S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS)
3 Star Employer Ranking
50 Nanyang Ave, Block S4, Level B3, Singapore 639798
| Event | Date | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🐉 | Chinese New Year Holiday | 29 January 2025approximate | A major cultural holiday celebrating the lunar new year, affecting all students and staff with closures for family gatherings and traditional festivities, promoting cultural exchange in RSIS's diverse community. |
| 🕌 | Hari Raya Puasa | 31 March 2025 | Marks the end of Ramadan, a time for reflection and community meals; RSIS observes this to honor Muslim students and faculty, allowing time for prayers and celebrations that enrich intercultural understanding. |
| ✝️ | Good Friday | 18 April 2025 | Christian observance leading into Easter, providing a short break for rest and religious activities; impacts Christian members of the RSIS community, fostering inclusivity in a secular institution. |
| 👷 | Labour Day | 1 May 2025 | Honors workers' contributions, with classes suspended; staff and students use this for relaxation or professional networking, aligning with RSIS's focus on global labor dynamics. |
| 🕉️ | Vesak Day | 12 May 2025approximate | Buddhist holiday commemorating Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and death; offers contemplative time for Buddhist scholars at RSIS, enhancing studies in Asian philosophies and peacebuilding. |
| 📚 | Special Term Start | 2 June 2025approximate | Initiates the intensive summer term for electives and short courses; affects continuing students seeking to accelerate progress in specialized international studies topics. |
| 🎓 | Special Term End | 25 July 2025approximate | Concludes the special term with assessments; provides closure for summer learners, allowing preparation for the main semesters and potential internships. |
| 👋 | Semester 1 Orientation | 4 August 2025approximate | Welcomes new graduate students to RSIS with sessions on curriculum and campus life; crucial for building networks in security and diplomacy fields. |
| 📖 | Semester 1 Start - First Day of Classes | 11 August 2025 | Kicks off the fall semester with core modules; impacts all enrolled students, setting the tone for intensive learning in global affairs. |
| 🇸🇬 | National Day | 9 August 2025 | Singapore's independence celebration with parades and fireworks; a public holiday that instills national pride, relevant to RSIS's focus on Southeast Asian politics. |
| ✈️ | Recess Week | 29 September to 5 October 2025approximate | Mid-semester break for catch-up and travel; benefits students by allowing recharge, especially useful for international attendees exploring the region. |
| 🪔 | Deepavali | 20 October 2025approximate | Festival of Lights for Hindu community; RSIS closure promotes cultural appreciation, tying into studies of South Asian diplomacy and migration. |
| 📝 | Semester 1 Study Week | 17 November 2025approximate | Dedicated period for exam preparation; essential for consolidating knowledge in advanced topics like cybersecurity and international economics. |
| 🧠 | Semester 1 Examinations | 24 November to 6 December 2025approximate | Final assessments for the semester; high-stakes evaluations affecting academic progression and graduate outcomes at RSIS. |
| 🏁 | Semester 1 End | 12 December 2025approximate | Wraps up the main fall term; allows reflection and holiday planning for the RSIS community amid year-end festivities. |
| 🎄 | Christmas Day | 25 December 2025 | Public holiday with festive activities; provides a joyful break, inclusive for all at RSIS regardless of faith, enhancing community bonds. |
Are you planning on applying to S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS) next year? Then you need to know the important dates and deadlines for the admissions process at S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS). You can check them out below…
| Event | Date | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 📋 | Application Portal Opens for Semester 1 2026 Intake | 1 September 2025 | Initiates the application cycle for master's and PhD programs in international studies; early start allows ample time for document preparation and recommendations. |
| 💰 | Scholarship Application Deadline | 15 October 2025approximate | Final submission for merit-based funding; competitive for RSIS's ASEAN scholarships, covering tuition for top candidates in security studies. |
| 🌍 | Primary Application Deadline for International Applicants | 1 December 2025 | Key cutoff for non-local students applying via NTU portal; includes essays on global affairs motivations. |
| 💬 | Interviews for Shortlisted Candidates | 15 January 2026approximate | Virtual or in-person panels assessing fit for programs like Master of Science in International Relations; focuses on analytical skills. |
| 📧 | Admission Decisions Released | 1 February 2026 | Notifications for acceptances; includes details on orientation and visa support for international admits to RSIS. |
| ✅ | Enrollment Confirmation Deadline | 28 February 2026approximate | Required deposit and form submission to secure spot; critical for planning relocation to Singapore. |
| 🛂 | Visa Application Support Webinar | 1 March 2026 | Guidance session for international students; covers student pass requirements tied to RSIS admission. |
