NUS CO-OP Textbook Prices: More Expensive Than Other Bookshops

If you are getting brand new textbooks, get it from Clementi Book Store. Don't believe the marketing crap about NUS Co-op bookshops being cheaper and giving further 5% discount. Which is a marketing gimmick to give you a omg-wow-awesome-discount feeling. Generally, most textbooks in NUS Co-op is more expensive than Clementi Book Store.

NUS Co-op has many branches around NUS, but you pay for the convenience. Image Stolen.

Board bus 96, alight at the bus stop before the Clementi MRT station (NOT at the Clementi MRT station stop), cross the junction towards NTUC, walk towards the MRT station. It is located beside the DBS branch.

Here's their full address - you can call them before going to check the availability of your textbook. Like NUS Co-op, they don't quote prices over the phone for some reason. And they require a minimum of $50 purchase if you want to pay by NETS. Not to fret, there is a DBS ATM beside the shop.

Clementi Book Store
450 Clementi Ave 3 #01-297
Tel: 67762146, 67766026 Fax: 6774-2362
clementiSTUPIDSPAMBottersbook@pacific.net.sg (remove stupid spam botters)
Mon - Fri 0930 - 1900
Sat 0930 - 1800
Sun/Holiday Closed

However, always try the IVLE Second Hand Used Textbooks Forum first. You may even find books with conditions very close to new! Tip: Make use of the SEARCH function, search for the title as well as the module code.

As a final note, Clement Book Store does not have every book so you should call and check before going. And I've seen prices for a few books to be more expensive there. So compare prices, and you may save five to ten dollars more.

A Peek Into a NUS Mailbox: Events, News, Careers and Advertising

Besides the regular CORS and IVLE alerts that I look forward to receiving in my mail, most of the mails in the account are advertising (read: spam) forwarded and sent by NUS members. It is quickly reaching to a level where many minor events are sent in e-mails to the whole NUS even though it affects only a small percentage of the recipients.

For example: Sports facility closures, various student competitions held by external organisations, any NUS event that needs people to fill up the space, job postings no matter how small, sports trials...

You are expected to check your e-mail regularly [ source ]

And the list goes on .. SOC Technical Services sends 'Patches' alerts everytime there's a Windows or Office patch released. Never mind that Automatic Update takes care of this already.

Then there's Estate & Development News sending restaurant closure / opening alerts. Then there's What'z Newz @ OSA with 90% useless news (e.g. Free Entry to NHB Museums, NUS Volunteering Network recruitment) and useful news (such as the Transitlink Card Replacement) so you can't block them... the list can go on.

Weekly Patches E-Mail.. when Automatic Updates already does it... No way to unsubscribe..

Such news should be posted on their own web pages and not e-mailed out to all the students in NUS. Perhaps because NUS mail is so easy, just compose and send. Updating the webpages may require more steps due to the publicness of the web pages.

Most of their mails don't take up much space but they do take up my time as I have to skim through each of them and delete them. And those big emails.. those more than 100KB.. taking up valuable email space... those are the most problematic ones.

Here's a peek at some of the spam I have received. If you are a company, you now know who to contact to spam the 100% guaranteed verified NUS student mailing list.

1. Toshiba laptops offer sent by NUSSU Bizcom Nustyle (with a 830KB image attachment)
   
   Two mails, each 1MB, was sent with a big image as a attachment.
   
   

   
   ATTENTION! Toshiba laptops offers!

   And it advertises only for Toshiba laptops. Lenovo, Apple and other NUS tenders were not given this excellent marketing opportunity to reach NUS students.
   
   How did Toshiba managed to convince NUStyle to send the advertising?
   
   
2. Annual Kaspersky Lab IT Security Student Conference from SOC (sent 3 times by 3 different senders)
   
   A job position hiding behind a security competition event...
   
   

   
   Annual Kaspersky Lab IT Security Student Conference

   And the mail was sent 3 times to all SOC students, with two mails being 500KB. Props to NUS Students' Computing Club for not sending the attachment. They were also the first one to send this out, while the other two just forwarded the mails to all SOC students without checking.
   
   
3. AIA Campus Photo Contest 2009 sent by NUSSU Bizcom
   
   Learn a new marketing strategy today:
   
   

   
   AIA Campus Photo Contest 2009

   Just hold a contest, even a simple one like a photo contest, and you instantly get an opportunity to advertise your company to NUS students. And save on the fees for hiring a design firm.
   
   
4. Ubisoft Singapore Facebook Page sent by SOC
   
   This may be of interest to the Communication and Design majors, but to ALL SOC students??
   
   

   
   FW: Ubisoft Singapore Facebook Page
   

5. Events Totally Not Related To Some Students
   
   Such as this launch of CLing, a *totally* mandarin event, sent to all students. A 1MB email.
   
   Instead of sending to only Chinese students, the email is sent to the whole school.
   
   

   
   FW: Business China - An Invitation to the Launch of...

   Thank you for wasting 10 minutes of my time reading through the whole email only to find out that it is conducted in a language I don't know.
   
   
6. CCA Advertisements (743KB email)
   
   So you are running out of members in your CCA and have a strong connection with What's Newz @ OSA...
   
   

   
   NUS English and Chinese Debaters Recruitment Drive

   IF I wanted to sign up for the CCA, I would have done so during the Matriculation Fair.
   
