Dear Graduate Students Welcome to the NUS Family! We have prepared this International Student Guide to assist you in your journey to NUS and Singapore. In this guide, you will find information on the upcoming events, pre-departure and arrival checklists, key administrative matters as well as an introduction to Singapore. Do take time to look through this guide which we have specially prepared for you. We wish you a safe journey and look forward to seeing you at NUS. With Best Wishes The International Students Section (ISS) Team Office of Student Affairs

Contents Page

International Students Section (ISS) ● Services/Programmes provided by ISS ● Important Upcoming Events

01 – 02

Pre-departure Checklist 03 - 04

What to Bring

● Items / Documents to bring 05

Arrival Checklist

● Arrival at a Glance Checklist 06 – 07

Getting to NUS 08

Adjusting Your Mindset 09 - 11

Immigration Matters ● Application for Student’s Pass ● Documents ● Fees ● Payment for Student’s Pass Fees ● For Dependants Pass Holders ● Cancellation of Student’s Pass ● Sponsorship of Social Visit Pass for Spouses and Children

12 - 14

University Support Services ● NUS Accommodation and Private Housing Option ● Health & Insurance Matters ● Financial Matters ● Career Services ● Student Card and NUS Email

15 – 19

CO

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Campus Facilities & Amenities 20 - 21

Introduction To Singapore 22 – 23

Living In Singapore ● Employment ● Banking Facilities ● Getting Around

24 – 26

Useful Telephone Numbers and Websites 27 – 28

Programmes ● The i.CARE Project (Student Volunteer

Programme) ● Host Family Programme / Friends of NUS

Programme ● Cross Cultural-Awareness Programme ● Social, Cultural and Recreational

Activities ● Conversation Exchange Corner &

Communication Sessions ● International Fair “Bits & Bites” Night

International Students Section Office of Student Affairs Yusof Ishak House Level 3 31 Lower Kent Ridge Road Singapore 119078 Tel: 6516 4817 Fax: 6778 5902 Website: www.nus.edu.sg/osa/international Operating hours: Mon-Thurs: 8.30am - 6.00pm Fri: 8.30am - 5.30pm Closed on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays

The International Students Section (ISS) of the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) provides a wide-range of services / programmes for international students studying in NUS. ISS is your "home away from home" at NUS. We are dedicated to assist you in any way we can and encourage you to drop by to find out what services and programmes are available to you. THE SERVICES/PROGRAMMES PROVIDED BY ISS INCLUDES

Services ● Pre-departure Information ● Pre-arrival Guides and Services ● e-Publications: International Student Guides ● International Student Advisory Service ● International Students Orientation Briefing ● Exit Briefing for Graduating International Students

01

IMPO

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IMPORTANT UPCOMING EVENTS The following list of events are organised by the International Students Section (ISS) of the Office of Student Affairs (OSA). They are designed to help you settle into NUS and Singapore.

List of events to welcome you to NUS and Singapore

IMPO

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International Students Orientation Briefing for Graduate Students

Date : Wednesday, 25 July 2012 Time : 10am Venue : LT 27 (Faculty of Science)

Kopi Time – Information and Activities

Date : 16 July 2012 to 2 August 2012 Time : 2pm to 5pm Venue : Outside Food Court (Food Junction), Yusof

Ishak House, Level 2 Drop by for a cup of coffee and chit-chat with our friendly student volunteers or if you require assistance. Interesting hands-on activities such as Arts & Craft and Food making will be held here too.

Travel Information Session

Date : Thursday, 2 August 2012 Time : 2pm to 5pm Meeting Place : To be confirmed

Conversation Exchange Day

Date : Monday, 6 August 2012 Time : 2pm to 6pm Meeting Place : To be confirmed

Interactive Sports Day

Date : Wednesday, 8 August 2012 Time : 10am to 4.30pm Meeting Place : To be confirmed

OSA Welcome Fest for new International Students – 14 July 2012 to 3 August 2012 This event is specially prepared for you by the Resident Assistants and student volunteers from the i.CARE Network to help you settle into NUS and Singapore. For more information on the event , please refer to the Welcome Fest Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/NUSWelcomeFest or Welcome Fest Calendar at http://bit.ly/NUSWelcomeFest More information regarding the above events will be sent to you prior to your arrival.

02

PRE-DEPARTURE C

HECKLIST

Before leaving your country, please ensure that you have completed all items in the following list

Pre-Registration Completed the On-line Pre-Registration by the stipulated deadline as indicated in the Registration Guide or informed by the Graduate Student’s Office of the Faculty/School.

Diagnostic English Test (DET) - for foreign students from Non-English medium Universities

If you are required to sit for the DET, please register online at https://isisprereg.nus.edu.sg from 13 July to 18 July 2012.

Application for Student’s Pass

Submitted your application for a Student’s Pass at least a month and not more than two months before the commencement of your course through ICA’s Student’s Pass Online Application & Registration (SOLAR) System. Please refer to page 12 – 14 on Immigration matters for more information.

Application for Student Hostel

Ensure that you have secured your place of accommodation. Students who are not successful in their student hostel application may refer to the private housing options at http://www.nus.edu.sg/osa/housing/others/ For matters pertaining to NUS Hostel, you may wish to email to www.hosteladmission.nus.edu.sg

Request for Early Check-in or Check-in After Office Hours/ Weekends/Public Holidays

If you have received the NUS hostel offer at Graduate Students Apartment (GSA), Prince George’s Park Residences (PGPR) or Graduate Residence at University Town and would like to (i) check-in to your hostel before 6 August 2012, please check the

following website for more information: http://www.nus.edu.sg/osa/housing/General/Check_in_out_dates.html

(ii) check-in after office hour, you may contact the PGPR Management

Office at askpgpr@nus.edu.sg or Graduate Residence Management Office, University Town at ohs.gr@nus.edu.sg respectively to enquire availability.

