Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Are there other Resident Assistants (RA) who I will be working with?
Yes, there are a number of RAs within each residence. You will work closely with your fellow RAs during planning and implementation of activities, conflict resolution, and when providing pastoral care to residents in need. Every residence also has at least one Resident Advisor (academic and/or administrative staff of NUS) to guide and advise the RAs.

Q2. What is the commitment level of a Resident Assistant?
The RA position is a live-in position, and RAs are expected to be staying overnight in their rooms during their term of service. If the RA is not staying in for the night, the RA should apply for leave. There is a total of 10 days of leave for each semester of the RA’s term of appointment.

RAs will also be on night duty on a rotational basis, during which he/she needs to be physically within the residences to respond quickly to emergencies.

Q3. Is there a trial period?
There is no trial period. Once you have accepted the offer you will be on a probation period for 6 months, during which you can have a feel of what the job entails and whether you are able to cope with the job requirements. By the same token, we will also be able to assess whether you are suitable for the role. Barring exceptional circumstances, RAs will be offered a one-year renewal after the first six months.

Q4. Will training be provided?
RAs would need to attend RA training before or during the early stage of the RA term. Additional knowledge and on-the-job training will also be acquired during your RA term.

Q5. Why do I need to have a minimum Cumulative Average Point (CAP) of 3.0?
As the commitment level of the RA position is quite significant, we need to ensure that potential candidates are coping well academically. You will need to attach your latest examination result slip with the application form. The examination result slip can be obtained from: https://aces01.nus.edu.sg/examResultSlip/login.jsp

Q6. Will I be awarded CCA points as a Resident Assistant?
No CCA points are awarded for being an RA, but RAs get free accommodation. The nature of the role is similar to a job employment. Although CCA points are not awarded, outgoing RAs who have performed well will receive a testimonial.

Q7. If I am selected as a Resident Assistant, will I be able to go on Student Exchange Programme (SEP) or join the NUS Overseas Colleges (NOC)?
We have encountered Resident Assistants who stepped down for one/two semester(s) and went overseas for SEP/NOC. If the period of return coincides with the commencement of the RA appointment, we welcome returning ex-RAs to join us again.