Want to study at a world top 10 university in Asia’s most dynamic hub? The National University of Singapore (NUS) offers generous scholarships for international students. Many awards are fully funded or highly subsidized, with tuition coverage, stipends, and extra perks that help you focus on your degree, not your bills.
If you are aiming for a career in tech, business, engineering, medicine, public policy, or cutting-edge research, NUS puts you at the center of real-world impact. Scholarships are open to talented students worldwide. Foreigners welcome. Apply for the 2026/2027 intake and take a confident step toward Singapore’s global opportunities.
Why the NUS Scholarships Stand Out
- Fully funded options for top candidates across undergraduate, master’s, and PhD pathways
- World-class faculties with strong links to industry and research labs
- Prime location in Singapore, a global finance and tech hub with excellent post-study prospects
- International community and strong support for newcomers, from onboarding to career services
- No separate country quota for most awards. Selection is merit based, with foreigners actively encouraged to apply
What the Scholarships Typically Cover
Coverage varies by award. Many NUS scholarships include some or all of the following. Always verify exact entitlements on the official pages before you apply.
- Full or partial tuition fee coverage
- Monthly stipend for living expenses for eligible awards
- Accommodation support or on-campus housing subsidy for selected schemes
- One-time grants for IT, books, or study materials in certain scholarships
- Conference or research support for some graduate awards
- Healthcare insurance as per NUS student policies
Note: Some awards may include conditions such as maintaining a set GPA or service obligations. Read each award’s terms carefully.
Types of NUS Scholarships You Can Target
Here are common routes international applicants use for the 2026/2027 academic year:
Undergraduate Scholarships
- NUS Global Merit Scholarship – highly competitive award with comprehensive support for top achievers
- NUS Merit Scholarship – strong funding package for excellent applicants
- Faculty-specific scholarships – additional awards offered by specific schools or donors
Graduate Scholarships
- NUS Research Scholarship (NUSRS) – widely used for research-based Master’s and PhD students admitted to eligible programs
- President’s Graduate Fellowship (PGF) – premium PhD funding for outstanding candidates
- Graduate scholarships by faculties – business, engineering, computing, public policy, and more may have their own funded places
- Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) – fully funded PhD pathway administered by A*STAR in partnership with NUS. You conduct your research at NUS under a SINGA award if selected
The exact list of scholarships, eligibility, and benefits may change every year. Use the official pages linked in the How to Apply section to confirm current options.
Available Fields of Study
Scholarships span most NUS faculties and schools. Popular areas include:
- Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, AI, and Information Systems
- Business, Finance, Accounting, Economics, and Analytics
- Medicine, Dentistry, Public Health, Pharmacy, Nursing
- Science disciplines including Physics, Chemistry, Life Sciences, Mathematics, Statistics
- Law, Public Policy, Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities
- Design, Architecture, Environmental Studies, Urban Planning
- Music and interdisciplinary programs
Check the specific program page for course availability, research themes, and supervisor openings for 2026/2027.
Scholarship Duration
| Study Level | Typical Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | 3 to 4 years | Some programs such as Medicine or Law may be longer |
| Taught Master’s | 1 to 2 years | Varies by faculty and study load |
| Research Master’s | 1.5 to 2.5 years | Depends on research progress and requirements |
| PhD | 4 to 5 years | Subject to candidature and thesis completion |
Who Can Apply
Use this quick guide to assess your fit for 2026/2027.
| Criteria | What NUS Looks For |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Open to Singaporeans and international students. Foreigners welcome |
| Academic record | Strong grades, class rank, and evidence of excellence in relevant subjects |
| English proficiency | Proof of English via IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent if your prior education was not in English |
| Admission | Offer of admission to an eligible NUS program is normally required before scholarship confirmation |
| Research fit | For research degrees, alignment with supervisor and project is key. A proposal may be required |
| Leadership and activities | Evidence of leadership, innovation, and community impact strengthens your case |
| Conditions | Some awards carry conditions such as maintaining a minimum CAP/GPA or service obligations |
How to Apply for NUS Scholarships
Application steps differ slightly for undergraduates and graduates. Follow the path that matches your level for the 2026/2027 intake.
Undergraduate Applicants
- Review programs and scholarship options on the official pages.
- Apply for admission to NUS. During the admission process, indicate your interest in scholarships where prompted.
- Complete any separate scholarship forms if required by specific awards or faculties.
- Upload all documents. Strong personal statements and proof of achievements help you stand out.
- Track your applicant portal for scholarship interview invitations or additional requests.
Useful links:
Graduate Applicants (Master’s and PhD)
- Identify the right graduate program and confirm scholarship eligibility on the faculty site.
- Contact potential supervisors if you are applying for a research degree to align on topics and availability.
- Submit your program application. Indicate interest in available scholarships such as the NUS Research Scholarship.
- Prepare research proposals, writing samples, and publications where relevant.
- Monitor your application status for funding decisions and interview invitations.
Useful links:
Considering SINGA for a PhD at NUS
If you want a fully funded PhD route with A*STAR support and NUS supervision, consider SINGA. This is a separate application.
Required Documents
Exact lists vary by faculty and award. Expect to prepare:
- Valid passport and personal details
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- English test scores if required
- CV or resume detailing achievements and work experience
- Personal statement or statement of purpose
- Research proposal for research degrees
- Recommendation letters
- Portfolio for design or arts programs if requested
Selection Criteria
Panels look for evidence that you will thrive at NUS and contribute to your field and community.
- Outstanding academic performance and relevant subject strength
- Leadership, initiative, and impact beyond the classroom
- Clear motivation and fit with the chosen program or research group
- Strong referee reports
- Interview performance where applicable
Deadlines for 2026/2027
Application windows differ by program and scholarship. Visit the official website for the current deadline.
Visa and Arrival in Singapore
International students admitted to NUS will need a Student’s Pass issued by Singapore’s Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA). After you accept your offer:
- Wait for NUS to trigger the Student’s Pass process and provide instructions.
- Submit your e-Form and supporting documents to ICA.
- Receive your in-principle approval and complete procedures after arriving in Singapore.
Start early and keep your documents ready. Learn more here: ICA Student’s Pass.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the NUS scholarship fully funded?
Several NUS scholarships are fully funded for top candidates, covering full tuition and a stipend. Others are partial. Check the exact entitlements of the specific award you are targeting.
Can I apply if I am not from Singapore?
Yes. NUS scholarships welcome international applicants. Selection is merit based and competitive.
Do I need IELTS or TOEFL?
If your previous education was not conducted in English, you should submit a valid English proficiency test score such as IELTS or TOEFL. Program pages specify minimum scores.
Is there any bond or service obligation?
Some awards or tuition subsidies may have service obligations. Always read the terms of your scholarship and any government tuition grant you accept.
Can I work part-time while studying?
International students in Singapore can work part-time during term and full-time during vacation within ICA and NUS rules. Always check the latest regulations and your scholarship conditions before taking up work.
Quick Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- Apply early and submit complete, polished documents
- Show impact with measurable achievements and leadership roles
- For research degrees, align tightly with a supervisor’s interests and ongoing projects
- Use your personal statement to connect your past experience with your future goals at NUS
- Prepare thoroughly for interviews with program-specific examples
Where to Get Started
Final Word
This is your moment. NUS scholarships for 2026/2027 are a powerful launchpad to a global career in Asia. Prepare a sharp application, target the right award, and apply now. Fully funded opportunities are limited and highly competitive, so take action today.








