National University of Singapore Scholarships

The National University of Singapore (NUS) offers a range of prestigious scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students, covering full tuition, living allowances, and other benefits. These awards target high-achieving individuals from Singapore and around the world, providing access to world-class education and research opportunities. Whether you are applying for the NUS Global Merit Scholarship or the NUS Science & Technology Undergraduate Scholarship, this guide covers eligibility, benefits, and practical tips for your application in the current admission cycle.

Overview of NUS Scholarships

NUS scholarships are competitive and designed to attract top talent across various fields of study. They typically fund your entire degree program and include unique enrichment opportunities.

• Full tuition coverage for the standard duration of your course.
• Annual living allowance to cover accommodation and daily expenses.
• Accommodation benefits, such as priority housing or free stay in NUS hostels.
• Book or computer grants to support your study materials.
• Opportunities for internships, exchange programs, and leadership development.
• Mentorship from faculty and alumni.

“Receiving the NUS Global Merit Scholarship transformed my university experience. It gave me the financial freedom to focus on my research and the confidence to lead student initiatives.” — Chen Wei, former NUS Scholar

Types of NUS Scholarships for 2026

NUS categorizes its scholarships into university-level awards, college-specific grants, and external-funded options. Below are the most prominent ones for the current intake.

NUS Global Merit Scholarship

This is one of the most prestigious awards for international and local students. It covers full tuition, a living allowance of S$6,000 per year, and a one-time computer grant of S$2,000.

• Open to all nationalities.
• Requires excellent academic records and strong leadership potential.
• Includes a guaranteed on-campus accommodation for two years.
• Offers a summer program grant for overseas exposure.

NUS Science & Technology Undergraduate Scholarship

Designed for students pursuing degrees in science, engineering, computing, or related fields. It provides full tuition plus a S$6,000 annual living allowance.

• Priority for students entering NUS College of Design and Engineering or Faculty of Science.
• Requires a strong background in mathematics and science.
• Includes internship opportunities with partner organizations.

NUS-University Scholars Programme (USP) Scholarship

For students enrolled in the University Scholars Programme, which offers an interdisciplinary curriculum. This scholarship covers full tuition and provides a S$6,000 living allowance.

• Focus on critical thinking and cross-disciplinary learning.
• Includes a research grant for final-year projects.
• Requires a separate application to the USP program.

NUS Need-Based Scholarship

For students with demonstrated financial need. This award covers partial to full tuition depending on family income.

• Open to Singapore citizens and permanent residents.
• Requires submission of family income documents.
• Can be combined with other merit-based awards.

Benefits Comparison Table

Eligibility Criteria

General requirements apply across most NUS scholarships, but always check the specific award page for details.

• Must have applied for admission to an NUS undergraduate or graduate program.
• Strong academic performance (typically top 10% of your cohort).
• Demonstrated leadership in extracurricular activities, community service, or sports.
• For international students: proof of English proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL).
• Some scholarships require a minimum SAT or ACT score.
• No bonded service required for most merit-based awards.

“I was surprised that the NUS Global Merit Scholarship didn’t require a separate essay—just a strong academic record and a compelling personal statement in the admission application.” — Aisha Patel, current NUS scholar

Application Process

The application process is streamlined and integrated with the NUS admission system. Here is a step-by-step guide.

• Step 1: Submit your application for admission to NUS by the deadline (usually early January for undergraduates).
• Step 2: Indicate your interest in scholarships on the admission form. You will be automatically considered for many awards.
• Step 3: Prepare supporting documents: academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a personal statement highlighting your achievements.
• Step 4: For some awards like the NUS-USP Scholarship, submit a separate portfolio or essay.
• Step 5: Attend an interview if shortlisted. Interviews are typically conducted via video call for international applicants.
• Step 6: Wait for the scholarship offer, which comes together with your admission package.

Tips for a Strong Application

Maximize your chances by focusing on these key areas.

• Highlight leadership roles in school clubs, volunteer work, or part-time jobs.
• Showcase academic consistency—grades matter, but so does improvement over time.
• Write a clear personal statement linking your goals to the specific scholarship’s mission.
• Get strong recommendation letters from teachers or mentors who know you personally.
• Prepare for the interview by practicing answers about your motivation and future plans.
• Apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can international students apply for NUS scholarships?

Yes, many NUS scholarships are open to international students, including the Global Merit Scholarship and Science & Technology Undergraduate Scholarship. You must have a valid student pass to study in Singapore.

2. Do I need to repay the scholarship if I leave NUS early?

Most NUS scholarships do not require repayment if you withdraw for valid reasons like medical issues. However, if you violate the terms, you may be asked to pay back a portion of the funding.

3. Is there a bond or service requirement for NUS scholarships?

No, most merit-based scholarships are bond-free. Need-based scholarships may require community service or work in Singapore for a certain period, but this is rare.

4. Can I apply for multiple NUS scholarships at once?

Yes, when you apply for admission, you can indicate interest in multiple scholarships. NUS will consider you for all relevant awards based on your profile.

5. What is the typical scholarship interview like?

Interviews are usually 20–30 minutes long, conducted by a panel of faculty. You will be asked about your academic interests, leadership experiences, and why you chose NUS.

6. When will I hear back about my scholarship application?

Scholarship decisions are usually released between March and May for August intake. You will receive an email notification along with your admission offer.

7. Can I defer my scholarship if I take a gap year?

Deferment is possible in special cases, but you must get written approval from the NUS scholarship office. Most deferments are granted for medical or military service reasons.

8. Are there scholarships for graduate students at NUS?

Yes, NUS offers research scholarships for PhD and master’s students, such as the NUS Research Scholarship and the President’s Graduate Fellowship. These cover tuition and a monthly stipend.

9. Do I need a separate application for the NUS-USP Scholarship?

Yes, you must apply to the University Scholars Programme separately from your general NUS admission. The scholarship is then awarded based on your USP application.

10. What happens if my grades drop during the scholarship period?

NUS requires scholars to maintain a minimum GPA (usually 3.5 out of 5.0). If your grades fall below this, you may receive a warning or lose the scholarship after a probation period.

Conclusion

NUS Scholarships provide a life-changing opportunity to study at one of Asia’s top universities without financial worry. The key is to start early, present a well-rounded profile, and carefully read the specific requirements for each award. Whether you are aiming for the Global Merit Scholarship or a need-based grant, your application should reflect your unique strengths and genuine interest in contributing to the NUS community. Begin your preparation now, and take that step toward a brighter future in Singapore.