With the start of Primary 1 registration around the corner, the Straits Times' Senior Education Correspondent Sandra Davie is answering questions parents may have about the process.

Here are some questions from parents about the registration process for new primary schools.

Question: "My husband and I have no affiliation to the school of our choice for my child, but we do live within 1km of the school. How many schools are we allowed to shortlist for P1 registration? Which phase applies to us and when is the registration date?What happens if my child does not get a place in the school of choice? When will we know if we are successful in a particular phase?"

- Puzzled mummy

Answer: At any particular phase you can only register your child in one school. The Education Ministry's system will be able to detect duplicate registrations. But if you change your mind you may withdraw your application in order to register at another school.

You will be notified of the result of your registration by post, immediately after the school has conducted balloting (if required) and before the start of the next phase of registration. You should check with the school if you did not receive any notification.

You asked what happens if your child does not get a place in the school of your choice. There are two alternatives. You can request help from MOE to place your child in a school which still has vacancies after Phase 2C Supplementary or you can register your child at a school which still has vacancies at Phase 3. Phase 2C registration will be held on July 30 to Aug 1. Results are out by Aug 6.

Question: "Can a management committee of the alumni in the primary school, recommend or nominate a friend's child for a place in a primary school, under phase 2A(1)?"

- Helen Lim

Answer: No one can nominate your friend as an alumni member. If your friend is a former student of the school, to gain priority under Phase 2A1 she must have joined the alumni association a year ahead.

If she is a former student of the school but has not joined the alumni association, then she comes under the subsequent Phase 2A2.

Parents, do you have questions about the P1 registration in July? Write to STAskSandra@sph.com.sg and we will get the answers.