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we spill the universi-tea

here's a list of answers to questions you might have about university life in NTU!

#1

school

What type of modules can I take?

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There are 5 categories of modules you can take: Core, Major Prescribed Electives, GER-Core, GER-PE, and GER-UE. Click here to read more about each of these types of modules (see Section 4.1).

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How do I register for my modules?

 

Register for your modules using a platform called the STARS Planner on the designated DAY and TIME allocated to you according to your year of study and faculty/major. Modules like your Core mods, Major PEs, and GER-Cores will be allocated to you on a first come first serve basis. So, fast fingers and stable/strong internet connection will be advantageous! You may also use the STARS planner to plan your timetable for the semester. Here's a detailed guide.​

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How many modules can I take per semester?

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This depends on your course, but usually, about 5-6 modules. The system operates on Academic Units (AUs), and each module is assigned a number of AUs. You'll need to complete specific numbers of AUs for different types of modules, and you will also need to hit a total number of AUs to complete your degree. For each semester, the maximum is usually about 20 AUs.

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How hard is school?

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Honestly, school isn't easy! You'll often find yourself knee-deep in revision for mid-terms, rushing assignments, studying for finals. But fret not, you'll get used to the swing of things soon enough. Still, it's really important to make sure you don't lose yourself in the midst of all the stress, but enjoy your university life as well—university can be a lot of fun too (especially if you spend it with Jesus). It's all about learning to recognise what really matters to you and what fills your cup! 

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How do I make friends in school?

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It might be intimidating entering a new environment with unfamiliar people, but don't worry, everyone's in the same boat! Friends will come along the way as you attend classes and work on projects together. But if you want a group of solid pals to support you through university life, there's no better place to go than CSA!

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#2

hall

Should I stay in hall?

 

This depends on many factors, as well as your personal preferences. We'll list some pros and cons of staying in hall:

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Pros:

  • It's extremely convenient. You can get to classes in 10-15 minutes, and you can go back and forth school and hall if you need an afternoon nap in between classes. 

  • Living with your friends can be pretty fun! Sharing meals, heart-to-heart talks, praying together (compline clusters!), supporting each other through the trials of school, etc.—these all become precious memories.

  • Staying in hall teaches you to be independent. You'll learn how to take better care of yourself, and how to do things that you'd normally not do yourself. It's also nice to have some personal space.

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Cons:

  • Staying in hall can be expensive. If you live near enough to school, you probably don't need to stay in hall.

  • It's easy to get sucked into the social life of staying in hall, which can sometimes take up a lot of time and energy, especially if you are extra-inolved in hall CCAs and clubs.

  • Sometimes, it's not the most hygienic because you're sharing a common toilet and corridor with everyone on your floor, for most halls. It can also get a bit noisy if there are late-night activities.

 

How do I apply for hall?

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Click here to be redirected to NTU's comprehensive guide to hall applications.

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Do I get to choose my hall and room?

 

No. Hall and room assignments are made randomly by computer

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How much does it cost to stay in hall?​

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Click here to check out the rental rates for hall rooms.

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What if I change my mind about hall? Can I withdraw from hall after checking in?

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Yes, you may withdraw from hall but you will lose your acceptance fee which is not refundable. However, you need to write to the hall office/go down to the hall office to give them prior notice and officially request a withdrawal. Usually, the remaining part of the month, along with the rest of the months will be refunded to you. The procedure and conditions may vary depending on the situation under which you withdraw, but don’t be afraid to pop into the hall office and ask about it! They are really helpful and are there to answer any of your queries. 

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What's provided in hall rooms?

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The typical set-up consists of a bed and mattress, a study desk and chair, a wardrobe, and some cabinets. Some halls have air-conditioners, but others don't. Halls with air-conditioners are usually more expensive, and you'll also need to top-up an air-con card that allows you to use the air-con.​

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Is there wifi in hall?

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There’s an ethernet port in each hall room, so to get wifi in your room, you’ll need to bring your own router and ethernet cable to set it up. Alternatively, you can connect the ethernet cable directly to your laptop to get internet access. Additionally, you should be able to connect to the NTU wifi network from hall common areas such as reading rooms, TV lounges, canteens etc.

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How can I get from my hall to academic buildings?


You can be fit and walk! Just kidding. But really, if your hall is located close enough to your classes, a quick walk should do the trick! But not to worry, you can take the free campus buses from bus stops around NTU. There are 2 main routes: blue and red that loop in 2 different directions. If the bus stops in front of your hall, the bus stop should have a signpost with a sign that says Campus Blue or Campus Red. Detailed bus routes with its exact stops and additional services can be found here

#3

CSA

What is CSA? What does it stand for?

 

CSA stands for Catholic Students’ Apostolate! CSA is the Catholic community for university students studying at NTU. We are a group of brothers and sisters who journey together in this phase of university life. You’ll come to know many people here, of different backgrounds and diverse personalities, but all united by the one God who connects us above all!

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Do I have to be a baptised Catholic to join CSA/come for CSA activities?

No you don’t! If you are a non-Catholic, but are interested in finding out more about the faith, feel free contact us and join our meetups :) 

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Is CSA a CCA?

 

CSA categorically and administratively falls under NTU’s official clubs and societies. If you are a member of CSA, it will also be reflected on your NTU ECA record. However, we don’t think of CSA as just any other CCA!!! As Catholics, we are called to communion with Jesus, and with the church. CSA is fundamentally a Catholic community; a place where you can grow in your relationship with God, alongside fellow brothers and sisters who desire the same thing!

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What's the commitment like if I join CSA?

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We are more a community than a CCA, so there isn't any sort of minimum requirement to be considered a member of CSA. It is really up to you whether you want to attend our Witness Wednesday sessions, come for Mass, or join a cell group! Of course, we'd encourage you to try and be present in community because this is where many of us have found life and joy amidst the stresses and trials of university life. Don't say no to a beautiful journey with Jesus!

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What is the closest parish to NTU?

Church of Saint Francis of Assisi (SFA). It’s at 200 Boon Lay Avenue, S (649964). 

To get there from NTU, you can take bus number 199 out of NTU. Ride 6 stops and alight at Block 263. Take bus number 99 for 2 stops and alight at Block 176. Walk 170m to (SFA). Alternatively, you can follow Google Maps to  walk under the HDB flats to reach SFA after alighting at Block 263.

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