d2169Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience, but the cost often deters many talented students. Fortunately, Singapore, a global hub for education and innovation, offers fully funded scholarships for international students to pursue Bachelor of Science (BSc) degrees. One standout opportunity is the NUS International Undergraduate Scholarship at the National University of Singapore (NUS), a prestigious institution ranked among the top universities worldwide. This scholarship covers 100% of tuition fees, provides living allowances, and includes additional benefits to support your academic journey.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about securing a fully funded BSc scholarship in Singapore, including eligibility criteria, benefits, application processes, and tips to stand out. Whether you’re a high school student or a recent graduate, this article will help you navigate the path to studying in Singapore for free.
Why Study in Singapore?
Singapore is a vibrant, multicultural city-state known for its world-class education system, cutting-edge research facilities, and thriving economy. Here’s why pursuing a BSc in Singapore is a smart choice:
Top-Ranked Universities: Institutions like NUS, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), and Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) consistently rank among the best globally.
Global Career Opportunities: Singapore’s strategic location in Asia and its robust economy make it a gateway to career opportunities in technology, finance, healthcare, and more.
Multicultural Environment: With a blend of Eastern and Western cultures, Singapore offers a welcoming environment for international students.
English-Medium Education: All undergraduate programs are taught in English, eliminating language barriers for most international applicants.
By securing a fully funded scholarship, you can enjoy these benefits without the financial burden, making Singapore an ideal destination for your BSc studies.
The NUS International Undergraduate Scholarship: A Fully Funded Opportunity
The NUS International Undergraduate Scholarship is designed to attract exceptional international students from all countries (except Singapore) to pursue undergraduate studies at NUS. This scholarship is open to students applying for any BSc program, from engineering and computing to sciences and humanities. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what this scholarship offers:
Scholarship Benefits
The NUS International Undergraduate Scholarship is one of the most comprehensive scholarships available for international students. It includes:
100% Tuition Fee Coverage: The scholarship fully covers subsidized tuition fees for the entire duration of your BSc program (typically 4 years).
Annual Living Allowance: Receive SGD 5,800 annually to cover living expenses such as food, transportation, and personal needs.
One-Time Computer Allowance: A SGD 1,750 allowance to purchase a laptop or other computing equipment upon enrollment.
Annual Accommodation Allowance: Up to SGD 5,000 per year to support on-campus or off-campus housing costs.
No Bond for Most Programs: Unlike some scholarships, there is no service bond for most BSc programs, except for Dentistry and Medicine, which require a 5–6-year service bond with the Singapore Ministry of Health.
These benefits ensure that you can focus on your studies and personal growth without worrying about financial constraints.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the NUS International Undergraduate Scholarship, you must meet the following requirements:
Citizenship: Be a citizen of any country except Singapore. Singapore Permanent Residents are also eligible.
Academic Excellence: Possess outstanding high school results, typically equivalent to a good pass in your final high school certificate or transcript.
Leadership and Co-Curricular Achievements: Demonstrate strong leadership qualities and a robust record of co-curricular activities, such as sports, arts, or community service.
Admission to NUS: Apply for a full-time undergraduate program at NUS. The scholarship is awarded based on your admission application, so no separate scholarship application is required.
No Transfer Students: The scholarship is not available for students transferring from other universities or countries.
If you’re still in your final year of high school, you can apply, provided you submit your final certificate or transcript by July 31, 2025.
Eligible Programs
One of the standout features of this scholarship is its flexibility. You can pursue any BSc program offered by NUS, including but not limited to:
Science: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics
Engineering: Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Computer Engineering
Computing: Computer Science, Information Systems
Business: Business Administration with a minor in Strategic Communication
Humanities and Social Sciences: Economics, Psychology, Sociology
Health Sciences: Nursing, Pharmacy (note that Medicine and Dentistry have specific bond requirements)
To explore the full range of undergraduate programs, visit the NUS Undergraduate Programmes page.
Other Fully Funded BSc Scholarships in Singapore
While the NUS International Undergraduate Scholarship is a prime opportunity, other scholarships in Singapore also support international students pursuing BSc degrees. Here are two notable options administered by NUS:
- Science and Technology Undergraduate Scholarship
This scholarship is specifically for Asian students (excluding Singaporeans) who wish to study science, technology, engineering, or computing at NUS. It offers similar benefits to the NUS International Undergraduate Scholarship, including full tuition coverage, living allowances, and accommodation support.
