The Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) is one of the most prestigious PhD scholarships jointly offered by A*STAR, NUS, NTU, and SMU.
Benefits:
Full tuition fee coverage
Monthly stipend of S$2,200–S$2,700
One-time airfare grant of S$1,500
One-time settling-in allowance of S$1,000
Opportunities to work in advanced A*STAR research labs
Eligibility:
Open to all international students including Pakistanis
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in science/engineering-related fields
Strong academic record and research interest
IELTS/TOEFL/GRE may be required
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is SINGA and who organizes it?
The Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) is a fully-funded PhD scholarship jointly offered by A*STAR, NUS, NTU, SMU, SUTD, and SIT in Singapore. It supports international students pursuing PhD or EngD studies in science and engineering at top-tier institutions.
Who is eligible to apply?
Open to international graduates (excluding Singapore citizens/PRs and those who have previously studied in Singapore tertiary institutions). Applicants must hold a BSc (or MSc), proficient in English, with strong academic results and good academic references.
Do I need a Master’s degree?
No. Applicants with a bachelor’s degree can directly apply for PhD under SINGA. A Master’s degree is optional, but may enhance your application
Are English proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL mandatory?
Not mandatory. While SINGA does not require IELTS/TOEFL/GRE/SAT/GATE, submitting good scores can strengthen your application. You may be asked to take an interview or provide scores later at the university’s request.
What does the scholarship cover?
You’ll receive:
Full tuition waiver for up to 4 years
Monthly stipend: S$2,700 initially, increasing by S$500 post-qualifying exam
One-time settling-in allowance: S$1,000
One-time airfare grant up to S$1,500
Is there an obligation to work or take citizenship in Singapore after graduation?
No. There’s no bond, and you're under no requirement to remain in Singapore or become a citizen after your PhD.
Can I start with coursework before diving into research?
Yes. SINGA follows a direct PhD structure: you begin with coursework and research, then transition to full research after passing a qualifying exam. PhDs are typically completed in 4 years.
Is a separate university application required alongside SINGA?
No, a separate university application isn't required. If you're selected, SINGA handles your admission. However, if you want independent consideration, you may also apply directly to the university in parallel
When are the application deadlines and intakes?
There are two intakes each year:
Intake | Application Window | Deadline (GMT+8) | Start |
---|---|---|---|
January | Dec 2 – Jun 1 | June 1 | Following Jan |
August | Jun 2 – Dec 1 | December 1 | Following Aug |
Shortlisted candidates are typically notified within 12 weeks of the deadline
Can spouses or dependents join me in Singapore?
Yes. You can bring your spouse and children under visit or Long‑Term Visit Passes (LTVP). The stipend does not increase, so you'll need to finance their expenses. You’re also encouraged to secure insurance for them.