How does NUS Module Preference Exercise work? (MPE)

(All information correct as of 9th December, 2013)

I've received several queries about the Module Preference Exercise (MPE), so I thought why not do a compiled blog post. This information is accurate for FASS MPE matters, I can't guarantee it applies for other faculties.

This blog post is structured as such - a FAQ style before the page break (denoted by a long line), and after the page break  is information available directly in the MPE portal.

These are actual questions I've received:

1) Can I take part in MPE if I don't have a major yet?
No, MPE is for pre-allocation of major modules. If you don't have a major yet this wouldn't work.

2) Is MPE first come first served?
No. From my understanding (FASS doesn't actually explain this explicitly, but I've never come across contradictory evidence, so this should be right), how MPE works is let's say a module has 40 slots available. As long as there are 40 or below students who MPE it, it will be preallocated to them. However, once the demand exceeds supply (i.e. 41 or more), no one will be preallocated, and everyone has to bid during CORS bidding for it.

3) Which modules can I MPE? Can I MPE a non-FASS module? How about a GEM?
The only modules you can MPE are your major modules. Thus if you are from FASS, the only modules you can MPE are logically FASS modules.

4) What is the probability I'll get the modules I indicated in MPE?
This is a similar question to 'how many points do you think X module will cost' - it varies each semester, and predictions will never be accurate. You can roughly gauge the popularity of a module by asking seniors, but don't expect it to be a reliable indicator of success. Some modules may be obviously more popular, such as compulsory/core modules.

 

The below is directly copied and pasted from within the MPE portal.

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1.  Only 2 attempts will be given to each student to complete this Module Preference Exercise.

2.  Where possible, FASS will pre-allocate essential and elective major modules if you participated in this Module Preference Exercise. You should have declared your major(s) and indicated your preferred major modules.
However, there will be no pre-allocation of essential and elective major modules for the following situations:

a.  Demand exceeding the module quota for any essential or elective major modules
b.  Some level-4000 essential modules may not be pre-allocated because priority is given to Honours students.
c.  Changing of major(s) without re-indication of preferred major modules.

3.  There will not be any notification if pre-allocation of essential or elective major module(s) is successful.
Please log in to CORS (from Round 0) to check.
Please bid for the modules when CORS bidding exercise begins if you were not pre-allocated your preferred major modules.

4.  This Module Preference Exercise DOES NOT replace the CORS bidding exercise. You have to place bids during the CORS bidding exercise for: 

a.  FASS modules outside students' major(s)
b.  Non-FASS modules
c.  Essential and elective major modules if they have not been pre-allocated.

5.  FASS allows you to indicate preferred major essential and elective modules having the assumption that you will pass the relevant modules read this semester.

6.  In the event that you are unable to fulfil the relevant pre-requisite(s) for the preferred major module(s) you have indicated, the system will automatically drop the preferred major module(s). 
There will not be any notification and you are strongly encouraged to log in to CORS (from Round 0) to check.

7.  Modules are pre-allocated at 1 bid point each (from your Programme account).
In the event, you decide to drop the pre-allocated module, the 1 bid point will not be refunded.
We will not be able to assist you if you are unable to secure a replacement module.

8.  If you decide to change your lecture group after the MPE, please drop the module and bid for the module with the desired lecture group during CORS Bidding Exercise.

10.  ONLY FOR GLOBAL STUDIES (GL) MAJORS
Global Studies Major students should indicate regular-coded FASS modules for their MPE. Global Studies Majors who would like to read standalone General Education / Singapore Studies modules (that are in the GL major requirements only) should send an email to globalstudies@nus.edu.sg with their NAME, MATRIC NO., MODULE CODE, MODULE TITLE, & LECTURE GROUP by Friday, 6 December 2013. Please ensure that you have checked for Lecture, Tutorial and Exam Clashes. The module may be pre-allocated if there is quota to meet the demand.