Passport and Visa Requirements

Obtained a valid Passport. If your SOLAR application is approved and you are from a visa-required country, the In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter will be emailed to your mailing address. The IPA letter will serve as both a one-way entry visa and an in-principle student’s pass approval. To gain entry into Singapore, you will need to print and present the IPA letter together with a valid passport to the Duty Office at the Immigration Checkpoint upon arrival.

03

Before leaving your country, please ensure that you have completed all items in the following list

Important documents Obtained a valid passport. Gathered all original academic transcripts, birth certificate, Citizenship certificate, passport etc and have them prepared to bring with you to NUS.

Travel Arrangements Completed your travel arrangements, using a reputable travel agency.

International Students Orientation Briefing (25 July 2012, 10am, Lecture Theatre 27)

You are strongly encouraged to attend the International Students Orientation Briefing. Through our experience, students who had attended the orientation briefing had fewer difficulties in adjusting to their new experience here.

Medical Examination Prepared Pre-enrolment and Student's Pass Medical Examination Reports. You may choose to either have your medical examination, chest X-ray and HIV test done in your home country at any medical clinic licensed to carry out such tests or at the University Health Centre (UHC), NUS. Please note that if you choose to do your medical examination at UHC at NUS, it will take about seven working days for the report to be ready. All medical forms must be completed in English and in the prescribed form given. Note: The laboratory report for HIV and the X-ray report submitted to the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority should be within THREE Months from the date of the issue of the reports. The medical report is only required for studies of more than six months. Please refer to page 16 for more information.

Medical Insurance Taken additional medical insurance coverage for your study in NUS, for your personal needs if desired.

Financial Preparation Arranged to bring enough money to cover travel expenses, registration and living costs on arrival and also for the duration of your studies. Checked procedures for transferring funds to a bank in Singapore. Purchased travellers' cheques and arranged for credit cards if desired. A bank draft in Singapore Dollars drawn from a bank with a branch in Singapore is preferred. The address of the Singapore branch should be typed on the draft. Please note that a bank draft drawn on an overseas bank would take about three to eight weeks to clear.

PRE-DEPARTURE C

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04

● Some recent colour passport-sized photographs (35mm x 45mm). The photograph must be:

- taken within the last three months; - taken full face without headgear, unless the applicant habitually wears a headgear in

accordance with religious or racial customs. The headgear must not hide the applicant's facial features;

- taken against a white background with a matt or semi-matt finish.

● NUS Offer letter

● Passport and other identification documents such as identity card, citizenship certificate and birth certificate;

● Originals of documentary evidence of educational qualifications;

● Any original documents that may be required for processing by the University or the Singapore Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) Example : marriage certificate if accompanied by Spouse;

● Cash of $2,000 to S$3,000 for temporary accommodation, transportation, meals, etc;

● Bank draft to cover tuition and Student Hostel fees;

● Favourite photographs or small objects to decorate your room and make it feel more like home;

● Lan Cables (NUS hostel does not have WIFI)

Electrical voltage in Singapore is 230 volts, 50 cycles. The electrical outlets are mainly for 3 pin plugs. Adapters can be easily purchased in Singapore allowing you to use 2 pin plugs. Please note that objectionable literature, controlled drugs, and psychotropic substances, reproductions of copyright publications, videotapes, video compact discs, laser disc, records or cassettes, chewing gum, cigarette, lighters of pistol or revolver shape, etc re prohibited from entry into the country. You may wish to visit Singapore Customs website at http://www.customs.gov.sg to check out the list of prohibited goods and customs formalities.

● Personal belongings (clothing, toiletries, etc);

● Any other NUS documents sent to you prior to your departure from home;

● Pillows and bed linen as NUS student hostel does not provide them. Alternatively, you may choose to purchase these items after your arrival in Singapore.

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1. Upon Arrival Complete the Disembarkation/

Embarkation card, which you will receive while on the plane, taking special care not to omit anything. You will present this with your passport and the printed copy of the In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter [applicable for those who require a visa to enter Singapore] to the Immigration Officers at the airport in Singapore. Please retain the portion of the Disembarkation/Embarkation card which will be returned to you as this will be required for the application of your Student's Pass.

2. Singapore Currency Change your money at the currency

exchange counters in the terminals at Changi International Airport, if necessary.

5. International Students Orientation Briefing

Attend the International Student Orientation Briefing on Wednesday, 25 July 2012 at 10am at LT 27 (Faculty of Science). During the orientation, you will meet new friends. As you start sharing expectations, anxieties and experiences, you will begin to prepare physically and emotionally for the commencement of classes. You will also be able to sign up and participate in various activities as well as have the opportunity to meet senior students.

6. Financial Matters If necessary, open a bank account and settle all financial matters

3. Getting to NUS If this is your first time in Singapore, we

strongly advise you to take a taxi to NUS or your assigned student hostel.

4. Diagnostic English Test (DET) Sit for the Diagnostic English Test (QET)

on 23 July 2012, if required.

7. Registration Graduate If you are a graduate research student, you are to report to the Registration Centre located at the Multi-Purpose Sports Hall (MPSH1), Sports and Recreation Centre on the date/ time allocated to your faculty/ school. For more information, you may refer to the Registration Website at http://www.nus.edu.sg/registrar/event/registration.html .

If you are a coursework student, please report for your Registration, as informed by your faculty or school.

8. Student's Pass After you have registered as a NUS student, you may proceed to the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) counter to complete the formalities for application of Student's Pass, according to the schedule allocated to your faculty. The ICA Officers will be present at the NUS Registration Centre (MPSH1) to facilitate your application for Student’s Pass on 31 July 2012 and 1 August 2012. Do ensure that you have the relevant documents required with you. Please refer to Page 13 for the documents you need to submit to the ICA officer.

