Inf ma i - Republic Polytechnic
Transcription
Inf ma i - Republic Polytechnic
Inf��ma�i�� Rea� ��! Contents Page Message from the Principal/CEO 2 Greetings from the President of the 10 Student Council 4 Vision and Mission 5 REPUBLIC Code of Honour 5 Student Code of Conduct 6 1. Enrolment Matters 8 th 1.1 Confirming your Enrolment into Republic Polytechnic 8 1.2 Enrolment Checklist 10 2. Financial Matters 16 2.1 Applying for the Tuition Grant Scheme 16 2.2 Fee Payment Methods 17 2.3 Financial Schemes 19 2.4 Bursaries 26 2.5 Scholarships 27 2.6 Needy Student Fund 28 3. IT Matters 30 4. RP Student EZ-Link Card 31 5. Information for International Students 32 5.1 Student’s Pass 32 5.2 SOLAR System Application Steps 33 5.3 Payment Related to Student’s Pass 37 5.4 Accommodation at RP 38 5.5 Cost of Living and Studying in Singapore 39 6. Academic Calendar 2013 40 7. Student Enrichment Opportunities 44 7.1 An Exciting Student Engagement Platform 44 7.2 Co-Curricular Activities 46 8. Deferment and Withdrawal 56 8.1 Deferment and Withdrawal 56 8.2 Male Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents Liable for National Service 8.3 Tuition Fees Charged for Deferment or Withdrawal 58 Contact Us 59 60 Message from the Principal/CEO Welcome to Republic Polytechnic (RP)! We are delighted that you have chosen to join the RP community. In doing so, you have shown that you share our commitment to education that is innovative and future-oriented. As you embark on your journey at RP, you must ask yourself: “What do I want to achieve in life?” If you do not yet have an answer, don’t worry. One of our key objectives at RP is to give you access to diverse opportunities so that you can discover your passions and talents. And through our supportive learning environment and unique Problem-Based Learning (PBL) approach, we can help you transform into the best you can be so that you can achieve your goals. What’s most important is that you are the one who must answer this question. We can certainly offer guidance along the way. Ultimately, however, your dreams and aspirations must come from within. A World of Possibilities At RP, we offer a vibrant environment to support you in your journey as you discover, transform and achieve. 2 With our PBL pedagogy, every day at RP is a learning adventure. Guided by facilitators, you will work in teams to solve problems through creativity, research and knowledge integration. This approach will help to transform you into a resourceful problem-solver and motivated self-learner by the time you graduate. Thanks to our close collaboration with industry partners, you will benefit from our industry-relevant curriculum. During your time at RP, you will have opportunities to participate in internships and industry projects, all of which will give you a headstart once you enter the workforce. In addition, our strong international focus means that you will have opportunities to participate in overseas study trips, servicelearning expeditions and competitions. Such activities will enable you to discover the world outside Singapore and gain valuable international experience. As an RP student, you can take advantage of our wide range of state-of-the-art facilities. These include the library, labs with cutting-edge equipment, The Republic Cultural Centre, the Sports Complex and the Adventure Learning Centre, just to name a few. However, don’t forget that school is about more than studying. While I certainly hope that you will always put your best effort into your studies, I also encourage you to embrace a holistic approach to life. Your time at RP is a golden opportunity to make lifelong friends and try new activities through our clubs and interest groups, so I hope you will take full advantage of this. We are confident your time at RP will be full of rewarding experiences and that together, we can make your RP education a memorable one. We look forward to seeing you on campus! Best regards, Yeo Li Pheow Principal/CEO 3 Welcome from the President of the 10th Student Council Hello fellow students! The RP experience is truly unique and you have entered the door to an exciting journey of self-discovery. On behalf of the 10th Student Council of Republic Polytechnic (RP), I would like to extend our warmest welcome to you. One of the major highlights in RP is our Problem-Based Learning (PBL) pedagogy. PBL, as you will quickly get to know during Week 1, can be unnerving at first. However, this learning and teaching approach will eventually equip us with the skills needed in the working world. For me, I took some time to get used to this approach. It was tough at first, but with an open mind and the continuing support of facilitators, classmates, and my peers, I managed to overcome the anxiety. Today, as we have mastered our first year jitters, we know we have benefitted from the experience. And I know that you will too! We have fantastic facilities on campus and are spoilt for choice when it comes to picking a Club or Interest Group (IG) - and I strongly encourage you to be part of an IG as that is where all the fun begins! We have a wealth of talents and skills, and we get to live our passion here at RP! Do shop around when the Co-Curricular Activities Fiesta comes around. I am constantly amazed at what RP has offered me and I shall leave it to you to say “Yes!” and start your discovery and journey with RP. The 10th Student Council will always be here for you. If you have concerns or would like a chat with fellow seniors during your time here, please reach out to us. We will assist 4 you in addressing your academic and other student-related needs, and serve as the link between the student union and the RP Management. Once again, welcome to the RP family. An exciting RP experience awaits you! Hang on tight, have fun, and enjoy this new chapter in your life! Best wishes, Nur Liyana Gafoor President 10th Student Council Vision and Mission Vision An educational institution of choice for nurturing innovative, entrepreneurial and cultured professionals. Mission We nurture individuals to prepare them for a dynamic world in partnership with stakeholders, leveraging Problem-Based Learning. REPUBLIC Code of Honour Respect Regard and Responsibility for Others and Self Excellence Excellence Mindset in all our Endeavours Passion Pursuing Dreams and Honing Talents with Heart Unity United as One RP, One Singapore, One World Belief Confidence, Faith and Trust Leadership Leadership of Self, and of Others Integrity Actions Guided by Morals and Ethics Compassion Heart for and Commitment to Service 5 STUDENT Code of Conduct Respect • Give it to get it In RP, we encourage all students to respect themselves by abiding by the Student Code of Conduct. We firmly believe that respecting members of the RP community ensures that the RP community will respect you too. Self-respect is the fruit of discipline; the sense of dignity grows with the ability to say no to oneself. Abraham J. Heschel Excellence • Good is not enough All RP students should aim to excel in their academic objectives and in their personal goals. We encourage students to give a hundred percent in ensuring academic excellence and to be at their best behaviour at all times, on campus and as RP ambassadors off school premises. Excellence is not a skill. It is an attitude. Ralph Marston Passion • Do what you love We encourage all students to immerse themselves in the wide range of student activities RP has to offer. Students will have the chance to pursue their interests, or to try their hands at something new. These activities imbibe the Republic Code of Honour and aim to focus on student character development and enhance social-emotional competencies. Unity • Stand strong as one We believe firmly in the One RP spirit, where students learn to understand and respect one another’s differences. The Problem-Based Learning approach and the vast array of student activities encourage students to work together, to give and take, and to support one another in all areas of campus life. 6 Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to grow. Anthony J. D’Angelo Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success. Henry Ford Belief • The start of success The RP approach aims to breed confidence among our students. A confident student believes in oneself, and in turn, has confidence in others. This form of mutual trust ensures positive learning and social relationships, which will serve our students well after they graduate. Leadership • Chart your own destiny RP encourages all students to take responsibility for their own actions. Being empowered with the ability to chart one’s own future is extremely powerful, hence, the emphasis on social-emotional competencies which aim to equip all students to make the right choices. We hope that beyond personal leadership, RP students will eventually be able to lead others. Integrity • Be true to yourself All RP students should be honest and do what is right. We encourage all students to take responsibility for their mistakes, and learn from them. A student with integrity is someone who has a clear conscience and can be trusted. Believe and act as if it were impossible to fail. Charles F. Kettering The best years of your life are the ones in which you decide your problems are your own. You do not blame them on your mother, the ecology, or the President. You realise that you control your own destiny. Albert Ellis A life lived with integrity - even if it lacks the trappings of fame and fortune, is a shining star in whose light others may follow in the years to come. Denis Waitley Compassion • Have a kind heart We hope that all students in RP will eventually look beyond themselves, and reach out to support others in need. The RP community should be one where everyone can rely on one another and no one takes advantage of someone else’s weaknesses. A kind and compassionate act is often its own reward. William Bennett 7 1 Enrolment Matters 1.1 Confirming your Enrolment into Republic Polytechnic Congratulations! You have been made an offer to study in Republic Polytechnic (RP). To confirm your enrolment, please complete the following four items by the deadlines specified in your Enrolment Letter: •Complete the Course Acceptance in the Enrolment System: www.rp.edu.sg/enrol •Provide your Personal Particulars and other required information in the Enrolment System. •Pay the Enrolment Fee^ that is applicable to Singapore Citizens, Permanent Residents and International Students. (Note: All Direct Admissions Exercise - Foreign (DAE-F) applicants who have met the payment requirement during the application process are not required to pay this Enrolment Fee). •Complete the Pre-Enrolment Medical Form and the Declaration and Indemnity Form and upload to the Enrolment System IMPORTANT ADVISORY: The four items listed above must be duly completed by the deadlines that are stated in your Enrolment Letter. We seek your cooperation to strictly comply with the deadlines for confirmation of a place in RP. Failure to comply with the deadlines may lead to the lapse of offer of an admission place in RP. ^ Please refer to “Information on Course Fees” found in the Enrolment Package for the Enrolment Fee payable. 