Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore
Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore are among the most sought-after financial awards in Asia, offering a gateway to some of the world’s highest-ranked universities.
As a global hub for innovation, technology, and finance, Singapore provides a unique academic environment where East meets West, and finding the right funding can make this dream a reality for many.
Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore cater to a wide range of academic levels, from undergraduate degrees to doctoral research.
Whether you are aiming for the National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), or specialized institutions like the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), there is a diverse landscape of government-funded, university-specific, and private scholarships designed to attract the world’s brightest minds to this vibrant city-state.
Why Study in Singapore?
To truly understand the value of Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore, one must look at the exceptional environment that these awards provide access to.
Singapore is not merely a destination for a degree; it is a meticulously designed ecosystem where academic rigor, economic vitality, and social harmony intersect.
For an international student, the “Lion City” represents a launching pad into the global economy, backed by a government that views education as its most precious natural resource.
Below, we expand on the core pillars that make Singapore an unrivaled choice for higher education.
A Global Benchmark for Academic Excellence
Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore grant entry into an education system that is consistently ranked among the best in the world.
As of 2026, institutions like the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) maintain their positions in the top tier of global university rankings, often outperforming century-old Western counterparts.
The pedagogical approach in Singapore combines the traditional discipline of Asian education with a modern emphasis on critical thinking and research innovation. This means that a student pursuing a STEM or business degree is not just learning theory but is engaging with a curriculum that is constantly updated in consultation with industry leaders.
The academic environment is high-pressure but high-reward, ensuring that graduates are intellectually resilient and prepared for the complexities of the modern workforce.
A Strategic Gateway to Global Career Opportunities
One of the most compelling reasons to pursue Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore is the seamless transition from the classroom to the boardroom. Singapore serves as the regional headquarters for thousands of multinational corporations (MNCs) and is a thriving hub for startups and venture capital.
The government’s “SkillsFuture” initiative and close collaboration between universities and industries mean that internships are often baked into the curriculum.
In 2026, sectors such as Digital Finance, Green Energy, and AI Research are seeing a massive demand for talent. Because the city-state is a central node in the global supply chain, students are exposed to international business practices and networking opportunities that are simply unavailable in more isolated academic centers.
An Unmatched Standard of Safety and Quality of Life
For many parents and students, the primary concern when moving abroad is security; here, Singapore stands in a league of its own. It is frequently cited as one of the safest cities globally, with a transparent legal system and a society built on the rule of law.
This safety extends beyond low crime rates to include “psychological safety”, the ability to walk home late from a library session or travel across the island via a world-class public transport system without a second thought.
The urban planning is futuristic, featuring “City in a Garden” designs that integrate lush greenery with skyscrapers. This high quality of life ensures that students can focus entirely on their studies and personal growth rather than navigating the logistical hurdles often found in other major global cities.
A Vibrant Multicultural Melting Pot
Singapore is a living laboratory of social cohesion, making it a welcoming home for anyone holding Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore.
The population is a harmonious blend of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Eurasian heritages, complemented by a large expatriate community from every corner of the globe.
For an international student, this means two things: first, you will never feel like a complete “outsider” because diversity is the national norm; second, you will develop a “global mindset” by default.
You will celebrate Deepavali, Chinese New Year, and Hari Raya within the same academic year, gaining a nuanced understanding of different cultures that is essential for any international career. This cultural fluency is a “soft skill” that employers increasingly value in a globalized world.
Bilingualism and Global Communication
While Singapore is deeply rooted in Asian values, English is the primary medium of instruction and the language of business and administration.
This removes the language barrier for many international students while providing a unique opportunity to pick up or polish a second language, such as Mandarin, Malay, or Tamil.
Being in an environment where English is spoken with high proficiency alongside other major Asian languages gives students a competitive edge.
It allows you to navigate Western corporate structures while remaining culturally and linguistically connected to the rising economies of Asia. This linguistic bridge is a core component of the Singaporean identity and a significant advantage for those looking to work in international relations or global trade.
Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore
To secure a prestigious education in the “Lion City,” understanding the full spectrum of Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore is essential. The financial landscape is diverse, ranging from government-backed master’s programs to specialized undergraduate awards for specific regions.
Below are distinct Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore, expanded with details on their scope and benefits.
1. Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)
The SINGA is arguably the most famous of all Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore for those pursuing research.
It is a massive collaboration between the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), the National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), and the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD). This award is specifically for students aiming for a PhD in Science, Computing, or Engineering.
It covers four years of study, providing a monthly stipend that increases after you pass your qualifying exams, plus full tuition fees, a one-time airfare grant, and a settling-in allowance. Because it is bond-free, it is highly competitive and attracts the top 1% of research talent globally.
2. ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship (AUS)
Specifically designed to foster regional ties, these Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore are open to citizens of ASEAN member countries (excluding Singapore).
Most autonomous universities, including NUS and NTU, offer this award to freshmen with exceptional high school results. The scholarship covers full tuition fees and provides an annual living allowance of approximately $5,800, along with accommodation and computer allowances.