9. Contact Us If at any time after your arrival you are unsure of what to do or where to go for information, please contact us at

International Students Section Office of Student Affairs Yusof Ishak House Level 3 31 Lower Kent Ridge Road Singapore 119078 Telephone Number : 6516 4817

ARRIVA

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06

Take a taxi to your assigned Student Hostel

Check-in to your assigned Student Hostel with your passport and IPA letter, if available

Proceed to your own arranged accommodation

Attend the International

Student Orientation Briefing

25 July 2012, 10am, LT27 (Faculty of

Science)

Open a bank account and

apply for Tuition Fee Loan, if applicable

Attend to registration

matters pertaining to your academic

Programme (including module

registration )

Check that you have the completed documents required (Please refer to page 13 for more details)

You must be registered as a NUS student before proceeding to complete the formalities for

Student’s Pass. Proceed to the Immigration & Checkpoints

Authority (ICA) counter at the NUS Registration Centre to complete the formalities for Student’s Pass , according to the schedule allocated to your

faculty (31 July 2012 or 1 August 2012).

Apply personally at Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA). You are to

make an e-appointment before proceeding to ICA.

YES NO

Have you been assigned a room in NUS Student Hostel? NO

If you are required to sit for the Diagnostic English Test on 23 July 2012, do check for the venue for

the test.

YES

Application of Student’s Pass Check if the Social Visit Pass (SVP) in your passport is valid

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ARRIVAL AT A GLANCE CHECKLIST You may change your money at the Currency Exchange counters located at the airport.

GETTIN

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NUS

08

Taxi service in Singapore is plentiful, convenient, and reasonably priced. Taxis are metered and the flag down rate of taxis is between S$3.00 - S$5.00 (depending on the type of taxi). A list of possible additional surcharges can be found posted in the taxis. Tipping is not expected. Most taxi drivers are conversant in English and Mandarin. For more information, please refer to the following website: http://www.taxisingapore.com/

From CHANGI AIRPORT

to NUS

(KENT RIDGE CAMPUS or UNIVERSITY

TOWN) and

NUS (BUKIT TIMAH CAMPUS)

Taxi The taxi bays are just outside the Arrival Hall. If this is your first time in Singapore, we strongly advise you to take a taxi to NUS. Inform the driver the exact location you would like to drop off using the campus map which you have printed from the NUS website. The Campus Map can be found at http://www.nus.edu.sg/campusmap.

From CHANGI AIRPORT

to PRINCE

GEORGE'S PARK RESIDENCES

(PGPR)

Taxi Go on the AYE and turn off at Exit 8 and on to South Buona Vista Road and turn right to Kent Ridge Road. Take the first left to turn to PGPR.

ADJUSTIN

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A positive attitude is very important as adjustments would have to be made. You may initially feel lonely and homesick, and may even experience some form of 'cultural shock'. Be rest assured that most new international students do experience these feelings. However, with a positive attitude, a spirit of adventure and flexible thinking, you will soon be able to overcome them. Maintain your perspective and check whether your own expectations were too high. Keep an open mind, communicate with the other students and participate in student activities and sports. Counsellors at the Counselling & Psychological Services are also available should you wish to speak to them.

Tel: 6516 2376 Email: cps@nus.edu.sg

HOST FAMILY PROGRAMME/ FRIENDS OF NUS PROGRAMME Coming to live in any foreign country can be both an exciting and difficult experience. Exciting because it is exploration into unchartered waters….. Difficult because one is far from all that is familiar and dear - family, friends and places. OSA has introduced the Host Family Programme (HFP) / Friends of NUS Programme to assist you in adjusting to living in Singapore. The HFP / Friends of NUS Programme does not include home stay; however, it is meant to build relationships among people from different cultures and to provide a sense of what local life is like in Singapore. Host families/ Senior students not only benefit from the cultural exchange, but also provide friendship and can play a supportive family role for you by including you in their daily activities. Some of the common activities that hosts and students have participated together include

● Savour Asian cuisine at the local hawker centre ● Meeting up regularly on campus ● Celebrating local festivals ● Visiting historical sites and places of interest ● Hosts explaining cultural practices foreign to students

Participation in the programme is strictly voluntary for both you and the host, and the time involved is minimal. From our past experience and feedback from participants, these associations often lead to mutually rewarding exchanges of cultural ideas and lasting friendships. If you wish to enrol for this programme, please complete the online form at : https://esurvey.nus.edu.sg/efm/se.ashx?s=7A0CA45A3EED8A9B For any enquiry regarding this programme, you may wish to email Ms Lin Jean Yeo at: jean.lin@nus.edu.sg

ALCOHOL POLICY No alcohol should be sold or consumed on University premises unless otherwise provided for, such as in approved food outlets on campus or during approved (only issued by appropriate Offices of the University) events and activities. Students are advised to moderate their consumption of alcohol in social places such as pubs and clubs outside of the campus. It is best that they drink in the company of friends from campus, be wary of strangers and help keep a look out for each other's safety and welfare.

SMOKE-FREE CAMPUS The University is a smoke-free campus. Please refrain from smoking on campus.

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DRUGS Drug abuse is viewed seriously under national laws. The trafficking, manufacturing, importing or exporting of drugs carries a death penalty. Unauthorised consumption also carries a heavy penalty.

