admissions calendar
What's On
Key dates and deadlines for Singapore university admissions — so you know what's coming and when to act.
⚠️ Dates are approximate and updated annually. Always verify with each university's official admissions page.
January
JAE Application
Joint Admissions Exercise
A-Level results released. JAE opens for polytechnic and ITE applications. Typically 3–5 days only — do not miss the window.
February – March
Local University Applications Open
NUS · NTU · SMU · SUTD · SIT · SUSS
All 6 local universities open their undergraduate admissions portals. Applications are submitted directly through each university's website. Most courses use the same window — check each university individually for exact dates.
Scholarship Applications
PSC · University-based · Industry
Most scholarships open alongside university applications. PSC scholarships, university merit scholarships (e.g. Lee Kong Chian at SMU), and faculty-specific scholarships typically open now. Deadlines vary — track each one separately.
March – April
University Aptitude Tests & Interviews
NUS Medicine · NTU Law · SMU · SUTD
Courses with additional selection rounds (interviews, aptitude tests, portfolios) typically conduct them now. SMU's structured interviews are common for Business and Social Sciences. Check your course's specific requirements early.
May – June
Admission Offers Released
Acceptance Deadline: Typically 2 Weeks
Most universities release offers in May. You'll receive an email and can accept/reject via the university's portal. Acceptance deadlines are short — usually 1–2 weeks. Housing applications (for NUS/NTU/SUTD halls) typically open immediately after acceptance.
Hall / On-Campus Housing Applications
NUS · NTU · SUTD
If you're applying for on-campus accommodation, the window opens shortly after offer acceptance. Popular halls fill up fast. Submit your application as early as possible.
July – August
Polytechnic Early Admissions Exercise (EAE)
For Current Poly Students
Poly Year 3 students can apply to selected local university courses via EAE before A-Level results are released. Merit-based with an interview component. Not all courses participate — check the MOE EAE microsite for the full list.
Orientation & Matriculation
Freshmen Orientation Programmes
Most universities hold freshmen orientation in July or August before the academic year begins. Orientation camps, faculty welcomes, and CCA fairs typically happen during this period.
August
Academic Year Begins
All 6 Local Universities
Semester 1 begins. Enjoy it — this is what all the research was for.
Things to keep in mind
Track deadlines individually
Each university has slightly different timelines. Don't assume one deadline applies to all — bookmark each university's admissions page.
Prepare your personal statement early
Some courses (NUS Medicine, SMU, SUTD) require supplementary essays or personal statements. Start drafting before applications open.
Hall applications move fast
If you want on-campus housing at NUS, NTU, or SUTD — apply the moment the portal opens. Popular halls and rooms are taken within days.
Scholarship deadlines are separate
University and external scholarships have their own deadlines, often before admissions decisions are out. Track them independently.
Not sure which course to apply for?
Read from students who have been through it — anonymous, honest, and specific.
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