Aljawaz Your guide to study abroad In today’s competitive world, funding your higher education abroad can be a significant challenge. And scholarships are the most common way for international students to pursue academic studies without the burden of hefty tuition fees. Singapore has become a favorite among international students. And to help students finance a higher living and education cost, several institutions in the country offer scholarships. And this is what this guide is about: a comprehensive review of the scholarships for international students in Singapore.
Table of Contents
Can international students get scholarships in Singapore?
Singapore offers scholarships to both local and international students, expanding access to its renowned education system. As a matter of fact, several scholarships in Singapore are designed to attract and support exceptional international students. This contributes to the country’s reputation as an educational hub.
1. Government Scholarships in Singapore
The Singaporean government offers a range of scholarships to international students based on academic merit, leadership potential, and specific criteria related to the chosen field of study. These scholarships are highly competitive and cover tuition fees, living expenses, and sometimes even travel costs. Moreover, they cover a wide range of disciplines and academic levels, from undergraduate to postgraduate studies.
Commonwealth Scholarships
These scholarships are for students from Commonwealth countries who wish to study at Singaporean universities. They offer funding for masters or PhD programs in participating universities in Singapore and in New Zealand. And each scholarship covers the recipient’s tuition fees, travel expenses and other living allowances.
Moreover, these scholarships are financed by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). Eligibility criteria include for the applicant to have bachelor’s degree with a minimum score of 60% in social science and 65% in science subjects. Candidates also must not be registered at another master’s program of any other university and should be less than 40 years old.
Asian Development Bank – Japan Scholarship for Developing Countries
This is a scholarship opportunity for qualified students from the developing countries that are members of the ADB, to undertake postgraduate studies in Singapore. The recipients are to pursue studies in development related fields such as business, economics, management, science and technology. And participating academics are from ADB borrowing member countries in the Asian and Pacific region.
To be eligible, apart from their country of origin, applicants must be less than 35 years old at the time of application. They should also have a bachelor’s degree. And at the end of their studies, graduates are to contribute to the social and economic development of their home countries. Lastly, the amount of the scholarship pays the student’s tuition fees, study material, medical insurance, travel expenses. It also includes a monthly living allowance and a stipend for research and thesis preparation.
Singapore’s Ministry of Education’s Tuition Grant Scheme
This program is not a scholarship per se, but it’s a government funding option available to both local and international students in Singapore. Once they have applied and got admission at a program in a Singaporean university, students can apply for this grant. And the program covers the beneficiary’s tuition fees for the duration of their studies.
Students of medicine and dentistry would then get funding for five to six years. And since this is a grant, the counterpart would be for the student to work for a Singapore-registered company for at least 3 years after the completion of their studies. The purpose is for the government of Singapore to benefit from the skills of those it educates.
Check the website of the Ministry of Education’s website for more details.
2. Singapore University Scholarships for international students
Singaporean universities take pride in attracting exceptional students and offer scholarships to recognize and reward their achievements. These scholarships vary in terms of eligibility criteria, benefits, and application processes.
National University of Singapore (NUS) Scholarships for International Students
NUS offers a range of scholarships for outstanding international students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. At undergraduate level, freshmen international students can apply for 2 types of scholarships by invitation through their university application.
These are the ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship (AUS) and the Science and Technology (S&T) Undergraduate scholarship. The AUS is for students from the ASEAN member countries, excluding Singapore, while the S&T scholarship is for exceptional Asian non-Singaporean students. Both programs cover the recipient’s tuition fees along with a certain amount of living, settling and computer allowance.
For students at NUS College, there is also the NUS College International Scholarship. This financial aid is open to any students of NUS College, and covers the beneficiary’s subsidized tuition fees. Along the tuition waiver come SGD 3,000 annual accommodation stipend along with an annual living allowance and a computer allowance. Candidates can apply for this scholarship by invitation only.
NTU Scholarships: Nanyang Undergraduate Scholarship to study in Singapore
NTU provides scholarships to international students based on academic excellence and leadership potential. One of the most famous among them is the Nanyang Scholarship, for students pursuing undergraduate studies at NTU. Since it’s a merit-based funding, only students who excel in academics and leadership qualities and have outstanding CCA records are eligible to move forward for an interview.
All nationalities can apply for this scholarship which will last for the duration of their studies at the university. This is under the condition that the recipient maintains their good academic records and performance throughout the years. Other benefits include a living allowance, an accommodation allowance, a travel grant as well as a one-off computer allowance.
Apart from the undergraduate scholarship, NTU has other programs international students should check out to alleviate their study costs in Singapore.
Singapore Management University (SMU) Scholarships
SMU offers scholarships for both undergraduate and postgraduate international students. Among them is the scholarship from SMU’s School of Computing and Information Systems (SCIS) which is open to Singapore citizens, permanent residents and foreigners. It also aims to current as well as prospective students at SCIS.
Eligibility conditions include for the applicant to demonstrate good leadership skills and a real financial need. Students facing financial difficulties, therefore, get priority for a tuition waiver. The scholarship is available for a year, and may be renewable taking into account the student’s academic records and financial situation.