| 🔄 | Secondary Intake Application Opens for Semester 2 | 15 March 2026approximate | For mid-year entry into select programs; targets professionals seeking flexible starts in diplomacy studies. |
| ⏰ | Final Admission Deadline for Semester 2 2026 | 1 May 2026 | Last chance for applications; rolling reviews for PhD candidates with research proposals on Asia-Pacific security. |
| 💻 | Pre-Arrival Orientation Online | 1 July 2026approximate | Virtual prep for new students; covers academic expectations and cultural tips for life at RSIS in Singapore. |
The academic calendar at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS), a premier graduate institution within Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore, serves as a vital roadmap for students, faculty, and staff navigating the rigors of advanced studies in international relations, strategic studies, and global security. Established in 2006 and named after Singapore's founding father S. Rajaratnam, RSIS emphasizes multidisciplinary approaches to Asia-Pacific affairs, diplomacy, and conflict resolution, attracting a diverse cohort of international scholars and professionals. The calendar's structure typically divides the year into two main semesters—Semester 1 from late summer through early winter, and Semester 2 from early year to mid-spring—supplemented by a special term for intensive courses and research. This framework aligns with Singapore's efficient, high-achieving educational ecosystem, where precision in timing fosters productivity amid the city's dynamic multicultural environment.
Historically, RSIS's calendar has evolved to incorporate global best practices while respecting local traditions, such as integrating public holidays that reflect Singapore's harmonious blend of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences. Compared to Western universities, which often feature longer breaks like extended summer vacations, RSIS maintains a compact yet intensive schedule to prepare graduates for fast-paced careers in think tanks, governments, and international organizations. For students, this means balancing rigorous coursework in areas like cybersecurity and international economics with opportunities for internships and conferences. The impact on student life is profound: clear semester boundaries aid in managing thesis deadlines, group projects, and networking events, while breaks provide respite for reflection and travel within Southeast Asia's vibrant region.
Admissions processes are tightly woven into the calendar, with application windows designed to align with semester starts, ensuring seamless integration for incoming master's and PhD candidates from over 50 countries. International students, who form a significant portion of RSIS's community, benefit from the calendar's predictability, which helps coordinate visas, family relocations, and cultural adjustments. Holidays and breaks are thoughtfully placed to coincide with major festivals—think family gatherings during lunar celebrations or national commemorations—promoting well-being without disrupting academic momentum. Faculty and staff use the calendar to synchronize research collaborations, teaching loads, and administrative duties, often linking to broader NTU events like innovation forums.
In essence, the RSIS academic calendar is more than a schedule; it's a strategic tool that enhances learning outcomes, supports career development, and embodies Singapore's commitment to excellence in higher education. Whether you're a prospective applicant eyeing scholarships or a current scholar planning your next module, understanding this calendar empowers informed decisions. For deeper insights into professor experiences, check out Rate My Professor to view or add ratings that highlight teaching styles at RSIS. Explore job opportunities tailored to international studies via our research jobs section, and consider how this calendar aligns with your professional trajectory in global affairs.
The academic calendar at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS) is meticulously designed to support its mission of fostering expertise in international studies, security, and diplomacy within the context of Nanyang Technological University (NTU). As a specialized graduate school, RSIS operates on a semester-based system that emphasizes depth over breadth, with each term focusing on core modules, electives, and research seminars. The structure typically includes two primary semesters, allowing students to immerse themselves in topics ranging from maritime security to sustainable development, while a special term offers flexibility for advanced workshops and exchange programs. Traditions at RSIS include orientation sessions that introduce the calendar's key phases, helping newcomers acclimate to Singapore's tropical climate and fast-paced academic culture.
Holiday notes are integral, as Singapore's public observances—such as those for racial harmony and national independence—provide natural pauses for reflection on global interconnectedness, aligning perfectly with RSIS's thematic focus. These breaks encourage students to engage in extracurriculars like policy simulations or guest lectures from diplomats, enriching the overall experience. The calendar also accommodates administrative milestones, such as registration periods and thesis submissions, ensuring smooth progression toward degrees. For international students, this predictability is crucial for planning around time zones and cultural events back home.