   Imagine if all the CCAs send emails to recruit more members...
   
   
7. Swensen's (500KB email)
   
   Another event not completely related to NUS.
   
   

   
   ATTENTION! Great Swensen's Deals!

   There is a unsubscribe notice at the bottom, but I wonder whether it really does work (the email ends with edu.sg.com).
   
   
8. Plus many mails from NUS Career Centre
   
   In July 2009, they sent 5 mails. In May 2009, 14 mails.
   
   

   
   eNewsletters you can't unsubscribe from..
   

9. And Career Notices From Other Unknown Sources
   
   Even SOC Unix e-mail accounts have spam.
   
   

   
   part-time marketing research job available
   

   This mail was sent to my SOC UNIX e-mail account. I wonder how they got hold of my UNIX e-mail account which I never used in the first place.. Hmmm?
   

See my previous post and this post for more past e-mail rants.

My humble request to all NUS email senders, please use NUS groups. This way, we can opt out and in various mailing lists.

Except CORS and IVLE. The worrying thing is that some senders send important information as well as useless information using the same e-mail alias (e.g. 'What'z Newz @ OSA' and the SOC staff). That is why it is so dangerous to automatically direct them to the Junk folder based on the sender's e-mail address.

Strangely enough, events that deserves to be e-mailed don't get e-mailed. For example, when the CORS rounds start, an e-mail should be sent one day beforehand to remind all students to bid. And when a tutorial balloting round starts, another e-mail should be sent if the student is eligible to rank in the first round.

Similarly, when the closed bidding period is starting and I have been either outbid or the module has higher demand than vacancy, a warning e-mail should be sent too. This is what e-mail should be used for... but...

(gritting teeth)... must.. tolerate... one... more... semester...

The Unofficial NUS CORS FAQ For Freshmen

(Updated 4th January 2010) Going through my analytics, people are coming to my blog with some questions not really covered in my blog.

Here is a collation of the most frequently asked questions with my best answers. Again, note that this is an unofficial CORS guide.

CORS FAQ

1. Does the NUS CORS system suck?
   Not really. Only when the bidders exceed the vacancy, the closing period sucks as we don't know how much to bid.
   
   
2. How do I check the CORS results? When will it be released?
   Usually by 8pm on the same day of round closing, the results will be sent to your NUS mail. Sometimes, it can (and has) taken up to 1130pm.
   
   
3. How can I get more points in CORS?
   Two avenues - Online Student Feedback Exercise (100 points) and CORS Survey (30 General points). Notifications to take them will be sent to your NUS e-mail when the time arrives.
   
   
4. What do the different CORS rounds mean?
   Go here, scroll all the way to the bottom and download the file under 'Here are the detailed bidding round descriptions and activities'
   
   
5. When should I start bidding for my modules?
   Get the modules as early as possible. If not the MPE (link for SOC students) exercise, secure it during round 1 as the fight for popular modules can get tougher in the later rounds with more competition.
   
   
6. Can I really plan my own timetable in NUS?
   Quite hard to believe that too when I entered NUS, but yes, you can, and you have to. Use the TimeTable Builder to assist you. Be sure to select the correct year and semester! There is one unofficial timetable [outdated?] here and a more recent one here. As with every downloadable software, take security precautions. I have NOT used them personally and am providing links only for those adventurous ones.
   
   
7. Are there any cheats in CORS?
   Of course not, but see my CORS posts for many tips.
   
   
8. What is the CORS Opening Period?
   This is how all rounds start - the opening period. You will be able to see the highest bid points, minimum winning bid and lowest bid for a module once you add the module. Until the closing period comes in...
   
   
9. What is the CORS Closing Period?
   Due to the occurrence of bidders hitting the Refresh key non-stop in the last few minutes, NUS has come up with this 'innovative' strategy of hiding the highest bid points, minimum winning bid and lowest bid in the last few hours of the round. That last few hours is called the 'closing period'. See my post for more information on it.
   
   
10. Any strategies or tips for getting the tutorial slots I want?
    Not much for the first round as it involves only ranking your choices without any information on the current number of balloters. In the later rounds where you are allowed to add/drop your assigned tutorial slot or request Swap slots, do it as early as possible. This means, do it at the time the round opens. This strongly increases your chances to get the desired slot or to get the first slot in the queue for swapping.
    
    
11. How do I declare my major and minor?
    Once you login to CORS, you will be prompted to declare.
    
    
12. How do I drop a module when I can't access CORS?
    Wait for CORS to open if bidding rounds are ongoing. CORS will also be open during the term time after the bidding and tutorial rounds have ended to allow you to drop modules. Note that dropping modules after the 2nd week awards you a W grade in your transcript and dropping a month later than that awards you a 'F' grade and you can't S/U it. See here under Bidding Schedule for 'X grade takes effect from..'. for the exact dates.
    
    
13. How do I ensure my modules don't clash in the time table and exams?
    Use the NUS TimeTable Builder. Note that you cannot bid for a module in CORS if its timetable or exam dates clash with any of the modules you already have or are bidding for.
    
    
14. Where do I bid or ballot for tutorials?
    Once you login to CORS, there is a section for you to ballot and rank your tutorial slots if the round is open. Check the CORS schedule (under 'Tutorial Schedule') for the starting and ending times, as some rounds end as early as 12pm.
    
