Singapore scholarships for indian and international students hero image

Scholarships in Singapore for Indian & International Students: A Complete Guide

Scholarships
Share this blog
WhatsApp Facebook LinkedIn Twitter/X Copy Link

Singapore offers several scholarship opportunities for Indian students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate and research degrees. Universities such as the National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and Singapore Management University (SMU) offer financial support through merit scholarships, research funding and other awards.But all scholarships are not necessarily open for applications by Indians. There are scholarships that are only open for students who are nationals of ASEAN countries. This guide discusses scholarships offered to Indian students in Singapore, detailing requirements, amount, and procedures for the same at various levels of education.

Note: India is not a member of the ASEAN bloc of nations. Thus, any scholarship that is meant for nationals of the ASEAN bloc, such as the ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship, cannot be applied for by Indians.

Start Your Singapore Application!

Top 10 Scholarships in Singapore for International Students

Students can explore the following scholarships based on their degree level, academic qualifications and nationality.
These awards differ in their funding, application requirements and eligible study levels. Some are undergraduate scholarships, while others are intended exclusively for research degrees.

  1. Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)
  2. NUS International Undergraduate Scholarship
  3. NUS Science & Technology Undergraduate Scholarship
  4. NTU Nanyang Global Scholarship
  5. NTU Research Scholarship
  6. NTU Nanyang President’s Graduate Scholarship
  7. SMU International Scholarship
  8. SMU Postgraduate Research Scholarships
  9. A*STAR Graduate Scholarship
  10. Dr Goh Keng Swee Scholarship

Overview Table for Scholarships in Singapore

The table below gives you a quick snapshot of all the major scholarships covered in this guide, ideal if you’re comparing options and weighing up how to get scholarships to study abroad in Singapore.

Scholarship Study Level Indian Students Eligible? Funding Deadline
Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) PhD/Research Yes, subject to eligibility Research funding and stipend Intake-specific
NUS International Undergraduate Scholarship Undergraduate Yes Tuition support and allowances Admission-cycle-specific
NUS Science & Technology Undergraduate Scholarship Undergraduate Yes, for eligible Asian nationalities Tuition support and allowances Admission-cycle-specific
NTU Nanyang Global Scholarship Undergraduate Yes Tuition support and allowances Admission-cycle-specific
NTU Research Scholarship Research Master’s/PhD Yes Tuition support and stipend Program-specific
NTU Nanyang President’s Graduate Scholarship PhD Yes Research funding and allowances Application-cycle-specific
SMU International Scholarship Undergraduate Award-specific Varies Award-specific
SMU Postgraduate Research Scholarships PhD Yes, subject to eligibility Tuition support and stipend Program-specific
A*STAR Graduate Scholarship PhD/Research Subject to current nationality and award rules Research funding Application-cycle-specific
Dr Goh Keng Swee Scholarship Undergraduate Yes, subject to current country eligibility Tuition and other approved support Annual application cycle

Detailed Breakdown of the Top 10 Singapore Scholarships

Singapore scholarships are competitive, and landing one demands understanding the fine print. Here is a detailed breakdown of each programme to help you find the best study abroad scholarships in Singapore.

1. Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)

SINGA is the name of a research scholarship awarded by A*STAR and other universities of Singapore. It funds international students undertaking PhD research within an appropriate field.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Open to international students, including qualified Indians.
  • Good academic record.
  • Research interests.
  • Fluency in English language.
  • Excellent academic references.

Scholarship Amount and Inclusions:

  • Funding for tuition for four years of research.
  • Stipend per month.
  • Travel Grant once.
  • Settling-In Allowance once.

Deadline for Application: Depending on intake; find out about the latest deadline at A*STAR.

How to Apply: The candidate selects the project to apply for, prepares his/her academic records, and applies for the SINGA scholarship.

Official Source: A*STAR – SINGA.

2. NUS International Undergraduate Scholarship

The NUS International Undergraduate Scholarship supports outstanding international students pursuing their first undergraduate degree at the National University of Singapore.

Eligibility:

  • Open to citizens of countries other than Singapore, including India.
  • Strong academic achievements.
  • Leadership potential and extracurricular involvement.
  • Admission to an eligible full-time undergraduate program.

