The Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) 2026 is a fully funded scholarship for international students pursuing a PhD in Science, Engineering, and Biomedical Research in Singapore. Funded by the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) in collaboration with top universities, SINGA offers an exceptional opportunity to study in one of Asia’s leading research hubs.
This guide covers:
✔ Eligibility & Benefits
✔ Participating Universities & Research Areas
✔ Application Process & Deadlines
✔ Tips for a Strong Application
1. SINGA 2026 Overview
- Funding: Fully funded (tuition + stipend + allowances)
- Degree: PhD (Doctoral Program)
- Host Institutions: A*STAR, NTU, NUS, SUTD
- Intake: January & August 2026
- Deadline: Expected June 2025 (for January 2026 intake)
🔗 Official Website: https://www.a-star.edu.sg/SINGA
2. FULL Benefits (Fully Funded)
SINGA covers all expenses with:
✅ Full tuition fees for 4 years
✅ Monthly stipend:
- S$2,700 (1st & 2nd year)
- S1,500)
✅ One-time settling-in allowance (S$1,000)
✅ No bond requirement (unlike other Singapore scholarships)
3. Eligible Fields of Study
SINGA supports PhD research in:
🔬 Biomedical Sciences (Cancer, Neuroscience, Immunology)
⚙ Engineering & Physical Sciences (AI, Robotics, Materials Science)
💻 Computing & Information Sciences (Data Science, Cybersecurity)
4. Eligibility Criteria
Who Can Apply?
🌍 Open to all international students (Singaporeans & PRs cannot apply)
🎓 Academic Requirements:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field
- Minimum Second Class Upper Honours (or equivalent)
- Strong research background (publications are a plus)
📝 English Proficiency: - TOEFL (≥ 90) or IELTS (≥ 6.5) if your degree was not in English
Who is NOT Eligible?
❌ Already enrolled in a PhD program
❌ Singapore citizens / Permanent Residents
5. Participating Universities & Research Labs
SINGA partners with 4 top institutions:
| University | QS World Ranking (2025) | Key Research Areas |
|---|---|---|
| National University of Singapore (NUS) | #8 | AI, Biomedical Engineering, Quantum Tech |
| Nanyang Technological University (NTU) | #15 | Robotics, Sustainable Energy, Data Science |
| Singapore University of Technology & Design (SUTD) | Top 500 | AI, Urban Design, Cybersecurity |
| A*STAR Research Institutes | – | Biotech, MedTech, Advanced Manufacturing |
🔍 Find a Supervisor: Browse projects on the SINGA portal before applying.
6. Application Process (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Check Eligibility & Prepare Documents
📄 Required Documents:
- CV / Resume
- Academic transcripts & degree certificates
- 2 recommendation letters
- Passport copy
- Research proposal (if required)
Step 2: Submit Online Application
- Apply via SINGA Application Portal
- Select up to 3 research projects
Step 3: Interview & Selection
- Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed (online)
- Results announced ~4-6 months after the deadline
Step 4: Acceptance & Visa Process
- Successful applicants receive an offer letter
- Apply for a Student Pass (Singapore visa)
Also Check : Jiangsu University Scholarship 2025-26 | Study in China
7. Application Deadline
📅 Expected Deadline: June 2025 (for January 2026 intake)
📅 Second Intake (August 2026): Likely December 2025
🔴 Apply early! Competition is intense (~5% acceptance rate).
8. Tips for a Strong SINGA Application
✔ Choose the Right Research Project (Match your expertise with supervisor’s work)
✔ Strong Recommendation Letters (Professors who know your research skills)
✔ Clear Research Proposal (If required, show innovation & feasibility)
✔ Highlight Publications/Research Experience
9. Why Choose SINGA?
🌟 No bond (Work anywhere after graduation)
🌟 World-class labs & funding
🌟 Singapore’s high-quality education & global reputation
🌟 Multicultural environment
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I apply without IELTS/TOEFL?
✅ Yes, if your previous degree was taught in English. Otherwise, proof is required.
Q2: Is there an age limit?
❌ No, but younger applicants with strong academic records are preferred.
Q3: Can I work part-time during the PhD?
✅ Yes, but only up to 16 hours/week (Singapore visa rules).
Q4: How competitive is SINGA?
🔥 Highly competitive (5-10% acceptance rate). Strong research experience improves chances.
Final Thoughts
The SINGA 2026 scholarship is a golden opportunity for PhD aspirants in STEM fields. With full funding, top-tier universities, and no bond, it’s one of the best scholarships for international students.
🚀 Start preparing early! Check the official website for updates.
💡 Need help with your application? Ask in the comments!
🔗 Official Link: https://www.a-star.edu.sg/SINGA
📅 Deadline: June 2025 (Expected)