    
15. How many points should I bid for a module?
    This is a decision you should take independently as there is no one size fit all. See my posts for some CORS tips.
    
    
16. How does the CORS tutorial balloting work?
    Here's the description by CORS. You just need to rank your choices of tutorial groups. No, the first round (and only the first round) is NOT first-come-first-serve basis. You will be given a total of 20 ranks. In CORS, when the balloting is open, place the first rank for the tutorial slot you want most, 2nd rank for the tutorial you want 2nd, and so on. No need to use all 20 ranks.
    
    It is your responsibility to check that the slots you choose do not clash with any lectures or tutorials you already have if not you will not get the slot and lose the rank. CORS does NOT check for clashes when you rank your tutorial groups. After the round is over, the vacancy level of the groups will be published in the main CORS just like the ending of the Opening period in CORS bidding.
    
    In the next round, you are now allowed to instantly add/drop tutorial slots provided there are vacancies. This is a first-come-first-serve basis so be there sharp when the round opens if you want to go to a tutorial with vacancies.
    
    Then there's the Swapping round. You place a request e.g. 'I want to swap Tutorial Group A with Tutorial Group B' - then you wait for someone else to do the same. Once someone has a similar request, you swap tutorial slots with the other person. Otherwise, you wait and try your luck. This is a first-come-first-serve basis as well.
    
    
17. So how does the NUS CORS tutorial ranking assign the vacancies after I ranked my choices?
    Here's a simple guide on how the tutorial balloting is done in CORS. Take for example, there is Student A, B, C and D balloting for a tutorial group Z with only 3 vacancies. Student A and C placed tutorial group Z as first choice. Student B and D placed it as 2nd choice with the first choice for other tutorial groups. This is how it will go:
    
    
    1. CORS will process all the first ranks first. It will see that a total of two students have placed it as first choices. Since it did not exceed vacancy, it assigns Student A and C two slots in tutorial group Z.
       
       
    2. Now CORS processes the 2nd ranks. Uh oh, looks like two students (B,D) have placed it as 2nd choices while only 1 vacancy is left. What happens now is that CORS randomly assigns one student the winning seat.
       
       
    3. In the end, Student A and C get their first choice. Student B gets his 2nd choice due to him winning CORS's random algorithm. Student D loses his 2nd choice preference.
       
       
    So you can see that your first choice if it exceeds vacancy of the total number of balloters who also indicated it as first choices, does not guarantee you a place in the tutorial group. It's a somewhat random way of assigning tutorial groups that you can guide the direction by ranking your choices. No information on the number of balloters is released until the round is over. See another guide here.
    
    
18. How do I find the available tutorial groups for my module?
    It is in the CORS Module Detailed Information module listing. The tutorial code is indicated in square brackets in the first line.
    
    
19. If the exam for module A is in the afternoon and exam for module B is in the evening, will it clash?
    Generally: Morning exam - 9am. Afternoon - 1pm. Evening - 5pm. Two hours each paper, generally.
    Some papers have odd timings and lengths. Check the list for Semester 1 or Semester 2 for the exact exam date and time.
    
    
20. What does getting a 'W' grade in my NUS transcript mean for dropping a module late?
    Pretty much thats it. It won't affect your CAP. The only thing it does is an entry appears in your transcript stating that you got W for the module. A crude way to discourage students from wasting NUS module resources for the additional one month.
    
    
21. When can I start overloading my module allocation?
    In CORS, this is sometimes referred to as "accelerate". Both refer to taking modules more than you are allowed to in the first two rounds. This is usually 20 MCs.
    
    Normally this is allowed from Round 3 onwards. You can get the information from here. Scroll to the bottom and click on the links below the paragraph that says "Here are the detailed bidding round descriptions and activities". Look for the keyword "accelerate" under the round description.
    
    
22. When do I start bidding for my Singapore Studies modules?
    Normally, from Round 2A onwards. You can get the information from here. Scroll to the bottom and click on the links below the paragraph that says "Here are the detailed bidding round descriptions and activities". Look for the keyword "SS" in the round description header.
    
    
23. When do I start bidding for my GEM modules?
    Normally, from Round 2A onwards. You can get the information from here. Scroll to the bottom and click on the links below the paragraph that says "Here are the detailed bidding round descriptions and activities". Look for the keyword "GEM" in the round description header.
    
    
24. My CORS results says "Outbidded"! What's next?
    If you have been outbid, the module has not been allocated to you. Bid for it again in the next round if there's slots for it, or consider other module options. If slots are available in the next round, expect competition to be very tough as there will also be other people like you who may want to rebid for the module.
    
    You may also want to wait for Round 3 onwards, where all vacancies are combined to one. Check the bidding statistics to see whether there are reserved slots for freshmen and the popularity of them.
    
    
25. What is Round 0 for?
    Round Zero is for placing advance bids for the next eligible round you can bid the module for. No actual bidding goes on during this round.
    
    
26. I can't login to CORS / I forgot my NUS username and password? How do I reset it?
    Go here.
    

Any corrections let me know in the comments below.

The Unofficial NUS: School Of Computing (SoC) FAQ For Freshmen

(Updated 15th August 2009) Going through my analytics, people are coming to my blog with some questions not really covered in my blog.

Here is a collation of the most frequently asked questions with my best answers. Again, note that this is unofficial.

1. Does NUS School of Computing (SOC) suck?
   Depends on the modules you take. Some modules have lecturers who you may have trouble understanding their accent. Some lecturers like randomly picking from the audience and asking questions.
   
