The Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) offers international students a fully funded opportunity to pursue a PhD or EngD at top Singaporean universities and research institutes. This bond-free scholarship supports cutting-edge research in a vibrant, multicultural environment. You can also check 19 Fully Funded PhD Opportunities at University of Antwerp.
What is the SINGA Scholarship?
SINGA is a collaboration between the Agency for Science, Technology & Research (A*STAR) and leading Singaporean institutions:
- Nanyang Technological University (NTU)
- National University of Singapore (NUS)
- Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD)
- Singapore Management University (SMU)
- Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT)
It funds international students for a PhD or EngD in fields like Biomedical Sciences, Computing and Information Sciences, Engineering and Technology, or Physical Sciences. Scholars conduct research at A*STAR institutes, NTU, NUS, SUTD, SMU, or SIT, earning a degree from one of these institutions upon completion.
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Degrees Offered by University
| University | Degree(s) Offered |
|---|---|
| NUS | PhD |
| NTU | PhD |
| SMU | PhD, EngD |
| SUTD | PhD, EngD |
| SIT | EngD |
Why Choose SINGA?
SINGA offers more than just funding—it’s a gateway to a global research career in Singapore, a hub for innovation in the Asia Pacific. Here’s why it stands out:
- World-Class Research: Work with renowned researchers in state-of-the-art labs.
- Multicultural Community: Collaborate with diverse international scholars.
- Global Connections: Build networks with industry leaders and SINGA alumni.
- Vibrant Singapore: Study in a dynamic city with rich cultural and economic opportunities.
Who Can Apply?
SINGA is designed for international students passionate about research. Check if you qualify:
Eligibility Criteria
- International Students Only: Singaporeans, Singapore Permanent Residents, or international students who studied in Singapore tertiary institutions are not eligible.
- Academic Background: Bachelor’s degree required; a master’s degree is a plus but not mandatory.
- Strong Academic Record: Excellent grades and a passion for research are key.
- English Proficiency: Good written and spoken English skills. IELTS/TOEFL scores are optional but may be requested by universities later.
- Research Fields: Must align with Biomedical Sciences, Computing and Information Sciences, Engineering and Technology, or Physical Sciences.
- GRE Scores: Required only for NUS projects or supervisors; optional for others.
Note: A*STAR may add additional criteria based on scholarship policies, which can change without notice. There’s no age limit, and mature applicants with relevant experience are welcome.
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What Does SINGA Cover?
SINGA supports up to 4 years of PhD or EngD studies with generous benefits:
Scholarship Benefits
- Full Tuition Fees: Completely covered.
- Monthly Stipend: S$2,700, increasing to S$3,200 after passing the Qualifying Examination.
- One-Time Airfare Grant: Up to S$1,500 for travel to Singapore.
- One-Time Settling-In Allowance: S$1,000 to help you settle.
- Research Access: Work in advanced labs at A*STAR, NTU, NUS, SUTD, SMU, or SIT.
Note: On-campus accommodation is prioritized for first-year students. The stipend rates apply to awardees starting from January 2024, with periodic reviews.
How to Apply for SINGA
The application process is online and straightforward. Follow these steps:
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Application Process
- Explore Research Projects: Browse projects in A*STAR, NTU, NUS, SMU, SUTD, or SIT. Select up to three projects/supervisors.
- Prepare Documents (all in English):
- Valid passport
- Recent passport-sized photo (.jpeg/.png)
- Bachelor’s and/or master’s transcripts (translated if needed)
- Degree certificates or a university letter if the degree is not yet conferred
- Two recommendation reports (submitted online by referees)
- Optional: GRE, IELTS, TOEFL, SAT, or GATE scores (if required by the university)
- Apply Online: Register on the SINGA Application Portal and select “Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA).”
- Complete and Submit: Fill out the form, upload documents, and indicate your supervisor choices. Submit early to allow referees time to upload recommendations (they have 7 days post-submission).
- Await Results: Only shortlisted candidates are contacted within 12 weeks for interviews (in-person or virtual).
Application Tips
- No Hard Copies: Submit all documents online; do not mail anything to the SINGA office.
- Accuracy Matters: Double-check all information in the portal for verification.
- Prepare Essays: Draft essays offline to avoid errors when submitting.
- Early Submission: Apply at least two weeks before the deadline for referee reports.
Worth reading: 20 Fully-Funded PhD Scholarships at Uppsala University, Sweden
Key Deadlines
- August 2026 Intake: December 1, 2025 (23:59 GMT +8, Singapore time).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my family?
Yes, awardees can bring their spouse and children under 17 on a Social Visit Pass. However, SINGA does not cover dependent expenses.
Is a master’s degree required?
No, a bachelor’s degree is sufficient. A master’s can strengthen your application but isn’t mandatory.
See also: Seoul National University Graduate Scholarships 2026
Are English tests mandatory?
No, but universities may request IELTS/TOEFL scores later. English proficiency is assessed during interviews.
What happens after applying?
Shortlisted candidates are contacted within 12 weeks for interviews. Final selections depend on academic records, research potential, and interview performance.
Ready to Apply?
Take your research career to new heights with SINGA! Apply now via the SINGA Application Portal. For more details, contact [email protected]
