Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) Graduate Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded PhD in Singapore

Organiser	Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)
Host Country	Singapore
Program Duration	4 years
Deadline	2 Aug – 15 Feb (1st cycle), 1 Jun – 10 Aug (2nd cycle)
Funding	Full tuition, stipend, allowances, overseas attachment
Eligibility	Singaporeans, SPR, non-SPR enrolled in Singapore universities

The Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) Graduate Scholarship 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity for international students aiming to pursue doctoral research in Singapore. This scholarship supports full tuition fees, a monthly stipend, and overseas research attachments, fostering innovation in a broad spectrum of science and technology disciplines. Recipients join a vibrant community of researchers at top universities, contributing to mission-oriented projects that address global challenges.

A key consideration for applicants is that the scholarship supports studies at Singapore’s autonomous universities and includes mid-term applications for students already enrolled, with strict academic and research potential requirements.

• National University of Singapore (NUS) Graduate Scholarships
• Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Research Scholarships
• Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART) PhD Scholarships
• Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)

A*STAR Graduate Scholarship Summary

• Level of Study: PhD
• Host Organization: Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)
• Host Country: Singapore
• Program Duration: 4 years
• Funding: Fully funded (tuition, stipend, allowances, overseas attachment)
• Application Deadlines: 2nd August to 15th February (first cycle), 1st June to 10th August (second cycle)
• Eligibility: Singaporeans, Singapore Permanent Residents, and non-SPR foreigners enrolled in Singapore autonomous universities with a minimum Second-Class (Upper) Honours degree

The three scholarships covered in this guide are:

1. A*STAR Graduate Scholarship 2026
2. Mid-term A*STAR Graduate Scholarship (for enrolled students)
3. Overseas Attachment Support under A*STAR Graduate Scholarship

A*STAR Graduate Scholarship Deadlines

The application windows for the A*STAR Graduate Scholarship vary each year, offering two main cycles to accommodate different applicant profiles. Prospective candidates should plan accordingly to meet these deadlines and prepare their documents in advance.

A*STAR Graduate Scholarship 2026 Deadline

The first application cycle runs from 2nd August to 15th February, while the second cycle opens from 1st June to 10th August. Applicants should ensure submissions are complete within these periods.

A*STAR Graduate Scholarship Coverage

A*STAR Graduate Scholarship

This scholarship is fully funded, supporting recipients throughout their doctoral studies with comprehensive benefits designed to ease financial burdens and facilitate research excellence.

• Full tuition fee coverage at Singapore autonomous universities
• Monthly sustenance allowance, including Central Provident Fund (CPF) contributions where applicable
• Additional allowances covering books, computers, conferences, and thesis preparation
• Funding for up to 12 months of overseas research attachment to enhance global exposure

Eligibility Criteria for A*STAR Graduate Scholarships

Applicants must satisfy both university admission requirements and specific scholarship conditions to qualify for the A*STAR Graduate Scholarship. These criteria ensure candidates are academically capable and have strong research potential.

A*STAR Graduate Scholarship Eligibility

• Proficiency in English language
• Open to all nationalities; Singaporeans and Singapore Permanent Residents (SPR) must hold or be pursuing at least a Second-Class (Upper) Honours degree or equivalent in a relevant field
• Non-Singapore Permanent Residents must have completed or be completing a Second-Class (Upper) Honours degree at a Singapore autonomous university
• Applicants should be in their final semester of undergraduate studies or currently enrolled in a PhD program at a Singapore autonomous university
• Mid-term applicants must have completed at least one semester of their current degree with excellent academic standing
• Demonstrated research potential and achievements are required
• One academic reference must be from the current university supervisor

How to Apply for A*STAR Graduate Scholarships?

The application process varies slightly depending on the applicant’s stage of study but generally requires thorough preparation of documents and careful selection of research projects.

How to Apply for the A*STAR Graduate Scholarship?

1. Explore available research projects across various scientific disciplines to identify a suitable match for your interests and expertise.
2. Prepare essential documents including identification, academic transcripts, degree certificates, and a recent passport-sized photograph in JPEG or PNG format.
3. Arrange for a minimum of two recommendation letters, with at least one from your current university supervisor if applicable.
4. Register and submit your application through the official A*STAR Scholarship application portal.

Documents Required for A*STAR Graduate Scholarships

Required documents differ based on applicant status but generally include academic records and identification. Letters of recommendation are critical to support your application.

A*STAR Graduate Scholarship Documents

1. Identification card or valid passport
2. Recent passport-sized photograph (JPEG or PNG)
3. Academic transcripts for Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degrees
4. Degree certificates or official certification letter if degree is pending
5. At least two recommendation reports submitted online by referees

Website

For further details and to begin your application process, please visit the official A*STAR Graduate Scholarship pages. These resources provide comprehensive information on eligibility, project options, and application guidelines.

• Official A*STAR Graduate Scholarship page
• Research Projects
• Application Portal

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to apply for the A*STAR Graduate Scholarship?

Applicants must be Singaporeans, Singapore Permanent Residents, or foreigners enrolled in Singapore autonomous universities with at least a Second-Class (Upper) Honours degree or equivalent, demonstrating strong academic and research capabilities.

What expenses does the scholarship cover?

The scholarship covers full tuition fees, a monthly stipend including CPF where applicable, allowances for books, computers, conferences, thesis preparation, and supports overseas attachments for up to 12 months.

Can international students apply for this scholarship?

Yes, international students enrolled or applying to autonomous universities in Singapore with the required academic qualifications are eligible to apply.

Is there a limit on the duration of the scholarship?

The scholarship is intended for a 4-year PhD program duration and includes support for overseas research attachments of up to 12 months.

What is the application process for current university students?

Mid-term applicants must be enrolled in a Singapore autonomous university, have completed at least one semester, maintain excellent academic standing, and apply with recommendations including one from their current supervisor.

How many recommendation letters are required?

A minimum of two recommendation reports must be submitted online by referees, with one being the current university supervisor for mid-term applicants.

Where can I find available research projects?

Research projects are listed on the official A*STAR scholarship website, where applicants can browse and identify projects that align with their interests.

Software Engineer & Scholarship Consultant at Scholarship Roar, specializing in guiding students through international fully funded programs.

Software Engineer and Scholarship Consultant at Scholarship Roar, focusing on international student mobility, research opportunities, and higher education scholarship advisory.

Reviewed by Muhammad Faizan, PhD Researcher · Last verified June 2024 · Mechanical Engineering Specialist and Scholarship Advisor.