It is important that you read and be familiar with the University Rules and Regulations and the Code of Student Conduct. More details are found at : http://www.nus.edu.sg/registrar/adminpolicy/statutes.html http:/www.nus.edu.sg/osa/downloads/guidelines&procedures.html

UNIVERSITY RULES AND REGULATIONS AND CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT

The i.CARE Project This programme is designed to help new and existing international students be more culturally aware; and to help them adjust to Singapore's way of life, especially during the first weeks after arrival. It also provides opportunity for senior students to offer meaningful contributions to impact on the NUS international student community - from organising events and trips, helping students in English conversation skills to showcasing their talents and creativity. For more information, please refer to www.nus.edu.sg/osa/international/icare or the i.CARE Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/nus.icare or i.CARE Blog at http://nus-icare.blogspot.sg

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ADJUSTIN

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DSET PERSONAL SAFETY Generally Singapore is a safe city with many well-lit roads. Public transportation services also operate till midnight throughout the week. Nevertheless, students should still keep the following points in mind when going out

Campus Security Hotline (Kent Ridge) – 6874 1616 Campus Security Hotline (Bukit Timah) – 6874 3636 Campus Security Hotline (University Town) – 6601 2004

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• When you are not in your room, ensure that all windows are closed and doors properly locked.

• Avoid walking through dark, poorly-lit places at night. If necessary, walk in groups.

• Avoid waiting inside lonely, closed-in shelters. Keep to open, populated and well-lit areas.

• Stay alert to your surroundings at all times.

• If someone is following you, go to a place where there are other people.

• Carry your mobile phones, coins or a phone card in case you need to call for a taxi or a friend.

APPLICATION FOR STUDENT'S PASS All international students admitted to full-time graduate programs must have a valid student’s pass during the period of study at NUS. Admission is contingent upon successful application of student’s pass. If you are not successful in your student’s pass application, your offer of admission will be withdrawn and you will not be able to continue your studies at NUS.

Registration for a Student’s Pass

NUS Registrar’s Office /Respective Faculty/School will facilitate your student’s pass application via the Immigration & Checkpoint Authority (ICA) Student’s Pass Online Application & Registration (SOLAR) System. Following that, you will be informed via email to confirm your details via SOLAR system before the student’s pass application can be processed. If the application is approved, ICA shall grant you an In-Principle Approval (IPA) Letter. For those students coming from visa-required countries, the IPA letter will be emailed to you. The IPA letter will serve as both a one-way entry visa and an in-principle student’s pass approval. To gain entry into Singapore, you will need to print and present the IPA letter together with a valid passport to the Duty Officer at the Immigration Checkpoint upon arrival. You will then be issued with a temporary social visit pass which is normally valid for one month. During this period, you are required to complete your student registration formalities. Your IPA letter will be stamped at the point of registration, and you are required to submit the relevant documents to the ICA counter, stationed at the Registration Centre (Multi-Purpose Sports Hall1) on the date/time allocated to your faculty/school. Please refer to the Registration Guide at the Registrar’s Office Website at http://www.nus.edu.sg/registrar/event/registration.html for the schedules.

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COMPLETION OF FORMALITIES ICA officers will be present at the NUS Registration Centre (Multi-Purpose Sports Hall 1) on 31 July 2012 and 1 August 2012. If you have the following completed documents, you may proceed to the ICA counter to complete the formalities for Student’s Pass, according to the schedule allocated to your faculty.

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Please ensure that you apply for your Student's Pass within the validity of your Social Visit Pass in your passport. You must also register as a NUS student.

If you register after the scheduled period of registration or do not have the completed documents for Student's Pass , you will have to make your way to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) Building to complete the formalities. All completion of formalities is strictly by appointment only. You are to make an e-appointment via www.ica.gov.sg before heading down.

• Original Passport with a valid Social Visit Pass;

• A photocopy of the passport particulars page;

• Disembarkation/Embarkation card, granted upon entry into Singapore or any existing passes (Employment, Dependent, Long term, Student) or cancellation letter of any of the passes;

• Printout of the e-Form 16 printed out from the SOLAR system duly completed and signed;

• A Medical report in the prescribed ICA form, X-ray and HIV report (all documents must be written in English and

endorsed by the reviewing doctor). The laboratory reports must not be more than three months from the date of issue. The medical report is only required for studies

of more than six months. Students are encouraged to do their medical report in their home country and bring it to

Singapore for submission;

• Two copies of the Terms & Conditions of Issue for Long Term Pass (LTP) Card (issued upon completion of the registration formalities at Registration Centre);

• Hardcopy of the In-Principle Approval (IPA) Letter with NUS stamp (will be issued to you upon completion of registration formalities at Registration Centre/Faculty/School);

COMPLETED DOCUMENTS

• One recent coloured passport-sized photograph showing the full face (taken on white background);

• Copy of receipt for payment for the Student’s Pass-S$60 insurance fee, S$30

processing fee (non-refundable) and S$30 multiple-entry visa fee (for visa-required nationals);

13

PAYMENT Before proceeding to the ICA counter, you should have made payment for the Student's Pass. Insurance fee of S$60 and a further S$30 multiple-entry visa fee for visa required nationals, where applicable. You are advised to make the payment online via ICA SOLAR system. Alternatively, you can also pay by cash or NETS at any SingPost Post Office. For payment at SingPost, an administrative fee of S$10.00 will be charged. You are to bring along the receipt when you report at the ICA counter at the NUS Registration Centre.

ICA is located at the following address Immigration and Checkpoints Authority Building 4th Storey, 10 Kallang Road, Singapore 208 718 (Beside Lavendar MRT Station) www.ica.gov.sg Operating hours: Mon - Fri: 8.00am - 5.00pm Sat: 8.00am - 1.00pm Immigration Enquiry Service Tel: 6391 6100

FOR DEPENDANT'S PASS HOLDERS If you are a Dependant's Pass holder, you are required to apply for a Student's Pass (application must be made through SOLAR) to study in NUS. For more information, your may wish to refer to ICA website at http://www.ica.gov.sg/page.aspx?pageid=325&secid=182

CANCELLATION International students are required to surrender their Student's Pass to Immigration and Checkpoints Authority for cancellation within seven days from the date of cessation or termination of their studies. ICA will issue you with a Social Visit Pass in your passport to allow you to exit the country. Please note that it is an offence to overstay without a valid pass.