   There was one module where we HAD to flood the external presenter with questions in order to get class participation marks. And it's not consistent every year so module reviews that you get from other students will be outdated as the module is changed according to the feedback or lecturers changing. Plus, tutors are mostly graduate students who sometimes may not be really interested in teaching. Many many variables here...
   
   
2. So what are the easy modules for me to take in NUS?
   For computing students, CS1105: Computing and Society and GEK1531: Introduction to Cybercrime are very popular. GEK1531 may not be for you if you are not into internet hacking and don't understand how the internet works. Plus, it is a high demand module in CORS for usually about 800 points from General. IT1001 is also popular for non-SOC students looking for a breadth module. High point module too.
   
   For the rest, unfortunately, how 'easy' a module is depends on what you already know. Your friend may say it is a easy module, but that could be because he/she already has experience on it. However, don't worry. You will learn about more the choices of modules that you can take from your friends as time passes. They are the best information source as they have taken the modules recently and you get the latest information on how the module is and what it covers.
   
   
3. How do I check my status of my graduation for SOC students?
   Go here and you can access the File For Graduation Degree Verifier.
   
   
4. Why do I have a UNIX e-mail account too?
   I don't know too. Perhaps to show the geekiness of SOC students and I too find it a hassle to manage TWO e-mail accounts in SOC in addition to the primary one I already have. Three passwords to remember! Plus, the password complexity requirements for the UNIX accounts way exceed even the security of my Blogger account.
   
   Fortunately, you can forward all e-mails sent to the SOC UNIX account to your main account here and forget about this stupid UNIX email account. Heck, you can even forward your NUS account to your GMail account or setup auto forwarding in your NUSNet account.
   
   
5. How do I login to mySOC?
   Go here. Use your matric number (e.g. U0910121) and password. No need to specify the NUSSTU domain.
   
   
6. Where can I get the list of modules being taught in SOC?
   Right here.
   
   
7. Is it true that SOC students have a free grayscale laser printing quota?
   Yes, you have about 50 grayscale pages of quota. If you print double sided (i.e. not use the -sx suffixed printers), you can print 1.5 times more!
   
   Unfortunately, I can't find any online Windows guides to adding the printers for connecting your laptop. Suffice to say that you need to be on SOC's VPN network (or NUS wireless network) and must already have a UNIX account. Then go to Control Panel > Printers > Add Printer > Network Printer > enter '\\nts27\' under 'connect to this printer (or browse for a...' > next > select the printer to print to. If you are still having trouble, bring your laptop to your Technical Support Desk located in SOC near the main entrance.
   
   Note that you don't need to connect to printers manually if you are using SOC lab computers. But you will still be using your assigned quota when printing from workstations. Your UNIX id is automatically detected when you login with your NUSNET username to these workstations.
   
   Print test prints with single pages before printing away the whole lecture slides. You will notice the first page is always your UNIX id in big letters so as to separate print jobs of other users. Get comfortable with how the printing works before sending bigger jobs to the printers as you don't much quota to play with. Yes, paper is included in the quota. Yes, you can buy more quota via mySOC (or direct link). Printer names with a SX suffix means they will only print single side. Printers with DX suffix means they will print double side.
   
   By the way, the 500+ line printing quota you get is for the noisy printer near the technical support office and used to print only text files. I heard it is mainly used to print source code out. The paper is also not standard 80gsm paper.
   
   
8. How do I check my SOC remaining print quota?
   Go here.
   
   
9. How do I apply for a NUS SOC UNIX account?
   Go here. Be prepared to meet a ridiculous .. nah .. impossible ..nah .. ridiculously impossible password complexity requirement to create your UNIX account.
   
   
10. I forgot my UNIX / mySOC password! How do I reset it?
    Go here.If you need to login, use your NUSNET credentials i.e. u0910232 / password. You will need your matric card.
    

Any corrections let me know in the comments below.

The Unofficial NUS FAQ For Freshmen

(Updated 4th January 2010) Going through my analytics, people are coming to my blog with some questions not really covered in my blog.

Here is a collation of the most frequently asked questions with my best answers. Again, note that this is unofficial.

1. Can I convert my breadth module to an Unrestricted Elective?
   Ask the person in charge of the module. In some cases it may be possible.
   
   
2. Where can I download the latest street map / road map / shuttle bus routes of the NUS campus?
   Go here
   
   
3. Where is the bookshop in NUS?
   It is called CO-OP. Here are the locations in NUS. But try the Clementi Book Store instead for possibly lower prices. See my other post. The prices for many textbooks at Clementi Book Store are cheaper than NUS Co-op outlets even after their discounts.
   
   And no, you can't check CO-OP textbook prices online - you have to go there manually to check prices. There is a queue line at the inside-back-right of the store specifically to buy course textbooks. You may also want to try buying 2nd hand used textbooks in IVLE.
   
   
4. When does the NUS school term start?
   See the updated and future calendar term PDF calendars here
   
   
5. Do NUS lectures take attendance?
   No unless specifically stated by the module.
   
   
6. Can I attend other lectures which I am not allocated?
   By right, you are not allowed to attend other lectures, but by left, no one cares. Just be sure to have your matric card in case of security screenings (which I never encountered).
   
