In a bid to identify and nurture the brightest minds, the Philippine Science High School (PSHS) proudly announces the commencement of online applications for Grade 7 students for the academic year 2024-2025. Filipino students meeting the criteria are invited to seize this golden opportunity by applying for the PSHS National Competitive Examination (NCE). Here’s your comprehensive guide to navigating this exciting academic endeavor.

pshs national competitive examination nce

Table of Contents

Application Process and Important Dates

Deadline and Examination Date

The Philippine Science High School (PSHS) is now accepting online applications for the incoming Grade 7 (AY 2024-2025). Filipino students who meet the criteria may now apply for the PSHS National Competitive Examination (NCE). The deadline for submission of the online and completed application form and the requirements is October 13, 2023.

Only the top 15,000 qualifiers based on the applicant’s Predicted NCE Grade (PNG) computation shall be allowed to take the NCE on November 18, 2023. Out of the 15,000 examinees, 1,920 qualifiers are eligible to enroll as incoming seventh graders for SY 2024–2025 at the campus of their choice.

Qualifications for PSHS National Competitive Examination (NCE)

An applicant must be a grade 6 elementary pupil from a duly recognized school by the Department of Education and must meet these criteria for eligibility to be able to apply for the PSHS System:

The applicant must be a Filipino citizen with no pending or approved application as an immigrant to any foreign country.
Not more than 15 years old by June 30, 2024
Having a final grade of 85% or better in Science and Mathematics, as evidenced by the student’s report card. If the student’s grades in Science or Math are below 85%, he or she must provide evidence that he or she belongs to the upper 10% of the class;
Having at least a satisfactory rating (or its equivalent) in his or her Character Rating;
Must be healthy and fit to undergo a rigorous academic program;
Finally, he or she must not have applied for PSHS previously.

PSHS NCE Application Requirements

For walk-in applicants:

Fully completed Application Form.
Recent 1 x 1 ID pictures.
Non-refundable application fee for private school students: Php 300, based on the applicant’s Grade 5 school and free for public school students and indigent students from private schools
A certified true copy of the report card (SY 2022–2023) by the class adviser or principal.
If the final grades in Science or Math are below 85%, certification or proof that the child belongs to the upper 10% of the batch.
Certification from the private school if the pupil-applicant is on a full scholarship.

For applicants online:

Scanned/Digitized copy of most recent 1×1 ID pictures
Scanned/Digitized copy of Proof of Payment (Php 300 for private schools (payment can be made at https://nce.pshs.edu.ph/); free for public schools and private scholars)
Scanned or digitalized copy of a certified true copy of the report card (SY 2022–2023) by the class adviser/principal.
Only if the student’s grades in Science and/or Math are below 85%, he or she must provide evidence that he/she belongs to the upper 10% of the batch;
Certification from the private school if the pupil-applicant is on a full scholarship.

How to Apply for PSHS NCE – Entrance Exam

For walk-in candidates:

The PSHS NCE Application Form and accompanying materials are not for sale and may be photocopied.
They are also available for download via this link: PSHS Application Form
There is no reservation fee.
Additionally, application forms are available for submission at any of the following locations: PSHS campuses, DOST Regional offices, or Provincial Science and Technology Offices. Incomplete application forms will not be processed. The applicant must initial all erasures, changes, and insertions.

If you do not receive an email notification indicating whether your application has been approved or denied, you may visit or contact the nearest PSHS Campus or call the PSHSS-Admissions Office at (02) 8939-PSHS (89397747) or visit www.pshs.edu.ph.

For online applicants:

PSHS NCE Applicants may also apply online at https://nce.pshs.edu.ph. To begin, applicants must register at https://nce.pshs.edu.ph/signup.
To submit an application, the PSHS NCE Applicant must complete the online application form with all the required information. If the applicant still needs to prepare the required attachments, he or she will have the option of saving it as a draft until all required data and documents have been completed. Once submitted, the application is considered complete and cannot be modified.
To check the status of an applicant’s application, the applicant should log in to the website and select Application Result. Additionally, the applicant will receive an email confirmation indicating whether his or her application was approved, rejected, or requires additional documentation.

What are the privileges of a PISAY Scholar?