8 Enrolment Matters Additionally, you are required to complete the following as part of your enrolment process by the stipulated deadlines: •Upload a recent passport-sized colour photograph of yourself for the RP Student (EZ-Link) Card in the Enrolment System. •Submit your application for the Ministry of Education (MOE) Tuition Grant (not applicable to PFP students). •Purchase and configure your laptop computer. If you already own a laptop computer, please arrange to have it configured. (Refer to page 30 for further details.) •Apply for your Student’s Pass (only applicable to International Students) from Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA). •Complete the Appointment of Local Representative Form and upload to the Enrolment System (only applicable to International Students). •Apply for Financial Schemes if you need assistance in financing your fees and living expenses (optional, subject to eligibility criteria). •Apply to pay your school fee via GIRO (not applicable to PFP students). The above items are summarised in the Enrolment Checklist (overleaf), and further explained in the other sections of this handbook. NOTE: If you are unable to complete/submit any of the above documents before the deadline given, please email [email protected] with your personal particulars and contact details for clearance to submit the required documents at an agreed later date. Failure to submit the relevant documents may result in your unsuccessful enrolment. PFP: Polytechnic Foundation Programme is a one-year programme that prepares the top 10% of the Secondary 4 Normal Academic students for entry into Year 1 of their diploma course. Enrolment Matters 9 1.2 Enrolment Checklist (Step 1 to 6 of 12) Use the following checklist to track your completion of your enrolment tasks by the required deadlines. Your compliance is required to confirm your placement with RP. 1 Complete Course Acceptance. Applicable to all enrolling students. Due Date: Your Course Acceptance Deadline (Refer to your Enrolment Letter) •Log in to the Enrolment System* and follow the instructions provided. •Check the Enrolment System* for confirmation that the Course Acceptance has been completed. 2 Provide your Personal Particulars and other required information. Applicable to all enrolling students. Due Date: Your Enrolment Deadline (Refer to your Enrolment Letter) •Log in to the Enrolment System* and follow the instructions provided. •Check the Enrolment System* for confirmation that your Personal Particulars and other required information have been provided. 3 Pay the Enrolment Fee^. Applicable to all enrolling students (except for students who enrol via DAE-F). Due Date: Your Enrolment Deadline (Refer to your Enrolment Letter) •Enrolment fee is non-refundable. •Payment can be made: --online via e-payment (using credit cards or Internet Banking) (not applicable to PFP students); OR --by Network for Electronic Transfers (NETS) to the payment counter at the enrolment venue during onsite Enrolment; OR --by cheque to the payment counter at the enrolment venue during onsite Enrolment. (Refer to page 18 for further details.) •Check the Enrolment System* for confirmation that payment has been received. •If you are making payment after the onsite Enrolment, please do so at RP’s One-Stop Centre. (Refer to page 18 for further details.) ^ Please refer to “Information on Course Fees” found in the Enrolment Package for the Enrolment Fee payable. 10 Enrolment Matters 4 Submit your Pre-Enrolment Medical Form. Applicable to all enrolling students. Due Date: Your Enrolment Deadline (Refer to your Enrolment Letter) •Go for a Medical Examination and have the Pre-Enrolment Medical Form (found in the Form Booklet of your Enrolment Package) completed by the examining doctor. •Scan and upload the Pre-Enrolment Medical Form to the Enrolment System* •Submit the completed form to the One-Stop Centre at RP personally or by post using the self-addressed envelope included in this package. 5 Submit your Declaration and Indemnity Form. Applicable to all enrolling students. Due Date: Your Enrolment Deadline (Refer to your Enrolment Letter) •Complete the Declaration and Indemnity Form (found in the Form Booklet of your Enrolment Package). •Scan and upload the Declaration and Indemnity Form to the Enrolment System* •Submit the completed form to the One-Stop Centre at RP personally or by post using the self-addressed envelope included in this package. 6 Upload a recent passport-sized colour photograph of yourself for the RP Student (EZ-Link) Card in the Enrolment System. Applicable to all enrolling students. Due Date: Your Enrolment Deadline (Refer to your Enrolment Letter) •Your photograph must be submitted by uploading a suitable digital image through the Enrolment System*; OR •You may take your photograph at RP during the enrolment period and this will be uploaded for you. (Refer to page 31 for further details.) •Check the Enrolment System* for confirmation that the photograph has been received. Enrolment Matters 11 1.2 Enrolment Checklist (Step 7 to 9 of 12) 7 Submit your application for the MOE Tuition Grant. Applicable to all enrolling students. Not applicable to PFP students. Due Date: 1 April 2013 Due Date: 10 April 2013 (For students who enrol via the JPAE-ITE) •For Singapore Citizens: --Complete the hard copy Application for Tuition Grant Form (refer to the blue form) found in your Enrolment Package and submit the completed form to the form submission counter at Agora Hall during onsite Enrolment or by post using the self-addressed envelope included in this package. •For Singapore Permanent Residents and International Students: --Complete the Tuition Grant Option Form (refer to the green form) found in your Enrolment Package and submit the completed form to form submission counter at Agora Hall during onsite Enrolment or by post using the self-addressed envelope included in this package. --In addition, apply online at MOE’s website tgonline.moe.gov.sg Please refer to letter to Singapore Permanent Residents & International Students issued by Ministry of Education (found in your Enrolment Package) for online application period. --Upon submission, you will be contacted to complete and submit other required documents. (Refer to page 16 for further details.) 8 Purchase and configure your laptop computer. Applicable to all enrolling students. Due Date: 1 April 2013 Due Date: 10 April 2013 (For students who enrol via the JPAE-ITE) •Purchase and configure your laptop computer. If you already own a laptop computer, please arrange to have it configured. (Refer to page 30 for further details.) •You can purchase a laptop at special discounted prices during the IT Road Show at RP or make appointment via www.rp.edu.sg/makeappointment to have your own laptop configured. (Refer to page 30 for further details.) 12 Enrolment Matters 9 Apply for your Student’s Pass from Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA). Applicable to all International Students only. Due Date: 1 April 2013 To apply for your Student’s Pass: •Students will be given the Student’s Pass Online Application & Registration (SOLAR) application letter. •Complete and submit eForm 16 online at www.ica.gov.sg (this submission requires online payment for the processing fee of S$30, payable only by Credit Card or via Internet Banking to ICA). •Login and check the status of your application at www.ica.gov.sg if your application has been approved. Once your application is approved, RP will send your In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter to you via email. Please note that the IPA letter will only be issued upon full payment of your tuition fee for the first semester. •Follow the instructions on the IPA letter to collect your Student’s Pass from ICA. (Refer to page 36 for further details.) Important: •Dependant’s Pass holder who wishes to study in an Institute of Higher Learning (IHL) is also required to apply for a Student’s Pass (application must be made through SOLAR). •All students are required to come for onsite enrolment on the stipulated date in your Enrolment Letter. •You should begin this application process as early as possible. Failure to complete the procedures in Student’s Pass application will result in the delay of issuance of RP Student (EZ-Link) Card. •Students are required to ensure that they remain in Singapore on a valid pass at all times. Enrolment Matters 13 1.2 Enrolment Checklist (Step 10 to 12 of 12) 10 Submit your Appointment of Local Representative Form. Applicable for International Students only. Due Date: Your Enrolment Deadline (Refer to your Enrolment Letter) •Complete the Appointment of Local Representative Form (found in the Form Booklet of your Enrolment Package). •Scan and upload the Appointment of Local Representative Form to the Enrolment System* •Submit the completed form to the One-Stop Centre at RP personally or by post using the self-addressed envelope included in this package. 11 Apply for Financial Schemes. Optional for all enrolling students, subject to eligibility criteria. Due Date: 1 April 2013 Due Date: 10 April 2013 (For students who enrol via the JPAE-ITE) •As applications are processed by RP as well as external agencies, you should submit your application(s) by the Due Date to ensure that your fees are settled in time. •Applications are processed on a first-come-first-served basis. •Various Financial Schemes are available to assist you in financing your fees and living expenses. •For all enrolling students (excluding PFP students): --Subsidy Schemes (not requiring repayment) include the following: »»Tertiary Tuition Fees Subsidy for Malays (administered by Mendaki) »»Post Secondary Education Account (PSEA) Scheme --Loan Schemes (requiring repayment) include the following: »»Central Provident Fund (CPF) Approved Education Scheme »»Tuition Fee Loan »»Study Loan A »»Study Loan B •For all enrolled PFP students only: --Subsidy Scheme (not requiring repayment) includes the following: »»Post Secondary Education Account (PSEA) Scheme You may apply for one or more of the above schemes, subject to eligibility criteria. Refer to page 19 for further details and information on how to apply. 