School Supplies SG

Junior College

The JC starter kit.

JCs are looser on uniform, stricter on equipment. The graphing calculator and laptop are non-negotiable from week 1.

The big shifts

  • Uniform: Each JC has its own. Most issue at the bookshop in week 1 — wait until you arrive.
  • Calculator: TI-84 Plus CE for H2 Maths, from week 1. Don’t wait.
  • Laptop: Most JCs run BYOD with a recommended spec or brand. Check your JC’s iCt programme list before buying.
  • Shoes: usually plain canvas or trainers. Less strict than secondary.

Before you shop

What JC1 prep is actually like

JCs are looser on uniform but stricter on equipment. The graphing calculator and laptop are non-negotiable from week 1 for H2 Maths and BYOD lessons. Each JC has its own uniform — buy from the bookshop in week 1.

The big shifts

  • Uniform: each JC has its own — issued in week 1 at the bookshop. Don't pre-buy.
  • Graphing calculator: TI-84 Plus CE is the standard for H2 Mathematics. Required from term 1.
  • Laptop: most JCs run BYOD with a recommended spec or brand.
  • Shoes: usually plain canvas or trainers — less strict than secondary.

The school provides

  • Uniform via bookshop in week 1.
  • Subject textbooks (purchased via bookshop, separate cost).
  • Curriculum and timetable.

What parents buy

  • Graphing calculator (TI-84 Plus CE) — verify on SEAB approved list before buying.
  • Laptop matching school's iCt spec (S$800-1500 typical range).
  • 25-35L laptop-friendly backpack.
  • Plain canvas shoes (white or black depending on JC).
  • 1L+ water bottle.
  • A4 ring binders and file dividers (JCs are paper-heavy).

Watch-outs

  • Don't buy the JC tee or PE shirt before arriving — bookshop sells the right one in week 1.
  • Graphing calculators differ — H2 Maths uses non-CAS models. Check SEAB list to confirm TI-84 Plus CE for your year.
  • If laptop supply is tight (e.g. holiday season), order 4-6 weeks before school starts.

Frequently asked

  • Are smart watches allowed in JC?
    Most JCs allow smart watches in casual settings, but ban them during exams. Confirm with your JC's specific student handbook.
  • What if my JC's recommended laptop is sold out?
    Most JCs accept any laptop meeting the minimum spec (RAM, OS, battery). Branded recommendations are convenience, not strict requirement.
  • Do I need a printer at home?
    Helpful but not mandatory. Most JCs provide library printing at low cost. Heavy users (lots of mock papers) save money with a home printer.
  • Is shoe colour strict in JC?
    Less strict than secondary — most JCs allow plain canvas (white or black) and trainers. A few have specific dress codes; check the student handbook.

JC must-haves (non-uniform)

JCs are looser on uniform but stricter on equipment. Most JC students need a laptop.

6 items

  1. School shoes

    Most JCs allow more flexibility — check your JC's rule.

  2. Laptop-friendly backpack (25-35L)

  3. Laptop (school-recommended brand)

    Check your JC's iCt programme list — most run BYOD with a recommended brand.

  4. Graphing calculator (TI-84 Plus CE)

    Mandatory for H2 Maths. TI-84 Plus CE is the standard.

  5. 1L+ water bottle

  6. A4 ring binders + file dividers

By JC

See JC-specific info →

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