NUS Research Scholarship Singapore 2027 – Apply Now
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Overview
The NUS Research Scholarship funds PhD and Master’s (Research) students at the National University of Singapore. It is open to Singapore citizens, permanent residents and international students. It gives a monthly stipend and a full waiver of tuition fees. The typical award period is 4 years for a PhD and 2 years for a Master’s (Research). International PhD students receive SGD 3,000 a month, which rises to SGD 3,500 after passing the PhD Qualifying Examination. International Master’s (Research) students receive SGD 2,900 a month. These rates apply from 1 January 2026. See what the scholarship covers for the full breakdown
What to know before applying
You need an undergraduate degree with at least Second Class Honours (Upper division), Honours (Distinction) or an equivalent. There is no separate scholarship application for new students. NUS says scholarship applications can be submitted alongside your online application for admission. The same page names the NUS Research Scholarship and the President’s Graduate Fellowship as the two awards considered for research candidates.
Each faculty sets its own admission deadline and runs its own research programmes. Read your faculty’s page before you apply. Some programmes ask for a research proposal, referees or a supervisor match, and these requirements differ by faculty. Comparing fully funded graduate research options? See the KAIST International Scholarship for Master’s and PhD study in South Korea, or the CARTA PhD Fellowship Africa for doctoral applicants from Africa.
Timeline notes
NUS accepts applications for the August (Semester 1) and January (Semester 2) intakes, and the closing dates depend on the faculty. For the August 2027 intake:
- Law: PhD applications run from 15 September to 31 October 2026.
- Public Health: closes 1 November 2026.
- Arts and Social Sciences: closes 1 November, and 1 December for Economics.
- Science, Life Sciences and Statistics and Data Science: close 15 November 2026.
- Computing: closes 15 December.
- Medicine: closes 31 December.
- Design and Engineering: closes 15 January 2027 for international candidates.
For the January 2028 intake, Science, Life Sciences and Statistics close on 15 May 2027, and Computing closes on 15 June. Computing and Life Sciences accept applications all year, so there is no single opening date. The latest deadline is listed further down this page.
About the NUS Research Scholarship Singapore
The NUS Research Scholarship Singapore is a fully funded scholarship offered by National University of Singapore (NUS) for study in Singapore. The scholarship supports students pursuing PhD studies in STEM, Business, Social Sciences, Law, Medicine . Recipients receive International PhD students: SGD 3,000 per month, rising to SGD 3,500 after passing the PhD Qualifying Examination. International Master's (Research) students: SGD 2,900 per month. Rates apply from 1 January 2026 for a duration of PhD: typically 4 years, maximum 4 years. Master's (Research): typically 2 years, maximum 2 years.
Eligible applicants: Global eligibility, open to all nationalities. Academic standing: Excellent academic record, typically first class or equivalent.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and align with the NUS Research Scholarship Singapore selection criteria, this represents a life-changing opportunity to study with full financial support. Read the sections below carefully to understand the benefits, eligibility, application process, and deadline before applying.
Scholarship Benefits & What's Covered
Selected recipients of the NUS Research Scholarship Singapore receive a comprehensive funding package. Here's what the scholarship covers:
- Stipend and allowances: International PhD students: SGD 3,000 per month, rising to SGD 3,500 after passing the PhD Qualifying Examination. International Master's (Research) students: SGD 2,900 per month. Rates apply from 1 January 2026
- Tuition fees: Yes, full waiver of tuition fees
- Accommodation: Not communicated
- Airfare / travel: Not communicated
- Health insurance: Yes
- Family / dependants: No
- Program duration: PhD: typically 4 years, maximum 4 years. Master's (Research): typically 2 years, maximum 2 years
- Number of awards per year: Limited number
The scholarship is classified as Fully Funded. This means recipients receive complete financial coverage throughout their study period, allowing them to focus entirely on their academic and research goals without financial burden.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the NUS Research Scholarship Singapore, applicants must meet the following requirements. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected, so review these carefully before applying.
Academic requirements
- Minimum degree level: Undergraduate degree with at least Second Class Honours (Upper division) or Honours (Distinction) or equivalent
- Academic standing: Excellent academic record, typically first class or equivalent
- Academic background: Relevant to chosen PhD program
- Fields of study: STEM, Business, Social Sciences, Law, Medicine
Nationality & residency
- Eligible countries: Global eligibility, open to all nationalities
- Residency: Must be accepted into NUS PhD program
Language requirements
- Language of instruction: English
- Language test: TOEFL/IELTS required for non-native English speakers
- Minimum score: IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL iBT 85
Other requirements
- Age: No fixed age limit
- Gender: Open to all genders
How to Apply for the NUS Research Scholarship Singapore
Applications for the NUS Research Scholarship Singapore are submitted through the official channels of National University of Singapore (NUS). Follow these steps to submit a strong application:
Step 1: Verify eligibility. Confirm you meet every requirement listed above, particularly nationality, academic level, and language proficiency. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected without review.
Step 2: Prepare required documents. You will need to submit: Online application, transcripts, CV, 3 reference letters, research proposal, language test. Prepare each document carefully, reviewers typically shortlist based on document quality and completeness.
Step 3: Secure reference letters. Yes, 3 references required. Contact your referees early. References take time to prepare.
Step 4: Submit the application. Complete the application on the official portal before the deadline. The application deadline for this scholarship is 15 Jan 2027. Late or incomplete applications are not considered.
Step 5: Await response. Shortlisting typically takes 4–8 weeks after the deadline. Successful candidates are invited to interview or additional assessment. Final decisions are announced 3–6 months after the application deadline.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the NUS Research Scholarship Singapore is 15 Jan 2027. Application window: a rolling basis, applications accepted year-round.
We strongly recommend starting your application at least 6–8 weeks before the deadline to allow sufficient time for document preparation, reference letter requests, and revisions to your personal statement. Rushed applications are visibly weaker and reduce your chance of shortlisting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the NUS Research Scholarship Singapore fully funded?
The scholarship is classified as Fully Funded. This means it covers all or most major costs — see the Benefits section above for a full breakdown.
Who can apply for the NUS Research Scholarship Singapore?
Applicants must be from Global eligibility, open to all nationalities. Additionally, applicants must hold Undergraduate degree with at least Second Class Honours (Upper division) or Honours (Distinction) or equivalent. Full eligibility criteria including language, age, and academic requirements are detailed in the Eligibility section above.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline for the NUS Research Scholarship Singapore is 15 Jan 2027. Late applications are not accepted, so aim to submit at least 2 weeks in advance.
Is there a bond or return obligation?
No formal bond.
Where do I apply?
Apply directly on the official portal: Application Link. ScholarshipSpace does not process applications on their behalf.