PhD in Singapore for Indian Students: Top Universities & Scholarships

Latest Update The 2025 Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) offers fully funded PhD scholarships for Indian students at universities like NUS, NTU, SUTD, and SMU. Benefits include full tuition, a monthly stipend starting at SGD 2,000 (INR 1.2L) rising to SGD 2,500 (INR 1.5L) post-qualifying exam. Apply by June 1, 2025, for January 2026 intake.

Singapore offers Indian students access to over 30 globally ranked universities and research institutes, with PhD programs spanning science, engineering, management, health, and social sciences. 

Among these, institutions such as the National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), and Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) are among the best universities in Singapore known for their PhD offerings across diverse disciplines.

Moreover, Singapore ranks #1 in Asia for education quality, making study in Singapore a good choice for advanced research. This guide covers everything Indian students need to know about pursuing a PhD in Singapore, including top universities' admissions requirements, program structures, and tuition fees.

PhD in Singapore: Overview

A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) is a doctorate degree (the highest academic degree) focused on original research and advanced knowledge in a chosen field. Singapore is home to 6 public universities offering PhDs across disciplines, with over 3,000 Indian students enrolling annually, a 35% increase in recent years. 

With tuition fees ranging from SGD 28,000–52,994 (INR 17–32 L) per year and average PhD graduate salaries of SGD 101,000 (INR 62.4 L), Singapore delivers high-quality education and strong career prospects. 

Here are some of the key highlights about doing a PhD in Singapore for Indian students:

Criteria	Details
Course Duration	2–5 years
Intakes	August (Fall) January (Spring)
Eligibility	Bachelor's/Master's in a relevant field GPA ≥ 3.0/4.0 IELTS 6.5–7.0 TOEFL 85–100 SOP 2–3 LORs GRE/GMAT (varies)
Available Specializations	Science, Engineering, Business, Health, Social Sciences, Technology, Design, Psychology, and more
Medium of Instruction	English
Avg. Tuition Fees	SGD 28,000–52,994/year (INR 17–32L)
Top Universities	Singapore Management University (SMU) Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS)
Job Prospects	University Professor Research Scientist Data Scientist Government Researcher Management Consultant Biomedical Scientist
Indian Student Community	9% of Singapore’s population; strong support network
Application Deadlines	Vary by university and program; typically 2–3 months before intake

Also Read: Study in Singapore after 12th : Top Courses, Colleges & Cost

Now that you know why Singapore is the best destination for a PhD. Let's explore the best universities in the country where you can take admission to pursue a PhD with your preferred specialization. 

Top 7 Universities for PhD in Singapore

Singapore is home to the top 5 internationally ranked universities, with the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) consistently ranked among the world’s top 20.

Known for high-impact research and innovation, Singapore also ranks #15 in the QS Best Student Cities and holds the top spot in Asia for education quality. With PhD programs taught entirely in English, the country offers a highly accessible and globally competitive research environment for international students.

Here's a detailed overview of the top 7 universities for a PhD in Singapore, including their program duration, tuition fees, and QS WUR rankings where applicable.

University Name	QS World Ranking 2025	Name of PhD Course	Annual Tuition Fees (SGD/INR)
National University of Singapore (NUS)	8	PhD in Science/Engineering	SGD 28,000–52,994 (INR 17L–32L)
Nanyang Technological University (NTU)	15	PhD in Engineering/Sciences	SGD 40,510–47,790 (INR 25L–30L)
Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD)	440	PhD in Architecture/Engineering	SGD 38,520 (INR 23L)
Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT)	440	PhD in Engineering	SGD 30,000  (INR 18L)
Singapore Management University (SMU)	585	PhD in Business/Information Systems	SGD 34,450 (INR 21L)
Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS)	NA	PhD in Gerontology/Social Sciences	SGD 30,000 (INR 18L)
Duke-NUS Medical School	NA	MD-PhD (Biomedical Sciences)	SGD 49,000 (INR 30L)

Note: Currency conversions are approximate and based on the current exchange rate.

