Author: Michael | Published: August 4, 2026
TRANSPARENCY NOTE: This comprehensive guide contains carefully vetted insights to help you navigate global mobility opportunities. Kindly Read Our Full Editorial Disclaimer.
The National University of Singapore (NUS) offers the NUS Research Scholarship to support students enrolled in full-time Master of Science (MSc) by Research programs. This award provides full tuition coverage alongside monthly living stipends for up to two years. It allows research candidates to focus entirely on their thesis work and academic training.
Stipend Breakdown and Financial Benefits
- Singapore Citizens: S$3,800 per month.
- Singapore Permanent Residents: S$3,000 per month.
- International Students: S$2,900 per month.
Additional details:
- No employment bond is attached to the scholarship.
- 100% waiver of tuition fees for the program duration.
- International recipients will partake in the Graduate Assistantship Program (GAP).
- Award is renewed each semester based on academic progress and department recommendation.
Eligibility Requirements for Applicants
- Must have bachelor’s degree Certificate.
- Must apply for or be admitted to a full‑time MSc by Research program at NUS.
- Must qualify for the Singapore MOE tuition grant subsidy.
- Non‑native English speakers must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores unless their undergraduate degree was taught fully in English. Minimum scores vary by faculty.
- Some faculties require GRE or GMAT scores. Check faculty‑specific guidelines.
Document Requirements for Applicants
- Official transcripts and degree certificate (with certified English translations if needed).
- Your Updated academic CV.
- Research proposal or statement of purpose outlining your topic, methodology, and alignment with NUS faculty projects.
- Two reference letters from academic supervisors or professors.
- TOEFL/IELTS and GRE/GMAT score reports (where applicable).
- Passport bio‑page or Singapore NRIC copy.
Application Steps: How to Start Your Application
- Identify your target department and confirm its deadline.
- Contact potential supervisors to discuss your project proposal.
- Create an account on the NUS graduate application portal.
- Fill out personal details and select the option to apply for the NUS Research Scholarship.
- Upload transcripts, test scores, research statement, and CV in PDF format.
- Ensure referees submit their recommendation reports online.
- Pay the application fee and submit before the deadline.
Selection Timeline and Application Deadlines
| Intake Semester | Application Window Opens | Deadline | Program Start |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 (August) | May / June (previous year) | Nov 15 – Jan 15 (varies by faculty) | August |
| Semester 2 (January) | Oct / Nov (previous year) | May 15 – Jul 15 (varies by faculty) | January |
Deadlines differ across faculties such as Engineering, Medicine, and Science. Always confirm the exact cutoff date on your department’s admissions page.
Helpful Practical Tips for Applicants
- Email faculty members whose research aligns with your interests early.
- Write Your Research Statement specifically about methodologies, lab facilities, or ongoing projects at NUS that connect to your topic.
- The portal sends automated requests once you enter referee emails. Inform them early to avoid delays.
- Plan for GAP Commitments to avoid workload spikes during thesis writing.
Access official program details, faculty-specific requirements, and the online application system through the Official NUS Graduate School Research Scholarship Website
Check KWI Research Scholarship Fellowship, Florida State University Scholarship and Bond University HDR Scholarship in Australia detailed guides to explore other scholarship opportunities.
Michael – Founder and Editor at Suretripacademia, your dedicated resource for unlocking global mobility and international educational opportunities. WhatsApp l Facebook l TikTok