Many parents worry about how far a school is from home. Some people say living nearby gives extra points — but is this true?
The Points System Has Only Two Groups
The EDB's points system divides scoring items into two groups: Group 1 and Group 2. Parents can only choose one item from each group. Many parents believe "same estate" or "living nearby" earns extra points, but this is not a valid scoring item.
Where Did This Misconception Come From?
Confusing School Nets with actual distance — School Nets are administrative boundaries, not distance measures. Outdated rumors — Some schools used to have informal "nearby-first" practices, but these were abolished long ago.
School Nets Matter — But Not the Same as Distance
During Central Allocation, you can only choose schools within your School Net. This is a School Net restriction, not a distance bonus. As long as you are in the correct School Net, how far you live has no impact on the allocation result.
Conclusion: Distance Is Not a Scoring Item
School distance does not affect the points score. Instead of worrying about distance, spend that energy learning about a school's teaching philosophy and culture.