   
7. Can I download my previous year results in a single PDF file?
   You can download your past exam results transcript in one document via MyISIS. Login, click Self-Help, Academic Records, View Unofficial Transcript.
   
   
8. How do I configure my laptop to connect to the encrypted NUS wireless network?
   Go here and see under NUS PEAP Configuration Wireless. If it prompts for your username, enter nusstu\<your matric> for username (e.g. 'nusstu\u0910343), and your NUSNET password. Avoid using the NUSOPEN wireless network unless you are using encrypted or HTTPS encrypted websites.
   
   Using NUSOPEN means anyone can snoop on the data you are sending and receiving with a laptop and some specialized software. For example, logging into hardwarezone with NUSOpen means anyone can get your username and password if he/she has the right software.
   
   
9. How do I check my NUS email?
   Via NUS Web mail. Or you can use configure Microsoft Outlook 2007, Outlook Express, IMAP or any other POP3 compatible mail client to access your NUS EMail. When logging in via NUS Web mail, enter nusstu\<your matric> for username, and your NUSNET password. For quick reference, here are the mail settings:

   Incoming mail (POP3) server: pop.nus.edu.sg
   

   Outgoing mail (SMTP) server: smtp.nus.edu.sg
   

   Mail server user name: your Exchange user name (e.g. u0910121)
   

   Outgoing mail server user name: your Exchange user name
   
   Incoming mail (IMAP4) server: imap.nus.edu.sg
   

10. How do I interpret the NUS module codes?
    Generally, the first two alphabets refer to the department handling the module. Some modules like Singapore Studies and GEMs follow the SS and GEK prefix.
    Next, the first digit indicates the level of difficulty. Personally, I think the difference between the level 1 and 2 modules in SOC is negligible. For freshies, you can only take a total of 60MCs worth of level 1 modules.
    It is said that the second digit indicates the difficulty of the module. Perhaps, but if you compare MA1301 and MA1101R, does it sound easier?
    
    
11. What are the NUS tuition fees?
    Download the PDF here and SAVE it. If you are not in the current new cohort, your fees may be lower (if it prompts for your username, enter nusstu\<your matric> for username, and your NUSNET password)
    
    
12. Can I forward my NUS mails?
    No, but you can use GMail to retrieve it for you. See my post for a guide on this. UPDATE: Thanks to Frank in the comments, NUS mail forwarding can be done automatically! Seems to have been there all the time and I somehow missed it :/ You may still want to check out my GMail guide if you want labeling with your NUSNet mails.
    
    
13. How much is the NUS hostel bills?
    See here. Remember, CCA points also play a role in getting the room you want. See here for 2009/2010.
    
    
14. What are the figures for the number of students enrolled in NUS this year?
    Go here
    
    
15. What are CCA points used for?
    Only used when you are staying on campus. You get CCA points for volunteering (read: working for free) for various activities in NUS such as Freshman Orientation or tending to stores or in the various CCA groups in NUS.
    
    
16. Must I attend the Freshmen Orientation Week?
    No, attendance is not compulsory. Here is my review of it here. You may want to attend just for the first few days just to know some seniors and ask questions. Or find a buddy to take modules together.
    
    
17. Where can I get the list of contact details for the lecturers / professors in NUS?
    Right here. Suffix @nus.edu.sg to the user id to get the full e-mail address
    
    
18. Where are the study areas in NUS?
    Almost everywhere there will be benches for you. In SOC, you enjoy air-conditioned study areas as well but the space can be limited. Libraries can be used as well to study. During exam periods, expect libraries to be full.
    
    
19. Can poly students take modules which they are already exempted from?
    Not sure about this.
    
    
20. How is the module CAP point computed?
    See here
    
    
21. Is there a way to calculate the CAP with my future possible grades?
    Use CAP Calculator. Be warned - use a fake name and matric or else others can view your results! The fake name and matric are only used to save your results for later retrieval.
    
    
22. I need a NUS logo to 'slap' on my report cover page?
    Download the PDF here, zoom in to required size, and screen capture the size you want.
    
    
23. Where can I photocopy, print and bind in NUS or Clementi?
    Printing in NUS libraries are not free unless you are a SOC student. SOC students have free print quota that can be used to print only within the SOC faculty.
    
    That said, Central Library allows you to print your lecture notes (note: you don't need to print lecture notes for lectures unless specifically mandated by the lecturer) and project reports with a really 'highly advanced' system that only accepts CashCard (sigh). There's also a book-copy center .. err.. I mean photocopy and binding room in the Central library when you can photocopy and pay with CashCard and ezLink (for photocopying only). Rates are 4.5 cents per page for printing and 3 cents for photocopying (source).
    
    You can also photocopy and bind at CO-OP outlets with cash / NETS payments.
    
    Other NUS libraries may also have facilities to allow you to print/bind, but I have not tried them personally. All libraries have self-service photocopy machines requiring payment using CashCards.
    
    After the closing hours of about 5pm and 6pm, you can go to a shop in Clementi interchange where they are open till 9pm. Expect to pay more though.
    
    Here are their details:
    

    Double One Colour Centre (Kodak Express Network)
    Blk 445 #01-153 Clementi Ave 3
    Singapore 120445
    Tel: 6778 1035 / 98286733 (don't know whether they answer SMS as it is senior folk there)

    They are the few ones (or only one?) in Clementi interchange area to provide binding services.
    
