√Fully Funded Scholarships in Singapore

Singapore has become one of the most sought-after study destinations in Asia — and for good reason. With world-renowned universities, cutting-edge research facilities, and a strong reputation for innovation, the country attracts ambitious students from around the world. However, studying in Singapore can be expensive without financial aid.
That’s where fully funded scholarships come in — offering opportunities for talented students to study, live, and thrive in one of Asia’s most dynamic countries without worrying about tuition or living costs.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best fully funded scholarships in Singapore, eligibility requirements, benefits, and how you can apply successfully for 2025.
Why Choose Singapore for Higher Education?
Before exploring scholarship options, it’s important to understand why Singapore stands out as a global education hub:
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World-Class Universities – Institutions like the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) rank consistently among the world’s top 20 universities.
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Multicultural Environment – Singapore welcomes students from all backgrounds, creating a vibrant international community.
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Safe and Clean City – It’s one of the safest cities in the world, ideal for international learners.
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Strong Career Opportunities – As a business and tech hub, Singapore offers a direct path to global employment.
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Government Support for Education – The Singaporean government and universities offer hundreds of scholarships every year to attract international talent.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Singapore
Here are the most prestigious and fully funded scholarship programs for international students pursuing bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degrees in Singapore.
1. Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)
The Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) is one of the most recognized fully funded PhD scholarships. It’s a collaboration between the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), NUS, NTU, and SUTD (Singapore University of Technology and Design).
Fields of Study:
Science, Engineering, Biomedical Sciences, and Computer Science.
Benefits:
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Full tuition coverage
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Monthly stipend (SGD 2,200 – 2,700)
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One-time airfare grant
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Settling-in allowance
Eligibility Criteria:
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Open to all international students
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Excellent academic results in relevant disciplines
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Good command of English
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Strong research interest
Application Deadline:
Applications are open twice a year — typically in June and December.
2. ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship (AUS)
The ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship is a fully funded program for exceptional students from ASEAN member countries (excluding Singapore) applying for undergraduate degrees at NUS or NTU.
Benefits:
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Full tuition fee coverage
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Annual living allowance (SGD 5,800)
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Accommodation support
Eligibility:
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Must be a citizen of an ASEAN country
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Strong academic results
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Excellent co-curricular and leadership achievements
Note: No separate application is required. All eligible students are automatically considered.
3. Nanyang President’s Graduate Scholarship (NPGS)
Offered by Nanyang Technological University (NTU), this is one of Singapore’s most prestigious and fully funded scholarships for outstanding graduate students pursuing a PhD.
Benefits:
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Full tuition fee coverage
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Monthly stipend (SGD 3,000)
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Conference allowance
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Book and computer grants
Eligibility:
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Excellent academic track record
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Strong research potential
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Open to all nationalities
Duration:
Up to 4 years for PhD candidates.
4. NUS Research Scholarship
The National University of Singapore (NUS) offers fully funded Research Scholarships for students enrolling in master’s by research or PhD programs.
Benefits:
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Full tuition coverage
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Monthly stipend (SGD 2,000 – 2,700)
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Access to advanced research facilities
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Conference and fieldwork funding (in some cases)
Eligibility:
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International applicants with excellent academic performance
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English proficiency
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Relevant research background
Application Period:
Usually between October and January for August intake.
5. A*STAR Graduate Scholarship (AGS)
The Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) is known for its commitment to developing scientific talent. Its Graduate Scholarship (AGS) provides full financial support for students pursuing a PhD in science or engineering.
Benefits:
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Full tuition fee coverage
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Monthly stipend (SGD 3,200 – 3,700)
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Conference funding and overseas research attachment support
Eligibility:
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Outstanding academic and research potential
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Excellent English communication skills
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Commitment to work at A*STAR research institutions after graduation
Focus Areas:
Biomedical, physical, and engineering sciences.
6. Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) PhD Fellowship
SUTD offers several PhD Fellowships designed to attract talented international researchers.
Benefits:
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Full tuition fees
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Monthly stipend (SGD 3,000 – 3,500)
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Research and travel funding
Eligibility:
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Bachelor’s or master’s degree in relevant fields
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Demonstrated research potential and academic excellence
7. Lee Kong Chian Graduate Scholarship
The Lee Kong Chian Scholarship is NUS’s most prestigious postgraduate award, supporting PhD students across all disciplines.
Benefits:
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Full tuition coverage
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Monthly stipend (SGD 3,300)
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Conference travel grant
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Book and computer allowance
Eligibility:
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Excellent academic performance
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Proven leadership and research capabilities
Duration:
Up to 4 years for PhD studies.
8. SMU Global Impact Scholarship
The Singapore Management University (SMU) offers this scholarship to exceptional undergraduate students who demonstrate strong leadership, academic, and global potential.
Benefits:
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Full tuition fee coverage
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Monthly stipend
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Overseas exchange funding
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Mentorship and leadership development programs
Eligibility:
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International students with strong academic achievements
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Involvement in extracurricular and community service activities
How to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships in Singapore
Securing a scholarship in Singapore requires preparation and attention to detail. Follow these steps for a successful application:
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Start Early – Begin researching scholarships 9–12 months before your target intake.
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Check Eligibility – Each scholarship has specific requirements related to nationality, academic background, and degree level.
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Prepare Application Documents:
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Academic transcripts
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Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
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Research proposal (for graduate studies)
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Statement of Purpose or Motivation Letter
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Recommendation letters
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Apply Through Official Portals:
Submit your application through university or government portals, ensuring accuracy and completeness. -
Prepare for Interviews:
Some scholarships include an interview round to assess your academic goals, motivation, and leadership skills.
Living Costs in Singapore (2025 Estimate)
While Singapore is more affordable than many Western destinations, here’s an approximate breakdown for international students:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (SGD/month) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 800 – 1,200 |
| Food | 300 – 600 |
| Transport | 100 – 150 |
| Miscellaneous | 200 – 300 |
Most fully funded scholarships cover these costs, allowing students to focus on their studies.
Tips to Increase Your Chances
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Maintain High Grades: Scholarships are merit-based, so academic excellence is key.
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Show Leadership Skills: Highlight extracurricular and volunteer experiences.
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Craft a Strong Personal Statement: Share your goals, achievements, and motivation clearly.
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Get Good Recommendations: Ask professors or supervisors who know your potential.
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Apply Early and to Multiple Programs: Don’t rely on a single application.
Benefits of Fully Funded Scholarships in Singapore
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Financial Freedom: No tuition or living cost worries.
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Prestigious Education: Access to world-class universities.
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Research Opportunities: Work with leading global researchers.
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Global Networking: Build valuable professional connections.
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Career Opportunities: Singapore’s strong economy offers excellent employment prospects after graduation.
Conclusion
Singapore’s fully funded scholarships are gateways to world-class education and global opportunities. From SINGA and A*STAR to NUS and NTU scholarships, each program provides generous financial support for international students across different fields.
If you dream of studying in one of Asia’s most advanced and multicultural nations, start preparing your documents now and apply early. With the right effort, your academic journey in Singapore could be fully funded — and your future brighter than ever.
- Author: Rendy muhammad
