Why Chemistry is Now a Strategic Advantage in the New L1R4 JC Admissions System
With the introduction of the new L1R4 scoring system for Junior College (JC) admissions starting from 2028, subject choices now carry even more weight. For students aiming for top-tier JCs, Chemistry is no longer just a science subject — it’s a strategic advantage.
In this post, we’ll break down the essentials of the new L1R4 system, and show you why acing Chemistry can directly impact your chances of securing a JC spot.
What’s the New L1R4 System All About?
Under the current system, JC admissions are based on the L1R5 score — your first language (L1) and five relevant subjects (R5). But from 2028 onwards, students applying to JC will be assessed using the L1R4, which includes:
L1: English or Higher Mother Tongue
R1-R4: 4 relevant subjects from your O-Level results
Here’s the catch: only your four best relevant subjects will be considered, which means every A1 or A2 counts significantly. This change puts a spotlight on high-scoring, high-weightage subjects — and Chemistry fits the bill perfectly.
Why Chemistry Matters More Than Ever
- A Core Science Subject That Opens Doors
Chemistry is one of the most commonly required subjects for JC science streams — and for good reason. Whether you’re aiming for H2 Biology, H2 Physics, or even Medicine in the future, Chemistry is often non-negotiable. - Scoring Well in Chemistry Can Lower Your L1R4
Since the new L1R4 system rewards your best 4 subjects, securing an A1 or A2 in Chemistry can directly reduce your aggregate score — giving you a stronger application, especially for competitive JCs. - Chemistry is a Subject You Can Train For
Unlike subjects like English or Literature that may feel subjective, Chemistry is logical, structured, and pattern-based. With the right techniques and consistent practice, significant grade improvements are possible — making it one of the most reliable subjects to score in. - A Safety Net for Future Choices
Scoring well in Chemistry doesn’t just boost your L1R4 — it also keeps your future academic pathways open. From JC to university, Chemistry is foundational for courses in competitive courses such as dentistry, medicine, pharmaceutical science and life sciences.
How to Start Using Chemistry as a Strategic Advantage
- Prioritize Chemistry in Your Study Schedule
If your Chemistry grade isn’t currently one of your best, now’s the time to change that. Allocate regular time weekly for practice papers and concept revision. - Target Mastery in Key Topics
Focus on high-yield areas like mole calculations, chemical bonding, and redox — these often appear in both structured and MCQ formats, giving you multiple chances to earn marks. - Join a Class or Get a Tutor Early
Building a strong foundation early in Sec 3 or 4 can make all the difference. A good tutor or structured program can help you spot common exam traps and accelerate your progress. - Use Chemistry as a Leverage Subject
Aim for Chemistry to be one of your A1 subjects in the L1R4 — especially if you’re also taking tougher-to-score subjects like Humanities or English.