The Singapore International Graduate Award is a fully funded PhD scholarship in Singapore. It supports research in science and engineering. A*STAR runs it, with leading Singapore universities. Many applicants also compare it with other fully funded routes. For example, some look at the Schwarzman Scholars program, another major option in Asia.
Overview
- Host country, Singapore
- Level of study, PhD only
- Field of study, Science and engineering
- Number of scholars, Set each year across all partner schools
- Nationality, Open to applicants from all countries
- Funded by, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, with partner universities
Benefits of the Singapore International Graduate Award
First, scholars get full tuition. Also, they get a monthly stipend. Plus, they get help with travel and settling in. In short, the award covers this.
- Full tuition fees, for the full PhD programme
- A monthly stipend of 2,700 Singapore Dollars, rising to 3,200 after passing qualifying exams
- A one time settling in allowance of 1,000 Singapore Dollars
- A one time airfare grant, up to 1,500 Singapore Dollars
- Funding for up to four years of PhD study
Who Should Apply
This award suits students with a real passion for research. They should love science and engineering. Meanwhile, students who want a Master’s in global affairs may prefer the MEXT Japanese Government Scholarship. That program funds broader study fields in Asia.
Eligibility Requirements
Overall, applicants must meet these points.
- Be an international graduate, or final year student, in a related field
- Show a strong passion for research
- Show excellent academic results
- Show strong written and spoken English skill
- Provide strong reports from academic referees
Two Intakes Each Year
Notably, SINGA runs two intakes each year. These fall in January and August. Each has its own deadline. This two intake system is close to the setup used for the Global Korea Scholarship, which also splits applicants across separate tracks.
Required Documents
- Completed online application through the SINGA portal
- Bachelor’s and master’s transcripts
- Degree certificate, or a letter confirming your candidature
- Up to three research proposals
- Two academic references, sent directly by your referees
How to Apply
First, browse the research areas on the official A*STAR site. Next, prepare your documents and proposals ahead of time. Then, submit your application through the SINGA portal. Also, ask your referees to send letters early. This early referee step is close to the one used for the Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship.
Application Deadline
For the August 2027 intake, the deadline usually falls around December 1, 2026. So, this window is still open now, which gives applicants real time to prepare a strong research proposal.
Final Thoughts
Overall, this award gives strong, complete funding for PhD study in Singapore. However, if you want a shorter, one year program instead, check other options too. For instance, the Schwarzman Scholars program funds a one year Master’s in China.
