Last Updated: 08 Oct 2025
Express course for secondary school
Express has two programmes: O-Level and Integrated. The GCE O-Level Programme is a 4-year course leading to the GCE O-Level examination. The Integrated Programme is a 6-year course leading to the GCE A-Level examination or International Baccalaureate Diploma or NUS High School Diploma. Students in the Integrated Programme do not need to take the GCE O-Level examination in Secondary 4. The 2023 Secondary 1 cohort will be the final cohort being placed in courses, including the Express course.
Express course (GCE O-Level Programme) at a glance
2025
GCE O-Level Examination
At the end of Secondary 4, your child will sit for the GCE O-Level examination. They will need to take at least 5 and up to 9 examinable subjects.
After Secondary 4
After completing the GCE O-Level examination, depending on your child’s interests, strengths and learning goals, they can:
- Attend a junior college or Millennia Institute and take the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme or the GCE A-Level examination.
- Attend a polytechnic for a 3-year diploma course.
- Attend ITE for a 2-3 year National ITE Certificate course (Nitec) or Higher Nitec course.
Explore the different types of post-secondary education institutions.