14 Enrolment Matters 12 Apply for GIRO. Applicable to all enrolling students. Not applicable to PFP students. Due Date: 1 April 2013 Due Date: 10 April 2013 (For students who enrol via the JPAE-ITE) •Complete the Interbank GIRO Form (refer to the yellow form) found in your Form Booklet and submit the completed form to the form submission counter at Agora Hall during onsite Enrolment or by post using the self-addressed envelope included in this package. NOTE: All International Students are required to attend the onsite Enrolment on the date and time specified in your Enrolment Letter. * The Enrolment System will be available from 20 February 2013. To access the Enrolment System, you may refer to the details which are given in your Enrolment Letter sent to you together with this booklet. You may log in from home, or you may come to RP to log in during the enrolment period which is stated in your Enrolment Letter. Enrolment Matters 15 2 Financial Matters 2.1 Applying for the Tuition Grant Scheme (Not applicable to PFP students) All RP students are required to apply for the Tuition Grant Scheme from the Ministry of Education (MOE), Singapore. The Tuition Grant Scheme is provided by MOE to subsidise the high cost of tertiary education in Singapore. The Tuition Grant Scheme is provided for a maximum of ten semesters of tertiary education. In exchange for the Government subsidy received under the Tuition Grant Scheme, all non-Singapore Citizen students (that is, Singapore Permanent Residents and International Students) are required to sign a Tuition Grant Agreement by which the student will be contractually obliged to work in Singapore for a minimum period of three years upon graduation. International Students will be admitted to RP on the condition that they apply for Tuition Grant. All International Students and students who are Singapore Permanent Residents are required to attend a briefing on the Tuition Grant. A notification email on the date, time and venue will be sent out nearer to the date. For further enquiries on the Tuition Grant Scheme, please refer to MOE’s website for a list of Frequently Asked Questions, available at tgonline.moe.gov.sg You may also contact the MOE’s Tuition Grant Unit by telephone at +65 6879 7333/4. PFP: Polytechnic Foundation Programme is a one-year programme that prepares the top 10% of the Secondary 4 Normal Academic students for entry into Year 1 of their diploma course. 16 Financial Matters 2.2 Fee Payment Methods Course fees must be paid by the stipulated deadlines. You will not be required to pay for any amounts which are to be covered by Financial Schemes that you have applied for. However, in the event that any of the Financial Scheme applications is not successful, the outstanding amount will be due immediately. 2.2.1 GIRO (Not applicable to PFP students) The recommended mode of course fee payment is by GIRO. All students are required to sign up for payment by GIRO using the hardcopy Interbank GIRO Form that is available in the Form Booklet. GIRO enables you to pay your course fees and any other amounts automatically. It also allows RP to perform any refunds and disbursements such as scholarships, bursaries, academic prizes, etc to you promptly. It is a one-time application which authorises RP to deduct the amount payable from your bank account after the tax invoice is sent. Please complete the hardcopy Interbank GIRO Form found in the Form Booklet as part of the enrolment process. GIRO deduction will only commence after the bank’s approval has been received by RP. In order for your GIRO arrangement to be ready in time for the payment of your first semester’s fee, you have to submit the Interbank GIRO Form to us by 1 April 2013. For students who enrol via the JPAE-ITE, the deadline is 10 April 2013. GIRO does not apply towards the payment of Enrolment Fee as this fee will be collected during enrolment via other modes of payment suggested in the preceding sections. Enrolment Fee is non-refundable. 2.2.2 e-Payment (Not applicable to PFP students) Enrolment fee payment can be made online through the Enrolment System using major credit and debit cards (MasterCard, Visa and American Express). Acknowledgement of your payment will be given to you in the Enrolment System. Financial Matters 17 2.2.3 NETS Enrolment fee payment can be made during onsite enrolment period as indicated in your Enrolment Letter, via Network for Electronic Transfers (NETS). During non-onsite enrolment period, payment can be made via NETS using an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) card at RP’s One-Stop Centre during their hours of operation which are as follows: Mondays to Fridays: 8:00am - 8:00pm Saturdays: 8:00am - 6:00pm Sundays and Public Holidays: Closed 2.2.4 Cheque Enrolment fee payment can be made at the payment counter at the enrolment venue during onsite enrolment period as indicated in your Enrolment Letter, via cheque. Cheques should be drawn from a Singapore registered bank, crossed and made payable to “Republic Polytechnic”. You are to indicate your NRIC/FIN, name and telephone number on the reverse side of your cheque to ensure that the payment is correctly made to your account. During non-onsite enrolment period, cheque payments can be deposited in the cheque box located at the One-Stop Centre in RP. Please do not deposit your cheque directly at the bank. 18 Financial Matters 2.3 Financial Schemes There are various Financial Schemes available to students to cover the payment of their course fees and/or living expenses, as described below. These schemes come either in the form of a loan or a subsidy. Each of these schemes is subject to its specific terms and conditions. In addition to loans and subsidies, a student may apply for bursaries and scholarships. There are also Student Pocket Money Scheme and Student Emergency Money Scheme which are available for needy students. Please refer to page 28 to check the eligibility criteria. 2.3.1 Summary of Subsidy Schemes The tabulations below provide a summary of the fees and expenses that the respective subsidy schemes can be used. Students are not required to repay the amounts received through the subsidy schemes. Fees/Expenses Subsidy Scheme Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy for Malays (administered by Mendaki) (Not applicable to PFP students) Post Secondary Education Account (PSEA) Scheme Tuition Fees Supplementary Fees Other Expenses Up to 100% Up to 100% Eligibility to apply by Nationality Subsidy Scheme Singapore Citizens Singapore Permanent Residents International Students Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy for Malays (administered by Mendaki) (Not applicable to PFP students) Post Secondary Education Account (PSEA) Scheme Financial Matters 19 2.3.2 Summary of Loan Schemes (Not applicable to PFP students) The tabulations below provide a summary of the fees and expenses that the respective loan schemes can be used. Successful applicants are required to make a repayment for the loan received upon their graduation and the loan is subject to interest. Fees/Expenses Loan Scheme Tuition Fees Supplementary Fees CPF Approved Education Scheme Up to 100% Tuition Fee Loan Scheme Up to 75% Study Loan A Scheme Up to 25% Study Loan B Scheme Other Expenses Up to S$2,000 Eligibility to apply by Nationality Loan Scheme CPF Approved Education Scheme Tuition Fee Loan Scheme Study Loan A Scheme Study Loan B Scheme 20 Financial Matters Singapore Citizens Singapore Permanent Residents International Students 2.3.3 How to Apply for Financial Schemes The following shows the application procedures for the various Financial Schemes. The relevant forms and documents must be submitted to RP by 1 April 2013. For students who enrol via the JPAE-ITE, the deadline is 10 April 2013. Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy for Malays (Administered by Mendaki) (Not applicable to PFP students) •How can it be done? --Complete the form enclosed in this Enrolment Package. --Submit the completed form and the necessary supporting documents to the form submission counter at Agora Hall during onsite Enrolment or by post using the self-addressed envelope included in this package. •Supporting Documents Needed --Photocopy of: »»Birth Certificate & NRIC of applicant »»NRICs of both parents »»Pay-slips/income/CPF statements of all working family members Post Secondary Education Account (PSEA) Scheme •How can it be done? --Complete the PSEA form in the Form Booklet of this Enrolment Package. --Submit the completed form to the form submission counter at the enrolment venue during onsite Enrolment or by post using the self-addressed envelope included in this package. CPF Approved Education Scheme (Not applicable to PFP students) •How can it be done? --Apply online at mycpf.cpf.gov.sg/Members/Gen-Info/Features/CPFEdn_ Scheme.htm (SingPass is required for both the CPF account holder and the student for online application at the CPF website). Application must be completed by the student and not by the CPF account holder. --Forward the auto-generated confirmation email from CPF Board to [email protected] Financial Matters 21 Tuition Fee Loan Scheme (Not applicable to PFP students) •How can it be done? --Download the form from www.rp.edu.sg/Fees/02_Financial_Schemes.aspx --Complete the form and proceed to any DBS/POSB Bank with your guarantor and the necessary documents to execute the loan agreement. •Supporting Documents Needed --The completed Tuition Fee Loan Application Form (the “Application Form”) --The applicant’s and his guarantor’s original copies of identity cards or passports --Letter of Offer (which must be signed in the presence of a bank officer). Once the agreement is executed, a copy of the signed agreement must be submitted to the form submission counter at Agora Hall during onsite Enrolment or by post using the self-addressed envelope included in this package. Study Loan A & B Schemes (Not applicable to PFP students) •How can it be done? --Download the form from www.rp.edu.sg/Fees/02_Financial_Schemes.aspx --Complete the form and submit with the necessary documents to the form submission counter at Agora Hall during onsite Enrolment or by post using the self-addressed envelope included in this package. --RP will assess the application and contact the eligible students. •Supporting Documents Needed --Photocopy of: »»NRIC of applicant »»NRICs/Birth Certificates of all family members »»Pay-slips/income/CPF statements of all working family members NOTE: Applications for Financial Schemes should be submitted during the enrolment period to ensure that your applications are processed without delay. All the stipulated forms must be duly filled to prevent rejection by the financial scheme organisations due to incomplete forms. 