Fully Funded How to Apply for the Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) for International Students 2024/2025

Are you an aspiring researcher looking to pursue your PhD in one of the world’s leading research destinations? The Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) offers fully funded scholarships to international students for the 2024/2025 academic year. This prestigious award provides an incredible opportunity to conduct research in Singapore, a global hub for education and innovation. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to apply for the SINGA scholarship, ensuring you have all the information you need to take this exciting next step in your academic career.

What is the Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)?

The Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) is a collaboration between the Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), the National University of Singapore (NUS), the Nanyang Technological University (NTU), and the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD). It is designed to attract outstanding international students to pursue PhD research in science and engineering at Singapore’s top universities.

Benefits of the SINGA Scholarship

1. Full Tuition Coverage
   • The SINGA scholarship covers the full tuition fees for your PhD program, allowing you to focus entirely on your research without worrying about financial constraints.
2. Generous Monthly Stipend
   • Awardees receive a monthly stipend of S$2,200, which increases to S$2,700 after passing the qualifying examination. This stipend is designed to cover your living expenses in Singapore.
3. One-Time Settling-In Allowance
   • Upon arrival in Singapore, you will receive a one-time settling-in allowance of S$1,000 to help with initial expenses.
4. Airfare Grant
   • The scholarship also includes a one-time airfare grant of up to S$1,500, making it easier for you to travel to Singapore.
5. World-Class Research Environment
   • As a SINGA scholar, you will have the opportunity to work in cutting-edge research labs, collaborate with leading scientists, and contribute to innovative projects that have a global impact.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the SINGA scholarship, you must meet the following criteria:

• Academic Background: Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with excellent academic results and a keen interest in pursuing research in science and engineering.
• Nationality: The SINGA scholarship is open to all international students. There are no restrictions on nationality.
• Language Proficiency: While there is no specific requirement for English language proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL, your academic transcripts should reflect your ability to conduct research in English.

How to Apply for the SINGA Scholarship

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for the SINGA scholarship for the 2024/2025 academic year:

1. Prepare Your Documents
   • Before starting your application, ensure that you have all the necessary documents ready. This includes:
     • A valid passport
     • Academic transcripts and degree certificates (translated into English if necessary)
     • Two recommendation letters
     • A recent passport-sized photograph
     • A well-written research proposal outlining your research interests and objectives
2. Register and Create an Account
   • Visit the official SINGA website and register for an account. You will need to provide basic personal information and create a username and password to access the application portal.
3. Complete the Online Application Form
   • Log in to the application portal and fill out the online application form. This includes entering your personal details, educational background, and research interests. Make sure to provide accurate information and double-check all entries before submission.
4. Upload Required Documents
   • Upload the required documents, including your academic transcripts, degree certificates, passport, and research proposal. Ensure that all documents are clear and legible.
5. Submit Recommendation Letters
   • As part of the application process, you will need to provide the contact details of two academic referees. They will receive an email with instructions on how to submit their recommendation letters directly through the SINGA portal.
6. Review and Submit Your Application
   • Once you have completed the application form and uploaded all necessary documents, carefully review your application to ensure everything is correct. After confirming that all information is accurate, submit your application through the portal.
7. Wait for the Outcome
   • After submission, your application will be reviewed by the SINGA selection committee. If shortlisted, you may be contacted for an interview or further assessment. Successful candidates will be notified via email.
8. Accept the Scholarship
   • If you are awarded the SINGA scholarship, you will receive an offer letter outlining the terms and conditions of the award. Accept the offer by following the instructions provided, and prepare for your journey to Singapore!

Generous Monthly Stipend: Financial Stability for SINGA Scholars

One of the standout features of the Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) is its generous monthly stipend, designed to provide financial stability to international PhD scholars during their studies in Singapore. This stipend ensures that scholars can focus entirely on their research and academic pursuits without the burden of financial stress. Here’s an in-depth look at what the stipend entails and how it benefits SINGA recipients:

1. Stipend Amount

• Initial Monthly Stipend: Upon commencement of the PhD program, SINGA scholars receive a monthly stipend of S$2,200.
• Increment After Qualifying Examination: After successfully passing the Qualifying Examination (a significant milestone in the PhD journey, usually completed within the first 18 months), the monthly stipend increases to S$2,700. This increment acknowledges the scholar’s progress and continued commitment to their research.

2. Cost of Living in Singapore

Singapore is known for its high standard of living, and while it is one of the more expensive cities in Asia, the SINGA stipend is structured to comfortably cover the living expenses of a single student. Here’s a breakdown of typical monthly expenses:

• Accommodation: Depending on the location and type of housing (on-campus or off-campus), rent can range from S$400 to S$800 per month.
• Food: Eating at university canteens, hawker centers, or cooking at home can cost about S$300 to S$450 per month.
• Transportation: With Singapore’s efficient public transport system, monthly transportation costs are approximately S$100 to S$150.
• Utilities and Miscellaneous: Including internet, mobile plans, and personal expenses, this can amount to S$200 to S$300 per month.

Adding these estimates, the total monthly expenses range from S$1,000 to S$1,700, indicating that the SINGA stipend sufficiently covers the cost of living, allowing scholars to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.

3. Financial Independence

The stipend empowers scholars with financial independence, eliminating the need for part-time employment, which can be both challenging and time-consuming alongside rigorous PhD research. This financial support ensures that scholars can:

• Focus Solely on Research: With financial concerns alleviated, scholars can dedicate their full attention to their research projects, fostering better outcomes and academic achievements.
• Engage in Academic Activities: Scholars can participate in conferences, workshops, and seminars without worrying about additional costs, as the stipend and other allowances (like the one-time settling-in allowance and airfare grant) provide comprehensive support.
• Experience Singapore: Beyond academics, scholars have the means to explore Singapore’s rich cultural landscape, diverse cuisines, and recreational activities, contributing to a well-rounded and fulfilling experience.

4. Stipend Disbursement

• Regular Monthly Payments: The stipend is disbursed on a monthly basis directly into the scholar’s bank account in Singapore. This regular payment schedule ensures consistent financial support throughout the PhD program.
• Post-Qualifying Examination Increase: The increment after the qualifying examination is automatically applied, reflecting the scholar’s advancement in their academic journey.

Conclusion

The Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) offers an unparalleled opportunity for international students to pursue a fully funded PhD in one of the world’s most innovative countries. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can maximize your chances of securing this prestigious scholarship for the 2024/2025 academic year. Start your application early, ensure your documents are in order, and take the time to craft a compelling research proposal. With dedication and preparation, you could be on your way to an exciting academic journey in Singapore!