Singapore's top universities set strict and transparent entry standards for PhD aspirants, ensuring only the most qualified and scholarly candidates secure admission. Let's understand these PhD eligibility requirements for Indian students in Singapore. 

Eligibility Criteria for PhD in Singapore

PhD admissions in Singapore require a strong academic record, demonstrating research interest, and strong English language proficiency. Applicants must submit valid IELTS/TOEFL scores if previous studies weren't in English, and GRE/GMAT scores may be required for certain fields. 

A relevant bachelor's degree with distinction is minimal, though exceptional candidates with significant research experience may also be considered. 

Let's break down these academic requirements in detail. 

Academic Qualification

Applicants must hold a good bachelor's degree with Honours (Distinction) or equivalent, typically an upper second-class (2:1) or higher, or a master's degree in a relevant field. 

A GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 is usually required, and programs like SMU's PhD in Psychology mandate good GRE scores unless the bachelor's is from a Singapore autonomous university.

Here are the key academic criteria for doing a PhD in Singapore for Indian students: 

Academic Requirement	Details
Minimum Degree	Bachelor's with Honours (Distinction) or upper second class (2:1); Master's preferred for some fields
Minimum GPA	3.0/4.0 or equivalent
GRE/GMAT	GRE 320+ is required for some programs
Research Experience	Prior research, publications, or professional qualifications are advantageous
Academic References	Two academic referee reports are required
Additional Documents	Statement of Purpose CV/Resume Research proposal Passport Copy Proof of Funding

Next, let’s understand the language proficiency for pursuing a PhD in Singapore. 

English Language Proficiency 

Applicants whose first language is not English must provide recent standardized test scores, with most top Singaporean universities requiring an IELTS score of at least 7.0 or a TOEFL iBT score of 85–100. 

These scores must be attained within two years of application, and waivers are only granted if the applicant's bachelor's degree was taught entirely in English for at least three years. 

Here's a table mentioning the minimum scores required for each test: 

Test	Minimum Score Required
IELTS (Academic)	6.5–7.0
TOEFL iBT	85–100
PTE Academic	62–65
C1 Advanced (Cambridge)	180

Also Read: Study in Singapore Without IELTS

Need to convert your TOEFL score to an IELTS equivalent for university applications? upGrad’s TOEFL to IELTS Score Calculator helps you convert your score, expanding your university options effortlessly!

Indian students also need a student visa to pursue a PhD in Singapore. The following section outlines the key visa requirements and application process you need to know.

Visa Requirements

A Singapore student visa is mandatory for all international PhD students, requiring acceptance into a full-time program at an approved institution. The application is processed online via the SOLAR system, with a non-refundable fee of SGD 30 (INR 1,850) and an issuance fee of SGD 60 (INR 3,700), and must be submitted at least one month before the course begins.

Criteria	Details
University Acceptance	Official offer letter from a recognized Singaporean university (full-time program required).
Valid Passport	Minimum 6 months validity beyond intended stay
Financial Proof	Bank statements or sponsorship showing funds for total tuition recommended buffer of INR 10–15L
Academic Records	Certified academic transcripts and certificates from previous institutions
Medical Report	Recent health check confirming fitness and absence of communicable diseases.
Criminal Record	Declaration of no criminal record in the home country
Application Fee	SGD 30 (INR 2K), non-refundable
Issuance Fee	SGD 60 (INR 4K), payable upon approval
Application Platform	SOLAR (Student's Pass Online Application & Registration) system

Next, let's explore the details of courses available for a PhD in Singapore, including the specializations and what you can expect during your studies.

PhD in Singapore: Program Details & Specialization

PhD programs in Singapore typically last 3–5 years, with most students completing their doctorate in four years. Specializations span engineering, sciences, business, medical science, social sciences, and technology, with each university offering unique research strengths and tailored coursework.

Let's understand the PhD program structure from start to finish. 

