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How Dyslexia is Diagnosed in Singapore

dyslexia assessment report

How Dyslexia is Diagnosed in Singapore

 

If your child struggles with reading despite consistent effort, a formal dyslexia assessment can provide clarity and direction. Here’s what to expect in Singapore.

Step 1: Observation and Initial Screening

Teachers often notice the early signs — difficulty spelling, slow reading, or poor phonics recall. While schools may conduct basic screenings which can provide an indication of dyslexia, it is not a diagnosis.

A formal diagnosis requires an assessment by a qualified professional.

👉 Learn to recognise these 5 early signs of dyslexia.

 

A screening typically involves a series of short tests that assess key skills associated with reading and spelling. These may include: 

  • Phonological and Phonemic Awareness: The ability to recognise and manipulate sounds in words. 
  • Sound-Symbol Recognition: Knowing the sounds that letters or groups of letters represent. 
  • Alphabet Knowledge: Familiarity with the letters of the alphabet. 
  • Decoding Skills: The ability to sound out unfamiliar words. 
  • Rapid Naming Skills: The speed at which a person can name familiar objects, colors, or letters. 
  • Encoding (Spelling): The ability to spell words correctly. 
  • Letter Writing: Observing for difficulties or confusion when a child writes. 
If the screening results indicate a high probability of dyslexia, they will typically be referred for a full, in-depth diagnostic assessment by a qualified professional.
This assessment provides a definitive diagnosis and helps create a tailored plan for educational support. 

You can request initial screenings at:

 

Step 2: Formal Assessment

An assessment is Conducted by an educational or clinical psychologists.

What the Assessment Involves

  • Standardised Testing: 

    A battery of tests are administered to assess various cognitive skills related to dyslexia, such as: 

    • Reading Comprehension and Speed: How quickly and accurately the individual can read.
    • Spelling: The ability to correctly spell words.
    • Phonological Awareness: The ability to recognise and manipulate the sounds in words, a key skill for reading and spelling. 
    • Working Memory and Processing Speed: The ability to hold and use information, and how quickly information can be retrieved and processed. 
History Gathering: 

The assessor will gather comprehensive information, including:

  • Developmental History:Details about birth and early speech and language development.
  • Educational History:Information from school reports, early interventions, and previous assessments.
  • Teacher and Parent Input:Conversations with teachers and parents to get a broader perspective on the individual’s learning and difficulties.

You can also find approved assessors through:

Step 3: The Report and Next Steps

The psychologist’s report outlines your child’s strengths, weaknesses, and recommendations for both home and school.

This document can support applications for:

  • Exam accommodations (via MOE)

  • Targeted intervention in school

  • Private dyslexia programmes

👉 Learn how our Dyslexia Correction Programme can complement professional assessments.

You may also find our FAQs on Dyslexia Correction helpful for understanding timelines, progress, and parental involvement.

Step 4: Early Intervention Makes the Difference

The earlier a child receives structured intervention, the better the long-term outcomes.

If you’ve completed a formal assessment, the next step is finding a supportive learning environment that matches your child’s needs.
Book a consultation with Mind Mechanics to explore a customised plan.

References:

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