Latest update: According to Singapore’s Ministry of Education, over 2,000 international scholarships were granted in 2024 alone, with a growing trend projected into 2025.
For international students, particularly from India, Singapore has become a top destination for higher education. With a thriving community of approximately 10,000 Indian students, the country offers world-class academics and promising career prospects. But what makes this opportunity truly accessible?
It is the availability of fully funded scholarships in Singapore for international students. These are not just partial grants; they are awards that cover university tuition fees and living expenses.
If this made you wonder about fully funded scholarships in Singapore for international students, then this guide is your buddy! We'll walk you through the top scholarships available to make your dream of studying in Singapore a reality.
List of Fully Funded Scholarships in Singapore for Indian Students 2025
For the 2025 intake, several fully funded scholarships are specifically designed to support talented Indian students. These awards cover essential costs like tuition and living expenses, removing the financial barrier to a world-class education.
Below is a detailed list of the top scholarships that can turn your academic goals into a reality:
NUS Science and Technology Undergraduate Scholarship
The NUS Science and Technology Undergraduate Scholarship is a prestigious award covering tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs. It is granted to outstanding students based on academic excellence and leadership potential.
Category
Details
Applicable Fields
Full-time undergraduate degrees in Computing, Engineering, and Science at NUS.
Key Benefits
Full coverage of subsidized tuition fees (after MOE Tuition Grant).
S$6,000 (~₹4.9 lakhs) annual living allowance.
1,750 (₹1.4 lakhs) one-time computer allowance.
S$200 (₹16,000) one-time settling-in allowance
Annual accommodation allowance.
Travel allowance for a flight from the home country to Singapore and a return flight after graduation.
Eligibility Criteria
Must be a citizen of an Asian country.
Possesses outstanding high school academic results.
Demonstrate strong leadership qualities.
Have an excellent record of co-curricular activities.
Transfer students are not eligible.
Application Process
No separate scholarship application is needed.
All eligible students who apply for admission to relevant NUS courses are automatically considered.
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview between January and July.
Final outcomes are typically released by mid-July.
Terms & Conditions
Bond: A six-year bond is required, where graduates must work for a Singapore-registered company after completing their studies.
Other Awards: Cannot hold other scholarships or grants concurrently.
Renewal: Must maintain a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.5 for renewal each semester.
NTU Nanyang Scholarship
The NTU Nanyang Scholarship is a prestigious, fully funded award for outstanding students pursuing undergraduate studies at Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore. It covers tuition fees, living expenses, and accommodation costs, making it one of the most competitive scholarships in the country.
Category
Details
Applicable Fields
All full-time undergraduate degree programmes at Nanyang Technological University (NTU).
Key Benefits
Full coverage of subsidized tuition fees (after MOE Tuition Grant).
Annual living allowance of S$6,500 (₹5.3 lakhs).
S$2,000 (₹1.6 lakhs) per year.
One-off computer allowance of S$2,000 (₹1.6 lakhs).
S$8,000 (₹6.5 lakhs) for an overseas programme (₹6.5 lakhs).
Eligibility Criteria
Open to all nationalities.
Must have excellent academic results
Strong leadership qualities and potential.
Excellent co-curricular activities record.
Application Process
Apply for the scholarship after submitting your application for admission to NTU.
The application includes a personal essay (max 250 words).
Requires one online referee appraisal from a school teacher.
Shortlisted candidates are interviewed between March and May.
Terms & Conditions
Bond: No dedicated bond, but international students must undertake the standard 3-year MOE Tuition Grant bond.
Other Awards: Cannot hold other scholarships or loans concurrently without approval.
Renewal: Must maintain a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.5 out of 5.0.
Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)
The Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) is a premier, bond-free PhD scholarship for students in Science and Engineering. The award is open to all international graduates, including students from India, especially those studying in Singapore for the first time.
It is a unique collaboration between A*STAR and Singapore's top universities (NTU, NUS, SUTD, SMU, and SIT).
Category
Details
Applicable Fields
PhD or EngD programmes in Science and Engineering fields, including Biomedical Sciences, Computing and Information Sciences, Engineering and Technology, and Physical Sciences.
Key Benefits
Full coverage of tuition fees for up to 4 years.
Monthly stipend of S$2,700 (₹2.2lakhs), which increases to S$3,200 (₹2.6 lakhs) after passing the Qualifying Exam.
One-time airfare grant of up to S$1,500 (₹1.2 lakhs).\1,000 ( ₹82,000).
Eligibility Criteria
Must be an international student with an excellent academic record.
Not a Singaporean citizen or Permanent Resident.
Strong interest in research and good reports from academic referees.
Good written and spoken English skills.
Application Process
The application is done online through the official SINGA portal.
