Awarded over 5,000 scholarships annually, NUS empowers students globally. I know you dream big and want to study at one of Asia’s top universities. The rising cost of higher education stops many bright minds. In this post, I show you how to unlock the funding for your journey through a national university of singapore scholarship.
Types of NUS Scholarships: Find Your Fit
NUS offers a range of awards to suit different talents and needs. You can find NUS scholarships based on merit, your special skills, or financial need.
Merit-Based Scholarships
If you excel academically, you may be eligible for awards like the NUS Global Merit Scholarship and the NUS Merit Scholarship. The Global Merit option covers full tuition plus a living stipend, while the Merit Scholarship offers partial tuition funding. Both reward academic excellence and leadership qualities.
Talent-Based Scholarships
For those gifted in sports, arts, or other creative fields, there are scholarships that celebrate your talents. The sports and arts awards look at your achievements beyond grades. The Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship, designed for graduate students, rewards outstanding leadership and potential.
Need-Based Scholarships
Some scholarships target Singapore citizens and permanent residents who can show financial need. These awards help you cover tuition fees and other expenses. They are a lifeline when your family cannot shoulder high costs alone.
External and Government Awards
NUS also partners with government bodies and external sponsors. Programs like SINGA support international PhD candidates in science and engineering. External awards may come with separate application forms. They help cover tuition fees, living expenses, and research program costs.
Top 5 Scholarships Compared
| Scholarship Name | Coverage | Application Deadline | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| NUS Global Merit Scholarship | Full tuition + living stipend | March 19, 2025 | Outstanding academic record |
| NUS Merit Scholarship | Partial tuition | March 19, 2025 | High academic achievers |
| Sports/Arts Scholarships | Varies | March 19, 2025 | Talented in sports/arts |
| Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship | Tuition + stipend | May 15, 2025 | Leadership potential |
| SINGA | Full tuition + S$3,000/month | December 1, 2025 | International PhD candidates |
Who Qualifies? Eligibility Demystified
Eligibility criteria matter for every award. I care about your success, so let’s clear up the basics.
Academic Requirements
Undergraduate students need strong A-levels, IB scores, or equivalent diploma marks. Graduate and master’s candidates must show a proven record of academic excellence; for example, a minimum Second Class Upper Honors.
For computer science, engineering, and other STEM programs, your proficiency and aptitude in science and math are key.
Non-Academic Traits
Scholarship committees value leadership qualities and community service. They want to see that you have great potential beyond grades. In your essays and recommendation letters, emphasize your achievements and extra-curricular activities.
International Students
Many awards welcome international students. The NUS International Undergraduate Scholarship and SINGA are open to students from across Asia, including those from Germany, Bangladesh, and beyond. If you are an international applicant with good proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL scores), you have a strong shot.
Additional Considerations
Your application form must be complete. Extra scholarship application requirements, such as detailed personal statements and activity records, are checked thoroughly. The university’s discretion plays a part in shortlisting based on academic merit, relevant faculty recommendations, and proven good performance.
What’s Covered? Benefits Beyond Tuition
The scholarships at NUS do far more than pay for courses. They support you through every step of your academic journey.
Full Funding Benefits
Some awards cover full tuition fees. For instance, the Global Merit and SINGA scholarships remove the burden of tuition fees and even include a monthly stipend. This allowance can range in SGD amounts and supports your living expenses.
Partial Funding and Additional Perks
Other awards give partial funding. You may receive tuition subsidies, one-time computer allowances, and settling-in grants. Some scholarships include travel grants, research allowances, and housing support.
They even offer mentoring opportunities, career development programs, and networking events that connect you with outstanding graduate students and industry leaders.
5 Key Perks of NUS Scholarships
- They help cover tuition fees and monthly stipends.
- You receive a computer allowance and an accommodation allowance.
- The awards build your leadership qualities and academic profile.
- They connect you with a network of peers in research programs.
- Extra perks include travel grants and dedicated mentorship.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Here is a clear guide to filling out your admissions application and scholarship forms.
For Undergraduate Applicants
- Submit Your Admissions Application: You do not need a separate scholarship application; your NUS admission form works for many awards.
- Upload Required Documents: Include transcripts, recommendation letters, and essays.
- Express Your Interest: Use the checkbox provided in the admission form to indicate scholarship interest.
For Graduate Applicants
- Prepare Your Research Proposal: Identify a research program in computer science, engineering, or other fields.