22 Financial Matters 2.3.4 Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy for Malays (Administered by Mendaki) (Not applicable to PFP students) Students who are Malay Singapore Citizens or children of Malay Singapore Citizens, and whose per capita monthly household income (PCI) is S$1,500 or below will be eligible for the following Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy (TTFS): Per Capital Income (PCI) Eligible Subsidy S$1,000 and below 100% S$1,001 - S$1,200 75% S$1,201 - S$1,500 50% Further information is available from the Mendaki website at www.mendaki.org.sg 2.3.5 Post Secondary Education Account (PSEA) Scheme The PSEA Scheme is administered by the MOE and an account is opened automatically for all eligible Singapore Citizens. Singapore Citizen students who have a valid PSEA and have funds in the account can apply to use the funds to defray the cost of Tuition Fee and Supplementary Fee. Students can submit the PSEA Standing Order Application Form found in the Form Booklet which allows RP to make a deduction whenever the fees are due, subject to the availability of funds in the account. Under certain circumstances, a student’s sibling’s PSEA may also be used. For any enquiries on the PSEA Scheme or to find out your PSEA balance, you may call MOE at +65 6260 0777. Further information is available from the MOE website at www.moe.gov.sg/initiatives/post-secondary-education-account Financial Matters 23 2.3.6 CPF Approved Education Scheme (Not applicable to PFP students) Depending on the Available Withdrawal Limit for Education, and other CPF rules, a student may use his/her own CPF savings, siblings’, spouse’s and parents’ (including step-parents’) CPF savings to pay for up to 100% of his subsidised tuition fee, subject to approval by the CPF Board. To inform RP that you are applying for payment under the CPF Approved Education Scheme, please forward the auto-generated confirmation email from CPF Board to [email protected] For students who have applied for PSEA (Standing Order) and CPF Education Scheme, kindly note that deduction will be made from the PSEA first. Only in the event where the fund in the student’s PSEA has been exhausted will the deduction be made from the CPF account. 2.3.7 Tuition Fee Loan Scheme (Not applicable to PFP students) Under the Tuition Fee Loan Scheme, students of all nationalities can apply for a bank loan of up to 75% of the subsidised tuition fee payable (loan quantum is subject to revision). 24 Financial Matters 2.3.8 Study Loan Schemes (Not applicable to PFP students) Only Singapore Citizens and Singapore Permanent Residents can apply for the Study Loan Schemes. •Study Loan A Only students who have applied for the Tuition Fee Loan Scheme and/or who have been awarded a tuition fee loan/subsidy through the CPF Approved Education Scheme or Mendaki, can apply for Study Loan A, provided that the total amount of the aforementioned loan and/or subsidy is NOT less than 75% of the tuition fees; and with gross monthly income per capita less than S$2,400. This scheme provides a loan to cover up to 25% of the subsidised tuition fee not covered by all the other loan schemes. •Study Loan B Only students who have applied for the Tuition Fee Loan Scheme and/or who have been awarded a tuition fee loan/subsidy through the CPF Approved Education Scheme, Mendaki and/or Study Loan A can apply for Study Loan B, provided that the total amount of the aforementioned loan and/or subsidy covers 100% of the tuition fees; and with gross monthly income per capita less than S$2,400. This scheme provides a loan of up to S$2,000 for any two consecutive semesters to meet living expenses. Financial Matters 25 2.4 Bursaries The sections that follow provide bursary information pertaining to both students enrolled into RP’s Year 1 full-time diploma programmes and for students enrolled into RP’s Polytechnic Foundation Programme (PFP). To be eligible, student should come from a family with gross monthly household per capita income (PCI)* not exceeding the amount stated in their relevant sections. *PCI = Total Gross Monthly Income (including CPF) of Family Number of family members living together with student For Students Enrolled into RP’s Year 1 Full-Time Diploma Programmes Bursaries are available to help defray living expenses for needy students who are Singapore Citizens. To be eligible, student should come from a family with gross monthly household per capita income (PCI)* not exceeding S$1,700. Bursaries are awarded for one academic year which last over 2 school semesters. Students may apply for bursaries again in the next academic year. Bursary application for Academic Year 2013 will be launched in April 2013. Students will be notified via their RP email account with details about the application procedure. Information on bursary can be found at www.rp.edu.sg/bursary For enquiries, email [email protected] For Students Enrolled into the PFP PFP bursaries are offered to help needy students cope with school fees, compulsory/ miscellaneous fees, examination fees and living expenses. To be eligible, student should be a Singapore Citizen with family’s gross monthly household income not exceeding S$2,500 or gross monthly household per capita income (PCI)* not exceeding S$625. Each PFP Bursary is valued at S$870 for one academic year which last over 2 school semesters. Students may submit an application for PFP Bursary during the enrolment exercise. Information on PFP Bursary can be found at www.rp.edu.sg/pfp For enquiries on PFP Bursary, email [email protected] 26 Financial Matters 2.5 Scholarships For Students Enrolled into RP’s Year 1 Full-Time Diploma Programmes Scholarships are offered in partnership with industry partners and organisations to deserving students based on academic merit, commendable co-curricular achievements and leadership qualities. Scholarships are awarded for one academic year which last over 2 school semesters. Information on scholarships can be found at www.rp.edu.sg/scholarship For enquiries, email [email protected] For Students Enrolled into the PFP PFP Scholarships are awarded to deserving Singaporean or Singapore Permanent Resident students enrolled in the PFP based on academic merit and commendable co-curricular achievements. PFP scholarships are awarded for one academic year which last over 2 school semesters. Information on PFP Scholarships can be found at www.rp.edu.sg/pfp For enquiries, email [email protected] Financial Matters 27 2.6 Needy Student Fund The Needy Student Fund (Student Pocket Money Scheme and Student Emergency Money Scheme) is initiated by RP to help students from low-income families tide over their financial difficulties or unprecedented crisis due to various reasons (e.g. loss of main breadwinner in the family, retrenchment, mishap, hospitalisation, bankruptcy, etc.). Students needing the financial assistance will have to exhaust their immediate support network (e.g. social assistance, family, friends, etc.) and where possible, the various financial assistance schemes already in place such as school fees subsidy, bursary and scholarship/ awards. 2.6.1 Student Pocket Money Scheme (SPMS) The Student Pocket Money Scheme assists students from low-income families who find it a challenge to sustain their daily living expenses such as food, transport and other incidental expenses. 2.6.2 Student Emergency Money Scheme (SEMS) The Student Emergency Money Scheme provides compassionate assistance to students in emergency situations such as sudden deaths and/or hospitalisation of immediate family members. 2.6.3 Eligibility Criteria Applicants must be existing full-time students of RP and fulfil the following: •Student Pocket Money Scheme --Monthly Household Per Capital Income (PCI) ≤ S$450/month --Must be Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident --No disciplinary record --Application Period: »»Semester 1: April to July »»Semester 2: August to November •Student Emergency Money Scheme --Monthly Household Per Capital Income (PCI) ≤ S$500/month --Recent emergency and/or crisis situations (e.g. death/hospitalisation) --Application Period: »»Application is available throughout the year 28 Financial Matters 2.6.4 Application Process Only completed application form with all supporting documents will be processed. •Student submits completed application form to One-Stop Centre, Republic Polytechnic Centre Level 1. •Application form will be reviewed and applicant assessed for suitability. •Eligible applicants are required to attend an assessment interview by the Welfare Officer. •Applicants will be notified of outcome via the school official email. For more information on eligibility criteria and submission timeline, please email [email protected] Financial Matters 29 3 IT Matters As part of learning requirements, all students are required to have a working laptop configured by the IT Helpdesk before term commencement. This must be performed during the enrolment exercise or through appointment made via www.rp.edu.sg/makeappointment Please make sure your laptop meets the following minimum requirement: •2.2 GHz 64-bit processor •4GB RAM •250 GB hard disk space •Wireless adapter must minimally support IEEE 802.11g standard (Recommended to support dual-band IEEE 802.11a/g/n standard) Students can purchase laptops at a package price from RP-appointed vendors during RP’s Laptop Road Show. For more details, you may refer to www.rp.edu.sg/notebook For students who intend to apply for financial assistance in purchasing a laptop, please refer to www.rp.edu.sg/sw_ laptopassistance.aspx or visit the Student Assistance Scheme booth during the on-site enrolment period. Each student will be provided with an RP login and email account upon successful enrolment. Students will need to change their passwords at the first login session, and regularly thereafter. IMPORTANT: As you will be issued with RP’s account(s) during your enrolment exercise, you are reminded that your password shall be kept secret and shall not be disclosed to anyone. Your use of the RP’s account(s) and RP’s IT resources are subjected to your compliance with RP’s Computer Network, Email and Internet Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) (myrp.rp.sg/sites/ithelpdesk/policy.html). As a new RP system user, you are required to familiarise yourself with the AUP and acknowledge it. Help-IT personnel will request you to acknowledge the AUP during the account issuance process. 