Singapore is one of the most popular destinations for international students looking to pursue higher education. The city-state offers world-class universities, a thriving multicultural environment, and countless career opportunities. However, studying abroad can come with a significant financial burden. Fortunately, Singapore offers a range of scholarships specifically designed to help international students manage the cost of tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top 5 scholarships available for international students in Singapore, offering you the chance to focus on your studies without the stress of finances.
- Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)
The Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) is one of the most prestigious scholarships for postgraduate students. It is designed to support students who wish to pursue a PhD at one of Singapore’s leading research institutions, such as the National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), or the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD).
What the Scholarship Covers:
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Monthly stipend to cover living expenses (approximately SGD 2,000–2,500)
- One-time airfare allowance
- Settling-in allowance
Who Can Apply:
International students from around the world who have completed or are in the final year of their undergraduate studies, or those who already have a master’s degree. The scholarship is highly competitive, but it offers excellent opportunities to conduct research in a diverse and cutting-edge environment.
How to Apply:
You can apply online through the official SINGA website. The application requires submission of academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and proof of English proficiency. Applicants are also expected to have a strong academic background and research interest.
- ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship
If you are an undergraduate student from an ASEAN country, the ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity. This scholarship is offered by the National University of Singapore (NUS) and is designed to attract the best students from the ASEAN region to pursue their undergraduate degrees in Singapore.
What the Scholarship Covers:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Annual living allowance of SGD 6,000
- Settling-in allowance
- A one-time airfare allowance
Who Can Apply:
Students from ASEAN countries (excluding Singapore) who are applying for undergraduate programs at NUS. The scholarship is awarded based on academic excellence and leadership potential, making it an ideal opportunity for students who excel in both their studies and extracurricular activities.
How to Apply:
The application for the ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship is available on the NUS admissions portal. Make sure you submit your application by the deadline and include your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and relevant documents to demonstrate your extracurricular achievements.
- Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship
The Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship is named after Singapore’s founding father and is one of the most prestigious awards for students in Singapore. This scholarship aims to attract outstanding international students who are pursuing postgraduate studies at the National University of Singapore (NUS) or Nanyang Technological University (NTU).
What the Scholarship Covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Living allowance for the duration of the course
- Return airfare allowance
- Additional funding for research activities or conferences
Who Can Apply:
The scholarship is open to international students who are applying for a Master’s or PhD degree in Singapore, with a focus on leadership in the public, private, or non-profit sectors. Ideal applicants are those with a demonstrated record of academic excellence, leadership abilities, and a strong interest in contributing to global development.
How to Apply:
Applicants can apply through the NUS or NTU website when applying for admission. Be prepared to submit detailed academic records, a compelling personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
- Nanyang Scholarships
The Nanyang Scholarships are offered by Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and are designed to help international students pursue undergraduate studies at one of Singapore’s top universities. This scholarship is aimed at high-achieving students who have a proven track record of academic excellence and leadership skills.
What the Scholarship Covers:
- Full tuition fees
- A monthly allowance to cover living expenses
- A one-time allowance for settling-in costs
- Opportunities for leadership training and internships
Who Can Apply:
International students who have been accepted into NTU’s undergraduate programs can apply for this scholarship. It is highly competitive and seeks students who excel academically and demonstrate leadership potential.
How to Apply:
The Nanyang Scholarship is automatically considered for applicants who apply for undergraduate programs at NTU. However, students are encouraged to submit additional supporting documents to showcase their leadership potential and academic achievements.
- The Singapore Government Scholarship (SGS)
The Singapore Government Scholarship (SGS) is an excellent scholarship option for international students who wish to pursue a postgraduate degree (Master’s or PhD) in Singapore. It is offered by the Singapore Ministry of Education (MOE) and is aimed at attracting the best and brightest international students to study in Singapore.
What the Scholarship Covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly stipend for living expenses
- One-time airfare allowance
- Medical insurance
Who Can Apply:
This scholarship is open to international students from various countries, especially those from developing nations, who are applying for full-time graduate programs at Singapore’s universities. The scholarship is awarded based on academic merit and the applicant’s potential for contributing to their field of study.
How to Apply:
Applications are made through the Ministry of Education’s official website. You will need to submit academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Additionally, applicants are required to meet the eligibility criteria set by the scholarship committee.
Conclusion
Studying abroad in Singapore offers many exciting opportunities, and securing a scholarship can significantly reduce the financial burden of your education. Whether you’re pursuing an undergraduate, postgraduate, or PhD program, there are plenty of scholarships available for international students to help you achieve your academic goals.
By taking the time to apply for these scholarships and preparing your application thoroughly, you’ll increase your chances of receiving financial assistance while studying in one of Asia’s most dynamic and progressive countries.
So, start preparing your application today and take a step closer to fulfilling your dream of studying abroad in Singapore. With the right scholarship, you can focus more on your studies and less on finances, making the most of your international experience.
