Scholarships in Singapore

Singapore offers a rich tapestry of scholarship opportunities designed to cater to a wide array of local and international students. These scholarships span various educational levels, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and even vocational training programs, ensuring that learners at different academic journeys can find suitable financial support.

In addition to university-specific scholarships, the Singapore government and various organizations also provide funding opportunities for international students. Programs like the Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) and the ASEAN Scholarships are designed to foster regional and global collaboration in education, encouraging students from neighboring countries and beyond to pursue their studies in Singapore.

Documents Required to Apply for Scholarships in Singapore

When applying for scholarships in Singapore, it is crucial to prepare a comprehensive set of documents that showcase qualifications, achievements, and suitability for the scholarship. Here’s a list of essential documentation typically required for scholarship applications in Singapore:

• Completed Application Form
• Personal Statement/ Motivation Letter
• Official Transcripts
• GCE O-Level/A-Level Results
• Detailed CV/Resume
• Reference Letters
• Proof of Citizenship or Residency
• Financial Statements
• Standardized Test Scores
• Portfolio (if applicable)

Popular Scholarships in Singapore

Scholarship	Provided by	Award Amount
Singapore International Graduate Award	Agency for Science, Technology & Research (A*STAR), the Nanyang Technological University (NTU), the National University of Singapore (NUS), the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), the Singapore Management University (SMU), and the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT)	Tuition fee for PhD or EngD studies; monthly stipend of S$2,700 to $3,200
Commonwealth Scholarship for Integrated Science	National University of Singapore	Full tuition fee
ASEAN Foundation Scholarships	ASEAN Foundation	Full coverage of subsidized tuition fees
SIA Youth Scholarship	Ministry of Education	$2,400 annually
INSEAD Syngenta Endowed Scholarship for Emerging Country Leadership	INSEAD	EUR 22,500
President’s Graduate Fellowship	National University of Singapore	$3,400 to $4,500

Singapore International Graduate Award

The Singapore International Graduate Award is available to international students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance at the undergraduate and/or master's level, as well as a keen interest in pursuing research that culminates in a doctorate (PhD) or an EngD in the fields of Science and Engineering at a university in Singapore. Eligible candidates can undertake their PhD or EngD training at various esteemed institutions, including A*STAR research institutes, NTU, NUS, SUTD, SMU, or SIT. The award supports doctoral studies in areas such as Biomedical Sciences, Computing and Information Sciences, Engineering and Technology, and Physical Sciences. In addition to other advantages, it provides a one-time airfare grant of up to S$1,500 and a one-time settling-in allowance of S$1,000.

Commonwealth Scholarship for Integrated Science

The Commonwealth Scholarship for Integrated Science is offered by the National University of Singapore to students from Commonwealth nations. Recipients of this scholarship can enroll in any PhD or Master's (Research) program. To be eligible, candidates must possess an undergraduate degree with a minimum classification of Second Class Honours (Upper Division), Honors (Distinction), or an equivalent qualification. The standard duration of the award is four years for PhD candidates and two years for Master's (Research) students. Additionally, scholars receive a monthly stipend ranging from S$2,500 to S$2,700. PhD scholars may qualify for an extra stipend of up to S$500 per month upon successful completion of the PhD Qualifying Examination.

ASEAN Foundation Scholarships

The ASEAN Foundation offers scholarships specifically for Singapore Permanent Residents or citizens from ASEAN member countries, excluding Singapore. Recipients of these scholarships must enroll in a full-time undergraduate degree program that leads to a first degree, except the Renaissance Engineering Programme. Eligible candidates must demonstrate exceptional academic performance, evidenced by qualifications such as the Singapore-Cambridge GCE 'A' level, a diploma from a Singapore polytechnic, the NUS High School Diploma, the International Baccalaureate Diploma, or equivalent Year 12 qualifications. The scholarship benefits include comprehensive coverage of subsidized tuition fees, an annual living allowance of S$5,800, an accommodation allowance of S$3,000 per academic year, and a one-time computer allowance of S$1,750.

SIA Youth Scholarship

The SIA Youth Scholarship, offered by the Ministry of Education in Singapore, is a two-year pre-university program available at select junior colleges in Singapore. Recipients of the scholarship receive an annual allowance of 2,400 Singapore dollars, along with accommodation support and an additional 500 dollars to assist with their transition to life in Singapore. Eligible applicants must have been born between 1992 and 1994 and must demonstrate an exceptional academic record, achieving a minimum average of 85% in their Standard 10 State or National examinations, with English as their primary language.

INSEAD Syngenta Endowed Scholarship for Emerging Country Leadership

The Syngenta Endowed Scholarship(s) for Emerging Country Leadership, provided by INSEAD, is aimed at candidates who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, strong business and financial management potential, and notable leadership abilities. Eligible candidates must be nationals of an emerging economy and have dedicated a significant portion of their lives to education and/or professional experiences in the developing world. Relevant industry experience will be regarded as an advantage.

President’s Graduate Fellowship

The President’s Graduate Fellowship is available to both domestic and international students who are pursuing a PhD. Recipients of this scholarship can enroll in any graduate program of their choice. Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS. The stipend for Singaporean citizens is between SGD 4,300 and SGD 4,500, while Singaporean Permanent Residents receive between SGD 3,900 and SGD 4,100. International students are offered a stipend ranging from SGD 3,400 to SGD 3,600. Additionally, scholars are granted a one-time research allowance after successfully passing the PhD Qualifying Examination in their second year of study.

Steps to Apply for Scholarships in Singapore

Applying for scholarships in Singapore can be a competitive and detailed process. Here’s a comprehensive guide outlining the typical procedures involved:

• Research Available Scholarships: Look for government scholarships, university-specific scholarships, private organization scholarships, and corporate scholarships. Check the eligibility requirements for each scholarship, including academic qualifications, nationality, and field of study. Note the deadlines for each scholarship to ensure timely submission.
• Complete the Application Form: Depending on the scholarship, fill out the application form online or print and complete a paper version. Ensure all information is accurate and presented. Double-check for any errors or omissions.
• Submit the Application: Adhere to the specific submission guidelines provided by the scholarship provider, including format and method of submission (online, mail, etc.). Retain copies of all submitted documents for the records.
• Prepare for Interviews (if applicable): Some scholarships may require an interview. Prepare by researching common interview questions and practicing responses. If an interview is required, dress professionally to make a good impression.
• Follow Up: If possible, confirm that the application has been received by the scholarship provider. After the selection process, candidates may follow up to inquire about the status of their application if they haven’t received a response by the expected date.