The A STAR Graduate Scholarship (AGS) provides complete financial support for up to four years of doctoral or engineering study at Singapore’s independent universities. As an AGS scholar, you will participate in industry-oriented and user-inspired R&D projects, earning valuable hands-on experience.
In addition, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in a year-long foreign attachment, which will enhance your intellectual and cultural perspectives. After completing their PhD studies, AGS scholars can continue their education at prestigious international colleges or research facilities through the A STAR International Fellowship (AIF). This post-doctoral phase aims to improve research skills and broaden global professional networks.
The A STAR Graduate Academy celebrates diversity and recognizes its importance in fostering innovation and interdisciplinary research. Scholars are urged to bring new views to bear on contemporary scientific concerns.
Joining AGS means having access to high-quality education locally while also making a major contribution to science, Singapore, and its people. Begin your research path with AGS at an A STAR Research Institute, which includes cutting-edge resources and registration for your PhD or EngD at Singapore’s prestigious autonomous universities.
Benefits of Singapore Postgraduate Scholarships for International Students
Successful candidates for the A STAR Graduate Scholarship (AGS) are entitled to complete support for up to four years, including:
- Tuition fees which are fully covered,
- A monthly sustenance grant that incorporates CPF contributions where available, ensuring financial stability during the course of studies.
- Additional allowances include a book allowance for necessary academic materials, a computer allowance to facilitate research work, a conference allowance to attend academic events and present findings, and a thesis allowance to assist with the completion and submission of the doctoral thesis.
- Support for up to a year of foreign attachment, allowing researchers to obtain international experience and diversify their research perspectives.
*Mid-term AGS grantees receive the same support as full-term awardees, beginning with the award. To guarantee equity and continuity in support, any appropriate payments are made, including retrospective covering of tuition fees and compulsory fees beginning in the first year of study. A STAR reserves the right to alter all rates and allowances as appropriate, indicating the organization’s dedication to keeping the program relevant and effective over time.
Eligibility Criteria for Singapore Postgraduate Scholarship
Applicants for the A STAR Graduate Scholarship (AGS) must fulfill the following requirements:
- Nationality: Applications are welcome from both Singaporeans and people of other nationalities.
- Education Background: Non-Singaporean applicants must have finished or be on track to obtain a degree at a Singapore autonomous university.
- Entrance & Academic Performance: Candidates must meet entrance requirements and apply to a PhD or EngD program at a Singaporean autonomous university. They must have attained, or be on track to achieve, a 2nd Upper Class Honours degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline.
- Application Timing: Candidates in the last semester of their undergraduate studies are allowed to apply, with the understanding that the scholarship would only be offered if they meet the required academic standards.
- Career Interest: Applicants should express a strong desire to pursue a career in research, demonstrating their dedication to expanding knowledge in their profession.
For Mid-Term AGS applicants, the following criteria apply:
- Nationality: Both Singaporeans and foreign nationals are eligible. Non-Singaporean applicants must hold a degree from a Singapore autonomous university and be currently enrolled in one of Singapore’s autonomous universities, having completed at least one semester at the time of scholarship application.
- Academic standing: Candidates should have great academic performance in their current degree program.
- Research Potential: Significant research potential and accomplishments are valued.
- Academic Referees: The present university supervisor must serve as one of the application’s two academic referees.
*These eligibility criteria are not exhaustive, and A STAR maintains the right to add more selection criteria depending on current scholarship standards. These policies may change without notice.
Selection Processes
The selection process for the A STAR Graduate Scholarship (AGS) includes multiple stages:
- The Interview Stage: Applicants will participate in two rounds of interviews. Only those who have been shortlisted will be notified about the interview.
- The second Application cycle: The second application period begins on June 1st and ends August 1st.
How to Apply
If you are qualified and interested to Apply for the AGS, please visit the SINGAPORE INTERNATIONAL GRADUATE AWARD (SINGA) page at sms-applicant-app.a-star.edu.sg. The website’s frequently asked questions area also contains further information and answers to common issues.
If you have any further questions or require assistance, please contact the A STAR Graduate Academy at student_services@hq.a-star.edu.sg. The A*STAR website provides detailed information on the scholarship, application process, and qualifying criteria.