● A S$30 processing fee (non-refundable) for a Student's Pass application

● A S$30 multiple-entry visa fee (for visa required nationals, where applicable)

● A S$60 issuance fee for every student's pass issued

FEES

SPONSORSHIP OF SOCIAL VISIT PASS FOR SPOUSE OR CHILD OF FULL-TIME GRADUATE RESEARCH STUDENTS International Graduate Research students may obtain NUS sponsorship for their spouse and/or child’s Social Visit Pass. For further details on the application procedure, please refer to http://www.nus.edu.sg/registrar/event/socialvisitpass.html

IMM

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Graduate coursework, NGS and SMA students, please refer to the respective Faculty/School’s webpage or administrator on sponsorship matters.

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UNIVERSITY SUPPO

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GRADUATE STUDENT ACCOMODATION OPTIONS You may wish to refer to the Hostel Admission Services website at http://www.nus.edu.sg/osa/housing for more information.

PRIVATE HOUSING OPTION Hostel Admission Services maintains several resources to assist students searching for private rentals in the vicinity of the University.

For enquiries on student hostel application and admissions, please visit www.hosteladmission.nus.edu.sg For specific queries not in our FAQ, please click the "Ask a Question" tab to send us an online email.

HEALTH & INSURANCE MATTERS Pre-enrolment Medical Examination (Compulsory for ALL Students) It is compulsory for all graduate students to undergo a pre-enrolment medical examination. The University reserves the right to refuse your admission if you decline to undergo such health examination and/or to be tested for any organic or communicable disease. The medical examination may be done by your own physician or at the University Health Centre (UHC), Level 1, 20 Lower Kent Ridge Road, NUS. Do note that if you choose to undergo the medical examination at UHC, it will take seven working days for the report to be ready. Please use the prescribed pre-enrolment medical report form which is enclosed with your admission offer letter. Alternatively, you can download the same medical form at http://www.nus.edu.sg/uhc/healthservice/services/preexams.html The cost of the medical examination shall be borne by students. The rates charged by UHC is S$30 with chest X-ray, and S$25 without chest X-ray. Prices are subjected to change without prior notice.

Please visit http://www.nus.edu.sg/osa/housing/others/index.html for tips on how to secure a private accommodation in Singapore. Do note that lease arrangements made between you and the householders are strictly private and the University will not be liable for any dispute or disagreement.

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Medical Examination for Student's Pass Application (For Full-time International Students only) In addition to the pre-enrolment medical examination, all full-time international students who had obtained in-principle approval for their student’s pass have to undergo additional check-up conducted by a qualified medical practitioner either in Singapore or in their home country. This is to further strengthen the control of communicable diseases like Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection and Tuberculosis in Singapore. (a) The HIV test, Chest X-Ray and medical examination form can be done in the country of origin or in Singapore. Note: The medical report, laboratory test and X-ray reports must be written in English and in the official medical form given by ICA. A medical report in any other form or format is not accepted. (b) The original copy of both the radiologist report on the chest X-Ray, and the laboratory report on the HIV Test must be attached to the completed medical report for submission to the ICA. Please note that the reports must not be issued more than three months prior to submission to the ICA. (c) The medical examination can be done at UHC. The cost of the medical examination, including chest X-ray and HIV test is S$45. Prices are subjected to change without prior notice.

NUS Student Insurance Scheme It is compulsory for all full-time graduate students (including those who have submitted thesis for examination but yet to be conferred the degree) to subscribe to our NUS Student Insurance Scheme. The fee is S$58.85 for each semester. It will be included in the mandatory Miscellaneous Fees of the student bill on a semester basis. For Research Scholars, the amount will be automatically deducted from the stipends on a semester basis. Graduate Students, who subsequently convert their candidature from full-time to part-time will not be covered and there is no refund of premium paid. The benefits are as follows: ● Personal Accident Insurance Coverage ● Hospitalisation, Surgical & Mental Health Insurance Scheme ● Outpatient Specialist Care More information can be found at http://www.nus.edu.sg/uhc/healthservice/insurance/G&NG.html

UNIVERSITY SUPPO

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The NUS Medical Scheme does not cover all forms of overseas outpatient medical treatment of illnesses. Thus, you are strongly advised to have adequate medical coverage when travelling overseas for exchange or study programmes. You may wish to contact any insurer for detailed information to provide such coverage to suit your need during your stay overseas on study programmes or other related activities.

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UNIVERSITY SUPPO

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University Health Centre (Health Service) is committed to the care of the health needs of the entire NUS community. The location and operating hours of the clinic are stated below:

Kent Ridge Campus (Main Clinic) Level1, 20 Lower Kent Ridge Road Singapore 119 080 Tel: 6776 1631 www.nus.edu.sg/uhc Operating hours: Mon-Thurs: 8.30am to 6.00pm Fri: 8.30am to 5.30pm Closed on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays. Closed for lunch from 12.30pm-1.30pm Last registrations are 30 minutes before closing time.

BTC CAMPUS (Satellite Clinic) 469G Bukit Timah Road Block B, #02-01 Multi-Purpose Auditorium Tel: 64675492 Operating hours: Mon and Fri: 8.30am to 12 noon (during term time only) Last registrations are 30 minutes before closing time.

