NUS Scholarship for International Students 2025/26 | How to Apply

Studying at a top-ranked institution like the National University of Singapore (NUS) opens doors to incredible opportunities, from advanced academic programs to valuable global connections. The NUS Scholarship for International Students in the 2025/26 academic year offers a unique opportunity for international students with the drive to excel but facing financial challenges.

As one of Asia’s most prestigious scholarships, this award supports talented students in achieving their dreams of higher education in Singapore, covering essential academic expenses and helping students immerse themselves in an environment of innovation and excellence.

In this guide, you’ll find all the details you need to apply successfully, including the scholarship’s types, benefits, eligibility criteria, courses covered, and a step-by-step application guide. Whether you’re aiming to specialize in science, engineering, business, or any of the world-class programs NUS offers, this scholarship could be your pathway to a transformative academic experience.

Overview of the NUS Scholarship

The NUS Scholarship for International Students is designed to attract outstanding individuals from across the globe who want to pursue an undergraduate or postgraduate degree at NUS. This prestigious scholarship not only offers financial support but also brings recognition and numerous career opportunities. The scholarship aligns with NUS’s mission to nurture future leaders, encouraging international students to develop their academic potential while benefiting from Singapore’s dynamic educational landscape.

Each year, the NUS Scholarship program supports students who show strong academic abilities, leadership skills, and a commitment to contributing positively to their communities. From covering tuition fees to offering monthly stipends, the scholarship allows recipients to focus fully on their studies and make the most of their NUS experience.

Types of NUS Scholarships

NUS offers several types of scholarships for international students, each tailored to different academic levels and needs:

1. NUS Undergraduate Scholarship: This award targets high-performing international students seeking a bachelor’s degree at NUS. It typically covers full or partial tuition fees, along with additional allowances for living expenses.
2. NUS Graduate Scholarship: Aimed at students pursuing master’s or doctoral studies, this scholarship provides funding to cover research expenses, tuition fees, and monthly stipends for living costs.
3. NUS Research Scholarships: Specifically for postgraduate research students, this scholarship supports those involved in full-time research in various disciplines, helping them develop advanced research skills.

Benefits and Scholarship Amount

The NUS Scholarship offers substantial benefits designed to alleviate financial burdens and enable students to concentrate on their academic goals. Key benefits include:

• Tuition Fee Waiver: Recipients enjoy a full or partial waiver on tuition fees, which reduces the financial impact on students and their families.
• Monthly Stipends: Depending on the level of study and scholarship type, recipients receive monthly stipends to cover living expenses. For undergraduate students, this amount may range from SGD 1,000 to SGD 1,200, while graduate students can receive up to SGD 2,000, depending on their research engagement.
• Research and Study Grants: Postgraduate scholarship recipients often receive additional allowances for academic resources, research materials, and conference participation, allowing them to expand their academic network and skillset.

Requirements and Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the NUS Scholarship, applicants must meet certain academic and eligibility standards:

1. International Status: This scholarship is intended for non-Singaporean students, ensuring diversity and multicultural representation in NUS’s student body.
2. Academic Excellence: A strong academic record is essential, with a minimum requirement often being equivalent to the top 5% of applicants. This may vary slightly depending on the faculty and scholarship type.
3. English Proficiency: As NUS is an English-speaking institution, applicants may need to demonstrate proficiency in English through tests such as IELTS or TOEFL if English is not their first language.
4. Leadership and Extracurricular Engagement: NUS values students who exhibit leadership qualities, engage in community service, or actively participate in extracurricular activities. Demonstrating these qualities can significantly boost your application.

Courses Covered by the NUS Scholarship

The NUS Scholarship is available across a broad range of disciplines, from arts and sciences to business and engineering. Some of the primary areas of study include:

• Business and Economics: Scholarship recipients aiming for careers in the global marketplace can take courses in business administration, economics, finance, and marketing.
• Engineering: Programs in civil, mechanical, electrical, and environmental engineering are open to students interested in innovation and technology development.
• Sciences: Covering biological sciences, chemistry, physics, and environmental sciences, NUS provides strong support for students pursuing STEM fields.
• Humanities and Social Sciences: Disciplines such as political science, sociology, psychology, and history offer opportunities for students interested in the social impact of their studies.

This wide array of courses allows scholarship recipients to choose programs that align with their academic and career goals.

How to Apply for the NUS Scholarship

1. Visit the NUS Scholarship Portal: Start by visiting the NUS Scholarship Portal and navigate to the scholarship section for international students.
2. Complete the Online Application: Fill out the scholarship application form, providing personal details, academic information, and scholarship type. Be sure to select the correct scholarship type based on your academic level.
3. Submit Required Documents: Upload essential documents, such as transcripts, certificates, and proof of English proficiency. For postgraduate applicants, include a research proposal or statement of purpose.
4. Personal Statement and Recommendations: It is crucial to include a personal statement explaining your motivation and goals, along with at least one recommendation letter from a teacher or academic mentor.
5. Review and Submit: Double-check all information and documents for accuracy before submitting. Incomplete applications may not be considered.
6. Deadline: The application deadline for the 2025/26 NUS Scholarship is February 28, 2025. Ensure your application is submitted on time, as late applications are generally not accepted.

Tips to Qualify for the NUS Scholarship

1. Highlight Academic Achievements: Showcase any honours, awards, or achievements that demonstrate your academic dedication.
2. Emphasize Leadership Qualities: Provide examples of your involvement in leadership roles or community service. NUS values students who contribute positively to society.
3. Craft a Strong Personal Statement: Your statement should reflect your academic interests, career goals, and reasons for choosing NUS. Be genuine and clear about your motivation.
4. Secure Impressive Recommendations: A well-crafted recommendation from a respected teacher or mentor can provide valuable support for your application.
5. Demonstrate Financial Need (if applicable): If your scholarship requires proof of financial need, be sure to include relevant documents and information.

Conclusion

The NUS Scholarship for International Students in 2025/26 provides exceptional support to talented individuals from around the world, enabling them to pursue their academic dreams in Singapore. By covering tuition, providing stipends, and supporting student development, the scholarship is more than just financial aid. It’s a pathway to growth, knowledge, and a vibrant future.

This could be your chance to study in one of Asia’s top universities and contribute to a community of innovators and leaders. Start preparing your application today, and remember to submit it before the deadline on February 28, 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can international students from any country apply for the NUS Scholarship?

Yes, the NUS Scholarship is open to applicants from all countries outside of Singapore.

2. Is the NUS Scholarship renewable each year?

Most NUS scholarships are renewable, subject to the recipient maintaining a satisfactory academic performance.

3. Can I apply for multiple scholarships at NUS?

You may apply for different scholarships at NUS, but each application is considered separately, and only one may be awarded.

4. Are part-time students eligible for the NUS Scholarship?

The scholarship is generally available only to full-time students, as it is designed to support dedicated, continuous study.

5. Does the scholarship cover accommodation costs?

While tuition and living stipends are covered, not all NUS scholarships cover accommodation expenses. Check the specific benefits of your chosen scholarship.

6. What documents are required for the application?

Academic transcripts, proof of citizenship, English language proficiency, recommendation letters, and a personal statement are typically required.