Scholarship Amount and Benefits:

  • Coverage of subsidized tuition fees, subject to the scholarship’s conditions.
  • Living and accommodation allowances, as specified by NUS.
  • Other benefits where applicable.

Application Deadline: Follows the relevant NUS undergraduate admissions timeline.

Application Process: Eligible applicants are considered through their undergraduate admission application; a separate scholarship application is not generally required for this award.

Official Source: NUS – Scholarship Application Dates.

3. NUS Science & Technology Undergraduate Scholarship

This scholarship supports eligible students from Asian countries pursuing selected undergraduate programs in science, engineering and technology at NUS.

Eligibility:

  • Open to eligible nationals from Asia, including candidates from India.
  • Entry into an eligible undergraduate program.
  • High academic and co-curricular achievements.
  • Satisfies course and nationality requirements for the scholarship.

Scholarship Value and Incentives:

  • Tuition fee subsidy.
  • Living and housing allowances.
  • Others as may be applicable with regard to the scholarship.
  • Application Deadline: According to the respective NUS admissions cycle.

Application Procedure: The eligible applicants will be considered as part of the NUS undergraduate admissions process.

Official Source: NUS – Important Dates and Application.

4. NTU Nanyang Global Scholarship

The Nanyang Global Scholarship is an undergraduate award for students with excellent academic results, leadership qualities and extracurricular achievements.

Eligibility:

  • Open to all nationalities, including Indian students.
  • Admission to a full-time NTU undergraduate program.
  • Outstanding academic performance and leadership potential.
  • Strong extracurricular participation.

Scholarship Amount and Benefits:

  • Full coverage of subsidized tuition fees after the MOE Tuition Grant.
  • SGD 6,500 annual living allowance.
  • Accommodation allowance of up to SGD 2,000 annually for eligible NTU hostel residents.
  • One-time computer allowance of SGD 2,000.
  • Overseas travel grant subject to conditions.

Deadline for Applying: Dependent on the respective NTU Admission/Scholarship Application Cycle.

Application Procedure: The applicant must first apply for admission and thereafter fill out the corresponding scholarship application form, along with the accompanying essay and referee assessment.

Official Source: NTU – Nanyang Global Scholarship.

5. NTU Research Scholarship

The NTU Research Scholarship supports eligible students undertaking research postgraduate degrees.

Eligibility:

  • Available to eligible research master’s and PhD applicants.
  • Strong academic qualifications.
  • Admission to an eligible full-time research program.
  • Additional conditions determined by NTU and the relevant academic school.

Scholarship Amount and Benefits:

  • Tuition fee support.
  • Monthly stipend based on the applicable award conditions.
  • Funding duration determined by degree level and scholarship rules.

Application Deadline: Depends on the research program and intake.

Application Process: Applicants should check the scholarship consideration process when submitting their NTU research degree application.

Official Source: NTU – Graduate Admissions.

6. NTU Nanyang President’s Graduate Scholarship

Nanyang President’s Graduate Scholarship is offered for excellent PhD applicants who are doing research at NTU.

Requirements:

  • It is open to qualified applicants of any nationality.
  • High-level academic success.
  • Research aptitude.
  • Acceptance to one of the PhD programs offered by NTU.

Value of the Scholarship:

  • Financial help for the tuition fee.
  • Monthly allowance.
  • Other allowance depending on the award.
  • Deadline for Application: Depending on NTU scholarship application deadlines.

Application Procedure: Applicants need to follow the procedure as directed by NTU.

Official Source: NTU – Graduate Admissions.

7. SMU International Scholarships

Singapore Management University offers undergraduate scholarships with different nationality, academic and program requirements.

Eligibility:

  • Depends on the individual scholarship.
  • Some awards accept international applicants, including eligible Indian students.
  • Academic achievements, leadership and extracurricular participation may be considered.

Scholarship Amount and Benefits:

  • Tuition fee support or other funding, depending on the award.
  • Additional benefits may be available for selected scholarships.

Application Deadline: Award-specific.

Application Process: Students should check whether their selected scholarship requires a separate application or is considered through undergraduate admissions.

Official Source: SMU – Admissions.

8. SMU Postgraduate Research Scholarships

SMU provides scholarship opportunities for eligible students pursuing research postgraduate programs, particularly doctoral degrees.

