About 14,800 candidates with aggregates 6–12 apply for 1,300 Achimota places – CSSPS

Approximately 14,800 candidates with aggregate scores between 6 and 12 have applied for the 1,300 available places at Achimota School, according to Sherif Sulemana, the Coordinator of the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS). This was revealed during an interview on Joy FM Super Morning Show on September 3. A listener sought clarification on how competitive the admission process would be for her daughter, who obtained an aggregate of 15 and listed Achimota as one of her choices.

Sulemana clarified that while 14,800 candidates fall within the 6-12 aggregate range, the total number of applicants to Achimota School is around 28,000. He emphasized that merely the number of applications does not determine placement. Various factors, including the candidate's aggregate, school and programme preferences, residential choice, and the availability of spaces at the chosen school, are taken into account by the CSSPS.

The aggregate score remains the primary criterion for ranking candidates. The raw scores are used to break ties when candidates have identical aggregates and are competing for the same limited places. An intriguing aspect of the grading system is that a higher raw score may sometimes result in a lower aggregate number compared to a candidate with a lower raw score. Therefore, achieving an aggregate of 15 does not guarantee admission to Achimota School.

Sulemana further explained that the final placement depends on factors such as the level of competition for available spaces, the candidates' preferences, and their performance relative to other applicants seeking the same school and programme. As candidates and parents eagerly await the placement process, schools with high demand are expected to face intense competition for their limited vacancies.