A key feature of this scholarship is the requirement to take up the MOE Tuition Grant, which binds the student to work in a Singapore-registered company for three years post-graduation, effectively bridging the gap between education and career.
3. Dr. Goh Keng Swee (GKS) Scholarship
The GKS Scholarship is a private-sector initiative administered by the Association of Banks in Singapore (ABS). These Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore are awarded to outstanding individuals from 15 Asia-Pacific economies to pursue undergraduate studies.
Starting in 2026, the scholarship is primarily hosted at the National University of Singapore (NUS). It is a highly prestigious award named after Singapore’s former Deputy Prime Minister and covers tuition, airfare, and a significant annual living allowance.
Recipients are expected to demonstrate strong leadership qualities and are bonded to work for a Singapore-based company for three years after their studies.
4. Lee Kong Chian Scholars’ Programme (SMU)
At Singapore Management University (SMU), the Lee Kong Chian Scholars’ Programme represents one of the most holistic Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore.
Funded by the Lee Foundation, it offers a full four-year tuition fee waiver and a generous global opportunities grant of $16,000. This grant can be used for overseas exchange programs, study missions, or international community service.
It is designed for “all-rounder” students who excel not just in academics but also in leadership and communication. The program is bond-free (though the MOE Tuition Grant bond still applies for non-citizens).
5. Science & Technology (S&T) Undergraduate Scholarship
The S&T Scholarship is one of the targeted Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore aimed at Asian citizens.
It is offered by NUS, NTU, and SMU for students enrolling in computing, engineering, or science-related courses. The scholarship is a “full-ride,” covering tuition fees, a living allowance, and a settling-in grant.
Like many undergraduate awards in the country, it requires the recipient to contribute back to the economy by working in Singapore for three years upon graduation, making it a perfect choice for those looking to start a career in Asia’s tech hub.
6. SUTD Global Excellence Scholarship
For students interested in the intersection of design and technology, the SUTD Global Excellence Scholarship is a premier option among Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore. It is open to all nationalities and offers full tuition coverage.
A unique perk of this scholarship is the “Global Excellence Grant” of $9,000, which supports overseas experiences such as the Global Exchange Program.
Additionally, it offers a pathway to a subsidized postgraduate degree, reflecting SUTD’s commitment to long-term intellectual growth and innovation in the engineering and architecture fields.
7. NUS International Undergraduate Scholarship
This is a merit-based award designed specifically for high-achieving international applicants to the National University of Singapore. Unlike some regional awards, these Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore are open to students from any country.
It provides a full tuition fee waiver (after the MOE grant) and an annual living allowance. It is particularly competitive as it looks for students who have not only achieved stellar grades in their home countries but have also demonstrated significant impact through co-curricular activities or social initiatives.
8. Nanyang Scholarship (NTU)
The Nanyang Scholarship is NTU’s flagship award for undergraduate freshmen. As one of the most sought-after Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore, it provides comprehensive funding, including tuition fees, a living allowance, a book allowance, and a travel grant for overseas programs.
The scholarship also covers the priority for on-campus accommodation during the first year. It is a bond-free award from the university’s perspective, though international students still need to fulfill the standard three-year work bond associated with the government tuition grant.
9. A*STAR International Fellowship (AIF)
Moving into the post-doctoral realm, the AIF is one of the critical Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore for advanced researchers.
This fellowship supports two years of post-doctoral training at leading overseas laboratories, but it is unique because the recipient must return to Singapore to serve a three-year bond at an A*STAR Research Institute.
It is a strategic award for those who want to build a high-level research career within Singapore’s government-linked scientific infrastructure, providing full sustenance and travel allowances.
10. EDB Scholarships (Economic Development Board)
The Economic Development Board offers specialized Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore who are interested in the economic planning and industrial development of the nation. These awards are often “mid-term,” meaning you can apply while already pursuing your degree.
They are highly professionalized, offering recipients a direct look into how Singapore maintains its status as a global business capital. Scholars often undergo internships within the EDB, gaining a massive head start in the corporate and policy-making world.
11. SIA-MENDAKI/SINDA Undergraduate Scholarships
These are collaborative Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore offered by Singapore Airlines in partnership with self-help groups like MENDAKI and SINDA.
While they focus on specific community backgrounds, they are often open to international students from those backgrounds who are studying in Singapore.
They cover tuition and provide a stipend, with the added prestige of being associated with one of the world’s leading airlines. It is an excellent example of corporate-led social responsibility in the Singaporean education sector.
12. CIMB ASEAN Scholarship
The CIMB ASEAN Scholarship is a regional award that provides Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore (and other ASEAN nations). This is a career-focused scholarship that targets students with a passion for the financial services sector.
Beyond full tuition and living expenses, CIMB provides mentors and internship placements, ensuring that by the time you graduate, you are fully equipped to work in a leading regional bank. It is perfect for those aiming for a high-flying career in Singapore’s financial district.
13. Jardine Foundation Scholarships
The Jardine Foundation offers limited but highly prestigious Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore for those from specific Asia-Pacific regions (such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam).