30 IT Matters 4 RP Student (EZ-Link) Card RP will issue a Student Card to each newly enrolled student. This Student Card is to be carried with you at all times while on RP’s campus as it identifies you as an enrolled student and it is a requirement that you produce the card when participating in polytechnic-related activities, seeking services such as the loaning of equipment or for security checks. The RP Student Card is also an EZ-Link Contactless e-Purse Applications (CEPAS) card which can be used for public transport. For all successfully enrolled new students, RP will apply for your Student (EZ-Link) Card with Transit Link Pte Ltd. Therefore, all new students are not required to individually apply for the Student (EZ-Link) Card with Transit Link Pte Ltd. Students will be informed on the card collection date and time of their Student (EZ-Link) Card at RP. Student may then proceed to activate the card at any Transit Link Ticket Office for public transport. You are required to submit a recent passportsized photograph via the Enrolment System. The photograph must meet the following requirements: •The photograph should be in colour. •The size of the photograph must be 400 pixels by 514 pixels in JPEG format. •It must be taken against a white background. •The image must show the full face without headgear (headgear worn in accordance with religious or racial customs is acceptable but must not hide the facial features). If you do not have the required photograph for submission, you may take your photograph at RP during the onsite enrolment period. For enquiries, please email [email protected] RP Student (EZ-Link) Card 31 5 Information for International Students 5.1 Student’s Pass In accordance with the Immigration Act, any foreigner who is not a Singapore Permanent Resident, and wishes to study at RP is required to apply for a Student’s Pass. You are required to provide RP with a copy of the NRIC and an update in the online Enrolment System if you have been recently confirmed as a Singapore Permanent Resident. It is important that you update the changes with us as there are differential fee structures for the various categories of citizenships. New application for Student’s Pass must be submitted at least one month and not more than two months before the commencement of the course through Immigration and Checkpoints Authority of Singapore (ICA)’s Student’s Pass Online Application & Registration (SOLAR) system. 32 Information for International Students 5.2 SOLAR System Application Steps (Step 1 of 5) 1 Student’s Pass Registration RP will register you through the SOLAR with the following details which you have provided at the point of your application to RP. Personal Particulars •Name •Date of Birth •Gender •Nationality (as appeared in your travel document) Course Details •Course Offered •Course Commencement Date •Course End Date IMPORTANT: Please ensure that the Personal Particulars in the SOLAR letter are correct, as per your travel documents before proceeding to Step 2. You would need to inform us of any discrepancies between the registration information and your passport/identity documents to avoid incurring additional processing fees/charges and delayed processing time after submitting your Form 16 to ICA. You will be issued a SOLAR application reference number from the SOLAR letter which would be required for subsequent logins. You may wish to contact us at [email protected] should you require any assistance. Information for International Students 33 5.2 SOLAR System Application Steps (Step 2 to 4 of 5) 2 Completing eForm 16 (Student’s Pass Application) Following the issuance of your SOLAR application reference number, you may login to the ICA website to submit your Student’s Pass application: 1. Log on to www.ica.gov.sg 2. Under “eServices & Forms”, select “Student’s Pass” 3. Proceed to select “Student’s Pass Online Application and Registration (For Polytechnics & Universities) (SOLAR)” 4. Under “Please click on the relevant buttons to access SOLAR”, select “Student” 5. You will be brought to the Student Login screen, key in your SOLAR Application No. and personal particulars. 6. You are required to go through the list below to ensure that you have the required documents/items ready before submitting your application. Registration acknowledgment notice with login information (SOLAR letter) and SOLAR Login Pin Passport Details (including travel documents) •Full Particulars/Passport Number/Date of Expiry Valid Email Address Singapore Address and Contact Details One copy of your recent passport-sized colour photograph The photo should meet the following requirements: •Should be in colour and taken against white background with matt or semi-matt finish •The size of the photograph must be 400 pixels by 514 pixels in JPEG format •Taken within the last three months •Must show the full face and taken without headgear (headgear worn in accordance with religious or racial customs is acceptable but facial features must not be covered) NRIC/FIN of parents or foreigners residing/working in Singapore Please do not complete this unless your parents are Singapore Citizens/Singapore PR or foreigners working in Singapore A credit/debit card or internet banking facility for the initial processing fee of S$30 34 Information for International Students 3 Payment for S$30 Processing Fee and Submitting Application A processing fee of S$30 will be collected by ICA at the time of submission of the application. The fee collected is non-refundable regardless of the outcome of the application or if you have withdrawn from the application after submission. ICA would only process the application when the payment has been made. Print out a copy of the completed Form 16, duly signed for submission to ICA upon collection of the Student’s Pass. 4 Check the Application Status through SOLAR System Processing of Student’s Pass application would take about three to ten working days. Students would need to check the application status regularly. Once your application is approved, RP will send your In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter to you via email. Please note that the IPA letter will only be issued upon full payment of your tuition fee for the first semester. Information for International Students 35 5.2 SOLAR System Application Steps (Step 5 of 5) 5 Collection of Student’s Pass and Payment All completion of formalities is strictly by appointment with ICA only. Students are required to make an e-appointment with ICA and should be present in person to collect the Student’s Pass. Please plan your appointment carefully as rescheduling e-appointment may take some time depending on availability of the time slot. Student’s Pass will only be issued if the conditions as stipulated in the IPA letter are fulfilled. Please bring the following listed documents when you collect your Student’s Pass at ICA. IPA letter from ICA Passport Embarkation/Disembarkation Card (IMM 27) of the student which granted upon entry into Singapore If the student is currently residing in Singapore on other long term passes, he/she is required to bring along that pass. One copy of your recent passport-sized colour photograph The photo should meet the following requirements: •Should be in colour and taken against white background with matt or semi-matt finish •The size of the photograph must be 400 pixels by 514 pixels in JPEG format •Taken within the last three months •Must show the full face and taken without headgear (headgear worn in accordance with religious or racial customs is acceptable but facial features must not be covered) Print-out of Form 16, duly signed by applicant 36 Information for International Students 5.3 Payment Related to Student’s Pass An issuance fee of S$60 will be collected by ICA at the time of collection of Student’s Pass. In addition, a S$30 multiple-level VISA entry fee for VISA is required for specific nationalities. Useful Information For further information, please visit the following websites: •Student’s Pass Matters www.ica.gov.sg/data/resources/docs/Visitor%20Services/STP_Notes1e.pdf •List of Countries Requiring VISA www.ica.gov.sg/services_centre_overview.aspx?pageid=252&secid=165 •Frequently-Asked Questions on Student’s Pass Matters www.ifaq.gov.sg/ica •Contact Details of ICA For further clarifications or enquiries, you may contact or visit ICA at: Immigration and Checkpoints Authority ICA Building 10 Kallang Road (next to Lavender MRT Station) Singapore 208718 Tel : 6391 6100 Website : www.ica.gov.sg Information for International Students 37 5.4 Accommodation at RP Campus Heights is the on-campus housing at RP, offering a convenient, safe and conducive living environment. Criteria Only first year International Students who are offered admission to RP are eligible to apply for accommodation at Campus Heights. All applications are subjected to approval by RP. Maximum length of stay at Campus Heights is one year. If you would like to apply for accommodation at Campus Heights, please email [email protected] Apartment Information Each of the apartments comes with living room, kitchen, balcony, service yard, 2 toilets, 1 study corner and 3 bedrooms and is well furnished with air-conditioning, television, washing machine, micro-wave oven, stove, water heater, cabinets and beds. Each apartment is about 127sqm and is to be shared by 6 students, with 2 students sharing 1 bedroom. Rental Charges Rental per bed space: S$271 per month (excluding prevailing GST and utilities) Note: • The above rental amount is subject to changes and is for reference only. • Utilities charges will be shared equally among the students living in the same apartment. • Rental will be collected once every six months and a deposit amount will be collected in advance. For enquiries on accommodation at Campus Heights, please email [email protected] 38 Information for International Students 5.5 Cost of Living and Studying in Singapore Living expenses will vary depending on the individual’s lifestyle and spending habits. The following is an estimation of expenditure to factor into the overall financial calculation: Accommodation Rental per month ranges from S$400 to S$1,000 per room, depending on occupancy and type of housing. In addition, on-campus accommodation is available for first year International Students. For further information, please contact [email protected] Living Expenses While accommodation makes up a large percentage of one’s expenses, budget should also be set aside for other necessities. Type of Living Expenses Communications Food Public Transport Monthly Cost* •S$19.95 - S$200 (Mobile Phone) •S$19.95 - S$208 (Internet) •S$15 upwards per head, a meal (Low-end restaurants) •S$5 upwards per head, a meal (Hawker centres/food courts/fast food) •S$8 - S$24 per trip (Taxis) •S$0.71 - S$2.80 per trip (Bus, MRT) Utilities •S$80 - S$400 a month (Varying based on usage) Groceries •S$150 - S$200 a month (for 1 person) *Note that the amount mentioned is only an estimated budget based on an average student. For more information on living in Singapore, please visit www.contactsingapore.sg/ students_graduates/why_singapore/about_singapore/cost_of_living Information for International Students 39 6 Academic Calendar 2013 (Not applicable to PFP Students) Semester 1 Curriculum Dates* Remarks Admin Day Tuesday 16 April 2013 •Attendance of 1st year students will be required for Admin Day. Weeks 1-5 (5 weeks) Wednesday 17 April Wednesday 22 May 2013 •Labour Day falls on Wednesday 1 May 2013. Vacation (3 weeks) Thursday 23 May Sunday 16 June 2013 •Vesak Day falls on Friday 24 May 2013. •Graduation Ceremony 2013 takes place from Tuesday 28 May to Thursday 30 May 2013. •UT 1 takes place from Monday 17 June to Friday 5 July 2013. Weeks 6-15 (10 weeks) Monday 17 June Tuesday 27 August 2013 •UT 2 takes place from Wednesday 17 July to Tuesday 6 August 2013. •Hari Raya Puasa falls on Thursday 8 August 2013. •National Day falls on Friday 9 August 2013. Study Break (2 days) Wednesday 28 August Thursday 29 August 2013 Understanding Friday 30 August Test 3 Friday 6 September 2013 •All students without UT 3 debarment notification. Understanding Thursday 12 September •Only for eligible students based on Test 4 Tuesday 17 September 2013 approved Leave of Absence^. •Hari Raya Haji falls on Tuesday 15 October 2013. Vacation (6 weeks) Saturday 7 September Sunday 20 October 2013 •AY2013 Semester 1 Results will be released on Monday 7 October 2013. •Module Grade Appeal takes place from Monday 7 October 2013 to Wednesday 9 October 2013. PFP: Polytechnic Foundation Programme is a one-year programme that prepares the top 10% of the Secondary 4 Normal Academic students for entry into Year 1 of their diploma course. 