PISAY Scholars enjoy a variety of privileges that support their academic and personal growth. These privileges include:

Financial Support

Free Tuition: PISAY Scholars are exempt from paying tuition fees, allowing them to focus on their studies without financial constraints.
Monthly Stipend: Scholars receive a monthly stipend of Php 500 to cover their basic expenses.
Living Allowances: Based on their socio-economic status, scholars receive additional living allowances ranging from Php 2,000 to Php 4,000 per month.
Free Loan of Textbooks: Scholars have access to a wide range of textbooks and other learning materials without incurring any costs.
Transportation Allowance: For scholars residing far from the school, transportation allowances are provided to cover their commuting expenses.

Academic Support

World-Class Education: PISAY Scholars receive a top-notch education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, preparing them for future careers in these areas.
Access to Advanced Courses: Scholars have the opportunity to take advanced courses and participate in research projects, furthering their knowledge and expertise in STEM fields.
Exposure to International Opportunities: PISAY Scholars are encouraged to participate in international competitions, conferences, and exchange programs, broadening their horizons and global perspectives.

Personal Development

Dorm Accommodation: Scholars living far from the school can avail of dormitory accommodation, ensuring a safe and conducive learning environment.
Leadership and Extracurricular Activities: PISAY Scholars are encouraged to engage in leadership roles and extracurricular activities, fostering their personal growth and social skills.
Mentorship and Guidance: Scholars receive mentorship and guidance from experienced faculty members and staff, supporting their academic and personal development.
Access to Counseling Services: Scholars have access to counseling services to address any personal or academic concerns they may face.
Networking Opportunities: PISAY Scholars become part of a vibrant community of high-achieving students, providing opportunities for networking and collaboration.

Frequently Asked Questions in PSHS National Competitive Examination (NCE)

What is the PSHS National Competitive Examination (NCE)?

The PSHS National Competitive Examination (NCE) is a standardized test used to select academically gifted and talented students for admission to the Philippine Science High School (PSHS), a specialized science high school in the Philippines. The NCE is administered annually to Grade 6 students who are enrolled in a duly recognized school by the Department of Education (DepEd).

Is Philippine Science High School Free?

The Philippine Science High School (PSHS) system is a special public high school system in the Philippines that focuses on the sciences. PSHS is free of charge. The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) through the Science Education Institute (SEI) administers the system.

Who is eligible to take the PSHS National Competitive Examination (NCE)?

To be eligible to take the PSHS NCE, a student must meet the following criteria:

Be a current Grade 6 student in a duly recognized school by the DepEd
Have a final grade of 85% or better in Science and Mathematics, evidenced by the student’s report card
Be a Filipino citizen with no pending or approved application as an immigrant to any foreign country
Not be more than 15 years old by June 30 of the year of the NCE
Have at least a satisfactory rating (or its equivalent) in Character Rating in the student’s report card
Have not previously applied for admission to PSHS
Be in good health and fit to undergo a rigorous academic program

What are the scholarship privileges?

Free tuition fee, free loan of textbooks, monthly stipend, Uniform/transportation/living allowances for low income groups, dormitory accommodation (if applicable)

What are the allowances given to PSHS scholars after passing the PSHS NCE?

PSHS scholars enjoy not only a world-class education without tuition fees but also various allowances to support their academic journey. Each scholar receives a monthly stipend of Php 500.00. Additionally, living allowances are provided, with the amounts varying based on the socio-economic status of the scholar. The table above outlines the classification of allowances for Full, Partial 1, Partial 2, and Partial 3 scholars. Furthermore, scholars have the advantage of accessing free loaned textbooks, ensuring they have all the resources needed to thrive academically.

Allowances (in PHP)	Full	Partial 1	Partial 2	Partial 3
Stipend	500.00	500.00	500.00	500.00
Living Allowance	3,500.00	3,000.00	2,000.00	—
Total Grant per Month	4,000.00	3,500.00	2,500.00	500.00

Are there dormitory services for PSHS scholars who live far from the campus?

Yes. There are residence halls in each campus where a PSHS scholar may stay, subject to availability of rooms / beds.

Who are qualified to take the NCE this year?

