How to Register for PEP in Jamaica — Step-by-Step Parent Guide

As your child enters Grade 6, one of the first administrative steps you’ll need to handle is registering them for the PEP exam. Even though schools manage much of the process, parents still play an important role in ensuring everything is accurate, complete, and submitted on time.

This guide provides a clear, step-by-step explanation of how PEP registration works in Jamaica, what documents are needed, and how to avoid the mistakes that cause delays during this busy year.

How PEP Registration Works in Jamaica

PEP registration is handled primarily through your child’s school. Each school sends information to the Ministry of Education to enrol eligible Grade 6 students.

However, parents must still:

• Provide documents

• Confirm personal information

• Review the registration form

• Sign required sections

• Submit updates if anything changes

Staying organised ensures your child’s name appears on the official PEP lists and avoids problems later in the year.

Step-by-Step Guide to Registering for PEP

Below is the full registration process, broken down into simple parent-friendly steps.

Step 1: Confirm That Your Child Is Eligible

Any child enrolled in Grade 6 is eligible for PEP.

Your school will automatically include your child if:

• They are enrolled full-time

• Their personal details are up to date

• Their Ministry Student Number is active

If your child recently transferred schools or returned from overseas, notify the school early.

Step 2: Gather All Required Documents

Schools must submit accurate information for all Grade 6 students. Parents should provide:

• Child’s birth certificate (original + copy)

• 2 passport-sized photographs (recent)

• Proof of address (utility bill, lease, letter)

• Parent/guardian identification

• Emergency contact forms

• Any transfer documents (if applicable)

Your school may request additional items, so check their specific list.

Step 3: Verify Your Child’s Information at the School

Before final submission to the Ministry, schools invite parents to review and confirm:

• Correct spelling of your child’s name

• Date of birth

• Address

• Parent contact numbers

• Gender

• National Student Registration Number

Be sure every detail is exact, even small mistakes can delay exam processing and result release.

Step 4: Sign the PEP Registration Form

Schools will print or share a registration form for parents to confirm:

• Student details

• Parent information

• Emergency contacts

• Consent permissions

Some schools complete this electronically; others require hard-copy signatures. This step must be done before your child appears on the Ministry’s master list.

Step 5: Submit Any Special Documentation (If Needed)

Children with special circumstances may require:

• Learning support documentation

• Copies of psychological assessments

• Medical reports

• Applications for alternative arrangements

• Transfer letters from previous schools

Submit these as early as possible, so the Ministry can make necessary accommodations.

Step 6: Complete and Submit the Choice of School Form

This is one of the most important forms of the entire PEP process.

The Choice of School form determines:

• Which schools your child can be placed in

• How your preferences are ranked

• Which schools the Ministry considers during placement

Important reminders:

• Choose schools based on your child’s strengths and interests

• Research each school’s curriculum, culture, and location

• Ask your teacher for guidance

• Submit the form before the deadline

Late forms may not be accepted and this can reduce placement options.

Step 7: Keep Copies of EVERYTHING

Always keep copies of:

• Completed forms

• Signed registration documents

• Birth certificates

• School-choice forms

• Transfer letters

• Receipts

• Any email confirmation

A simple folder or envelope saves time and prevents stress later in the year.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During PEP Registration

Parents often make errors during registration that lead to delays or corrections later in the school year. Here are the most common mistakes, and how to avoid them:

1. Incorrect Spelling of Names

Always double-check:

• First name

• Middle names

• Last name

• Suffixes (if any)

Names must match the birth certificate exactly.

2. Using Old or Incorrect Contact Information

Ensure that the school has:

• Updated phone numbers

• Current email addresses

• Correct home address

The Ministry and school rely on this to send exam updates.

3. Missing Birth Certificates or Photos

These are required for processing. Provide them as early as possible to avoid last-minute issues.

4. Late Submission of the Choice of School Form

This is one of the most important documents in the entire PEP process. Submit it early, not on the last day.

5. Not Reviewing the Registration Form Carefully

Parents sometimes assume the school has all the information correct.
Always review line by line.

6. Not Notifying the School About Transfers or Name Changes

Any of the following must be reported:

• New school transfer

• Change of legal name

• Updated guardianship

• Returning from overseas

• Address changes

Important Questions Parents Ask About PEP Registration

1. Do I need to register my child myself?

No. Schools register students, but parents must verify and sign documents.

2. What happens if my child does not have all documents on time?

Speak with the school early. They can advise you on alternatives or temporary solutions.

3. Can I change my child’s school choice after submitting the form?

Usually no. Once submitted, choices are final unless the Ministry allows an adjustment period.

4. Do private school students follow the same process?

Yes. All schools must submit the same information to the Ministry.

5. What if my child recently returned from abroad?

Inform the school immediately. Additional steps may be required.

Final Thoughts for Parents

Registering your child for the PEP exam may seem overwhelming at first, but with a clear process, proper documentation, and steady communication with your school, everything becomes far more manageable.

The key is simple: Start early, double-check all documents, and stay connected with your child’s teacher.

Doing these three things ensures your child is fully registered, fully supported, and ready to begin their PEP journey with confidence.