40 Academic Calendar 2013 Semester 2 Curriculum Dates* Weeks 1-8 (8 weeks) Monday 21 October Monday 16 December 2013 Vacation (2 weeks) Tuesday 17 December 2013 Wednesday 1 January 2014 Weeks 9-15 (7 weeks) Thursday 2 January Thursday 20 February 2014 Study Break (1 day) Friday 21 February 2014 Remarks •UT 1 takes place from Tuesday 26 November to Monday 16 December 2013. •Deepavali falls on Sunday 3 November 2013. The following Monday is a public holiday. •Christmas Day falls on Wednesday 25 December 2013. •New Year’s Day falls on Wednesday 1 January 2014. •UT 2 takes place from Thursday 9 January to Wednesday 29 January 2014. •Chinese New Year falls on Friday 31 January 2014 and Saturday 1 February 2014. Understanding Monday 24 February Test 3 Monday 3 March 2014 •All students without UT 3 debarment notification. Understanding Friday 7 March Test 4 Wednesday 12 March 2014 •Only for eligible students based on approved Leave of Absence^. Vacation Tuesday 4 March 2014 onwards •AY2013 Semester 2 Results will be released on Tuesday 1 April 2014. •Module Grade Appeal takes place from Tuesday 1 April 2014 to Thursday 3 April 2014. * Dates are accurate at the time of print. The most updated version will be available at www.rp.edu.sg/ studenthandbook ^ Refer to www.rp.edu.sg/Leave_of_Absence.aspx for more details on UT4 eligibility. Academic Calendar 2013 41 PFP Academic Calendar 2013 (Applicable to PFP Students only) Semester 1 Curriculum Dates* Remarks PFP Orientation Wednesday 27 March Thursday 28 March 2013 Weeks 1-5 (5 weeks) Wednesday 17 April Wednesday 22 May 2013 •Labour Day falls on Wednesday 1 May 2013. Vacation (3 weeks) Thursday 23 May Sunday 16 June 2013 •Vesak Day falls on Friday 24 May 2013. Weeks 6-15 (10 weeks) Monday 17 June Tuesday 27 August 2013 Study Break (2 days) Wednesday 28 August Thursday 29 August 2013 Semester 1 Examination (4 days) Friday 30 August Wednesday 4 September 2013 •All students notification. Vacation (6 weeks) Thursday 5 September Sunday 20 October 2013 •Hari Raya Haji falls on Tuesday 15 October 2013. •Hari Raya Puasa falls on Thursday 8 August 2013. •National Day falls on Friday 9 August 2013. without debarment PFP: Polytechnic Foundation Programme is a one-year programme that prepares the top 10% of the Secondary 4 Normal Academic students for entry into Year 1 of their diploma course. 42 Academic Calendar 2013 Semester 2 Curriculum Dates* Remarks Weeks 1-8 (8 weeks) Monday 21 October Monday 16 December 2013 •Deepavali falls on Sunday 3 November 2013. The following Monday is a public holiday. Vacation (2 weeks) Tuesday 17 December 2013 Wednesday 1 January 2014 Weeks 9-15 (7 weeks) Thursday 2 January Thursday 20 February 2014 Study Break (1 day) Friday 21 February 2014 Semester 2 Examination (4 days) Monday 24 February Thursday 27 February 2014 Supplementary Monday 24 March Examination Wednesday 26 March 2014 (3 days) Vacation •Christmas Day falls on Wednesday 25 December 2013. •New Year’s Day falls on Wednesday 1 January 2014. •Chinese New Year falls on Friday 31 January 2014 and Saturday 1 February 2014. •All students notification. without debarment •AY2013 Semester 2 Results will be released on Tuesday 11 March 2014. Module Grade Appeal takes place from Tuesday 11 March 2014 to Thursday 13 March 2014. Friday 28 February 2014 onwards * Dates are accurate at the time of print. Academic Calendar 2013 43 7 Student Enrichment Opportunities 7.1 An Exciting Student Engagement Platform As part of RP’s vision of nurturing Cultured Professionals, we believe that every student must be given opportunities to heighten their social, creative, expressive and moral dimensions, and make a difference for themselves and the community. To enrich, enhance and nurture your development in RP and beyond, Office of Student and Graduate Affairs (OSG) hosts an array of holistic services and meaningful activities through Adventure Learning, ServiceLearning, Student Wellness, Sports Development, The Republic Cultural Centre (TRCC), Graduate Services as well as Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs). For more information, please visit our website at www.rp.edu.sg/osg For enquiry, please email [email protected] Adventure Learning programmes take you on experiential journeys unlike any others! The programmes and activities at the Adventure Learning Centre (ALC) are conducted by specialists with well-equipped facilities that are second to none. As an RP student, you will be given opportunities to challenge yourself through the individual or team-based obstacles in the unique Year 1 Adventure Learning Programme as well as other exciting programmes in the subsequent years. Experience a whole new way of learning at ALC! Visit us at www.facebook.com/rp.adventurelearningcentre Service-Learning empowers students to serve both local and global community needs. Students will have the opportunity to reach out to such communities in Singapore and as far as in Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam. Our distinctive communitybased programmes are student-driven and facilitated by dedicated staff, to enhance students’ learning and character development beyond the classroom. Visit www.rp.edu.sg/service-learning and make a difference today! 44 Student Enrichment Opportunities Student Wellness aims to preserve the holistic wellness of students in the areas of physical, mental, social, emotional, environmental and economic well-being. Here at RP, we believe that care is integral to learning and students are connected to a host of wellness support services: •Student Care Services Counselling, Mentoring, Special Needs Services, Student Hospitalisation and Insurance, etc. •Financial Assistance RP-Administered Needy Student Fund, External Financial Schemes, Laptop Assistance, etc. •Wellness Education Health and Wellness Information, Talks, Workshops, Useful Resources, etc. As a premier institution of sports excellence, Sports Development realises the potential and sporting aspirations of individuals through high-performance sports competency programmes. We engage our students at all levels (introductory/recreational/high performance) with opportunities to participate within campus and at international events. The Republic Cultural Centre (TRCC) is a focal point for the artistic and cultural development of our students. The cultural space offered by the TRCC facilitates the integration of the community through a common appreciation of the arts. Artistes are provided with a platform to realise their passion and share that with a wider audience. TRCC is often referred to as the Cultural Hub of the North. Graduate Services and Club Republic (the Alumni Club of RP) engages alumni and graduating students in polytechnic life. Through communications, connecting alumni to the institution and to one another, as well as celebrating milestones, we enrich the lives of alumni and position them to be supporters of and advocates for RP. Student Enrichment Opportunities 45 7.2 Co-Curricular Activities Co-Curricular Activities are an integral part of a student’s life in RP. Our holistic education in RP also focuses on the non-academic and experiential learning aspects that develop students in the following areas: 46 Sports and Health Adventure and Outdoor Learning Leadership Service-Learning Aesthetics and Culture RP has a total of 12 Clubs and 88 Interest Groups (IGs) led by a group of committed and capable student leaders from the Student Council. These clubs and their respective IGs offer a diverse range of student activities that cater to the various interests and talents of individual students. Student Enrichment Opportunities Student Council • Office of Student and Graduate Affairs (OSG) The Republic Polytechnic Students’ Union (RPSU) comprises all full-time students enrolled in RP. The RPSU consists of a community of Problem-Based Learners who are well-versed in problem-solving process skills, have good character and are equipped with 21st century skills as they progress to graduate with a diploma and enter the working society. RPSC strives to enhance the image of RP as the institution of choice and to ensure that students are well taken care of, making RP an ideal place to study and to develop their leadership competencies. The RPSU is managed by the Republic Polytechnic Student Council (RPSC) that is made up of elected Executive Committee Members and representatives from various Schools and Centres in RP. The RPSC aims to: •Be the face and voice of RP students. •Promote the REPUBLIC Code of Honour. •Work with the management to improve the welfare of RP students. •Develop leadership initiatives and conduct training programmes for RP students. •Work closely with club representatives to build a positive school culture. Interest Groups under Student Council: •National Youth Achievement Award •Student Ambassadors Student Enrichment Opportunities 47 Chiron • School of Applied Science (SAS) The “Chiron Club” is committed to link students from the SAS with the various IGs, including Astronomy, Conservation, Culinary, Eureka, Maven, Pharmaceutica and Youth Advolution for Health (YAH) Ambassadors. Our club and IGs offer a range of activities that allow students to experience the different aspects of “Science”. Our club has driven a number of interesting and engaging activities such as: •Freshmen Orientation Programme •Ultimate Race •Crime Scene Investigation (C.S.I.) •Perfume Making Workshop •Hot and Cold Workshop •Many other science related events Interest Groups under Chiron: •Maven •Astronomy •Conservation •Pharmaceutica •Culinary •Youth Advolution for Health (YAH) Ambassadors •Eureka Cypher • School of Infocomm (SOI) Cypher Club is the hub of the IGs with the groups forming the spokes of the wheel of co-curricular activities in the SOI. As the hub, Cypher Club provides the platform for all the students in SOI to participate in all year round activities and events such as the SOI Freshmen Camp, leadership camps, CCA