Eligibility:

  • Admission to an eligible SMU research program.
  • Strong academic qualifications and research potential.
  • Nationality requirements depend on the award.

Scholarship Amount and Benefits:

  • Tuition fee support.
  • Monthly stipend for eligible scholarship recipients.
  • Other research support where applicable.

Application Deadline: Depends on the doctoral program and admission cycle.

Application Process: Applicants should review the funding arrangements and scholarship consideration procedures for their chosen research program.

Official Source: SMU – Graduate Research Programs.

9. A*STAR Graduate Scholarship (AGS)

The A*STAR Graduate Scholarship supports PhD research through A*STAR and participating universities.

Eligibility:

  • Strong academic background and research potential.
  • Admission to an eligible research program.
  • Nationality and residency restrictions may apply to the specific scholarship route.

Important for Indian Students: Do not assume AGS is open to all Indian applicants. A*STAR distinguishes its graduate scholarship routes, and some AGS opportunities are restricted to Singapore citizens or other specified categories. Indian applicants should verify their eligibility before applying. SINGA is a clearer international research-funding option.

Scholarship Amount and Benefits: Research funding, tuition support and stipends depend on the specific eligible award.

Application Deadline: Scholarship-cycle-specific.

Official Source: A*STAR – Scholarships.

10. Dr Goh Keng Swee Scholarship

Undergraduate students from selected economies in the Asia Pacific region, which includes India, are awarded the Dr Goh Keng Swee Scholarship.

From 2026, this scholarship program will be run by NUS with candidates applying via the university admission process.

Eligibility:

  • Citizens of eligible economies, including India.
  • Admission eligibility for an NUS undergraduate program.
  • Strong academic and extracurricular achievements.
  • Leadership potential.

Scholarship Amount and Benefits:

  • Subsidized tuition and compulsory fees.
  • Airfare support.
  • Annual living allowance.
  • Hostel allowance.
  • One-time settling-in allowance.

Application Deadline: Based on the applicable NUS admissions cycle.

Application Process: Eligible applicants are automatically considered through NUS undergraduate admissions.

Service Obligation: Recipients must fulfil a three-year work bond under the scholarship’s conditions.

Official Source: Association of Banks in Singapore – Dr Goh Keng Swee Scholarship.

Find Your Education Loan

Which Singapore Scholarship Should You Apply For?

The right scholarship depends on your degree level, academic profile and nationality.

Study Level Scholarships to Explore Funding Type
Undergraduate NUS International Undergraduate Scholarship Tuition and allowances
Undergraduate NUS Science & Technology Undergraduate Scholarship Tuition and allowances
Undergraduate NTU Nanyang Global Scholarship Tuition and allowances
Undergraduate Dr Goh Keng Swee Scholarship Tuition and living support
Undergraduate Eligible SMU Scholarships Award-specific
Research Master’s NTU Research Scholarship Research funding
PhD SINGA Tuition and stipend
PhD NTU Research Scholarship Tuition and stipend
PhD Nanyang President’s Graduate Scholarship Research funding
PhD Eligible SMU Research Scholarships Research funding

Students seeking a taught master’s degree should check university-specific postgraduate funding separately. Many prominent Singapore scholarships are intended for undergraduate or PhD applicants rather than taught master’s students.

How to Apply for Scholarships in Singapore

Applying for scholarships in Singapore for Indian students requires careful planning because admission and scholarship deadlines may differ.

  1. Shortlist scholarships: Identify awards suitable for your degree level, university and nationality.
  2. Check eligibility: Review academic requirements, nationality restrictions, program eligibility and service obligations.
  3. Apply for university admission: Complete the relevant university application before its deadline.
  4. Complete the scholarship application: Some awards require separate forms, while others automatically consider eligible admission applicants.
  5. Submit supporting documents: Provide academic records, references, essays and research proposals where required.
  6. Attend an interview: Shortlisted candidates may be invited for a scholarship interview.
  7. Review the scholarship offer: Check funding, renewal conditions, permitted expenses and any bond before accepting.

When Should Indian Students Start Applying?

It is recommended to start investigating scholarship opportunities 9-12 months prior to your desired intake. This allows you to have enough time to choose the universities, prepare necessary documents, and be aware of the application deadlines.

