Questions
Should I get a haircut before enlisting?
Yes, you likely won't get much time to shower after the haircut in Tekong. Ask your barber for the "zero" cut, and remember to get it done not more than a day or two before enlistment. If your commanders think your hair is too long, you'll waste $2.
Protip: make sure you are unable to pinch and pull your hair after the haircut. If you can, it's not short enough.
See the hair requirement for the full rules, or the BMT guide for more information.
What happens during the CMPB screening?
Just normal medical check-up stuff such as height, weight, urine and a blood draw. Bring any medical documents that you may think is relevant such as those for pre-existing conditions. Also eat a meal before going so you don't feel dizzy after drawing blood. Try to style your hair a bit as your picture for your 11B will also be taken then.
I'm enlisting at this time and this date. Is this a mono-intake?
Unfortunately, no one really knows. If you really want to ask, search for the "Enlistment" thread on the NS Subreddit. Do not create a new post, just look for the pinned post with the flair "Enlistment".
Where can I see the packing guide?
You should receive the packing list from MINDEF or your enlistment instructions. Also check out the before enlistment checklist and BMT page.
Reddit packing threads are useful for extra stuff like hangers, ziplock bags, power banks, wet wipes, and how not to overpack. But if Reddit and your enlistment letter disagree, follow your enlistment letter.
How many civilian clothes should I bring?
Usually not many. You'll be issued admin attire, and many recruits say civilian shirts just become extra weight. Bring one spare set if you want peace of mind, but don't pack like chalet.
For underwear, bring more. 7 to 12 pairs is usually enough for confinement week depending on how often you want to wash.
Can I use wall plugs in BMT?
Depends on company and location. Bring power banks even if someone online says wall plugs were allowed for their batch.
CMPB says wall plugged chargers are not allowed for Home Team Academy. For SAF BMT, follow your enlistment letter and your commanders' instructions.
What kind of spectacles are allowed?
Black plastic spectacles. Cannot be half-frame.
If you need to buy a new pair, make sure the receipt is dated after your enlistment, and you can claim $40.
See the full glasses requirement for details.
I have this condition. Will I get a down PES?
Unfortunately, no one but an MO can give you a definite answer. All you can do is bring a specialist letter from an outside doctor. If you are in pain and want to down PES, tell your specialist.
See the full PES guide for what each grade means.
Going for field camp soon, what is it like? Anyone have any tips?
Yes, you're in luck. See the Field camp section of BMT guide.
How do I guard my rifle in field camp?
- At night, clip the sling to your uniform's belt holes. That way, if anyone tries to lift it, it won't come off because it's connected to you. Also hug it when you sleep.
- Make sure it's never more than a meter away from you.
I failed my IPPT. Can I still pass out of BMT?
To successfully pass out of BMT, the following are required:
- Pass 2 out of 3 of
- IPPT (over 61 points)
- BTP
- Field camp
So if you fail your IPPT but pass field camp and BTP, you'll still POP. Note that in BMT, you will have 3 IPPT attempts (for enhanced PES A/B). Hand grenade and BIC are not requirements to POP.
See the full IPPT guide for the scoring and stations.
I missed field camp because I was sick. Will I OOC?
Not automatically. The usual answer is that you need to pass 2 out of 3: IPPT, BTP, and field camp. But your commanders and MO decide what happens for your case, especially if you miss a lot of training days.
What are the requirements for command school
Check out the page for command school.
Which vocation can I get if I am PES A/B/C/E?
Again, no one can be completely sure. If you are combat-fit (PES A/B), expect a combat vocation like infantry. But combat-fit enlistees can also become transport operators, clerks, or storemen, so no one can be 100% sure.
Typically, lower PESes like C to E get admin jobs (ASA/SA) or transport.
See the full PES guide for what each grade means, and how vocations and postings work for the full list.
How much allowance do I get in NS?
A recruit takes home $790 a month (from July 2025), and it goes up with your rank and vocation. See the full NSF pay and allowance breakdown.
How many days do I have left until ORD?
NS is 2 years, or about 1 year 10 months if you clear the Pre-Enlistee IPPT. Use the ORD countdown to see the days, weekends, and working days left.
Are PES Es and Fs second-class citizens?
No. People do not care about your PES unless you want to sign on and become a regular.
See the full PES guide for what each grade means.
Will NS affect my future/career?
No, no one outside NS cares about your rank or PES. This only matters if you want to sign on.
Why can't I access NS.SG or the CMPB websites?
They go through scheduled maintenance every weekend.
More
See more on CMPB's website.
Disclaimer
The information here is just for casual reference and is not to be taken as a strict guide that you should follow. The information listed here may also become outdated with time. Please visit the CMPB and the MINDEF websites for the most accurate and up to date information!