A grade 6 elementary pupil from a duly recognized school by the Department of Education who meets the following criteria is eligible to apply for the PSHS National Competitive Examination (NCE).

Applicant must:

have a final grade of 85% or better in Science and Mathematics, evidenced by the student’s report card. If the student’s grades in Science or Math are below 85%, then, he/she must provide evidence that he/she belongs to the upper 10% of the batch;
a Filipino citizen with no pending or approved application as immigrant to any foreign country;
not be more than 15 years-old by June 30, 2024;
has at least a satisfactory rating (or its equivalent) in his/her Character Rating in his/her report card on S.Y. 2022-2023);
not have taken the PSHS NCE previously; and
preferably, be in good health and fit to undergo a rigorous academic program.

Where can I get a copy of the application form?

Application form can be downloaded from pshs.edu.ph. You may also visit the PSHS campus nearest you or any DOST/Provincial Science and Technology offices. Application form is free of charge.

You can also apply by visiting the nce.pshs.edu.ph and sign up through this link.

How to find my Learners Reference Number?

The LRN or Learner Reference Number is a 12-digit number assigned by the Department of Education to each student as s/he goes through the basic education program. It is kept by the student even if s/he transfers to another school.

The LRN can usually be found on the top portion of a student’s report card or Form 138.

Where can I submit the form?

You may submit the form to any PSHS campuses, and DOST / Provincial Science and Technology offices.

Alternatively, you can also submit your applications online at nce.pshs.edu.ph. You must sign up first through this link.

Do I have to submit my PSHS NCE application personally?

Not necessarily. Parents or guardians may submit the application to any PSHS campuses, and DOST / Provincial S&T offices. The application form, attached documents and proof of payment are evaluated immediately upon submission.

You can also submit your applications online at nce.pshs.edu.ph. You must sign up first through this link and create an application.

How much is the processing fee?

The processing is FREE for students coming from public schools and private scholar. There is a fee of Php 300.00 for students from private schools. Payment is made upon submission of application, payments may be made online after accomplishing the online form, however, walk-in applicants can pay thru cash at the cashier’s office.

Is a home-schooled child eligible to apply?

Yes, as long as the school is accredited and recognized by the Department of Education (DepEd). Please submit the school’s certification/accreditation to the Admissions Office / PSHS Campus Registrar you are submitting your application form.

What if the child is studying abroad?

If the school abroad has the same curriculum prescribed and is also recognized by the Department of Education, the child may apply for the NCE.

What if the school is not DepEd accredited?

In the event that the school where an applicant is enrolled is not accredited by the Department of Education (DepEd), the application form will be rejected. This underscores the importance of ensuring that the educational institution meets the accreditation standards set by DepEd for eligibility in the application process. Applicants are advised to verify the accreditation status of their respective schools to prevent any complications in the application procedure.

Is a child of dual citizenship eligible to apply? Any additional requirements?

Yes. A Philippine-issued passport (not expired). If an applicant holds dual citizenship, they are indeed eligible to apply for the Philippine Science High School (PSHS). However, in addition to meeting the standard eligibility criteria, such as academic qualifications, there is a specific requirement for individuals with dual citizenship. They must possess a Philippine-issued passport that is not expired. This additional documentation is crucial to verify and validate the citizenship status of the applicant during the application process. As such, it is imperative for applicants with dual citizenship to ensure the validity of their Philippine passport to avoid any complications in the application procedure.

If the child is 16 years old is he/she eligible to apply?

No, he/she must be not more than 15 years old by August of the following school year. If the applicant is 16 years old, they are not eligible to apply for the Philippine Science High School (PSHS). The eligibility criterion stipulates that an applicant must be not more than 15 years old by August of the following school year. This age requirement is a crucial factor in determining the suitability of applicants for enrollment in PSHS, and individuals exceeding the specified age limit are advised to consider their eligibility status before applying.

Can I choose which PSHS campus to apply to?

Yes. In the application form, the applicants will check the campus of their choice.

The Top 240 qualifiers in NCE will be invited to enroll at PSHS Main Campus.

In the application process for the Philippine Science High School (PSHS), applicants have the autonomy to choose their preferred PSHS campus. The top 240 qualifiers in the National Competitive Examination (NCE) will be invited to enroll at the PSHS Main Campus. However, if an applicant does not qualify within the top 240, their application will be considered for ranking on the regional campus they selected in the application form.