PhD Program Structure in Singapore

Singapore's PhD programs combine coursework, research, and professional development, starting with core modules and a qualifying exam in the first year, followed by independent research and thesis defense. Full-time study lasts 3–5 years, while part-time can extend to 5 years, with progress tracked through annual reviews.

Here’s a detailed Structure of a PhD in Singapore: 

Program Stages	Duration	Description
Coursework	Year 1 (6–12 months)	Complete core and elective modules; typically 4–8 courses, earning required credits
Qualifying Exam (QE)	End of Year 1 or Year 2	Oral and/or written exam to assess research readiness and subject mastery
Research Proposal	Year 2	Submit and defend a detailed research proposal before a committee.
Research Phase	Years 2–4	Conduct original research, publish papers, attend seminars, and present progress reviews
Thesis Submission	Year 4 (or up to Year 5)	Write and submit doctoral thesis; undergo oral defense before a panel.
Teaching/TA Duties	Throughout program	Many programs require teaching assistantships or seminar participation
Maximum Duration	Full-time 5 years	Extensions are possible with approval; part-time options up to 5 years

With an understanding of the PhD program structure, let's explore the specialization options available to PhD students in Singapore.

PhD specialization in Singapore

Singapore offers a range of PhD specializations, with over 100 research areas available across its leading universities. These programs are designed to meet global research needs, ranging from engineering and biomedical sciences to business, public policy, and gerontology.

Here are the available specializations:

Specialization Course	Description
Engineering (Mechanical, Chemical, EEE)	Advanced research in core and interdisciplinary engineering fields with strong industry partnerships.
Business Management	Focus on finance, operations, marketing, and management information systems for academic and industry roles.
Biomedical Sciences/Medicine	Clinical, biomedical, and translational sciences with links to the hospital and biotech industry.
Physics & Chemistry	Experimental and theoretical research in physical and chemical sciences.
Social Sciences (Sociology, Psychology)	Sociology, psychology, public policy, and gerontology; prepare for research and policy roles.
Economics	Micro/macro-economics, econometrics, and development economics with a strong quantitative focus.
Architecture & Design	Integrates design thinking, urban planning, and technology for sustainable solutions.
Education	Research in pedagogy, curriculum, and educational leadership.
Gerontology	Specialized study of aging, public health, and social policy for an aging population.

Also Read: Best Courses in Singapore for Indian Students

Next, let's understand the financial aspects of doing a PhD in Singapore for Indian Students.  

Cost of Studying for a PhD in Singapore

The cost of pursuing a PhD in Singapore for international students typically ranges from SGD 25,000-60,000 (INR 15–37 L) per year in tuition fees, depending on the university and program. Living expenses are estimated at SGD 10,000-20,000 (INR 6–12 L) annually, covering accommodation, meals, transport, and personal needs.

Here's a detailed breakdown of the cost of living in Singapore: 

Cost Category	Details	Estimated Cost per year
Tuition Fees	Varies by university and program	SGD 25,000–60,000 (INR 15–37 L)
Accommodation	On-campus or shared private housing	SGD 8,000–18,000 (INR 5L–11L)
Meals	Food and groceries	SGD 4,500–6,000 (INR 2.8L–3.7L)
Transportation	MRT, bus, and local travel	SGD 1,200–1,800 (INR 74K–1.1L)
Personal Expenses	Books, supplies, leisure, mobile, etc.	SGD 3,000–6,000  (INR 1.8L–3.7L)

Note: These estimates can vary based on lifestyle, accommodation choices, and university policies.

Want to estimate the total cost of your PhD journey in Singapore? Use upGrad's Cost Calculator to get an accurate breakdown of your tuition, living expenses, and other costs.

You can offset these costs through scholarships, stipends, or research assistantships. Let's understand the scholarship and financial aid options available to Indian students for a PhD in Singapore. 