FINANCIAL MATTERS

Payment of Fees at Office of Financial Services (OFS) For details on the fee payment deadline and other available mode of payment, please refer to OFS website at http://www.nus.edu.sg/finance/student/financialServices/notice/index.html Financial Assistance NUS have an array of financial assistance and scholarship/awards available to help graduate students finance their studies in the University. For details, refer to http://www.nus.edu.sg/admissions/graduate-studies/fees-faid-scholarships.php

Tuition Fees Please refer to https://share.nus.edu.sg/registrar/info/gd/GDTuitionCurrent.pdf for more information on tuition fees. Tuition fees for self-funded graduate coursework programmes can be found at the respective programme websites. The list of self-funded graduate coursework programmes is set out here (https://share.nus.edu.sg/registrar/info/gd/Self-Funded-Graduate-Programmes.pdf ).

HEALTH & INSURANCE MATTERS

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UNIVERSITY SUPPO

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FINANCIAL MATTERS Service Obligation (For Self-Financing International Students) Self-financing (i.e., paying tuition fees on your own) international students being offered a place to read a government-subsidised graduate programme (Refer to Page 4 at https://share.nus.edu.sg/registrar/info/gd/GDTuitionCurrent.pdf for the exceptions), may be eligible to apply for Service Obligation Scheme with the Ministry of Education (MOE) to pay reduced, subsidised tuition fees. The Service Obligation Scheme will require you to work in Singapore-based companies for 3 years upon graduation. Online Application All international students who are eligible and would like to apply for the Service Obligation Scheme should do so online from 11 July 2012 – 25 July 2012 at https://tgonline.moe.gov.sg/tgis/secure/loginStudent.action A copy of the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) can be found at https://tgonline.moe.gov.sg/tgis/files/SOA-FAQ.pdf. For any clarification, you may contact the MOE Tuition Grant Unit at (65) 68797333/ (65) 68797334 of the NUS Graduate Student Unit at (65) 65162302.

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NUS CAREER SERVICES FOR STUDENTS Career Services available for students include : NUS eJob Centre (http://ejobcentre.nus.edu.sg), Career Advisory Service, Development Workshops, etc. For more information, please refer to NCC website at http://www.nus.edu.sg/osa/career

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STUDENT CARD AND NUS EMAIL You are automatically given a computer account during your period of study in NUS. You will be able to retrieve your Student ID, PIN and NUSNET account information from the Pre-Registration System once you have completed your pre-registration. Your NUSNET account will be activated one working day after the completion of the pre-registration. It is important that you keep your NUSNET account information and Student PIN strictly confidential as you are responsible for maintaining the security of your NUSNET password/PIN and for all transactions under your account. Should you forget your PIN, you can retrieve it online at : https://aces01.nus.edu.sg/pinRetrieval/login.jsp with your NUSNET account information. Your PIN will then be sent to you via email at your NUS Student Account. Your Student Card will be given to you on the day of registration. For students who have not obtained their Student Card, you may wish to check with Registrar’s Office or your faculty/school. All correspondence from the university will be sent to your mailing address as updated in My ISIS and/or your official NUS student email address. It is important that you keep your mailing address up-to-date and read your emails frequently. Students are also expected to be aware of the latest notices/circulars may be posted on the student intranet. The university will not be held accountable for delayed or lost mail due to incorrect or obsolete students’ addresses and contacts. Personal computers are available within campus provided in the Computer Centre, Computer Based Learning Centre (CBLC) in libraries and various location in faculties. For any enquiries or assistance on your computer account, please visit IT care, located at Level 1, Computer Centre.

For Counter Walk-In Service Level 1, Computer Centre, 2 Engineering Drive 4, Singapore 117584 Mon-Fri: 8.30am to 6.00pm Sat : 8.30am to 1pm Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays Tel: 6516 2080 Fax: 6872 5231 Email: itcare@nus.edu.sg Website: http://www.nus.edu.sg/comcen/gethelp/itcare.html

UNIVERSITY SUPPO

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CA

MPUS FA

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MEN

ITIES OFFICES, FACILITIES & FOOD OUTLETS FOUND IN YUSOF ISHAK HOUSE

Office of Student Affairs http://www.nus.edu.sg/osa

● International Students Section ● Hostel Admission Services ● Learning & Development ● NUS Career Centre ● Residential Life ● Student Organisations ● Student Service Centre

Facilities ● Air-conditioned Student Lounge/Study Rooms ● Discussion Rooms ● Internet Connectivity ● Dance Studio ● NUS Student's Union (NUSSU) Secretariat ● DBS/POSB ATM Services (24 hours) ● DBS Bank ● Postal Services ● Plaza@YIH

F & B Outlets ● Food Junction@Central Square ● Old Chang Kee ● 7-Eleven Store ● Starbucks ● Subway ● Ya Kun Kaya Toast

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RESOURCES, FACILITIES & SERVICES FOUND IN KENT RIDGE CAMPUS

Facilities / Services ● Sports & Recreation Centre, Sporting Facilities & Services http://www.nus.edu.sg/osa/sports ● Libraries

http://www.lib.nus.edu.sg ● NUS Multi-Purpose Co-operative Society Ltd

http://coop.nus.edu.sg/ ● NUS Notebook Sales and Service Centres

http://www.nus.edu.sg/comcen/notebook/centres.html

RESOURCES, FACILITIES & SERVICES FOUND IN BUKIT TIMAH CAMPUS

Facilities / Services ● Bukit Timah Campus Management Office ● CJ Koh Library http://libportal.nus.edu.sg/frontend/ms/c-j-koh-law-library/about-c-j-koh-law-library ● Student Lounge ● DBS/POSBank ATM ● University Co-op @ BTC http://coop.nus.edu.sg ● UHC Clinic http://nus.edu.sg/uhc ● Sports & Recreation ● Postal Service - Self-Service Postal Automated Services Machine (SAM) ● Student Lockers

F & B Outlets ● Sapore@The Thinking Corner (Li Ka Shing) ● The Summit (Blk B)

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MPUS FA

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MEN

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RESOURCES, FACILITIES & SERVICES FOUND IN UNIVERSITY TOWN

Facilities / Services ● Education Resource Centre (from research facilities and computer labs, lecture theatres to seminar rooms,

e-learning cafes and clusters of study spaces)

F & B Outlets ● Subway ● Fish & Co Express ● Koufu Foodcourt ●Starbucks ● Hwang Korean Restaurant ● Bruce Cafe ● Cheers Convenience Store

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22

AN ISLAND REPUBLIC

A small, tropical island and islets in the heart of Southeast Asia, between Malaysia and Indonesia and has an area of 712.4 sq km.