Applicants must browse and select research projects of interest.
Required documents include a valid passport, academic transcripts, degree certificates, and two recommendation reports.
It is advised to apply early to ensure referees have time to submit their reports before the deadline.
Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy Graduate Scholarships
Singapore's Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (LKYSPP) offers a diverse range of scholarships to support postgraduate students from around the world. These awards cater to different fields of study, nationalities, and career levels, from mid-career professionals in public policy to exceptional PhD researchers.
LKYSPP-Hinrich Global Trade Leader Scholarship
This scholarship provides a powerful pathway for mid-career professionals from any country to become leaders in global trade through the Master's in International Affairs programme.
Feature
Details
Nationality
Open to all nationalities.
Key Benefit
Full tuition waiver for the MIA programme.
Eligibility
At least 2 years of relevant work experience.
Strong interest in global trade or international trade policy.
Preference for candidates intending to work in Asia post-graduation.
Obligations
Recipients must engage with the Hinrich Foundation for mentorship, potential job placement support, and join their alumni association.
Enpee Group Scholarship
Specifically for public servants from Nigeria and India, this scholarship supports students aspiring to pursue a Master's in Public Administration at LKYSPP.
Feature
Details
Nationality
Citizens of Nigeria and India only.
Key Benefit
The scholarship helps fund the MPA programme (specific value not detailed).
Eligibility
Must be a citizen of Nigeria or India.
Must have a demonstrated passion for public service.
Must possess excellent and professional records in the public sector.
NUS Research Scholarship
This is the primary scholarship offered by NUS to support promising PhD candidates of all nationalities throughout their research journey.
Feature
Details
Target Audience
PhD candidates across various disciplines.
Nationality
Open to all nationalities.
Duration & Renewal
Awarded for one year initially.
Renewable annually for a maximum of 4 years.
Renewal is subject to a satisfactory academic progress review.
Conditions
The scholarship will be terminated if the scholar receives an academic warning or is placed on probation for unsatisfactory progress.
President’s Graduate Fellowships (PGF)
As one of NUS's most prestigious awards, the President's Graduate Fellowship is granted to a select number of exceptional PhD candidates who have demonstrated outstanding accomplishments or promise in research. This fellowship provides comprehensive support to allow scholars to fully immerse themselves in their research.
Feature
Details
Nationality
Open to all nationalities.
Eligibility
Both incoming PhD students and current NUS Research Scholars (who have passed their PhD Qualifying Examination) are considered.
Certain programs like SMA and GPBE are excluded.
Benefits
Full coverage of tuition fees.
Monthly Stipend: S$3,400 ( ₹2.8 lakhs)\1,000 for overseas students ( ₹82,000).
One-off air travel allowance of up to S$750 for overseas students ( ₹61,500).
Duration & Renewal
Awarded for a maximum of 4 years, subject to a satisfactory annual review.
Notification
The outcome of the fellowship award is typically announced around May.
Duration & Renewal
Awarded for one year initially.
Renewable each semester, subject to the scholar's performance and faculty recommendation.
The maximum tenure of the award is four years.
INSEAD-Syngenta MBA Scholarships for Developing Country Leaders
This scholarship is a collaboration between INSEAD and Syngenta, aimed at developing future leaders from emerging economies. It provides financial support to talented individuals who have a commitment to contributing to their home country's development after completing their MBA.
Feature
Details
Nationality
Open to nationals of emerging countries, including India.
Key Benefit
The scholarship award is €22,500 ( ₹19.9 lakhs). Two scholarships are awarded per class.
Eligibility
Must be a national of an emerging economy and have spent a substantial part of their life in the developing world.
Must demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, leadership potential, and an aptitude for business.
Preference is given to candidates who can prove their need for financial assistance.
Experience in industry is considered a plus.
Application Process
Applications are accepted during Rounds 1 and 2 of the MBA admissions process.
Requires online submission with specific essays on topics like business leadership in your country and sustainable agriculture.
A financial needs assessment essay is also required.
Commitment
Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to contributing to their country or region in the future.
This scholarship is offered by the National University of Singapore to support exceptional international freshmen from all countries. It is an award that recognizes outstanding academic achievements and leadership qualities, covering most costs associated with an undergraduate education.
Feature
Details
Nationality
Open to all international students, including Singapore Permanent Residents.
Key Benefits
Full coverage of subsidized tuition fees (after MOE Tuition Grant).
Annual living allowance of S$5,800 (₹4.7 lakhs).\1,750 (₹1.4 lakhs).
Annual accommodation allowance of S$5,000 (₹4.1 lakhs).
Eligibility
Must not be a Singapore citizen.
Possesses outstanding high school academic results.