Fiesta, SOI Fiesta, service-learning trips as well as enrolling in National Youth Achievement Award activities. With such a wealth of activities and events, every SOI student can expect to have an enriching student life as well as develop character and leadership skills in leading and managing people and events. Interest Groups under Cypher: •IT Security •Networking •Mobile Devices 48 Student Enrichment Opportunities •Open Source Cyriva • School of Engineering (SEG) Cyriva Club is the official student club of the SEG. This club produces elite club committee members that manage three departments: Media & Publication, Welfare and Logistics. In addition, the club emphasises on the individuals’ innate capabilities in creative designs, public speaking, self-management, decision making and critical-thinking. Apart from our departments, one can enjoy their cup of tea at Cyriva Club. You can sign up for the exciting IGs such as Aeromodelling, Institute of Engineers Singapore, Logistics Supply Chain Management Student Chapter, Medical Electronics and Electronics Hobby. Some events that the club organises includes the Amazing Race which is catered to those who are adventurous and seeking for spontaneous fun. The SEG Leadership Camp is a platform for the students to exemplify their leadership throughout the camp. Cyriva club also has the privilege of organising the Freshman Orientation Programme for the school. The club plays an active role in adding vibrancy to student life at SEG by nurturing the talents and skills in its students to create a better pool of future engineers. The motto of the club is “Engineering the Future”. Interest Groups under Cyriva: •Aeromodelling •Institute of Engineers Singapore •Logistics Supply Chain Management Student Chapter •Medical Electronics •Electronics Hobby Sports, Health and Leisure Club • School of Sports, Health and Leisure (SHL) The students of SHL are represented by the SHL Club. The SHL Club provides the opportunities for students to organise, manage and volunteer at events to gain hands-on experiences with event management. These opportunities provide practical organisational experiences that complement their academic studies here at SHL. In addition, the SHL Club organises an annual Leadership Training Camp as well as workshops in order to enrich the students’ experience in RP. Interested students can find out more about upcoming SHL Club events and also contact us through www.facebook.com/ TheSHLClub Student Enrichment Opportunities 49 SOHphisticate Club • School of Hospitality (SOH) SOH Club oversees all the IGs under SOH which currently consists of Jive, Storm, LOHAS, Petit Palate and Hotel F.U.Z.E. This special team comprises representatives from the various IG management committees. When embarking on mammoth projects or events at SOH level, the SOH Club committee will be the chief student coordinators from the five IGs working synergistically together to accomplish such tasks. The students behind SOH Club are vibrant, vivacious and ever so passionate about co-curricular activities. Interest Groups under SOHphisticate Club: •Jive •LOHAS •Hotel F.U.Z.E •Petit Palate •STORM Club:G • School of Technology for the Arts (STA) Club:G (or Club Generator), is a student initiative IG by STA. As student ambassadors for STA, the members focus on: •Promoting school and students activities/events. •Creating a bridge between students and staff. •Hosting and managing student leadership driven events. •Organising key events that showcase the creative talents behind each STA student, while contributing to the artistic goals of the school. Fun-loving while steadfast, all members opportunities to support the STA community. Interest Groups under Club:G: •Comics •Electronic Music Production (EMP) •Studio •FILM Factory 50 Student Enrichment Opportunities are given Business and Helicon Club (to be merged in AY2013) • Centre for Enterprise and Communication (CEC) RP students have lived up to our reputation of being an innovative and enterprising polytechnic. Business Club provides opportunities to nurture and develop students via practical experiences and engagements with industry partners, and through activities/competitions to widen students’ perspectives towards becoming tomorrow’s leaders. The various IGs also help to hone students’ skills and mindset in business and entrepreneurship. In Greek Mythology, Mount Helicon was inhabited by inspiring Muses, who inspired the creation of literature and arts. Helicon aspires to bring like-minded students together to learn and share their interests. Helicon Club helps students to develop their areas of specialties and foster strong friendships and bonds during the annual Helicon Camp and other activities. The activities like the annual service learning and IG committee meetings aim to serve as platforms for networking and collaborations amongst the IGs. Interest Groups under Business Club: •Investment & Finance •InVogue •Marketing •Youth Entrepreneurship Interest Groups under Helicon Club: •Photo •Write •Japanese Culture International Club • Office of Student and Graduate Affairs (OSG) The International Club (ISC) was formed by a group of committed international students studying in RP. The mission of the club is to look after the welfare of the international students and help them integrate into Singapore’s community. The management committee comprises a group of dedicated student leaders who are funloving and enjoy interacting with club members. The student leaders work closely with their advisors in addressing the concerns and issues related to international students. ISC organises many big scale events such as the Assimilation Programme, International Star Singing Competition as well as the International Student Festival. These events offer opportunities for students to showcase their talents as well as to encourage the integration between the local and international students within RP. Besides planning and organising events, the student leaders also act as the “foreign student ambassadors” in hosting overseas visitors in RP and student helpers in overseas education fairs. Student Enrichment Opportunities 51 Adventure Learning Club • Office of Student and Graduate Affairs (OSG) Adventure Learning Club (AL Club) is a relatively young club spearheaded by students and well-supported by the Adventure Learning Centre (ALC) staff advisors. It serves as a platform for all outdoor enthusiasts to come together and share their love and passion for the outdoors and various adventure pursuits. Teamed with an experienced coach, with years of outdoor experience, many of the AL Clubbers stand to benefit from the trainings which range from land activities such as trail running, navigation, trekking, mountain biking and sports climbing, abseiling to water activities such as kayaking and diving. The various types of training serve to fuel the adventurers’ passion, hone their skills of the different pursuits, build on their physical fitness, as well as mental capability. What’s more, AL Clubbers are given opportunities to be certified in their skills and various adventure pursuits such as first aid, sport climbing, abseiling, kayaking and lifesaving. The AL Club also plans expeditions, camps and leisure activities as a platform for the AL Clubbers to bond and get to know one another better. On top of that, AL Clubbers conduct clinics to share their knowledge, skills and experiences with other RP students. All these adventures are not limited to Singapore; AL Club offers numerous opportunities to travel to the outdoors of Australia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia and India. AL Club is definitely a family to join for all those who seek a fun, thrilling dose of adventure and who love to be in the outdoors! Look us up on facebook at www.facebook.com/RP.ALClub 52 Student Enrichment Opportunities CREATE.REPUBLIC • Office of Student and Graduate Affairs (OSG) CREATE.REPUBLIC was formed to develop students who are culturally grounded, artistically creative, youthfully expressive and socially engaged with the community. Its vision is to support RP’s vision of becoming the cultural hub of the North and create outstanding performing arts groups. As one of the biggest clubs in RP, CREATE. REPUBLIC has a total of 24 IGs that cater to the diverse interests of our students across all art forms, ranging from the traditional sounds of Gamelan, to the contemporary sounds of acoustic music and finally to the various dance IGs that populate The Republic Cultural Centre. Segregated into its 3 clusters, Dance, Music and P.A.C.T (Productions, Art, Cultural and Theatrics), the IGs in CREATE.REPUBLIC have won many competitions and garnered accolades islandwide and have been widely sought after by many corporate organisations and the community. Interest Groups under CREATE.REPUBLIC: •Beats Encore (Percussion Ensemble) •Latin Dancesport •Campus Arts Productions (CAP) •Magic •Capoeira •Modern Dance •Chinese Orchestra •Pentas Karyawan (Malay Cultural Group) •Dikir Barat (Malay Cultural Group) •Replug •Dragon and Lion Cultural Troupe •Republic Rhapsody (A Cappella Group) •Drama •Salsa Dance •Gamelan Naga Kencana (Gamelan Ensemble) •Seni Silat (Malay Cultural Group) •GEnRe (Guitar Ensemble) •Tarian (Malay Cultural Group) •Hip Hop •Indian Cultural Group (ICG) •Jammerz Arena •String Ensemble •Wind Symphony •Wushu Student Enrichment Opportunities 53 Service-Learning Club • Office of Student and Graduate Affairs (OSG) Service-Learning Club (SLC) comprises like-minded students from various backgrounds who come together to conceptualise, plan and execute ServiceLearning projects. SLC helms RP’s signature Service-Learning projects. SLC is an enriching experiential platform for students to serve in local and international communities. SLC members are student ambassadors who aim to increase the awareness of Service-Learning in RP through the projects they take on and hope to inspire friends to serve. The Service-Learning projects have allowed students to showcase and hone life skills including leadership, project management, community collaboration skill sets. Students get to enhance their project management skills by managing the project from conceptualisation to execution and display their flair for creativity. They also gain volunteer recruitment and management skills as they work with their peers to ignite their passion and interest to serve. SLC also conducts trainings and workshops for students to be more equipped for Service-Learning projects, as well as interesting workshops such as balloon sculpting, magic and kite-making that students can then apply in their ServiceLearning projects when working with various beneficiary groups especially children and the elderly. Besides leading projects, student leaders are given opportunities to attend national youth events such as conferences, forums and dialogues to expand their visions and enrich their experiences. Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/ServiceLearners/202660643137403 Interest Group under Service-Learning Club: •Operation Smile 54 Student Enrichment Opportunities Sports Club • Office of Student and Graduate Affairs (OSG) The RP Sports Club is a student organisation in the campus that caters to the recreational sporting needs of the RP population. It provides the administrative, financial and logistical support for the sports IG members. In line with our vision to bring sports to life, the RP Sports Club spearheads a number of major Sports Club projects namely Sports Camp, Battle of the Annual Republic Games (BRAG), Republic Run and Ultimate Team Republic Challenge (UTRC). The Sports Club will also participate in the annual POL-ITE and IVP games. With the combined efforts of our entire group of recreational sporting members, RP Sports Club strives to cultivate the sporting interest in every member of the RP population. Interest Groups under Sports Club: •Aikido •Cue Sports •Soccer •Aquatic •Dragon Boat •Table Tennis •Archery •Floorball •Taekwondo •Athletics •Foosball •Tchoukball •Badminton •Hockey •Tennis •Basketball •Intellectual Games •Ultimate Frisbee •Bowling •Judo •Volleyball •Canoeing •Netball •Wakeboarding •Cheerleading •Rugby •Water Polo •Cricket •Sepak Takraw Student Enrichment Opportunities 55 8 Deferment and Withdrawal (Deferment is not applicable to PFP students) 8.1 Deferment and Withdrawal Students who have confirmed their enrolment and subsequently decide to defer or withdraw from RP are required to submit their application for deferment or withdrawal. Deferment or withdrawal request made via the phone will not be accepted. Note that absence from class does not constitute to withdrawal from the course of study. Students are still considered as enrolled and are liable to pay the school fees until a withdrawal application is officially submitted to RP and approved. Application will be processed after all the outstanding dues are settled. All current school rules shall apply until the approval of the application is obtained. Students who defer or withdraw from RP may be liable to pay the tuition fee. The date the application is received by the Office of the Registrar shall be used to determine the relevant quantum for the tuition fee applicable. See the section on “Tuition Fees Charged for Deferment or Withdrawal” for more information. Students seeking to defer their studies must provide a valid reason for deferment. They must also provide supporting documentation together with their application as shown in the table below: Reason for Deferment Documentation Required Medical Medical memorandum or certificate from a Singaporeregistered medical practitioner National Service (NS)*** Enlistment notice or SAF/SPF/SCDF 11B Other Reasons Relevant documents as appropriate ***Note: Males who are Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents may be liable for NS and, depending on their age, may not be allowed to begin their course of study in RP unless they have received approval from Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) to defer their NS. See the section on “Male Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents Liable for National Service” for more information regarding the admission of males who are liable for NS. PFP: Polytechnic Foundation Programme is a one-year programme that prepares the top 10% of the Secondary 4 Normal Academic students for entry into Year 1 of their diploma course. 56 Deferment and Withdrawal Once your application for deferment or withdrawal is approved, the Office of the Registrar will issue an official letter of confirmation to notify you on your successful deferment or withdrawal from RP. Students who have successfully deferred from their course of study must confirm their intention to resume their study at the end of their deferment period by sending an email to [email protected] Students who fail to notify RP on their intention to resume their study at the end of their deferment period will be deregistered from RP and if they do not indicate their intention to return within one year after they have been deregistered, they will not be allowed to resume their course of study, thereafter. Refer to page 59 for the tuition fee that will be chargeable for students who defer or withdraw from RP after confirming their enrolment. International students who cease to be students in RP and who are in possession of a Student’s Pass issued by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) must surrender the Student’s Pass to ICA within seven (7) days of the termination of student status. Male students who have commenced their study at RP are not allowed to defer to be enlisted for NS. Deferment and Withdrawal 57 8.2 Male Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents Liable for National Service Males who are Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents may be liable for National Service (NS). In accordance with the policy of the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) stated at www.ns.sg, NS-liable males will be granted NS deferment to pursue their course of study in RP starting in 2013 provided they are: •born on or after 1 January 1994 (for Secondary 4 Express Stream students); or •born on or after 1 January 1993 (for Secondary 5 Normal Stream students); or •born on or after 1 January 1992 (for students with Nitec or Higher Nitec qualifications from ITE) If you are liable for NS but do not fall into the above categories, you will have to apply for NS deferment with MINDEF so that you can begin your studies in RP at the start of the Academic Year 2013. Please note that if you do not submit your official documentary evidence that indicates your NS deferment status, RP will not allow you to begin your course of study. However, your place will be reserved for you to commence your studies after you have completed your NS liabilities. You may request for a letter of certification as proof of admission for your onward submission to MINDEF as supporting documentary evidence in your application for NS deferment. You can make the request for the letter of certification via email at [email protected]. sg The letter of certification will be available for collection after 5 working days upon the submission of your request via the help-enrolment email. To avoid delays to the release of your letter of certification, you are required to make full settlement of your enrolment fee and complete your online course registration. Please note that the final decision on your NS deferment rests with MINDEF. To reserve a place in the course you have been offered, please proceed with the online enrolment and indicate clearly your NS liable status under the section on verification of personal particulars. You are required to upload the relevant documents as indicated in the table below. 58 NS Status Document to Upload Deferred Confirmation of deferment letter from MINDEF Serving full time NS 11B Regular serviceman 11B & SAF sponsorship letter Completed full time NS Letter of Certification from MINDEF Served part time NS Letter of Certification from MINDEF Exempted Letter of Exemption from MINDEF Deferment and Withdrawal Note: If you have not received your Enlistment Notice from MINDEF by 17 April 2013, please email [email protected] with your personal particulars and contact details for clearance to submit the notice at an agreed later date. If your request to reserve a place is approved, you will receive a letter confirming the reservation of your place from us by May 2013. 8.3 Tuition Fees Charged for Deferment or Withdrawal If you have confirmed your enrolment in RP, and you subsequently decide to defer or withdraw from RP, you will be liable to pay the tuition fee as follows: Period of Notification of Deferment or Withdrawal Tuition Fee Chargeable 16 April 2013 or earlier No Tuition Fee except for Enrolment Fee 17 April 2013 to 23 April 2013 25% of Tuition Fee and Supplementary Fees* 24 April 2013 or later 100% of Tuition Fee and Supplementary Fees* * Note: For the first year of study, your Enrolment Fee will be applied towards your Supplementary Fee. Please refer to “Information on Course Fees” found in the Enrolment Package for the Enrolment Fee payable. Deferment and Withdrawal 59 Contact Us Address: 9 Woodlands Avenue 9, Singapore 738964 Website: www.rp.edu.sg RP Main Line: 6510 3000 Fax Number: 6415 1310 For Enquiries on: Email General Matters [email protected] IDA NEU PC Plus Programme (Laptop Assistance) [email protected] Student Assistance Schemes (Needy Student Fund) [email protected] Bursary Matters [email protected] Scholarship Matters [email protected] Student Admissions Matters [email protected] International Student Admissions Matters [email protected] International Student’s Pass Matters [email protected] Enrolment Matters [email protected] Student Finance Matters [email protected] IT-related Matters [email protected] Student Academic Matters [email protected] General Enquires Schools/Centres Tel Email School of Applied Science 6369 8903 [email protected] School of Engineering 6369 8905 [email protected] School of Infocomm 6369 8904 [email protected] School of Sports, Health and Leisure 6369 8913 [email protected] School of Hospitality 6369 8912 [email protected] School of Technology for the Arts 6369 8906 [email protected] Centre for Enterprise and Communication 6369 8901 [email protected] Please dial +65 before the number if you are dialling from overseas. * Major Public Holidays refer to New Year’s Day, Chinese New Year and Christmas Day. # 60 Contact Us Tel# Operating Hours 6510 3000 Mondays to Fridays •8:30am - 6:00pm •8:30am - 5:00pm on eve of Major Public Holidays* Saturdays •8:30am - 6:00pm •8:30am - 3:00pm on eve of Major Public Holidays* Sundays and Public Holidays •Closed 6510 3001 / 6510 3008 / 6510 3009 Mondays to Fridays •8:30am - 6:00pm •8:30am - 12:30pm on eve of Major Public Holidays* Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays •Closed 6697 1000 6697 1500 Mondays to Fridays •8:30am - 6:00pm (During School Days) •8:30am - 5:30pm (During School Vacation) Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays •Closed Useful Websites Area of Concerns URL Online Enrolment www.rp.edu.sg/enrol Laptop Configuration www.rp.edu.sg/makeappointment Orientation Programme www.rp.edu.sg/op/2013 Our Campus www.rp.edu.sg/campus_tour Student Handbook www.rp.edu.sg/studenthandbook Student Finance Matters www.rp.edu.sg/financial_matters.aspx Bursary www.rp.edu.sg/bursary Scholarship www.rp.edu.sg/scholarship Contact Us 61 Notes 9 Woodlands Avenue 9, Singapore 738964 Tel: (65) 6510 3000 Website: www.rp.edu.sg All rights reserved. Reproduction whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Information is correct at time of print. ORG Jan/2013