PhD in Singapore: Financial Aid and Scholarships

Singapore offers generous financial aid and scholarship opportunities for international PhD students. The prestigious SINGA scholarship fully funds up to four years of PhD study, covering tuition, a monthly stipend of SGD 2,000–2,700/INR 1.23L-1.66L (increased after qualifying exams), settling-in allowance, and airfare grant. 

Below is a detailed overview of the top scholarships for Indian students doing a PhD in Singapore: 

Scholarship Type	Name	Benefits & Eligibility
Government/University	Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)	Benefits: Full tuition, SGD 2,000–2,7001.23L-1.66L per month stipend, SGD 1,000/INR 61K settling-in, up to SGD 1,500/INR 92K airfare grant, 4 years Eligibility: Bachelor's in relevant field, strong academics, research interest, open to all internationals
University	NUS Research Scholarship	Benefits: Full tuition, SGD 2,500–2,700/month stipend (increased by SGD 500/INR 30K after QE), up to 4 years. Eligibility: Excellent academic record, research interest, open to all international students.
University	NTU Research Scholarship	Benefits: Full tuition, SGD 2,700/INR 1.66L per month stipend, up to 4 years. Eligibility: Strong academic background, research aptitude, open to all international students.
University	President's Graduate Fellowship	Benefits: Enhanced stipend (up to SGD 3,500/INR 2.15 L per month), full tuition, research allowance. Eligibility: Outstanding research record, top academic performance, competitive selection.
External	Erasmus+ Grant	Benefits: Up to USD 10,000 (INR 8.35L) for study mobility, travel, and living costs. Eligibility: Merit-based, open to all nationalities.

Now, let's understand the potential job opportunities after completing your PhD in Singapore. 

Potential Job Opportunities after a PhD in Singapore

Singapore offers strong career prospects for PhD graduates, with over 3,000 annual job openings in academia, industry, tech, and government. Top employers include Citadel Securities, TikTok, and leading universities, offering roles in data science, quantitative research, and professorships. 

PhD salaries range from SGD 90,000 - 180,000 (INR55L–1.1Cr), with senior roles reaching SGD 350,000 (INR2.15Cr). Over 80% of graduates find employment within six months, highlighting high demand for advanced research and analytical skills.

Here's a detailed look at some potential job roles after doing a PhD in Singapore:

Job Role	Avg Annual Salary (SGD/INR)	Job Description
Assistant/Associate Professor	SGD 120,000–180,000 (INR 74L–1.1Cr)	Teach undergraduate/graduate courses, supervise research, publish papers, and secure research grants.
Research Scientist	SGD 90,000–150,000 (INR 55L–92L)	Lead R&D projects in biotech, AI, healthcare, or materials science; publish and patent innovations
Data Scientist	SGD 90,000–150,000 (INR 61L–98L)	Analyze big data, build predictive models, and drive data-driven business decisions for tech/finance
Quantitative Researcher	SGD 180,000–350,000 (INR 1.1Cr–2.15Cr)	Develop trading algorithms, conduct statistical modeling, and optimize strategies for finance/hedge funds.
Machine Learning Engineer	SGD 120,000–180,000 (INR 74L–1.1Cr)	Design and deploy AI/ML models for tech, e-commerce, and research organizations.
Research Fellow/Postdoc	SGD 70,000–110,000 (INR 43L–67L)	Conduct advanced research, publish in top journals, and collaborate on international projects
Senior Consultant	SGD 120,000–200,000 (INR 74L–1.23Cr)	Advise on analytics, risk, or strategy for consulting firms and government agencies.

Note: Actual INR amounts may vary based on current market rates and bank conversion fees at the transaction time.

Let's take a look at some of the top recruiters for PhD holders in Singapore. 

Top Recruiters for PhD Holders in Singapore

Top recruiters in Singapore seek PhD graduates for academia, tech, finance, healthcare, and government roles. Key employers include TikTok, Google, AWS, DBS, Citadel Securities, NUS, NTU, pharmaceutical firms like Novo Nordisk, healthcare groups, and government agencies. 