Demonstrate strong leadership qualities and potential.
Have an excellent co-curricular activities record.
Transfer applicants are not eligible.
Application Process
No separate scholarship application is required.
All eligible international students who apply for admission to NUS are automatically considered.
Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview between January and July.
Outcomes are released by mid-July.
Terms & Conditions
Bond: Recipients must take up the MOE Tuition Grant, which carries a 3-year bond to work in a Singapore-registered company after graduation.
Dentistry and Medicine graduates have a 5 or 6-year bond with the Ministry of Health.
Other Awards: Cannot hold other scholarships concurrently without prior approval.
Renewal: Must maintain a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.5 for renewal.
Conclusion
Singapore’s fully funded scholarships offer Indian students unparalleled opportunities to pursue higher education in a globally recognized academic environment. By providing financial support, these scholarships remove barriers to education, allowing students to focus on their academic and professional goals.
Understanding the types of scholarships, the application process, and the roles these scholarships play can significantly enhance a student’s chances of securing a scholarship. Singapore’s commitment to nurturing talent makes it an ideal destination for ambitious students seeking quality education and career advancement.
At upGrad, we work closely with Indian learners and professionals to simplify international education and migration journeys. From selecting the right course or pathway to preparing for life abroad, our expert support ensures you're informed every step of the way.
FAQ
What is the difference between fully and partially funded scholarships?
A fully funded scholarship covers all major costs, including tuition, accommodation, and living stipends, leaving very few out-of-pocket expenses. A partially funded scholarship covers only specific costs, like tuition fees or a portion of them, requiring you to fund the remaining expenses yourself.
Can I get a 100% scholarship to study in Singapore?
Yes, several fully funded scholarships in Singapore cover 100% of tuition fees, living expenses, and more. Examples include the NUS Global Merit Scholarship, NTU Nanyang Scholarship, and SINGA for PhD students, all of which offer complete financial support for a worry-free academic experience.
How can an Indian student get a scholarship to study in Singapore?
Indian students can secure scholarships by maintaining excellent academic records (typically above 90%), demonstrating strong leadership skills, and having a notable co-curricular profile. A well-written personal statement and strong recommendation letters are also crucial when applying to universities like NUS and NTU for their scholarships.
Can I get a scholarship in Singapore without an IELTS score?
While some universities may waive the IELTS requirement if your prior education was in English, most top-tier scholarships prefer strong proof of English proficiency, like IELTS or TOEFL. Meeting the university's minimum language requirement is the first step, but a good test score strengthens your application.
Is Singapore a good option for Indian students?
Yes, Singapore is an excellent option. It offers world-class universities, a safe and multicultural environment, and strong post-graduation career opportunities. The large and well-integrated Indian diaspora provides a supportive community, making the transition for new students much smoother.
What is a full-ride scholarship?
A full-ride scholarship is the most comprehensive award available, covering the total cost of attendance. This includes full tuition and fees, accommodation, meals, books, supplies, and sometimes even a stipend for personal expenses or travel, leaving almost no cost for the student to bear.
What percentage is required for a scholarship in Singapore?
While there isn't a fixed cutoff, securing a top scholarship generally requires outstanding academic performance, typically above 90-95% in your Class XII board exams or an equivalent qualification. However, strong leadership skills and co-curricular achievements are weighed just as heavily as high percentages.
How can I increase my chances of getting a scholarship in Singapore?
To boost your chances, focus on achieving top grades, take on leadership roles in school or your community, and build a strong co-curricular record. You must also write a compelling personal essay and secure powerful letters of recommendation. Applying early is always an advantage.
Is there any fully funded scholarship available in Singapore?
Yes, numerous fully funded scholarships are available. The Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) for PhD candidates and the NTU Nanyang Scholarship for undergraduates are prime examples that cover tuition fees, provide a living stipend, and include other allowances to support students completely.
How can I get a 100% scholarship from NUS?
To get a 100% scholarship at NUS, you should aim for prestigious awards like the NUS Global Merit Scholarship. This requires near-perfect academic scores, exceptional leadership qualities, and a remarkable co-curricular activities record. Most applicants are automatically considered when they apply for admission.
Who is eligible for an NUS scholarship?
Eligibility for NUS scholarships varies. Most merit-based awards are open to all nationalities with outstanding academic profiles. However, some scholarships are specifically for citizens of ASEAN countries, while others might be for students demonstrating specific talents in sports or arts, or for specific courses.
What is the NTU Singapore scholarship for Indian students?
While most prestigious NTU scholarships, like the Nanyang Scholarship, are open to all nationalities, including Indians, specific awards like the NTU Science & Technology Scholarship are targeted at students from Asian countries. These provide significant financial support, including tuition coverage and living allowances.
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