Regarding research scholarships, locating potential supervisors and developing a research proposal might take extra time.

Keep in mind that the official deadline always comes first as some scholarships end together with university admissions.

If scholarships don’t cover everything, an education loan can bridge the gap. At Nomad Credit, our study abroad consultants are here to guide you through every step, from finding the right university and scholarship to securing an education loan that fits your needs.

Found Your Singapore Scholarship – What’s Next?

Receiving a scholarship can significantly reduce study costs, but students should check whether the award covers all expenses.

A scholarship may cover tuition while leaving accommodation, food, travel, insurance and personal expenses to the student.

Before accepting an offer, calculate:

  • Total tuition fees
  • Scholarship funding
  • Accommodation and living expenses
  • Travel and insurance costs
  • Remaining funding requirement

Nomad Credit’s Scholarship Finder can help students explore additional scholarship opportunities.

If your scholarship does not cover the full cost, you can also explore education loan options from eligible lenders based on your academic and financial profile.

Find the Best Scholarship

Discover Top
Scholarships for You!

Check Scholarship Options
Smiling woman with money

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Indian students apply for scholarships in Singapore?

Yes, Indian students are eligible for numerous Singapore scholarships, especially the Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA), NTU Research Scholarship, and other university-level merit and postgraduate scholarships. Other government scholarships, such as the ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship, are limited to ASEAN members, although most are international.


How do I apply for scholarships to study in Singapore?

It usually entails the following steps: admission to a recognised university in Singapore, finding out which scholarships you are eligible to apply to, preparing your academic transcripts and research/personal statement, and sending the scholarship application in time. Each scholarship has its own portal, always apply through the official university or agency website.


Can I get a fully funded scholarship in Singapore?

Yes, several fully funded scholarships in Singapore are available for international students, including Indian applicants. Some of the most notable programs include Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA), Nanyang President’s Graduate Scholarship (NPGS), A*STAR Graduate Scholarship which cover full tuition fees and offer monthly stipends, travel grant and settling-in allowance. Such scholarships are very competitive and they normally need good academic records and potential in research.


What is the minimum academic requirement for Singapore scholarships?

Most competitive Singapore scholarships require at least a First Class or Upper Second Class Honours degree at the undergraduate level. For undergraduate scholarships, you typically need to be in the top 10% of your school’s graduating class. Specific GPA requirements vary by scholarship and institution.


Is English proficiency required for Singapore scholarships?

Yes. Since all major Singapore universities teach in English, proof of English proficiency is generally required. Accepted tests include IELTS (typically 6.5+), TOEFL (90+ iBT), and PTE Academic. Students from English-medium schools may be exempted.


Can I apply for a scholarship and an education loan at the same time in Singapore?

Yes. Many students use a combination of scholarships and education loans to fund their studies. If your scholarship covers tuition but not living expenses, or only partially covers costs, an education loan can make up the difference. Nomad Credit can help you explore education loan options that work alongside your scholarship.


What is the best scholarship in Singapore for Indian students?

The Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) is widely considered the best scholarship for Indian students pursuing a PhD in Singapore because it covers full tuition, monthly stipend, travel allowance, and settling-in expenses.


Is Singapore good for Indian students?

Singapore is among the most preferred places for Indian students to study because of its globally recognized universities, strong job prospects, and English-language education. NUS and NTU consistently rank among the top universities globally in terms of QS ranking and numerous Indian students can be offered scholarships to study undergraduate, master’s, or PhD courses.


Which universities in Singapore offer scholarships for international students?

Scholarships to international students are available at many of the best universities in Singapore. The big ones are National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore Management University (SMU) and Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT). These universities provide a range of scholarships, often covering tuition fees, living allowances, and research funding for outstanding students.


 

Speak to an Expert
It’s completely free.
If not listed, select "Not Listed." If undecided, choose "Still Deciding."

By continuing, you agree to Nomad Credit's Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Related Blogs

Speak to an Expert

Trusted by students in 9+ countries to secure funds for their dreams

Students
If not listed, select "Not Listed." If undecided, choose "Still Deciding."

By continuing, you agree to Nomad Credit's Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Speak to an expert whatsapp-icon