These organizations value PhDs for their research and innovation skills, offering salaries ranging from SGD 90,000-350,000 (INR 55L–2.15Cr) annually.

Here are the top recruiters and industries along with the job roles:

• National University of Singapore (NUS): Assistant/Associate Professor, Research Fellow, Postdoc.
• Nanyang Technological University (NTU): Assistant Professor, Research Scientist, Lab Head.
• Singapore Management University (SMU): Faculty, Researcher, Data Analytics Lead.
• TikTok/ByteDance: Machine Learning Engineer, Algorithm Engineer, Data Scientist.
• Google, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Meta: AI Researcher, Software Engineer, ML Engineer.
• Citadel Securities, Options Group: Quantitative Researcher, Data Scientist, Risk Analyst.
• DBS Bank, UOB, OCBC, Standard Chartered: Strategy Consultant, Business Intelligence Analyst, Risk Manager.
• GovTech, Ministry of Health, MAS: Policy Analyst, Senior Health Manager, Data Scientist.
• Raffles Medical Group, SingHealth, NHG: Hospital Administrator, Research Scientist, Operations Management.
• Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly, Virtue Diagnostics: Clinical Investigator, Biostatistician, Senior Scientist.
• ST Engineering, SEA Group, Shopee, Grab: Product Manager, Strategy Consultant, Tech Lead. 

Recommended Reads: Average Salary in Singapore for Indians

So, what makes pursuing a PhD in Singapore such a great opportunity? Let’s explore the advantages!

Why Choose Singapore for a PhD?

Singapore is a top destination for PhD study, with over 3,000 international doctoral students enrolling annually and the government investing SGD25 billion in research and innovation through the RIE2025 plan.  

Apart from that, student life in Singapore is full of energy with a multicultural environment and modern campus amenities. International PhD students enjoy affordable living (meals from S$14/INR 854, monthly transport S$120/INR 7K), active social and academic networks, and the freedom to work up to 16 hours per week during term time.

Here are specific advantages of choosing Singapore for a PhD: 

• World-Class Research Funding: Singapore's RIE2025 plan allocates 1% of GDP over five years to research, innovation, and enterprise, ensuring modern facilities and ample research opportunities.
• Top Global University Rankings: Institutions like the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) are ranked in the global top 20, attracting leading faculty and international collaborations.
• Comprehensive Scholarships: All full-time PhD students at major universities receive scholarships covering tuition and living expenses, with stipends from SGD 3,200 to SGD 3,700 per month after qualifying exams.
• Industry and Interdisciplinary Collaboration: PhD programs emphasize partnerships with industry and interdisciplinary research, preparing graduates for impactful roles in academia, business, and technology.
• Strong Career Outcomes: Over 80% of PhD graduates secure employment within six months, reflecting Singapore's strong job market and demand for advanced research skills.

Now, if you're ready to take the next step in pursuing your PhD, upGrad can provide you with the support and resources to guide you through the process. 

How Can upGrad Help You Pursue a PhD in Singapore?

upGrad offers complete guidance to help you achieve your goal of pursuing a PhD in Singapore. With upGrad by your side, you'll get expert and personalized support from shortlisting the right universities, understanding admission requirements, and identifying scholarship opportunities.

Here are some of the key pointers worth noting about upGrad and why it makes for a good choice:

• upGrad ensures guidance and support from well-trained and skilled instructors. Get the best preparation modules for examinations like GMAT, GRE, TOEFL, SAT, and IELTS, among others.
• Other services are available for interactive courses, mentorship, visa and scholarship assistance, and admission preparation. 
• The upGrad team also helps you with documentation, essays, education loans, expenditure, and all other process steps.

Schedule a free 1:1 counselling session with upGrad's expert advisors today and get personalized guidance on every step of your PhD in Singapore. Take action now to clarify your options, strengthen your application, and move closer to your academic goals.