Some people say that DSA is a “backdoor” to getting into a good school. I do not agree with this view, and I hope parents do not adopt this mindset either. DSA should not be used simply to secure a place in a prestigious school. Instead, parents should carefully assess whether their child is truly suited for the commitment and expectations that come with entering a school via DSA.

For instance, students who enter through DSA for sports must train intensively—often three times a week—and are expected to represent the school in competitions and win medals. On top of that, they must manage their academic workload well. Balancing both studies and CCA can be extremely demanding. What many don’t realize is that a child who enters through DSA is required to remain in the CCA for all four years of secondary school. Unless the child is genuinely talented, passionate about the CCA, and confident in handling its demands long-term, it is better not to pursue the DSA route.

I’ve heard of real-life experiences where DSA turned out to be more stressful than rewarding. One student I heard about entered a school through sports DSA, only to discover that her teammates were much stronger. She felt like the weakest in the team, and both her peers and coach were unhappy with her performance. The pressure and stress from training affected her emotionally, and she struggled to keep up with her schoolwork. She wanted to quit the CCA but couldn’t, due to DSA obligations. In the end, the only way out was to transfer schools. Sadly, I’ve come across other similar stories too.

That’s why I urge parents not to apply for DSA just to “get into a good school.” Instead, they should assess whether the child has the interest, ability, and resilience to thrive in such an intense environment. A child’s well-being and mental health should take priority over the prestige of a school.

Unless the child is exceptionally talented and does not find the CCA training overly challenging, I personally feel DSA should not be considered. In my own case, I never considered DSA for my daughter. She had many different interests in primary school and didn’t stay long in any one CCA. Even though a fellow parent—whose daughter was in the same piano grade as my daughter—wanted to apply for DSA Music and asked if I would do the same, I declined.

Academically, she was strong in Math and Science, but I still didn’t consider DSA for these subjects. Secondary school workload is already heavy, and I prefer for her to have time to explore her interests at her own pace, and to enjoy her growing-up years without unnecessary pressure.

Parents should also not have a “try your luck” mindset when it comes to DSA. Preparing for DSA interviews or auditions can take a lot of time—and sometimes money—which may be better spent on PSLE preparation. DSA interview period overlaps with the critical PSLE revision months, adding extra stress to an already intense period. Furthermore, facing rejection from DSA can negatively affect a child’s mood and motivation right before PSLE.

Another common regret I’ve heard: Because students must accept DSA offers before receiving their PSLE results, some children who ended up doing better than expected were unable to enter their actual dream school because they had already committed to a DSA place elsewhere.

Ultimately, DSA should only be considered if the child is confident, passionate, and truly excited about the opportunity—and if the offer comes from a school they genuinely want to attend. DSA should not be treated as “insurance” or a backup plan. Teenagers are especially vulnerable to stress and emotional pressure, so safeguarding their mental well-being is crucial.

Lastly, I’ve even heard of a child who only found out just before the interview that her parents had submitted a DSA application on her behalf. That’s not fair to the child. Communication is key—the decision to apply for DSA should be made together, with full discussion and understanding from both parent and child.

Just sharing my thoughts—please do take time to consider carefully before deciding whether to apply for DSA. Of course, everyone has different views, and it’s perfectly okay if yours are very different from mine. This is just something for you to think about!