    
24. Where can I download the Shuttle Bus routes?
    Right here. Unfortunately, they have still yet omitted to include markings of the actual bus stops and only show the routes taken by the bus in the campus maps. For example, Service D skips one bus stop near the sports hall.
    
    Here's a post about them. It's better you download the campus map and guess the bus route from there.
    
    
25. Do all NUS modules have exams?
    Most modules in NUS have exams, but a small percentage do not have exams. Those without exams are indicated in the CORS module information listing under 'Module Examinable' when you see the module code. Note that even though they are non-examinable, they may still hold their own 'exams' in the form of quizzes and mid term papers. And expect projects too. For example, GEK1531 is a non-examinable module but it still comes with 2 tests.
    
    
26. Are there modules in NUS which allow students to bring in text books during exams?
    There's open book exams in NUS which is listed under 'Open Book Exam' in the same listing. Note that even if a module is listed as '-' (not open book), you may still be allowed to bring in 'cheat sheets' of limited quantity (usually 1 A4 double sided hand written, probably cause people use tinny tiny fonts to squeeze as much as possible).
    
    
27. How do I reset / change my NUSNet account and NUSNet email password?
    Go here. You can also change to a nicer looking e-mail (u0910323@nus.edu.sg vs bertsimpson@nus.edu.sg) using NUS Friendly Mail. If it prompts for your username, enter nusstu\<your matric> for username, and your NUSNET password.
    
    
28. What are the current offers for NUS student laptops / notebooks?
    Go here. Only laptops which have been selected by NUS are offered but they come with several student software goodies such as the latest Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Office and Adobe software. No, COOP does not sell laptops. No, you cannot buy 2 laptops, only one per every 18 months. See here for more info.
    
    
29. How do I join NUS mailing lists?
    You don't. You are forced to receive many advertising and marketing emails. But a few generous hearts have come together and developed NUS Groups which allows you to opt out of a small percentage of those emails.
    
    
30. How much email space quota am I allocated in my NUS Microsoft Exchange email account?
    Your NUS mailbox size is.. 30 GB .. oops.. sorry just woke up from a dream.. it is 30MB. The information here is false and misleading! See my post for more information. You can check how much email space you have used and left here. (login as nusstu/<nusnet id >, nusnet password) See the primary storage? That is your actual mailbox size.
    
    
31. Where can I get my NUS timetable with my allocated modules?
    In CORS, there is a link to the 'Time Table' on the left menu (You can still login to CORS when the rounds are over). It will show allocated modules and tutorial time slots. Another alternative is to login to IVLE and click on 'My Organizer' on the left column but note that this does not show the tutorial slots assigned to you.
    
    
32. Any tips for planning my timetable?
    Avoid having lunch at 12-1pm as the canteens are crowded - so try to have lessons to fill in that time. Between each event, check the location of the event against the NUS campus map. If the locations require shuttle bus travel, consider putting a 1 hour break there for you to travel as the 45th min to the 15th minute are peak shuttle bus hours (e.g. 1445hrs to 1515 hours).
    
    Finally, some people may want to space out their exam dates rather than having all exams in consecutive days/time. Note that you have a one week study break before the exams, but some modules require projects to be submitted during this break time.
    
    
33. Are there tutorials in the first two weeks?
    Not for most modules. However, if your module is based on 'Sectional Teaching', you have to attend as normal.
    
    
34. I got a module but how do I know which lecture group I am in?
    Login to CORS, go to Module Management and you can see the time slot you have been allocated under the Class column. Or you can see the 'Time Table' on the left menu in CORS. It will show allocated modules and tutorial time slots. Or login to IVLE and click on 'My Organizer' on the left column but note that this does not show the tutorial slots assigned to you.
    
    
35. What is the maximum attachment size in NUS mail?
    Unsure about this, but I would wager that it is about 10MB.
    
    
36. How do I mass delete multiple emails when using Outlook Web Access?
    Ctrl+click to multi select items. Shift+click to multi select a range of items. You may want to sort by Size first by clicking on the Size column header, then going back to Page 1.
    
    
37. How do I access the previous years archive of exam papers for a NUS module?
    Go here. After login, click 'Examination Papers Database'. Then enter the full module code in the first box and hit Enter. Some limitations: Certain departments do not release the papers. Some exam papers which come with MCQs are not released but the non-MCQ sections of the exam paper are released.
    
    And oh, the site requires that you DON'T use the Back button in the browser. Instead you use the back button provided in the web page itself or it won't work correctly. Kind of like the search system in the National Library during the old days.
    
    
38. Where do I get my NUSNET userid and password?
    It will be given to you when you register at the matriculation fair. Along with many goodies. Don't lose it. If you don't have it, it is your matric number with an additional zero. So if your matric number is U082112Z, then your NUSNET userid will be u0802112. See the pattern?
    
    If you have forgotten the password, then you will have to go through a password reset procedure - 'Bring along your matriculation/student card to Computer Center Level 1 to request for password reset. You may also send us a scanned copy of your Matric Card and NRIC through fax at 68725231 or email at ccehelp@nus.edu.sg .' [ source ]
    

Any corrections let me know in the comments below.

Bid, Win & Succeed in NUS CORS: Tips, Tricks, Strategies &... Having Fun!

So you want to win your modules in Centralised Online Registration System? You want to use at little points as possible. And you want to secure the modules with as few points as possible.