HISTORY Located at the tip of the Malay Peninsula, Singapore was first called "Temasek" or "Sea Town". According to a legend, a 14th century Sri Vijayan prince saw an animal he mistook for a lion on the island and Singapore's modern name "Singa Pura" (meaning "Lion City") came about. In 1819, Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles founded Singapore and established a trading station so that the British could refit, feed and protect the fleet of their growing empire. Independence as a sovereign, democratic nation was attained on 9 August 1965.

POPULATION Singapore has a resident population of about 5 million people, of whom 2.91 million were born locally. The Chinese constitutes 74.1% of the population, the Malays 13.4%, and the Indians 9.2%. The Eurasians, Peranakans and other races make up the remaining 3.3%.

CLIMATE It is hot and sunny all year, with two monsoon seasons (December to March and from June to September) bringing heavy rain.

LANGUAGES There are four official languages in Singapore: Malay, Chinese (Mandarin), Tamil and English. Malay is the national language and English is the language of administration as well as the main medium of instruction in educational institutions. Singapore's multi-racial & multi-cultural society has brought a diversity of festivals celebrated throughout the year. These include Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Christmas and Hari Raya. For more information, please refer to http://www.yoursingapore.com

SOCIAL CULTURE People are expected to form queues to either board buses, or to wait for service. It is impolite to push someone who is ahead of you in the queue. Do be punctual. Allow yourself sufficient time to travel. It is also considered impolite to miss an appointment. Address the people you meet with titles such as Mr, Mrs, Miss, Dr or Professor unless you are invited to use their first names.

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FOOD CULTURE A common initial greeting amongst Singaporeans is "Have you eaten?“. Singaporean love to eat, more so with such a wide variety of food offered in different settings. Food centres in local neighbourhoods or air-conditioned food courts in shopping complexes offer you a wide variety of dishes. When dining at a food court or hawker centre, get a table, note the table number and then look at the pictures at the stall to order. Give the stall operator your table number and wait for your food to be delivered before making payment. Do take note that some stalls are self-service and you are expected to make payment, wait and bring food to your table.

WHAT TO WEAR In tropical Singapore, loose and light summer clothing is recommended especially for outdoor activities. Please note that in lecture theatres, libraries and administrative offices, you should be appropriately attired. Improper attire includes shorts, slippers and clothing with indecent words or pictures.

DRUGS Drug trafficking and drug abuse are serious offences. Trafficking, manufacturing, importing or exporting of drugs carries a death penalty. Unauthorised consumption also carries a heavy penalty.

SMOKING Smoking is prohibited in most buildings and many public areas in Singapore.

LITTERING Singapore has strict laws against littering.

VANDALISM Defacing public and private property carries a severe penalty.

BARGAINING Bargaining is not normally practiced in Singapore shops. The prices marked are the prices at which the goods are sold.

TIPPING Tipping is not necessary as a service charge of 10% is normally levied at restaurants, hotels and other establishments. A tip should only be exercised in instances where the bill does not include a service charge.

GOODS AND SERVICE TAX (GST)

A Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 7% is levied on all nearly all supplies of goods and services as well as goods imported into Singapore.

OVERSTAYING Overstaying is a punishable offence under the Immigration Act. Please take note of the expiry dates of your Social Visit Pass upon arrival or your Student's Pass and apply for extension at least a month before they expire. Please note that laws in Singapore are taken seriously and penalties are severe.

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PART-TIME EMPLOYMENT

Part-time Employment during semester All full-time international graduate students are allowed to engage in part-time employment as long as they meet the MOM's stipulation of not exceeding 16 hours per week of employment during NUS semester time. Please ensure you can manage your time well to balance studies with part-time employment, and to observe the cap of 16 hours per week for employment during semester time. If you are on scholarships, kindly seek permission from your scholarship sponsors before engaging in part-time employment. Employment during vacation There is no cap on the number of hours during the University's official vacation periods. Please refer to the Registrar’s Office website at http://www.nus.edu.sg/registrar/calendar.html for the Academic Calendar.

EMPLOYMENT AFTER GRADUATION A resource centre “Contact Singapore” provides information and advice on working, studying and living in Singapore.

Contact Singapore 250 North Bridge Road #28-00 Raffles City Tower Singapore 179101 www.contactsingapore.sg

BANKING FACILITIES Many banks in Singapore offer a wide range of services. These services may include checking and savings accounts, ATMs (Automated Teller Machines), fixed deposits, safe deposit boxes, loans, overdraft and transfers, travellers cheques and changing of foreign currencies. The three major local banks in Singapore are the Development Bank of Singapore (DBS)/Post Office Savings Bank (POSB), United Overseas Bank (UOB) and Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation Limited (OCBC Bank). You may open an account at a bank of your choice.

LIVING

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Banking Facilities

Opening a Bank Account

Different banks have different requirements as well as different types of savings and checking accounts. You may wish to bring enough cash or traveller's cheques to cover your expenses while deciding on the bank you wish to open an account with. To open a saving account, please bring along the following documents (i) Passport (original and photocopy); (ii) Student's Pass or In-Principle Approval Letter for Student’s Pass; (iii) NUS Offer Letter or Student Card (if available) and (iv) A minimum deposit amount of S$500 to S$1,000 (varies from bank to bank).