- Secure a Supervisor Endorsement: Make sure a relevant faculty member supports your idea.
- Submit Additional Documents: Fill in extra scholarship application requirements like a personal statement and contact details for referees.
Documents Checklist
- Academic transcripts (for bachelor and master’s degree)
- Proof of identity (passport or national ID)
- Reference letters and referee details
- Standardized test scores (e.g., IELTS)
- Records of leadership roles and community service
- Detailed application forms as per the gradapp system
Key Deadlines You Can’t Miss
Meeting deadlines is crucial for your success. Some awards follow first-come, first-served rules.
Undergraduate Deadlines
- Recommendation Letters: Must be submitted by March 26, 2025.
- Financial Aid Applications: Due by April 1, 2025.
Graduate Deadlines
- SINGA: The application closes on December 1, 2025.
- President’s Graduate Fellowship: Deadline is May 15, 2025.
Pro Tip
Always apply early. Missing a deadline could mean losing out on tuition fees coverage or a monthly stipend that helps you financially during your master’s degree or PhD.
Scholarship Deadlines at a Glance
| Scholarship Name | Application Deadline |
|---|---|
| NUS Global Merit Scholarship | March 19, 2025 |
| NUS Merit Scholarship | March 19, 2025 |
| Sports/Arts Scholarships | March 19, 2025 |
| Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship | May 15, 2025 |
| SINGA | December 1, 2025 |
How to Stand Out: Tips from Successful Scholars
You need to differentiate your application from the crowd. I have some tips that have helped many successful scholars.
Avoid These Mistakes
- Do not miss submission deadlines.
- Avoid generic or overly long essays.
- Do not provide weak recommendations from referees who barely know you.
Boost Your Chances
- Highlight clear leadership roles, such as leading a volunteer team.
- Emphasize exceptional academic results and good performance in extra-curricular activities.
- Tailor your essays to address the scholarship application requirements. If you apply for the SINGA scholarship, show your research passion.
As one scholar once said, “My SINGA essay focused on solving climate change—it showed purpose.”
Ace the Interview: Prep Like a Pro
Interviews can make a difference. Prepare well so you feel confident and ready to impress.
Common Interview Questions
- “How will this scholarship impact your goals?”
- “Describe a challenge you overcame.”
- “Why did you choose NUS for your master’s degree or PhD?”
Preparation Tips
- Research all relevant NUS programs, including computer science and research programs.
- Practice mock interviews with friends or mentors.
- Dress neatly and speak clearly.
- Prepare insightful questions such as, “How does NUS support interdisciplinary research?”
This preparation shows you are a committed candidate with aspirations to lead and excel.
Conclusion: Your Next Steps
NUS scholarships are a game changer. They cover tuition fees, living expenses, and provide extra support like research allowances and career networking. I hope you now feel ready to pursue a national university of Singapore scholarship.
Think about your future and the impact of a quality education. Apply early, stand out with leadership qualities, and let your academic excellence shine. Your journey at NUS starts with a smart, well-planned step forward.
Singapore Scholarship (FAQs)
Can I apply for multiple scholarships?
Yes, but you must check for exclusivity clauses and additional scholarship application requirements.
Is there an age limit?
There is no strict age limit. Most undergraduate applicants are between 18 and 25 years old.
When are results announced?
Undergraduate results are typically released in May. For graduate awards, announcements are made in July.
What are the English proficiency requirements?
TOEFL scores of 90+ or IELTS scores of 6.5+ are required for international students. This ensures you have the proficiency needed for success.
Do scholarships cover living expenses?
Many awards come with a monthly stipend and additional allowances, such as computer or accommodation allowances, which help ease financial burdens.
What is the 100% scholarship in Singapore?
100% scholarships in Singapore fully fund education expenses, covering all tuition fees, living allowances, and academic costs. These scholarships eliminate financial barriers and provide comprehensive support for ambitious students pursuing higher education.
Does National University of Singapore give full scholarships for international students?
National University of Singapore offers full scholarships for many international students based on academic excellence and leadership qualities. These awards cover tuition fees, living allowances, research support, and mentoring programs for eligible candidates. Eligibility criteria vary, and most candidates are automatically considered through the standard admission process.
What is the minimum GPA for the NUS scholarship?
Most NUS scholarships require candidates to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5 for eligibility and renewal. Such strict criteria ensure that recipients sustain consistently strong academic performance during their entire study period.