To gauge the real-world impact, many alumni credit the calendar's balance for their success in competitive fields like intelligence analysis and international NGOs. Faculty often praise its alignment with research cycles, enabling collaborative projects with partners across Asia. If you're curious about teaching quality, visit Rate My Professor to read reviews from RSIS courses or contribute your own insights—your feedback helps future scholars choose the right paths. Additionally, for those eyeing faculty roles, browse lecturer jobs at similar institutions. The calendar's traditions, like end-of-semester symposia, underscore RSIS's role as a hub for thought leadership. Overall, it promotes a holistic approach to education, blending academic rigor with personal growth. Students report higher satisfaction when using the calendar to pace their studies, avoiding burnout in this demanding environment. For comparisons, RSIS's schedule is more condensed than European counterparts, reflecting Singapore's efficiency-driven ethos. Parents and prospective applicants can use it to align family plans with academic milestones, while staff leverage it for workload management. In a globalized world, this calendar equips RSIS community members to thrive amid uncertainties, from geopolitical shifts to personal ambitions. Don't forget to explore university rankings to see RSIS's standing in international affairs. With its forward-looking design, the calendar remains a cornerstone of RSIS's excellence, inviting all to engage actively in shaping their educational journey.
At the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS), semester dates form the backbone of class planning, enabling students to strategically select modules in areas like international political economy and counter-terrorism studies. The typical progression involves an initial registration phase followed by intensive teaching weeks, interspersed with recesses for independent study. This setup allows graduate candidates to tailor their schedules around research interests, ensuring alignment with career goals in diplomacy or academia. Tips for effective planning include reviewing prerequisites early and consulting academic advisors, who can highlight synergies between RSIS offerings and NTU's broader resources.
Student ratings often highlight the calendar's clarity, with many appreciating how it facilitates balanced workloads—typically 12-15 credits per semester. For instance, coordinating group projects across time zones is easier when dates are predictable, a boon for RSIS's international cohort. Faculty recommend using digital tools to track deadlines, integrating them with personal calendars for seamless management. International students might plan around visa renewals during these periods, while locals balance part-time commitments. The structure also supports elective flexibility, allowing dives into niche topics like Asian security dynamics without overload.
To enhance your experience, check professor feedback on Rate My Professor, where RSIS instructors are rated for clarity and engagement—consider adding your review post-semester. For career planning, link your class choices to opportunities in higher ed career advice. Overall, mastering semester planning at RSIS empowers proactive learning, turning potential challenges into opportunities for excellence in global studies.
Exam schedules at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS) are positioned toward the end of each semester, providing a culminating assessment of knowledge in complex subjects like strategic forecasting and international law. Typical periods allow for focused revision after teaching concludes, with provisions for continuous assessments like essays and presentations reducing end-load pressure. Preparation tips include forming study groups early, utilizing RSIS's library resources for case studies, and practicing under timed conditions to simulate real-world policy briefings.
Students often rate the process as fair yet challenging, emphasizing the importance of time management to cover interdisciplinary material. Breaks before exams offer recovery time, crucial in Singapore's humid climate. Faculty advise leveraging office hours for clarification, enhancing understanding of nuanced topics. For those with disabilities, accommodations are integrated into the schedule, promoting inclusivity. Post-exam, results timelines support prompt progression, aiding thesis work or job applications.
Discover more on academic rigor via Rate My Course reviews for RSIS modules. If preparing for faculty exams or certifications, explore professor salaries insights. Effective preparation not only boosts grades but also hones analytical skills vital for RSIS graduates' careers.
Holidays and breaks in the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS) academic calendar reflect Singapore's multicultural fabric, incorporating observances like Chinese New Year for family reunions, Hari Raya Puasa for community celebrations, Vesak Day for Buddhist reflections, National Day for patriotic fervor, Deepavali for festive lights, and Christmas for inclusive merriment. These pauses, strategically placed, allow rejuvenation without major disruptions, enabling students to explore Singapore's hawker centers or nearby islands like Sentosa.
Travel tips include booking early for regional flights during peak holidays, using the breaks for short courses or networking in ASEAN hubs. For international students, these align with home-country vacations, easing homesickness. RSIS encourages using breaks for reflective journaling on global issues, tying back to coursework. Unlike US spring breaks focused on leisure, Singapore's are more subdued, emphasizing rest and cultural immersion. Faculty use them for conference attendance, enriching teaching.
Plan ahead with Rate My College for peer experiences on break utilization. For job seekers, holidays coincide with higher ed jobs postings. These intervals foster balance, enhancing RSIS's supportive learning environment.
