The NUS Research Scholarship is a fully funded award for graduate research at the National University of Singapore. It funds a research Master’s or PhD in any field. There is no separate scholarship form. Many students also compare it with other fully funded routes. For example, some look at the Singapore International Graduate Award, another major option at Singapore schools.
Overview
- Host country, Singapore
- Host school, National University of Singapore
- Level of study, Research Master’s and PhD
- Field of study, All disciplines, across every faculty
- Nationality, Open to citizens, permanent residents, and international students
- Funded by, National University of Singapore
Benefits of the NUS Research Scholarship
First, scholars get a full tuition waiver. Also, they get a monthly stipend. Plus, they carry no debt after. In short, the award covers this.
- Full waiver of tuition fees, for the length of the degree
- A monthly stipend, starting around 2,700 to 3,000 Singapore Dollars, rising after the qualifying exam
- Funding for up to four years for PhD, or up to two years for a research Master’s
- Renewal each term, based on good progress
- No bond and no repayment owed
Who Should Apply
This award suits students ready for research work. It does not suit taught programme applicants. Meanwhile, students who want a broader national scheme may look at the Chinese Government Scholarship. That program funds more study levels in China.
Eligibility Requirements
Overall, applicants must meet these points.
- Hold a bachelor’s degree, for direct PhD entry, or a master’s degree
- Show a strong record, typically first class or equal
- Be admitted, or applying, to a full time research programme at the school
- Meet the English rules where required
- Avoid paid work or other awards without prior approval
Two Intakes A Year
Notably, the school runs two intakes each year. These fall in January and August. This two intake system is close to the setup used for the Global Korea Scholarship, which also splits students across two rounds.
Required Documents
- Completed graduate form through the school’s own portal
- Academic transcripts
- Recommendation letters
- Personal statement or motivation letter
- Proof of English skill, where required
How to Apply
First, contact a possible supervisor early. Faculty support shapes the outcome. Next, submit your graduate form. Note your interest in the scholarship at the same time. Then, wait for the result, since it follows the admission decision. This early contact step is close to the one used for the Chinese Government Scholarship.
Application Deadline
Dates vary by faculty and course. For the August 2027 intake, the window for international students should run roughly November 2026 through January 2027, based on past years. So, this window has not opened yet, which gives you real time to prepare.
Final Thoughts
Overall, this scholarship gives strong, complete funding for research study in Singapore. However, if you want a government run scheme spread across several schools instead, check other options too. For instance, the Singapore International Graduate Award also funds PhD study in Singapore.
