketball, Bowling, Football, Taekwondo, Volleyball
• Visual and Performing Arts: Choir, Concert Band, Guitar Ensemble, Modern Dance
• Clubs and Societies: Infocomm Technology (Media Production), subject-based interest clubs
• Performing Arts (DSA categories): String Ensemble, Chinese Drama, English Drama

Active CCA participation also contributes to DSA-JC applications and helps students build the leadership portfolios that feature in TJC’s Student Leadership Development programmes. The college emphasises leadership as a core strand of the “Temasek Experience,” running structured programmes to develop initiative, resilience, and community service alongside academic pursuits.

Location, Fees & Contact

Campus Location

TJC is currently operating from its temporary campus at 2 Tampines Avenue 9, Singapore 529564 — the former Tampines JC site — while its original Bedok South campus is fully rebuilt. The rebuild runs from January 2024 to December 2027, after which TJC will return to its permanent address at 22 Bedok South Road, Singapore 469278. The temporary campus is accessible via Tampines East MRT Station (DT33, Downtown Line), Exit D. Bus Stop 76319 at Tampines East Station serves the TJC foyer directly.

Monthly School Fees

As a government junior college, TJC’s fees are heavily subsidised for Singapore Citizens. The table below provides a general guide, though parents should verify the latest figures directly with MOE’s fee schedule as these are subject to annual review.

Figures based on MOE published fee schedules. Financial assistance is available through MOE’s Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) for eligible Singapore Citizen families.

Contact Details

• Phone: 6442 8066
• Email: [email protected]
• Website:www.temasekjc.moe.edu.sg

Families in the East planning their broader education journey can also explore preschool and enrichment options nearby. Skoolopedia’s directory of preschools near MRT stations and enrichment centres by MRT makes it easy to plan for children at every stage of learning, right from your neighbourhood.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cut-off point for Temasek Junior College?

For the 2026 JAE (based on 2025 O-Level results), the indicative net L1R5 cut-off points are Science: 7 and Arts: 7. For the 2025 JAE (based on 2024 O-Levels), they were Science: 7 and Arts: 8. These are the scores of the last-admitted student and are updated annually after JAE posting results are released by MOE.

Is TJC a co-educational school?

Yes. Temasek Junior College is a co-educational government school, admitting both male and female students across its JC and Integrated Programme tracks.

Does TJC offer the Integrated Programme?

Yes. TJC has offered the IP since 2005, originally as the Temasek Academy. Since 2013, the programme has been a full six-year track beginning after PSLE, leading to the GCE A-Level without O-Level examinations. Entry is through the DSA-Sec exercise for Primary 6 students.

How do I apply to TJC via DSA-JC?

Secondary 4 Express and Secondary 5 Normal students can apply through DSA-JC, which opens in June or July each year. Applications are submitted online through the DSA portal. TJC accepts applications in talent areas including Performing Arts (Choir, Concert Band, Guitar Ensemble, Modern Dance, English Drama, Chinese Drama, String Ensemble), Sports (Basketball, Taekwondo, and others), and Leadership. Shortlisted candidates are interviewed, and successful applicants receive a Confirmed Offer guaranteeing placement regardless of JAE results.

Where is Temasek Junior College located?

TJC is currently at its temporary campus at 2 Tampines Avenue 9, Singapore 529564 (nearest MRT: Tampines East, DT33). It will return to its permanent campus at 22 Bedok South Road, Singapore 469278, in December 2027 after the completion of the JC Rejuvenation Programme.

What special programmes does TJC offer at the JC level?

TJC offers four notable special programmes: the Music Elective Programme (MEP), the Chinese Language Elective Programme (CLEP), the Temasek Humanities Programme (THP), and the Temasek STEM Programme. Each provides enriched learning beyond the standard A-Level curriculum and caters to students with specific academic or creative strengths.

What are the school fees at TJC?

Singapore Citizens pay approximately $33 per month in school fees, with miscellaneous fees applying additionally. Permanent Residents pay approximately $660 per month, and international students approximately $1,750 per month. MOE Financial Assistance Schemes are available for eligible Singapore Citizen families. Confirm the latest figures at MOE’s fee page.