Proficiency Test for IT5001 Course Replacement

IT5001 Software Development Fundamentals is an essential course which introduces the principles of software development, using Python as the programming language. It is a core course for MComp (General Track) and MSc (Digital Financial Technology), and a prerequisite to other required courses such as IT5003 Data Structures and Algorithms.

While we recognize that some students may have prior experience in Python-based software development at work or other settings, it is generally not advisable to seek an exception, as reading IT5001 will help to fill any gaps in your conceptual understanding and prepare you for advanced courses later in the programme.

Nevertheless, to allow better learning experience in merited cases, eligible students are given the option of replacing IT5001 with another essential course. For more information on the alternative courses and programme structure, please refer to information provided by your respective programme offices.

Proficiency Test

An in-person proficiency test will be conducted to assess the eligibility of students who wish to replace IT5001. For avoidance of doubt, students who plan to read IT5001 as prescribed do not need to take this test.

Date and Time: 31 July 2024, 1pm – 4pm
Venue: NUS School of Computing

Details on the venue and other information will be communicated to test participants via email after the registration has closed.

This will be a 2-hour test. A briefing will be conducted at 1pm before the test commences. The briefing is compulsory for all participants to get familiarised with and try out the test platform.

Please be at the venue by 12.45pm and bring a photo ID (e.g., NRIC, passport) for identification.

Self-Diagnostic Assessment

A self-diagnostic assessment is available here to give you an idea of the scope and difficulty level of the proficiency test. You may wish to take this assessment as a mock test, after sufficient preparation, before deciding whether to take the proficiency test.

You may use the solution manual here to check your answers. It is recommended that you do not refer to the solutions before attempting the assessment, so that you can get a fair evaluation.

Important Notes

  • Students who take and pass the proficiency test will automatically be removed from IT5001 course enrolment. As such, you should apply to take the proficiency test only if you are certain that you wish to replace IT5001 in the event that you pass the test.

  • No course Unit is awarded for passing the proficiency test. Passing the test simply allows you to (a) read another essential course in lieu of IT5001 in fulfilling the degree requirements, and (b) read courses carrying IT5001 as a prerequisite.

  • You should be aware that the proficiency test has a higher difficulty level than regular IT5001 course assessments, as it is not advisable to replace IT5001 if your current proficiency level is not sufficient to perform well in the course.

Test Outcome

Test participants will be informed of the outcome by email. Please note that the proficiency test outcomes are final and no appeal will be entertained.

Administrative Fee and Application

A non-refundable administrative fee of S$109 (inclusive of prevailing GST) will be charged when you register to take this proficiency test. Payment details will be communicated to students who have registered for the test.

Please submit your registration here by 22 July 2024, 6pm (Singapore Time). Registrations received after this deadline will not be entertained.

Contact

For queries, please contact it5001pt@comp.nus.edu.sg.