Central Allocation Strategy — How to Fill in Your School Choices

Central Allocation is how most children enter government-funded primary schools.

What Is Central Allocation?

Central Allocation is a computer-based random number system used by the Education Bureau for government and aided primary schools.

The Two Stages

Stage A: Unlimited School Net Choices

Parents can choose up to 3 schools from anywhere. These places account for about 10%.

Stage B: Within Your School Net

Parents must choose up to 30 schools within their school net.

Filing Strategy

Stage A Strategy

  • Choose some competitive and desired schools
  • Do not only fill with "safe" choices

Stage B Strategy

  • First choice matters most
  • Create layers
  • Last few choices should be conservative
  • Do not only list famous schools

Common Mistakes

  • Incomplete forms
  • Listing too few schools
  • Not understanding school nets
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