Work schedules and deadlines at RSIS cater to faculty and staff, synchronizing teaching, research, and administrative tasks with the academic calendar. Key deadlines include module planning before semesters, grading post-exams, and report submissions aligned with NTU cycles. This structure supports grant applications and publications, vital for advancement in international studies.
Timelines allow flexibility for fieldwork in Asia, while meetings cluster during non-teaching weeks. Staff appreciate the predictability for personal planning. Tips include prioritizing collaborative projects during recesses. For adjuncts, it aids balancing external consultancies.
Explore faculty perspectives on employer profiles. Link to job board software for efficient tracking. Adhering to these enhances productivity at RSIS.
Faculty and staff notes in the RSIS calendar cover meetings, professional development, and grading periods, ensuring alignment with teaching goals. Regular department huddles foster innovation in curricula on global governance. Grading windows post-exams allow thorough feedback, supporting student growth.
Notes highlight opportunities like sabbaticals tied to breaks. Job links to lecturer jobs at RSIS-like schools. Invite employees to rate on Rate My Professor for community insights.
Historical calendars at RSIS show evolution from its 2006 inception, adapting to global events like pandemics with hybrid shifts. Patterns reveal consistent semester lengths, aiding long-term planning. Future calendars maintain this stability, incorporating sustainability focuses.
Archives available via NTU library. Use for trend analysis in university rankings. Predictability benefits all stakeholders.
Key events like orientation and commencement punctuate the RSIS calendar, building community in international studies. Orientation introduces networks; commencement celebrates achievements. Ratings on Rate My Professor invite students to rate or view, with CTAs for participation. Tie to Ivy League guide for comparisons, though RSIS excels regionally.
| Event | Date | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🔴 | Chinese New Year Holiday | 17 February 2026approximate | Lunar new year celebrations continue to offer cultural immersion; vital for RSIS students studying East Asian relations and traditions. |
| 🥚 | Good Friday | 3 April 2026 | Easter-adjacent holiday for Christian observance; supports spiritual recharge in the diverse RSIS environment focused on global ethics. |
| ⚖️ | Labour Day | 1 May 2026 | Workers' day recognition; aligns with RSIS discussions on labor rights in international contexts, providing rest for all. |
| 🌸 | Vesak Day | 31 May 2026approximate | Buddhist triple milestone; encourages mindfulness practices beneficial for stress management in rigorous RSIS programs. |
| 🕋 | Hari Raya Haji | 7 June 2026approximate | Post-Hajj celebration for Muslims; fosters community spirit at RSIS, relevant to studies in Islamic world affairs. |
| ☀️ | Special Term Start | 1 June 2026approximate | Summer intensive launch; ideal for advancing research in security studies without main semester commitments. |
| 🌤️ | Special Term End | 24 July 2026approximate | Summer term conclusion; prepares participants for deeper engagement in upcoming semesters at RSIS. |
| 🌱 | Semester 2 Start - First Day of Classes | 12 January 2026 | Begins the spring semester with renewed focus; affects returning and new students in diplomacy and strategy courses. |
| 🤝 | Semester 2 Orientation for Late Intakes | 5 January 2026approximate | Additional welcome for mid-year entrants; builds immediate connections in RSIS's global network. |
| 🛤️ | Recess Week Semester 2 | 16 March to 22 March 2026approximate | Mid-term break for recovery; useful for fieldwork or attending regional conferences on international issues. |
| 🔍 | Semester 2 Study Week | 20 April 2026approximate | Pre-exam revision period; critical for synthesizing complex theories in RSIS's advanced curriculum. |
| 📊 | Semester 2 Examinations | 27 April to 9 May 2026approximate | End-of-spring assessments; pivotal for degree completion and career readiness in global arenas. |
| 🔚 | Semester 2 End | 15 May 2026approximate | Closes the main spring term; transitions to summer opportunities or thesis finalization at RSIS. |
| 🎉 | Graduation Ceremony | 10 July 2026approximate | Celebrates degree conferrals; a milestone event for RSIS alumni entering international careers. |
| 🚩 | National Day | 9 August 2026 | Annual independence festivity; inspires RSIS community with themes of resilience and unity in Asia-Pacific studies. |
| 🚀 | Semester 1 Start | 10 August 2026 | Launches the new academic year; energizes students for fresh explorations in strategic studies. |
