The Singapore International Pre-Graduate Award (SIPGA) is an exciting opportunity for international students to engage in cutting-edge research at A*STAR’s Research Institutes. The paid research program provides short-term research attachments of two to six months for outstanding undergraduate and master’s students, offering them exposure to Singapore’s vibrant scientific ecosystem.
Eligible students pursuing their bachelor’s or master’s degree in Computing and Information Science, Biomedical Science, Physical Science, Engineering, or Technology can apply. This program serves as an excellent gateway for those considering a PhD at A*STAR or Singaporean universities through the Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA).
Awardees will work with world-class researchers and have the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research in an interdisciplinary environment. The program encourages applications from students worldwide and offers a monthly stipend of S$2,000 to support their stay in Singapore.
Quick Overview of Singapore International Pre-Graduate Award (SIPGA)
- Host Country: Singapore
- Host Institution: A*STAR Research Institutes
- Application Deadline: March 31, 2025
- Programs Covered: Research areas include Biomedical Sciences (BMS), Physical Sciences (PS), Computing and Information Sciences (CIT), and Engineering and Technology (E&T)
- Value: Monthly stipend of S$2,000
- Age Limit: No specific age limit
- Eligibility: Open to international undergraduate (3rd or 4th year) and master’s students in STEM fields
Perks of the Singapore Research Program International Students
- Gain hands-on research experience at A*STAR’s world-class research institutes.
- Receive a monthly stipend of S$2,000 for financial support.
- Work on innovative, interdisciplinary projects in a highly stimulating environment.
- Develop valuable research skills and strengthen your academic and professional profile.
- Build connections with top scientists and researchers in Singapore.
- Explore opportunities for a fully funded PhD through SINGA after the attachment.
Benefits of the Singapore International Pre-Graduate Award (SIPGA)
- Develop key research skills in a world-class environment.
- Improve job prospects in academia and research institutions worldwide.
- Receive a monthly stipend of S$2,000 for the duration of your attachment.
- Work with internationally recognized researchers and expand your professional connections.
- Opportunity to apply for the Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) for further studies.
- Experience life in Singapore, one of Asia’s leading innovation hubs.
Eligibility Criteria of the Paid Research Program in Singapore (SIPGA)
- Open to international undergraduate (3rd and 4th year) and master’s students from overseas universities.
- Must be enrolled in STEM courses such as Computing, Biomedical Science, Physical Science, Engineering, or Technology.
- Must have obtained or be on track to obtain at least a Second-Class (Upper) Honours or equivalent in their bachelor’s degree.
- Students must remain matriculated in their home university during the attachment.
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- Must have a strong interest in a research career.
Important Dates of the Scholarships for Undergraduate and Masters Researchers
- Application Period: January 1, 2025 – March 31, 2025
- Attachment Start Dates: September – December 2025
- Selection Outcome: May 2025
How to Apply to the Singapore International Pre-Graduate Award (SIPGA)
- Download the list of SIPGA projects and identify up to three projects of interest.
- Collect the necessary documents, including a copy of your passport, academic transcripts, and an updated CV.
- Complete and submit your application at Apply Here before the deadline.
- Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for an interview with A*STAR researchers.
- Successful applicants will be notified via email.
Required Documents for SIPGA 2025
- A valid passport copy (if unavailable, submit proof of application/renewal).
- Complete academic transcripts from bachelor’s or master’s degrees (translated into English if necessary).
- Updated Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Accommodation and Visa Requirements for the STEM Scholarships in Singapore
- Awardees must apply for a Training Employment Pass (TEP) as a visa for their stay in Singapore.
- Accommodation options include hostels, co-living spaces, HDB flats, condominiums, and landed houses. Prices range from S$600 to S$2,000 per month, depending on the type of housing.
Additional Information
- No additional allowances for airfare are provided.
- Shortlisted applicants may be required to provide additional documents based on scholarship policies.
- After completing the attachment, awardees must submit an online SIPGA Attachment Report.
For further inquiries, visit the official A*Star website.
