Decoding university life: a guide for prospective students

Deciding on your next steps after junior college, or polytechnic can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re the first in your family to pursue higher education. This guide will help you navigate some common questions about university life, curriculum choices, and alternative paths.

How is the curriculum structured at the University?

University education is structured differently from secondary school, junior college or polytechnic. You’ll encounter terms like majors, minors, seminars, and lectures:

Major vs. Minor: Your major is the primary focus of your degree, such as Business, Engineering, or Sociology. A minor allows you to explore another field, complementing your major or reflecting a personal interest.

Example: A Computer Science major might take a minor in Business to broaden their career options.

Seminars vs. Lectures:

Lectures are large classes where professors deliver content to many students.

Seminars or tutorials are smaller, interactive sessions where you can discuss concepts in depth and clarify doubts. These are especially valuable for building critical thinking and communication skills.

Choosing a Course to Apply For: 

Here are some considerations to help you decide:

• Interests and Strengths: What subjects excite you? What are you good at? Think about areas where you’d like to build expertise.
• Career Goals: Research careers related to the courses you’re considering. Speak with mentors or professionals in the field.
• Course Content: Review syllabi and modules offered by different universities. Even courses with the same name can have different focuses.
• Practical Components: Check if the course includes internships, projects, or opportunities for hands-on experience, which are essential for skill-building.

Are Internships, Exchanges, or On-Campus Stay Compulsory?

• Internships: While not always compulsory, they are highly recommended as they provide valuable work experience.
• Exchanges: Some universities encourage or even require students to go on exchange programmes. These are great for cultural exposure but might not suit everyone’s circumstances.
• On-Campus Stay: Living on campus is usually optional but it can help you build a stronger social network and immerse yourself in university life.

Should I Work After JC/Poly or Go Straight to University?

Both options have merits:

• Working First: This can provide practical experience, clarify your career goals, and strengthen your application if you decide to pursue university later.
• Going Straight to Uni: If you’re clear about your goals and ready to continue studying, this path keeps the momentum going.

If finances are the only reason holding you back from pursuing further education, our University Access initiatives guarantee 100% coverage of tuition fees for Singaporean students with the greatest needs. Check out your eligibility here.

Should I Take a Gap Year?

A gap year can be beneficial if you:

• Need time to figure out your goals.
• Want to gain work experience or pursue personal interests.
• Plan to strengthen your application with additional skills or achievements.

However, it’s important to use this time intentionally and not lose focus on your long-term goals.

AUs vs. Private Universities: What’s the Difference?

• Autonomous Universities (AUs): These are publicly funded institutions like NUS, NTU, and SMU. They offer rigorous curriculums, well-recognized degrees, and a wide range of resources.
• Private Universities: These include institutions like SIM or MDIS, which may offer niche courses or more flexible entry requirements compared to AUs, making them a viable option for some students.

The absence of private universities on the University Access website reflects our focus on need-based financial aid and pathways specifically tied to AUs, where such support is more structured. However, private universities should not be discounted as an option if they align with your goals and circumstances.

Final Thoughts

Every student’s journey is unique. Whether you decide to work, take a gap year, or jump straight into university, what matters most is aligning your choices with your goals and values. Reach out to mentors, explore your options, and trust yourself to make informed decisions.