Mr. CORS. We meet again. For the last time...

This post summarizes some knowledge from my experience before it expires into long term memory. Many of them can sound bad and going against general bidding ethics.

Make sure you have planned your timetable with NUS Timetable Builder. You cannot bid for a module if its timetable or exam dates clash with any of the modules you already have or are bidding for. Have some backup replacement modules and don't fix on just 5 modules.

And yes, you can have fun with CORs as well.

1. Treat it like eBay
   
   CORS is like eBay. Except that it has a stupid thing called Closed Bidding Period, where you can only see the number of bidders in the final few hours.
   
   But you can withdraw bids without *any* penalty. Now that opens up many more doors. Retraction of bids in eBay is recorded in your feedback but in CORS, there's no penalty..
   

   
   EBay, where all snipers are bred and trained.. (Image stolen)
   

   Which is why, many eBay tricks can be applied in CORS. They will be elaborated on below.
   
   
2. Take popular modules later when you have more points
   
   This you should already know. Especially if you are a freshie. Just like when something you are watching reaches too high a price, you forget about it and wait for another to show up. As a freshie, you have so many modules that you can bid for. And as the years goes by, your choices of modules will get lesser and lesser.
   
   

   
   Hope those 5 winners are in their last semester, they just squandered 90% of their points when the New Student slot still has 24 left... [source]
   

   A lot of seniors will recommend planning ahead for your full term in NUS. For me, I don't recommend this. Why? Because as you spend more time in NUS, you will find new modules that you have never heard before. As a freshmen, how many modules would you have known already? That's why I did planning only in my 3rd year.
   
   
3. Selecting Modules When You Are a Freshie
   
   Don't take the easy modules like CS1105 when you are starting off. You can always take these modules later and not many modules require them as a pre-requisite. If the demand exceeds vacancy, think of switching to other modules.
   
   For the first few semesters, mix modules that you can get for one point as having a major share in the modules you need to take for the semester. For example, for your first semester of your first year, you can take 1 popular module and 4 unpopular ones.
   
   If the module's demand exceeds by about 10% in CORS by the end of the open round (Trust me many of them won't follow rule #4), consider seriously replacing it with another module. Like saving money in the bank, you want to save points for future use as CORS does not delete points every semester.
   
   That doesn't mean you should drop the module the moment it exceeds demand. Some modules always require mandatory fighting for it as its demand always exceeds vacancy. For these kind of modules, try to take them later when you have more points.
   
   When the number of vacancies for the module are alot, like 50+, 100+, chances are high that you won't have to spend too many points to get it, but don't put just one point! Put your maximum you are willing to pay for it. There will definitely be a few bidders who put only a few points.
   
   
4. Bid only at the Last Minute
   
   Known on eBay as sniping. Place your bids only in the last 10 minutes of the round.
   
   

   
   Being a sniper is not easy with all these preparations. And be careful not to miss the deadline (Image stolen)
   

   Until then, leave it at zero points. Placing even a single point will increase the number of bidders by one - this is updated realtime even during the closed bidding period. Several pros and cons
   
   
   1. Some of the bidders would have placed their maximum bids and ignored the closing period
      
      
   2. If the bidders are less than the number of vacancies, there is a very high chance that some of them bid only 1 point and did not bother about it
      
      
   3. The time for bidders to change their bids is very small.
      
      
   4. The time for you to change your modules is very little if you find the number of bidders suddenly increasing at a high rate at the last minute.
      
      
   5. If it is a level 1 or level 2 module with 50+ vacancies and the number of bidders are less than demand before the closing period, chances are high that many of them did not place too many points.
      
      
   6. If the module has a very small number of vacancies, this strategy works great too. Especially in a one vacancy module, the lone bidder may just put in a low bid point thinking that he is the only bidder. When you bid at the last minute, you catch him by surprise and he may not even have noticed it until he gets his results.
      
      
   Be careful when sniping as it is very easy to miss a whole round simply just because you did not place a bid for it on time. Set your alarm bells to go off as a reminder and make sure you are in front of the computer by 445pm in your sniping position.
   
   
5. Secure *Other* Modules in Early Rounds
   
   In the early rounds, your competition is significantly less than at the later rounds. Use this to your advantage and secure modules that you wouldn't normally take in case you find out later that the modules that you are planning to take in later rounds require more points to bid.
   
   So even if you were not planning to take CS1105 this semester, and you see it with few bidders and lots of vacancies in Round 1, go ahead and grab it first. Grabbing it later may result in you paying more points than necessary when more bidders can bid for it. And use the Module Preference Exercise (MPE) exercise to get modules that you may not need early on as well.
   
   CORs limits on the maximum number of modules you can bid for in the early rounds to 5 modules. This can be a disadvantage if you plan to take 5 modules for the semester as you will not have any buffer slot to check the bidding status of a module.
   
   Not to fret, CORs publishes the statistics of the bidding statuses in a list under 'Useful Information' when the opening period ends. However, they are only accurate as of publishing time. The other way is to get a buddy to temporarily drop his module and add the module you want. Troublesome, but that's the only way if you want the latest updated information on the number of bidders.
   
   
6. Protected Slots For FreshMen
   
   Freshmen enjoy a special privilege. Protected Slots. This means that until the end of Round 2B, all modules will have a certain quota that will fit only freshies.
   
