A Guide To Nus Singapore Hostel Options

When studying at the National University of Singapore (NUS), deciding where to live can significantly shape your university experience. For many students, the choice to live on campus provides more than just a bed to sleep in; it’s an opportunity to build lasting friendships, experience different cultures, and enjoy a true sense of independence. That’s where NUS hostel options shine. They offer diverse living arrangements catering to various lifestyles and needs to help you create your perfect home away from home.

If you’re considering staying on campus, this guide will walk you through the different NUS Singapore hostel options, including the benefits of each type of accommodation. Stick around to discover which one might be the perfect fit for you.

Why Choose On-Campus Housing at NUS?

There’s more to residing at NUS than just convenience. Here are some key benefits:

1. Meet a Diverse Community

Living on campus means sharing a space with local and international students from all walks of life. Expect lively cultural exchanges, collaboration over late-night group projects and friendships that could last a lifetime. This diversity encourages inclusivity and helps you feel supported no matter where you’re from.

2. Convenient Access to Classes and Facilities

Imagine rolling out of bed and being in class in less than ten minutes. Many NUS hostels are strategically located close to lecture halls, libraries, sports facilities and eateries, giving you unparalleled access to the essentials of university life without wasting time in transit.

3. A Holistic Student Experience

Campus life includes much more than academics. By staying in an NUS hostel, you can engage in sports, performing arts or student committees. These activities enrich your university years and help foster a well-rounded personality. Plus, you’ll gain leadership and organisational skills when you actively participate.

Now that we've explored the benefits, which hostel should you pick? Here’s a breakdown of the top choices at NUS.

Types of NUS Hostel Options

NUS offers four primary types of housing for full-time students. Each one caters to different preferences and lifestyles, so you’re bound to find one that suits you.

1. Halls of Residence

Are you someone who loves being part of a vibrant community? Then Halls of Residence could be your perfect option. Each Hall balances academic life with plenty of extracurricular activities designed to help you mix, mingle and grow.

• Key Features:
  • Compulsory meal plans for added convenience
  • Single and double room options
  • A wide range of cultural, sports and co-curricular activities
  • Non-air-conditioned room with shared bathroom facilities
• Popular Halls:
  • Eusoff Hall: Known for fostering an inclusive and stimulating residence life.
  • Kent Ridge Hall: A hub for creativity, offering opportunities in performing arts and sports.
  • Sheares Hall: Renowned for its strong alumni network and immersive student activities.
  • King Edward VII Hall: Combines a century of tradition with a vibrant living-learning community.
  • Raffles Hall: Founded in 1958, Raffles Hall is the largest, most central hall on Kent Ridge Campus, known for its strong heritage, alumni ties and culture of excellence.
  • Temasek Hall: A Hall of Opportunities excelling in sports, performing arts, leadership and more.

If you like a well-rounded university experience that balances academics and fun, this is where you’ll thrive.

2. Residential Colleges

Want to integrate your learning with your living environment? Residential Colleges are unique as they blend academics with daily living. These communities allow for seamless collaboration between students and staff.

• Key Features:
  • Compulsory meal plans and academic programmes
  • A diverse learning community with multi-disciplinary modules and access to industry leaders.
  • Single and double room options (depending on the College)
  • Common and shared bathroom facilities
• Top Picks:
  • Tembusu College: A welcoming and creative space dedicated to holistic growth.
  • RC4 (Residential College 4): A place to explore yourself and understand big-picture challenges.
  • College of Alice and Peter Tan (CAPT): A hands-on community where you grow, learn, and build real-world skills together.
  • Ridge View Residential College (RVRC): A vibrant residential college at NUS, surrounded by greenery with interconnected buildings fostering a tight-knit, kampong-style community.
  • Acacia College: A community where students explore the impact of AI on society, culture and ethics.

Residential colleges are perfect if you’re looking for a deep intellectual connection alongside your living experience.

3. Houses

For those seeking a more private, independent lifestyle, Houses at NUS provide a subtle yet connected environment.

• Key Features:
  • No compulsory meal plans
  • Single rooms with a choice between air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned units
  • Community-driven activities without the busyness of Halls
• Noteworthy Houses:
  • Helix House creates a close-knit community with its “DNA that binds” ethos.
  • LightHouse is a home where students embrace their uniqueness while building meaningful connections and valuing themselves and others.
  • Pioneer House offers proactive pastoral care and a Peer Mentorship Program, where senior students guide freshmen with academic and student life support.
  • Valour House, NUS’s first sports-themed hostel offers programmes, top-notch facilities and spaces for athletes to train, recover and thrive.

This option is ideal for students who enjoy a quieter campus life but still want occasional community engagement.

4. Student Residences

Similar to staying in a serviced apartment, Student Residences offer condo-like living with extra privacy and flexibility. They emphasise independence while providing access to luxurious facilities.

• Key Features:
  • Single, twin-sharing, and studio apartments available
  • Options for attached or shared bathrooms
  • Condos with features like lounges, study rooms and even a gym
• Choices Include:
  • PGP Residence (PGPR), close to Kent Ridge MRT for easy navigation.
  • UTown Residence (UTR), at the heart of University Town, perfect for collaborative and academic pursuits.

If you value independence and modern amenities, this might be your best match.

Tips to Choose the Right NUS Hostel

Excited but unsure which option is best for you? Here are some quick tips to help you decide:

• Social Butterfly or Lone Wolf? If you love meeting new people and engaging in campus activities, go with a Hall of Residence. But if you prefer quieter spaces, Student Residences or Houses may suit you better.
• Need Privacy? For more independence, opt for a Student Residence or House with single rooms and dedicated bathrooms.
• Budget Matters. Consider whether features like meal plans, air-conditioning or amenities are worth the additional cost.

Whatever you choose, each NUS hostel option supports you in achieving academic success and fostering personal growth.

Make the Most of NUS Hostel Life

Living on campus isn’t just about academics; it’s about creating unforgettable memories and forging meaningful connections. Attend hall events, join clubs or participate in sports tournaments. University life is what you make it, so don’t hesitate to explore and immerse yourself fully.

Are you ready to kick-start the ultimate NUS Singapore hostel experience? Check out the application dates here for undergraduates. Don’t wait too long to secure your spot!