While many Jardine scholarships fund study in the UK, they also support students at the National University of Singapore. The foundation looks for “future leaders” who are committed to giving back to their communities. The coverage is exhaustive, including all fees, airfare, and a generous stipend.
14. President’s Graduate Fellowship (SUTD/NUS/NTU)
This is an elite tier of Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore awarded to PhD candidates who show exceptional promise in research.
Available at all major universities, the President’s Graduate Fellowship offers a higher stipend than the standard research scholarship and is often awarded to the top-ranked PhD applicants in each intake.
It is a mark of high academic distinction and often comes with additional research grants to help the student attend international conferences or purchase specialized equipment.
15. Singapore-Industry Scholarship (SgIS)
The SgIS is a unique partnership between the Singapore government and leading private sector companies. These Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore are designed to groom future leaders for strategic industries such as healthcare, electronics, and maritime.
Students are “sponsored” by a specific company, such as Keppel or PSA, and are bonded to work for that company after graduation. It offers a guaranteed career path and a comprehensive development program, making it one of the most practical financial awards available.
Eligibility Criteria and Application Requirements
To secure one of the many Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore, you must navigate a high-bar selection process.
The Singaporean education system is designed to identify “total talent”, individuals who possess not only academic brilliance but also the character and leadership potential to contribute to the nation’s growth.
Below is an extensive breakdown of the eligibility criteria and the rigorous application requirements for the 2026 academic cycle.
Core Academic Excellence and Grade Standards
The bedrock of all Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore is a stellar academic record. For undergraduate applicants, this typically means being in the top 5–10% of your graduating high school class.
Universities like NUS and NTU look for perfect or near-perfect scores in standardized examinations such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) (usually 42 points and above), 3 to 4 A* grades in GCE A-Levels, or equivalent top-tier results in national exams (e.g., SAT, ACT, or High School Diplomas).
For postgraduate awards like SINGA, a “First Class Honors” or its equivalent is practically a prerequisite. The selection committee doesn’t just look at the final grade; they scrutinize the consistency of your performance across all years of study to ensure you can handle the rigorous Singaporean curriculum.
Holistic Profiles: Beyond the Classroom (CCAs)
Singaporean institutions place a heavy emphasis on Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs). To be eligible for top Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore, you must demonstrate that you are a well-rounded individual.
This includes active participation in sports, the arts, debate, or volunteer work. However, simple participation is rarely enough; the committees look for “Level of Achievement” and “Position Held.” Did you captain your football team? Did you win a national-level coding competition? Did you found a non-profit?
These markers of initiative and social responsibility are what separate a “student” from a “scholar” in the eyes of the admissions board.
Proven Leadership Qualities and Potential
Leadership is a non-negotiable criterion for almost all Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore. The goal of these programs is to cultivate the next generation of global industry leaders and policymakers.
You will be expected to provide evidence of leadership roles in your school or community. In the application forms, you often have to describe specific instances where you led a team, resolved a conflict, or implemented a new project.
For 2026, the focus has shifted slightly toward “Adaptive Leadership”, the ability to navigate change and innovation, making it essential to highlight how you have adapted to new challenges in your own life.
English Language Proficiency Requirements
Since English is the medium of instruction and business in Singapore, proficiency is mandatory. For applicants from non-English speaking backgrounds, Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore require valid scores from recognized tests.
Typically, an IELTS score of 7.0 (with no sub-score below 6.5) or a TOEFL iBT score of 93–100 is required. Some research-based scholarships like SINGA may waive this if your entire previous degree was taught in English, but it remains a critical hurdle for many.
You must ensure your test results are valid (usually within 2 years of the application date) and sent directly to the university through the official testing agency.
The Compelling Personal Statement and Essays
The personal statement is perhaps the most vital “soft” requirement for Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore.
For 2026, many universities like NUS have moved toward specific short-answer questions that ask you to elaborate on core values such as Innovation, Resilience, and Integrity. Your essay should not just repeat your CV; it should tell a story of “Why Singapore?” and “How will I use this scholarship to impact the world?”
The word limits are often strict (e.g., 250 to 500 words), requiring you to be concise, sincere, and persuasive. This is your chance to show the “human” side of your application that grades cannot reflect.
Letters of Recommendation and Appraisals
Reliable academic and professional references are essential for Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore. Usually, two referees (teachers, professors, or employers) must submit an appraisal online.
Unlike some countries where you can see the letter, Singaporean scholarships often use a “Referee Portal” where the teacher answers specific questions about your intellectual capacity, character, and leadership potential.
It is vital to choose referees who know you well enough to give specific examples of your brilliance rather than generic praise. For 2026, ensure your referees are aware of the tight submission deadlines (often only 7 days after you submit your application).
Conclusion
Finding the right Scholarships for International students to Study in Singapore requires diligent research and early preparation, but the rewards are life-changing. Singapore offers an unparalleled education that serves as a springboard for global careers in the 21st century. By aligning your academic strengths with the right funding opportunities, you can join the ranks of international scholars thriving in the Lion City.
