Lee Kong Chian Graduate Scholarship
Full tuition, monthly stipend, and other allowances for graduate studies.
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The Lee Kong Chian Graduate Scholarship is one of the most respected funding opportunities for postgraduate research at the National University of Singapore (NUS). This guide explains who can apply, what the scholarship covers, how to prepare a strong application, and answers the most common questions about this prestigious award.
Scholarship Overview
The Lee Kong Chian Graduate Scholarship supports outstanding students pursuing a PhD or a master’s degree by research at NUS. Named after the prominent philanthropist and business leader Lee Kong Chian, the scholarship reflects a lasting commitment to academic excellence and research innovation in Singapore.
NUS awards this scholarship across all faculties and schools. That means candidates in engineering, life sciences, humanities, business, and social sciences all stand a chance to receive it.
Key features of this scholarship include:
- Full tuition fee coverage for the entire duration of the programme
- A monthly stipend to support living expenses in Singapore
- An annual allowance for books and academic materials
- Funding to attend international academic conferences
- Open to both local and international applicants
- Renewable each year based on satisfactory academic progress
Eligibility Requirements
Before investing time in your application, confirm that you meet the basic eligibility criteria. The requirements are clear, and the selection committee applies them strictly.
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree with at least a second-class upper honours or its equivalent
- Be admitted to or be applying for a full-time graduate research programme at NUS
- Demonstrate a strong academic track record with evidence of research capability
- Satisfy the English language proficiency requirements set by their chosen faculty
- Have secured or be in the process of securing a faculty supervisor
“The selection committee looks for candidates who show clear research potential and the ability to contribute meaningfully to their field of study.”
International students are strongly encouraged to apply. There is no citizenship or residency restriction, which makes this one of the most globally competitive scholarships offered in Southeast Asia.
Scholarship Benefits and Coverage
Understanding the full financial package helps you plan your studies without unnecessary stress. The Lee Kong Chian Graduate Scholarship is designed to cover more than just tuition.
Here is a breakdown of what successful scholars receive:
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | Full coverage of tuition fees for the entire programme |
| Monthly Stipend | A competitive monthly allowance that covers living expenses in Singapore |
| Book Allowance | An annual sum for academic books, journal subscriptions, and research materials |
| Conference Support | Funding for presenting research at recognised international conferences |
| Duration | Typically the full nominal duration of the programme, usually up to four years for a PhD and two years for a master’s by research |
The stipend is reviewed periodically and is set at a level that allows students to live comfortably in Singapore. This financial security means you can focus on your research instead of worrying about daily expenses.
Application Process
The application process demands careful preparation and attention to deadlines. Here is a step-by-step guide to applying successfully.
- Identify a graduate research programme at NUS that aligns with your academic interests
- Review faculty profiles and shortlist potential supervisors whose expertise matches your research idea
- Contact those supervisors with a concise and professional email that includes your CV and a brief research outline
- Submit your online application through the NUS Graduate Admissions portal before the deadline
- Indicate your interest in the Lee Kong Chian Graduate Scholarship directly within the application form
- Upload all required documents, including academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a detailed research proposal
In most cases, the scholarship application is processed together with your admissions application. You do not need to complete a separate form.
“Securing a supervisor who is willing to support your research project significantly strengthens your scholarship application. Reach out early and be specific about why you want to work with them.”
Selection Criteria
Competition for this scholarship is intense. Understanding how the selection committee evaluates candidates gives you a strategic advantage when preparing your submission.
The committee weighs the following factors:
- Academic excellence, reflected in your grades, class ranking, and awards
- Research potential, assessed through the quality of your research proposal and past projects
- Letters of recommendation from academic referees who know your work personally
- Alignment between your proposed research and the strategic priorities of NUS and the faculty
- Leadership qualities, communication skills, and community involvement
A strong application does not rely on any single factor. Instead, it presents a coherent picture of a candidate who has both the ability and the motivation to succeed in rigorous graduate research.
Practical Tips for a Winning Application
Even highly qualified candidates can improve their chances by refining how they present their achievements. These practical tips go beyond the basic requirements.
- Start requesting recommendation letters early. Choose referees who can speak specifically about your research skills, not just your coursework performance.
- Tailor your research proposal to fit the interests and expertise of your prospective supervisor. Generic proposals are far less persuasive.
- Highlight any publications, conference presentations, or research assistant experience prominently in your CV.
- Explain clearly how your research will contribute to your field and to society. The committee values real-world impact.
- Proofread every part of your application carefully. Incomplete submissions or careless errors can eliminate strong candidates.
A common mistake is focusing exclusively on grades. The selection committee looks beyond academic records and asks whether you have the maturity, originality, and perseverance to complete a demanding research programme. Your application should tell a coherent story about who you are and what you aim to achieve.
Life as a Lee Kong Chian Scholar
Receiving this scholarship is not only about financial support. It also opens doors to professional development and a vibrant academic community at NUS.
Scholars gain access to world-class research facilities, libraries, and mentorship from leading academics. NUS also organises seminars, workshops, and networking events that help graduate students build connections across disciplines.
Beyond your time at university, you become part of the Lee Kong Chian Scholar alumni network. This network includes researchers and professionals who hold positions in academia, industry, and government around the world. Staying connected with this community can support your career long after you graduate.
Conclusion
The Lee Kong Chian Graduate Scholarship is a prestigious and comprehensive funding option for graduate researchers at NUS. With strong academic credentials, a clear research vision, and a well-prepared application, you can position yourself as a competitive candidate. Start early, build genuine relationships with potential supervisors, and submit a complete, thoughtful application that shows both your achievements and your future promise.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is eligible to apply for the Lee Kong Chian Graduate Scholarship?
Any student who has been admitted to or is applying for a full-time graduate research programme at NUS is eligible. The scholarship is open to all nationalities, but you must meet the academic and English language requirements of your chosen programme.
2. Does the scholarship cover only tuition fees?
No. In addition to full tuition fee coverage, the scholarship provides a monthly stipend, an annual book allowance, and funding for conference participation. It is designed to support your complete graduate study experience.
3. Do I need to submit a separate scholarship application?
In most cases, no. You indicate your interest in the scholarship when you submit your graduate admissions application. The scholarship selection is integrated into the admissions review process.
4. How long does the scholarship support last?
The scholarship covers the nominal duration of your programme. For a PhD, this is typically up to four years. For a master’s by research, it is usually two years, subject to satisfactory academic progress each semester.
5. Can international students apply?
Yes. The Lee Kong Chian Graduate Scholarship welcomes international applicants from all countries. This global openness makes the award highly competitive.
6. What is the monthly stipend amount?
The stipend is set at a competitive level that covers basic living costs in Singapore. The exact amount is reviewed periodically and communicated to successful candidates. For the latest figure, consult the official NUS graduate scholarship pages.
7. Can I work while holding this scholarship?
Scholars are generally expected to devote themselves fully to their studies and research. Limited teaching or research assistant duties within NUS may be permitted, but any external paid work requires prior approval from the university.
8. Is the scholarship renewable?
Yes.