It is crucial to note that once an applicant chooses a regional campus, they will not be considered as an alternate qualifier for the Main Campus. The decision to select a regional campus involves the possibility of being ranked for enrollment in that specific regional campus if not among the top qualifiers for the Main Campus. Applicants should make their choices wisely, considering their preferences and the admission criteria associated with each campus.

How many slots are available for the prospective scholars?

PSHS Campus	Number of Slots
Main Campus	240
CALABARZON Region Campus	120
Central Luzon Campus	120
Ilocos Region Campus	120
Cagayan Valley Campus	120
Western Visayas Campus	120
Southern Mindanao Campus	120
SOCCSKSARGEN Region Campus	120
CARAGA Regional Campus	120
Central Mindanao Campus	120
Cordillera Administrative Region Campus	90
Bicol Region Campus	90
MIMAROPA Region Campus	90
Central Visayas Campus	90
Eastern Visayas Campus	90
Zamboanga Region Campus	90

The Philippine Science High School (PSHS) allocates a specific number of slots for each campus, providing diverse opportunities for qualified applicants. The distribution of slots is as follows:

Main Campus: 240 slots
CALABARZON Region Campus, Central Luzon Campus, Ilocos Region Campus, Cagayan Valley Campus, Western Visayas Campus, Southern Mindanao Campus, SOCCSKSARGEN Region Campus, CARAGA Regional Campus, and Central Mindanao Campus: 120 slots each
Cordillera Administrative Region Campus, Bicol Region Campus, MIMAROPA Region Campus, Central Visayas Campus, Eastern Visayas Campus, Zamboanga Region Campus: 90 slots each

Applicants can make informed choices based on their preferences and the available slots at each campus.

When is the PSHS NCE held?

The PSHS NCE is typically held in November of each year. The exact date of the exam is announced by the PSHS administration several months in advance.

How long is the PSHS NCE?

The PSHS NCE is typically three hours long.

What is the passing score for the PSHS NCE?

There is no fixed passing score for the PSHS NCE. The passing score is determined each year based on the performance of all examinees.

What is the process for applying to the PSHS after passing the NCE?

After passing the NCE, students must submit an application to PSHS. The application process typically includes submitting transcripts, recommendation letters, and other supporting documents.

What are the benefits of attending PSHS?

PSHS is a highly regarded school that provides a rigorous academic program in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Students who attend PSHS have a high rate of acceptance to top universities in the Philippines and around the world.

How can I prepare for the PSHS NCE?

There are many resources available to help students prepare for the PSHS NCE. These resources include review books, online practice tests, and preparatory courses.

We will also be posting soon our PSHS NCE Reviewer.

What are some tips for taking the PSHS NCE?

Here are some tips for taking the PSHS NCE:

Get a good night’s sleep before the exam.
Eat a healthy breakfast on the day of the exam.
Arrive at the exam center early.
Bring all of the required materials, such as pencils, erasers, and a calculator.
Read all of the instructions carefully.
Answer the questions to the best of your ability.
If you are stuck on a question, skip it and come back to it later.
Manage your time wisely.
Review your answers before submitting the exam.

What is the difference between the PSHS NCE and other standardized tests?

The PSHS NCE is different from other standardized tests in several ways. First, the PSHS NCE is specifically designed to identify students who are gifted and talented in science and mathematics. Second, the PSHS NCE is more rigorous than other standardized tests, and it covers a broader range of topics. Third, the PSHS NCE is used to select students for admission to a specialized science high school, while other standardized tests are used for a variety of purposes.

What are some of the specific topics that are covered on the PSHS NCE?

The specific topics that are covered on the PSHS NCE vary from year to year. However, the exam typically covers the following topics:

Science: Biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science
Mathematics: Algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and probability

What are some of the challenges of taking the PSHS NCE?

The PSHS NCE is a challenging exam, and there are a number of challenges that students may face when taking the exam. Some of the most common challenges include:

The breadth of material covered on the exam: The PSHS NCE covers a broad range of science and mathematics topics, which can be difficult for students to master.
The depth of knowledge required: The PSHS NCE requires students to have a deep understanding of the material covered on the exam.
The time constraints of the exam: The PSHS NCE is a timed exam, which can make it difficult for students to complete all of the questions.

