FAQ
Quick answers to Orientation most common questions!
Freshman Orientation Programmes
- What is the purpose of Freshman Orientation Programme (FOP)?
The purpose of FOP is to welcome freshmen to NUS and ease their transition into university life through purposeful programmes and engaging activities. FOP introduces incoming students to the intellectual culture, social environment, and values of the NUS community, while fostering friendships, building a sense of belonging, and equipping freshmen with the support and knowledge needed for both academic and personal success. - Is it mandatory for me to participate in FOP?
While it is not mandatory to participate in FOP, you are strongly encouraged to attend as it provides a valuable opportunity to get to know your peers and seniors before the start of the academic year. Through FOP, freshmen can gain useful insights and advice into student life, academic expectations, campus resources and support systems in NUS, while also building friendships and a sense of belonging within the university community. - When and where are the various FOPs held?
FOPs consist of RAG & Flag, Freshman Orientation Camps (FOCs), Student Life Fair and Supernova.
RAG & Flag and FOCs are held from 1 June up to Week 0 in early August, while Student Life Fair and Supernova held by NUSSU will continue throughout August. Most FOP activities are held within NUS campus. However, some camps may include external venues for selected activities, such as beach days.
Please refer to the list of FOPs. - Where do I register for the various FOPs?
You can register for the various FOPs through NUSync or the registration links at the FOP Microsite.
Please refer to the guide for detailed instructions here. - If I am in distress or harassment at any point of the FOP activity, who should I go to?
If you experience distress or harassment at any point during an FOP activity, you may reach out to your Orientation Group Leaders (OGLs) or the Organising Committee and report the situation (including relevant details of the camp or incident) to the official whistleblowing channel at whistleblow@nus.edu.sg. - I cannot attend the full duration of the FOP due to prior commitment. Can I still sign up for the FOP?
Yes, you can still sign up for the FOP even if you are unable to attend the full duration due to prior commitments. However, please should check with the respective camp organising committee for further clarification. - Can I join more than one FOP?
Yes, you may join more than one FOP, depending on your interest and availability. However, do note that some faculty- or society-based FOPs are restricted to students from specific courses. You may still consider other FOPs such as hostel, interest group, non-faculty and non-academic FOPs.
Registration & Attendance
- I signed up for an FOP but did not receive any updates. What should I do?
After registering for an FOP, you should receive updates from the respective organising committee through email or messaging platforms closer to the programme dates. Please regularly check your email inbox and spam folder. If you still do not receive any updates, please contact the respective organising committee directly through their published contact channels. - Can I withdraw from an FOP after registering?
Yes, you may withdraw from an FOP after registering. However, refund policies and withdrawal procedures may differ across programmes. Please contact the respective organising committee directly for clarification. - What should I bring for an FOP?
Participants are encouraged to bring essentials such as a water bottle, portable charger, personal medication, and any additional items specified by the organising committee. For camps with overnight stays, participants should also prepare appropriate overnight necessities. Most camps will release a detailed packing list for participants closer to the programme dates. - Are meals provided during FOPs?
Meals may be provided depending on the respective FOP programme. Participants are advised to refer to the programme details or contact the organising committee directly for confirmation. - Are overnight stays compulsory for camps with stay-in components?
No. Participants may opt out of overnight stay components if they are unable or uncomfortable staying overnight. Overnight stay participation is not compulsory, and camps will provide corresponding camp fee options for participants who choose to opt out. - Are FOP activities safe?
All FOPs are required to comply with NUS safety guidelines and university regulations. Safety measures, including briefings and oversight by appointed safety personnel, are implemented to support participant welfare throughout the programme.
Eligibility & Participation
- I am an international student. Can I join FOPs?
FOPs are open to all full-time undergraduate students, including international students. FOPs provide a valuable opportunity to familiarise yourself with NUS and connect with the student community. - I missed the registration deadline for an FOP. Can I still sign up?
Late registrations may be accepted depending on slot availability and the organising committee’s arrangements. Please contact the respective organising committee directly for further clarification.
Fees & Payments
- Are FOPs free?
Some FOPs are free, while others may require a participation fee to cover programme materials, meals, transport, camp merchandise, or accommodation. Please refer to the respective programme registration page for more details. - How do I make payment for an FOP?
Payment instructions will typically be provided on the registration page or by the respective organising committee after registration. Official registration and payment for FOPs will only be conducted through NUSync. Participants are strongly advised not to make payments through unofficial platforms or links. - How can I verify that an FOP registration or payment request is legitimate?
Official FOP registration and payment processes will only be conducted through NUSync and official communication channels published by the organising committee or NUS. Participants are advised to exercise caution and avoid making payments or sharing personal information through unofficial links, forms, or third-party platforms. If in doubt, please verify directly with the respective organising committee.
Administrative
- Where can I find updates or announcements about FOPs?
Updates and announcements regarding FOPs can be found on the FOP Microsite, NUSync, and the official social media platforms or communication channels of the respective organising committees. - Where can I find my Student ID and NUSNET ID?
You will be issued your Student ID, PIN, NUSNET ID and NUS Password upon completing Registration (Part One). - Why am I unable to log into the NUS System?
Please note that access to NUS systems like Canvas and Course Registration (CourseReg) will be activated one to two days after completion of Registration (Part One). Students are required to change their default NUS password via the NUS Password Portal before they can access any NUS online services such as NUS Email, NUS Education Records System and Canvas.