   

   
   Why do fresh always remind me of oranges? Yumm... Image Stolen
   

   So what does this mean? In summary
   
   
   1. All the people you are bidding with can only bid a maximum of about 650 points from programme account and about 350 points from general account (for SoC students - see under 'Allocation of Points'). Remember, some faculties award higher points to the general account or programme account.
      
      
   2. If you are a freshie, the number of bidders you see in the CORs bidding page are all freshmen with about the same number of starting points you have until Round 2B ends. This levels the playing field. So instead of you trying to fight with us seniors who may have more than 4,000 points, you only fight with your new peers who have about a maximum of 650 points to spend.
      
      
   3. A chance to secure modules which are very popular as the seniors will not be able to compete with you and your competition is only limited to the freshmen. However, note that some modules don't have any special allocation for new students. For example, SS modules.
      
      
   4. Unfortunately, this also means that you can't join in the regular queue if the number of bidders in the senior queue are lesser. Take for example, CS2105 Lecture 2 as of Round 2A Opening Period for 2009/2010, the Returning Students Queue has no students bidding for the 17 slots yet the New Students queue is on the brink of a fight if an extra bidder joins in.
      
      
   With protected slots, you need to again evaluate the number of bidders in the round as the clock ticks closer to the closing time. If it is a popular module according to the history of CORS, place your maximum bid early when the round opens and be prepared to lose all your points. Yes, be prepared to empty out 100% of whatever type of points but take joy in knowing that CORs will allocate you the module if you bid first (See Module Allocation).
   
   For example, if there is one vacancy for MA1301 and Bidder A,B and C placed their bids of 400 pts in the morning, afternoon and evening, the winner will be Bidder A as he/she placed the bid first. Remember, your peers bidding for that module only have about 400 pts for General account. Personally I recommend bidding for such modules in the next round or semester.
   
   NOTE: Different faculties has different top-ups of points every semester. See this page under 'Allocation of Points'. Doesn't mean that all the peers you are bidding with have exactly 650 points. Some faculties like Engineering have 750 points in their Program account.
   
   
7. Don't Rush to take GEMs, SS and Breadths Early
   
   For some reason, many freshies opt to fulfil their SS and GEM requirements early. This means that you may have to forego popular [easy] modules.
   
   Save up your points in your General account and bid for your favourite SSs and GEMs in the final 2 years. Until then you can bid for modules which require only one point with your General account.
   
   
8. Money Can Talk
   
   In NUS, you stay longer, you get to save more points as you bid for fewer modules for every semester. Those who want to finish NUS studies early will find it more harder to secure their 6 or more modules for every semester due to the limited number of points they get for every semester.
   

   
   Almost everywhere, money can talk. With fewer modules, you'll have an easier time as well. (Image stolen)
   

   Of course, then you will have to spend more money as you stay on for the extra semester or two.
   
   
9. Red Carpet Treatment for Graduating Students
   
   If you can't secure a required module until your final semester, CORs Appeal can work wonders. Even if the module is over full, they may somehow squeeze you in.
   
   Note that I am not guaranteeing that you will get a slot in the final semester no matter how full or high the bidding point is, but this is what I have heard.
   
   

   
   Red Carpet Treatment (Image stolen)
   

   Also, I've heard final year students even having the privilege of replacing a module that is required to be taken for graduation with another similar level module when the module is overfull. Talk about working around graduation requirements!
   
   
10. Not everything has to go through CORs Appeal.
    
    If you don't meet the pre-requisite for a module but believe you have taken a module that is very similar to the requirement, you can always e-mail the course coordinator and ask for a waiver.
    
    And if CORs keeps shouting "You do not satisfy the pre-requisites for or has read a preclusion module for this module!" even though you meet the pre-reqs, e-mail your course coordinator too. Don't wait until you can appeal.
    
    
11. Be careful of One Vacancy Modules
    
    In modules with only one vacancy, the winner pays the full bid price as there is no minimum bid to refund your points partially. Think very carefully before you bid for such modules. Modules with such vacancies only occur from Round 2B onwards, when the odd student drops a popular module.
    
    
12. Have fun - Sabotage Other Modules
    
    This is not really a tip but something to do to create demand for a module. Known as shill bidding in eBay. Okaaay, this is for fun. Perhaps I am sounding bad, but hey, I got points to squander <evil laughter>
    
    So, what you do is check the stats of the modules available in the current round (*before* the closing period) and narrow those with very few vacancies and something you can bid for. Then go and dump all your points into the module for the one likely to have a big bidding fight. Now the closing bid statistics will show you competing for the module. Once the closing period comes in, change your bid to 1. You won't get the module, and even if you did in the one in a billionth rare chance, it's just one point wasted. Or just retract the bid in the last minute.
    
    So, how can one person make a big difference? Actually, you can. Go for those modules which have very small vacancies.. those in the single digit... <evil laughter>
    
    

    
    Is this what you call - Having fun with CORS? [source]
    

    Guess who was one of the bidders for ACC1002X above...
    

Well that's all I can share for now. Good luck bidding, hope it will help fellow juniors in future.

Behind the curtains, I await... sniper rifle in position.. (Image stolen)

Common FAQ: So how many points should I bid? No one can give you a definite answer for this as it depends on many variables. You will need to make your own independent decision with the tips above.

If you have more tips, share in the comments below. Not all of you may agree with my tips, but feel free to discuss below. Have fun!