What are some resources that I can use to prepare for the PSHS NCE?

There are a number of resources that students can use to prepare for the PSHS NCE. These resources include:

Review books: There are a number of review books available that cover the material covered on the PSHS NCE.
Online practice tests: There are a number of websites that offer online practice tests for the PSHS NCE.
Preparatory courses: There are a number of schools and organizations that offer preparatory courses for the PSHS NCE.

What are some tips for managing my time on the PSHS NCE?

One of the most important things that students can do to improve their chances of success on the PSHS NCE is to develop effective time management strategies. Here are a few tips for managing your time on the exam:

Read the directions carefully: Before you start answering any questions, make sure that you read the directions carefully. This will help you to avoid making mistakes.
Pace yourself: Don’t spend too much time on any one question. If you are stuck on a question, skip it and come back to it later.
Use your time wisely: Allocate your time wisely between the two sections of the exam.
Review your answers: Before you submit the exam, make sure that you review your answers.

What should I do if I don’t pass the PSHS NCE?

If you don’t pass the PSHS NCE, then you can take again the exam in the following year as Grade 8 or Grade 9 student.

Note: There is Lateral Admission for prospective available slots for incoming grades 8 and 9 in the PSHS campuses.

In the meantime, there are a number of things that you can do to improve your chances of success on the next exam. These things include:

Continue to study science and mathematics: The more you study science and mathematics, the better prepared you will be for the PSHS NCE.
Take preparatory courses: There are a number of schools and organizations that offer preparatory courses for the PSHS NCE.
Get a tutor: A tutor can help you to identify your weaknesses and develop strategies for improving your performance.

What is the PSHS curriculum like?

The PSHS curriculum is a rigorous academic program that is designed to prepare students for success in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The curriculum is based on the latest research in STEM education and it is taught by highly qualified teachers.

What are the extracurricular activities like at PSHS?

PSHS offers a wide variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and organizations. These activities provide students with opportunities to explore their interests, develop their talents, and make new friends.

What are the college acceptance rates for PSHS or Pisay graduates?

PSHS graduates have a very high college acceptance rate. In fact, 100% of PSHS graduates are accepted to college every year. The PSHS alumni network is strong, and many graduates go on to attend top universities in the Philippines and around the world.

Here are some of the factors that contribute to the high college acceptance rate of PSHS graduates:

Rigorous academic program: The PSHS curriculum is designed to challenge students and prepare them for the rigors of college coursework.
Highly qualified teachers: PSHS teachers are highly qualified and experienced in teaching STEM subjects.
Strong student support services: PSHS offers a variety of student support services, including academic advising, tutoring, and counseling.
Emphasis on STEM education: PSHS has a strong emphasis on STEM education, which is a highly sought-after field by colleges and universities.
Strong alumni network: PSHS has a strong alumni network that can provide students with guidance and support as they apply to college.

If you are a student who is interested in attending a top university, then PSHS is a great option for you. The school’s rigorous academic program, highly qualified teachers, and strong student support services can help you achieve your academic goals.

Conclusion – Be a Pisay Scholar!

Interested student applicants to the Philippine Science High School may apply directly to the nearest PSHS campus, DOST Regional Offices, and Provincial Science and Technology Offices or apply via online platform through https://nce.pshs.edu.ph/

The application forms and the attached requirements will be reviewed, and processed for approval. Only the top 15,000 qualifiers based on the applicant’s Predicted NCE Grade (PNG) computation shall be allowed to take the National Competitive Examination (NCE) on November 18, 2023. Out of the 15,000 examinees, 1,920 qualifiers are eligible to enroll as incoming seventh graders for SY 2024-2025 at the campus choice. The initial and final list of qualifiers will posted at the pshs.edu.ph

The exam permits will released two weeks before the actual date of exam.

Source

1. Philippine Science High School System. (2023). Online Application for PSHS National Competitive Examination (NCE) FOR SY 2024 – 2025 Grade 7. Retrieved November 15, 2023, from https://nce.pshs.edu.ph/