Are you looking for an outstanding opportunity to pursue fully funded doctoral studies in Asia’s premier research hub? The Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) 2026 presents a golden gateway for international students to obtain a PhD or EngD in world-class universities across Singapore, supported by leading research institutes and guided by globally renowned scholars. If you are a high-achieving graduate with a strong passion for research in science and engineering, this prestigious award can transform your academic journey and career ambitions.
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About the SINGA 2026 Scholarship
The Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) is a joint collaboration between key research and academic institutions in Singapore:
- Agency for Science, Technology & Research (A*STAR)
- Nanyang Technological University (NTU)
- National University of Singapore (NUS)
- Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD)
- Singapore Management University (SMU)
- Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT)
This award supports international students with excellent academic performance and a strong inclination toward scientific research. Through SINGA, selected students can pursue doctoral studies in a vibrant, technologically advanced, and culturally diverse research environment.
This scholarship is bond-free and is open exclusively to international students. It supports up to four years of PhD or EngD study and offers a generous financial package including a stipend, full tuition coverage, travel allowance, and settling-in costs.
Scholarship Benefits
Selected scholars under the SINGA 2026 program will enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Full tuition fees for up to four years.
- Monthly stipend of S$2,700, which increases to S$3,200 after passing the Qualifying Examination.
- One-time airfare grant of up to S$1,500.
- One-time settling-in allowance of S$1,000.
- Access to cutting-edge laboratories and research infrastructure.
- Mentorship by top-tier scientists and professors in Singapore.
- Immersive experience in a multicultural academic community.
Host Country
Singapore is one of the most advanced and connected research hubs in Asia. With strong government support for innovation and a diverse international population, Singapore provides an ideal environment for academic research and technological advancement. It serves as a gateway to some of the world’s fastest-growing economies in the Asia Pacific.
Living in Singapore offers students a high standard of living, safe surroundings, and a rich blend of cultures. Moreover, its strategic location provides international students with access to career opportunities across Asia after graduation.
🔗 Explore other fully funded scholarships in Asia
Deadline
The deadline to apply for the August 2026 intake of the SINGA program is:
1 December 2025 at 11:59 PM (GMT+8 Singapore Time)
Applicants are strongly advised to complete their applications well in advance of the deadline to ensure timely submission of recommendation reports.
Eligible Countries
The SINGA program is open to all international students who meet the eligibility requirements. However, it is primarily intended for students who have never studied in Singapore before.
Note:
- Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents are not eligible.
- International students who have studied in Singapore previously are also not eligible.
This makes SINGA an excellent opportunity for students from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas to begin their academic journey in Singapore.
Available Majors
SINGA supports doctoral research in the following key areas:
- Biomedical Sciences
- Computing and Information Sciences
- Engineering and Technology
- Physical Sciences
Applicants can choose from a wide range of PhD or EngD research topics offered across these disciplines. Specific research projects are hosted at A*STAR institutes, NTU, NUS, SUTD, SMU, or SIT.
You will be required to select your preferred research project and supervisor during the application process, so be sure to explore each institution’s offerings:
- A*STAR Supervisors and Research Projects
- NTU Colleges and Schools
- NUS Graduate School
- SMU School of Computing and Information Systems
- SUTD Research Centres
- SIT Applied Research Centres
Available Academic Level
The SINGA award is available for the following degrees:
| University | Degree Offered |
|---|---|
| NUS | PhD |
| NTU | PhD |
| SMU | PhD, EngD |
| SUTD | PhD, EngD |
| SIT | EngD |
Whether you aim for a research-based PhD or a practical, industry-focused EngD, you can choose the academic path that best aligns with your goals.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents and submit them online only. Do not mail hard copies to the SINGA Office.
Mandatory Documents:
- Valid passport
- A recent passport-sized photo (in .jpeg or .png format)
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s and/or Master’s)
- Degree certificates or a letter of certification from your university (if your degree has not yet been conferred)
- Two recommendation reports (submitted online by your referees)
Optional (but may be requested by the university later):
- GRE scores
- IELTS / TOEFL / SAT / GATE scores
All documents must be submitted in English. Translations should be certified if the originals are in another language.
Application Process
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for SINGA 2026:
- Browse PhD/EngD Research Projects
Visit the official SINGA website and browse available research areas. - Select Research Interests
Choose your preferred supervisors and indicate them in your application form. - Prepare Required Documents
Collect all mandatory documents before starting your application. - Create an Online Account
Register on the application portal with accurate personal details. - Submit Application Online
Apply for “Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)” and upload all required documents. - Submit Recommendation Reports
Ensure both your referees submit their online recommendation forms before the deadline.
Note: Once submitted, applications cannot be edited. Ensure all information is accurate and complete before submission.
Cost of Living in Singapore
Below is an estimate of the average monthly living expenses for an international student in Singapore:
| Item | Estimated Cost per Month (S$) |
|---|---|
| Food (University Canteens) | 250 – 350 |
| Meals outside Campus | 450 – 600 |
| Accommodation (Single Room, On-Campus) | 400 – 700 |
| Local Transport | 100 – 150 |
| Miscellaneous (Laundry, Stationery, etc.) | 400 – 500 |
| Total Estimated Monthly Cost | 1,400 – 2,000 |
On-campus housing is usually prioritized for first-year students. However, off-campus accommodation is also available.
Why Choose SINGA?
Here’s why SINGA stands out as one of the top international PhD scholarships in the world:
- World-Class Research: Engage with leading-edge research projects in globally ranked institutions.
- Multicultural Environment: Join a vibrant international research community from over 170 countries.
- Career Development: Establish networks in Singapore and the Asia-Pacific region for long-term research or industry careers.
- Strategic Location: Study in Singapore, one of Asia’s most innovation-driven economies.
Conclusion
The Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) 2026 is an exceptional opportunity for aspiring researchers to pursue fully funded PhD or EngD studies in one of the most academically and technologically advanced nations in Asia. With full financial support, access to cutting-edge facilities, and exposure to leading global researchers, SINGA offers more than just a scholarship—it offers a launchpad for future leaders in science and technology.
Start preparing your application today, choose your research project wisely, and take your first step toward a high-impact research career in Singapore.