Networks for Electronic Transfer (NETS) Pte Ltd

This is a cashless method of payment. Payment can be made with your ATM card at all participating vendors advertising the NETS sign.

Cashcard This is a stored value card, allowing cashless payment. Participating vendors will have CASHCARD signs on display.

GIRO

GIRO is a service provided by the bank. It is an arrangement that you can make with your Billing Organisation (such as NUS) to debit your designated bank account to pay your bills on a regular basis. It is a convenient and cashless mode of payment.

Transfer of Funds

Students may transfer funds using bank drafts made out in Singapore dollars and drawn from a Singapore bank. These can be credited to your accounts and drawn in one to two days. Cheques drawn on banks with no branches in Singapore may take about three to eight weeks to clear. Telegraphic transfers may also be made indirectly through another bank to your own account.

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GETTING AROUND Getting around in Singapore is easy and convenient. An efficient public transportation network offers taxis, buses and the modern MRT rail system. Fares may be paid by cash or ez-link card which can be used for both the MRT and public buses. The ez-link card is a contactless stored value card . The cost of your journey will be automatically deducted when you alight from the MRT/bus. The ex-link card can be purchased from any TransitLink Ticket Office (S$12) or 7-Eleven Store (S$15). Top up of the ez-link card can be done at the General Ticketing Machines (GTM), TransitLink Ticket Offices, TransitLink Add Value Machines at selected MRT stations, bus interchanges and bus stops, 7-Eleven Stores, SingPost, ATMs (DBS/POSB, OCBC) and AXA Stations. For the latest travel information, please refer to the Transitlink website at www.transitlink.com.sg For integrated public transport service information, call the Transitlink Hotline at 1800-225-5563. Operating Hours: 8am to 6pm daily except public holidays.

SBS Transit operates 3 services in NUS Kent Ridge Campus:

SBS No. Route

95 From Holland Village to NUS (Looping)

96 From Clementi Interchange to NUS

151 From Hougang Central Interchange to NUS

LIVING

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GA

PORE

MRT Station nearest to Kent Ridge Campus (NUS): Kent Ridge MRT Station (Circle Line)

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NUS INTERNAL SHUTTLE BUS SERVICE The NUS campus is serviced by Internal Shuttle Bus (ISB) service that plies the entire campus. More information on their specific routes and timings can be found at all NUS bus stops and on the NUS website at http://www.nus.edu.sg/oed/services/transport/shuttle-bus-services.htm

Description Website/Email Telephone Fax

NUS General Line (Automated)

6516 6666

Registrar's Office

Enquiries pertaining to Graduate Programme

Please refer here for the Graduate Programme Contacts

http://www.nus.edu.sg/admissions/ graduate-studies/graduate-programme-contacts.php

Office of Student Affairs

Student Service Centre http://www.nus.edu.sg/osa/ssc

www.askstudentservice.nus.edu.sg

6516 1177 6777 0155

Hostel Admission Services (NUS Student Hostel

Applications & Admissions)

http://www.nus.edu.sg/osa/housing

www.hosteladmission.nus.edu.sg 6516 1384 6777 0155

International Students Section (Pre-arrival Services and IS Orientation Briefing , Social and Cultural programmes)

http://www.nus.edu.sg/osa/international 6516 4817 6778 5902

University Health Centre

Health Issues (General Enquiries)

http://www.nus.edu.sg/uhc

uhc_health@nus.edu.sg

6776 1631 (Main Clinic) 6467 5492 (Satellite Clinic at Bukit Timah Campus)

Counselling & Psychological Services

http://www.nus.edu.sg/uhc/cps

cps@nus.edu.sg

6516 2376 6516 7777 (A 24-hour hotline for life –threatening psychological emergencies)

Campus Services

IT Care (Computer Related Issues)

itcare@nus.edu.sg 6516 2080 6872 5231

STA Travel-NUS nus@statravel.com.sg 6773 9188 6776 5277

NUS Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society Ltd Bookstore at Forum (books)

http://coop.nus.edu.sg/ 6777 0325 27

USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS Prefix the following numbers with 65 (country code) if calling from another country. There is no city code.

Description Email Telephone

Emergencies

Samaritans of Singapore (SOS) – 24-hour hotline

www.samaritans.org.sg 1800 2214 444

Police: Emergency 999

Fire Engine/Ambulance Non-Emergency Ambulance

995 1777

Campus Security Hotline (Kent Ridge) Campus Security Hotline (Bukit Timah) Campus Security Hotline (University Town)

6874 1616 6874 3636 6601 2004

Transport Services

Taxi Cabs Hotline: Dial-A-Cab http://www.taxisingapore.com/ 6342 5222

Transitlink Hotline www.transitlink.com.sg 1800 225 5663

Miscellaneous

Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) 24-hour Call Centre

ICA_Feedback@ica.gov.sg 6391 6100

Flight Information http://www.changiairport.com/flight-info

1800 542 4422

Some Useful Websites

Ministry of Education, Tuition Grant Section

https://tgonline.moe.gov.sg/tgis/normal/index.action

6872 2220

Ministry of Manpower www.mom.gov.sg 6438 5122

Ministry of Foreign Affairs www.mfa.gov.sg 6379 8000

Immigration and Checkpoints Authority www.ica.gov.sg 6391 6100

SBS Transit www.sbstransit.com.sg 1800 225 5663

SMRT www.smrt.com.sg 1800 336 8900

About Singapore www.yoursingapore.com

Contact Singapore www.contactsingapore.sg

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USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS Prefix the following numbers with 65 (country code) if calling from another country. There is no city code.

Acknowledgements: The Office of Student Affairs acknowledges with gratitude the contributions and assistance given by all administrative departments in the preparation of this guide. Information provided is correct at the time of printing, but may be subject to revision.