The Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) is a fully funded scholarship for international students who want to pursue PhD or Engineering Doctorate (EngD) degrees in Singapore. It is a collaboration between A*STAR and Singapore’s top universities, including NTU, NUS, SMU, SUTD, and SIT.
This scholarship offers excellent students with strong academic records the chance to do research in the science and engineering fields. You can work with world-class professors and researchers at leading institutions while living in one of Asia’s fastest-growing economic hubs.
SINGA supports research in biomedical sciences, computing, engineering, physical sciences, and more. It encourages students to join a diverse and vibrant research community that helps build global connections.
The scholarship covers tuition fees, a monthly stipend, airfare, and a settling-in allowance. The stipend increases after passing a qualifying exam. This award is bond-free, meaning you are free to work anywhere after graduation.
Quick Overview of Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) 2026
- Host Country: Singapore
- Host Institutions: A*STAR, NTU, NUS, SMU, SUTD, SIT
- Degree Offered: PhD or EngD (Engineering Doctorate)
- Application Deadline: 1 December 2025 (for August 2026 intake)
- Programs: Science and Engineering research fields
- Value: Full tuition, monthly stipend S$2,700 (increasing to S$3,200 after Qualifying Exam), airfare grant, settling-in allowance
- Eligibility: International students with excellent academics, not Singapore citizens or permanent residents, and strong research interest
Perks of the Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students
- Full tuition fees covered for up to 4 years of PhD or EngD study
- Monthly stipend starting at S$2,700, increasing to S$3,200 after the qualifying exam
- One-time settling-in allowance of S$1,000 for new students
- One-time airfare grant of up to S$1,500 to help with travel costs
- Opportunity to work in state-of-the-art labs and facilities
- Support from world-class researchers and supervisors
- Access to a multicultural and diverse research community
- No bond or work obligation after graduation
Benefits of the SINGA PhD Scholarships
- Boost your research career by working in a leading global research hub
- Collaborate with top scientists and engineers from around the world
- Gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge science and technology
- Build a strong professional network for your future career
- Live in a safe, modern, and vibrant city with excellent living standards
- Benefit from a bond-free scholarship allowing freedom after graduation
- Develop skills that can help you become a leader in science and technology
- Access to university support and resources for your academic and personal growth
Exclusions of Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)
- The scholarship does not cover family members or dependents
- It does not fund degrees outside science and engineering (no MBAs or humanities)
- You must not have been a Singapore citizen or permanent resident, or studied previously in Singapore
- Additional living costs beyond the stipend are your responsibility
- Some universities may request GRE or English test scores separately for admission
Eligibility Criteria for the Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) 2026
- Must be an international student (non-Singapore citizen or PR)
- Excellent academic record at undergraduate and/or master’s level
- Strong interest in research leading to a PhD or EngD in science or engineering
- Good command of English (IELTS/TOEFL/GRE scores optional but recommended)
- Not previously studied at Singapore tertiary institutions
- Able to start PhD or EngD studies in the August 2026 intake
- Two academic recommendation letters are required
- Valid passport and academic transcripts must be submitted
Important Dates for Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)
- Application Opens: 2 June 2025
- Application Deadline: 1 December 2025 (2359hrs GMT +8 Singapore Time)
- Shortlist Notification: Approximately 12 weeks after the deadline
- PhD Program Start: August 2026
How to Apply to Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)
- Visit the official application portal: SINGA Application Portal
- Prepare your documents: passport, photo, academic transcripts, degree certificates, recommendation letters
- Search and select your preferred research projects and supervisors at A*STAR or partner universities
- Complete and submit the online application before the deadline
- Ensure your referees submit recommendation letters online on time
- Wait for the shortlist results and follow further instructions if selected
Required Documents for the Fully Funded Doctoral Scholarships
- Valid passport copy
- Recent passport-sized photo (.jpeg or .png)
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s, if any) with English translations if applicable
- Degree certificates or provisional certificates with university letters for ongoing studies
- Two academic recommendation letters (submitted online by referees)
- Optional: GRE, IELTS, TOEFL, SAT, or GATE scores (may be requested by universities)
⏳ Apply Now for the Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) 2024