3. Research Scholarships in Singapore
Research scholarships target graduate students who are interested in pursuing research at the master’s or doctoral level. They often come with the opportunity to work closely with esteemed faculty members on groundbreaking projects.
Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)
This is the most renowned research scholarship in Singapore. Abbreviated as SINGA, this scholarship aims students who want to pursue a PhD in biomedical sciences and physical science and engineering. It’s also the fruit of a collaboration between 4 institutions: Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), National University of Singapore (NUS) and Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD). Students then conduct research in one of the 4 universities.
The scholarship is available to research students from any nationality. Eligibility criteria include an excellent academic record and of course a good proficiency level in English. Its benefits include a monthly funding of SGD 2,000 to SGD 2,500 for a 4-year PhD. To this are added their plane ticket and a one-time settling stipend.
ASEAN Scholarships for Students from Southeast Asian Countries
These are scholarships for students from the ASEAN member countries who are seeking to pursue post-graduate studies in Singapore. More specifically, students who will enroll at the Chulabhorn Graduate Institute (CGI) to study science and technology programs. Eligibility criteria include students who are less than 30 years old, holders of a bachelor’s degree in science, medical science or pharmacy. Moreover, the scholarship covers the student’s tuition fees, plane ticket, visa fees, health insurance. It also includes a monthly allowance along with a relocation and study material allowances.
Singapore Millennium Foundation Scholarships
The Singapore Millennium Foundation is a non-profit in charge to advance scientific progress in the country. And it offers scholarships for both local and international students who are currently studying or intend to study at member universities and research institutes in Singapore. These scholarships particularly aim to graduate students and pre-doctoral and postdoctoral research scientists and engineers. The funding benefit includes a monthly allowance to support the student’s research, as well as the student’s travel costs to Singapore.
Lee Kong Chian Graduate Scholarships
The Lee Foundation is the largest private charitable foundation in Singapore. And the organization provides scholarships for students who want to pursue a PhD at the National University of Singapore. It’s a scholarship that is open to local and international graduate students of all nationalities, who are eligible for the Singapore MOE subsidy. The scholarship’s benefit includes a tuition waiver, a monthly allowance of SGD 3,300. There’s also a one-time travel allowance and a one-time computer allowance.
How to Apply for Scholarships in Singapore
Applying for scholarships in Singapore requires careful research, preparation, and attention to detail. The process typically involves the following steps:
1. Look for Scholarship Opportunities
The first step to get scholarships to fund your studies is to research the options that are available at your desired university and other institutions. Next is to identify and shortlist those that align with your academic goals, field of study, and eligibility criteria. Moreover, thoroughly research each scholarship’s requirements and benefits. Also, understand the eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and required documents.
2. Check the Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility criteria for scholarships in Singapore can vary based on the type of scholarship and the institution offering it. Visit the official websites of universities, government agencies, and private organizations that you’ve retained for detailed eligibility requirements and application procedures.
Academic Excellence
Most scholarships require a strong academic record, often indicated by a minimum GPA or standardized test scores. Also many scholarships do require recipients to maintain a specified level of academic performance to continue receiving the benefits.
Leadership and Extracurricular Activities
Many scholarships look for candidates who demonstrate leadership potential, involvement in extracurricular activities, and a commitment to making a positive impact.
Specific Field of Study
Certain scholarships are designed for students pursuing specific fields of study, such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) disciplines.
Nationality
Some scholarships are exclusively available to students from certain countries or regions.
English Language Proficiency
English is the medium of instruction in most Singaporean universities. Therefore, demonstrating strong English language skills is essential for many scholarships.
3. Prepare the Application Documents
The next step is to gather all the necessary documents. Commonly required documents include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and standardized test scores. If applicable, some programs may require you to provide a proof of financial need.
4. Write a Compelling Application Essay
Your application essay or statement of purpose is your opportunity to showcase your passion, aspirations, and why you’re the perfect candidate for the scholarship. Be sincere and specific in your writing that should also display how the scholarship will contribute to achieving your goals.
5. Apply within the Deadlines
The last step is to submit your application. In doing so, pay attention to deadlines and ensure all documents are submitted accurately. Most scholarship deadlines are well in advance of the academic intake, so ensure you apply early to avoid last-minute rush and technical issues.
Tips for Successful Scholarship Applications in Singapore
Here are some tips to increase your chances of securing a scholarship:
- Start Early: Begin your scholarship search and application process well in advance to avoid last-minute rush and ensure thorough preparation.
- Apply to Multiple Scholarships: Scholarship competition can vary depending on the scholarship’s prestige, benefits, and eligibility criteria. Make sure therefore to apply to multiple scholarships and put forth a strong application to enhance your chances of success.
- Tailor Your Application: Customize your application for each scholarship. Highlight relevant achievements and tailor your essay to reflect your passion for the field and alignment with the scholarship’s values.
- Seek Guidance: If you’re uncertain about any aspect of the application process, don’t hesitate to reach out to the scholarship office or university’s international admissions team for guidance.
Conclusion
By understanding the various scholarship options, eligibility criteria, and application procedures, you can pave the way for a rewarding educational journey. Remember, applying for scholarships can be competitive, so ensure your application stands out by showcasing your achievements, aspirations, and commitment to your chosen field of study. Good luck in your research of scholarships to study in Singapore!
