Incoming freshmen (AY 2025/2026) should submit an online application via the Joint Residential College Admission System (JRCA). Year 2 students may apply via UHMS. You will be assessed based on your essays, and interview, in addition to your academic achievements and co-curricular experiences. Only shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview.

Yes, you may submit an appeal if you aren't placed in your preferred Residential College. Appeals are considered on a case-by-case basis.

There are no programme fees, but you will have to bear the cost of accommodation and meals.

Yes, you may indicate your preference for Acacia College, College of Alice & Peter Tan, Residential College 4, or Tembusu College in your application. However, please note that while we consider your preferences, your final placement may differ based on availability and other factors. Each student is limited to one residential college application per Academic Year.

If you are currently serving National Service (NS) and will only matriculate in 1 to 2 years, we encourage you to submit your application now. If successful, your place will be reserved for the year you matriculate into NUS. If you receive an NS deferment and will be matriculating in the current academic year, please inform the Residential College (RC) you applied for immediately. If you have already received an offer to join an RC for the next or following year, the RC will assess the possibility of bringing forward your enrolment.

The UTCP is designed as an alternative pathway to the General Education programme at NUS. For more details on how the UTCP curriculum fits into your graduation requirements, please visit here for more information.

If you are unable to complete the UTCP, the courses you have taken in the Residential Colleges may be mapped to the General Education (GE) pillars, subject to university approval. Alternatively, they may be counted towards your Unrestricted Electives (UE).