Eligibility:
Citizenship of an Asian country or region (e.g., India, China, Indonesia, Vietnam).
Outstanding high school results and strong leadership qualities.
Application for specific science and technology programs, such as Computer Science, Engineering, or Physics.
Application Process: Like the NUS International Undergraduate Scholarship, you’re automatically considered upon applying for admission to NUS. - ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship
The ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship targets students from Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries, such as Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, and Vietnam. It covers full tuition fees, living allowances, and accommodation costs for any undergraduate program at NUS.
Eligibility:
Citizenship of an ASEAN country (excluding Singapore).
Excellent high school results and a strong co-curricular record.
Application for a full-time undergraduate program at NUS.
Application Process: Submit your admission application to NUS, and you’ll be considered for this scholarship if eligible.
For more details on these scholarships, check the NUS Scholarships page.
How to Apply for the NUS International Undergraduate Scholarship
Applying for the NUS International Undergraduate Scholarship is straightforward, as it’s integrated into the NUS admission process. Follow these steps to maximize your chances:
Step 1: Research Your Program
Visit the NUS website to explore the undergraduate programs available. Ensure your chosen BSc program aligns with your academic interests and career goals. Review the specific admission requirements for your program, as some (e.g., Architecture, Dentistry) may require interviews or tests.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Gather the following documents for your admission application:
High School Certificate and Transcript: Provide your final high school results. If you’re still in school, submit your most recent results and provide your final certificate by July 31, 2025.
Passport: A valid passport for international students.
Recommendation Letters: Two academic or professional references highlighting your leadership and co-curricular achievements.
Personal Statement: A statement of purpose or motivation letter outlining your academic goals, leadership experiences, and reasons for choosing NUS.
English Proficiency (Optional): English language certificates (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) are not mandatory but may be requested later if needed.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Application Portal: Apply through the NUS Online Application Portal.
Application Fee: Pay a non-refundable fee of SGD 20 (discounted for online payment) or SGD 30 (by bank draft).
Deadline: The application deadline for the 2025–2026 academic year is February 26, 2025. Apply early to allow ample time for processing and referee submissions.
Step 4: Scholarship Consideration
Once you submit your admission application, you’re automatically considered for the NUS International Undergraduate Scholarship. Shortlisted candidates will receive an email invitation for an interview or further assessment, typically within 12 weeks of the application deadline.
Step 5: Review Terms and Conditions
If awarded the scholarship, you’ll need to accept the Ministry of Education (MOE) Tuition Grant, which requires international students to work in a Singapore-registered company for 3 years after graduation (5–6 years for Dentistry and Medicine). Review these terms carefully before accepting the scholarship.
Tips to Boost Your Scholarship Application
Competition for fully funded scholarships is fierce, so here are some tips to make your application stand out:
Highlight Leadership: Emphasize your leadership roles in school clubs, community projects, or volunteer work. Provide specific examples of how you’ve made an impact.
Showcase Co-Curricular Achievements: Include awards, certifications, or participation in sports, arts, or academic competitions to demonstrate a well-rounded profile.
Craft a Compelling Personal Statement: Explain why you’re passionate about your chosen BSc program and how studying at NUS aligns with your career aspirations.
Secure Strong References: Choose referees who can attest to your academic excellence, leadership, and character. Provide them with ample time to submit their recommendations.
Apply Early: Submitting your application well before the February 26, 2025, deadline ensures your referees have enough time to complete their reports.
Life as an International Student in Singapore
Studying in Singapore is more than just academics—it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in a dynamic, multicultural environment. Here’s what you can expect:
World-Class Facilities: NUS offers state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, and research centers to support your BSc studies.
Vibrant Campus Life: Join student clubs, attend cultural festivals, or participate in sports to build lifelong connections.
Affordable Living: With the scholarship’s living and accommodation allowances, you can comfortably cover expenses in Singapore, where the cost of living is moderate compared to other global cities.
Career Prospects: Singapore’s thriving industries, from tech to healthcare, offer internships and job opportunities for graduates, especially those fulfilling the MOE Tuition Grant bond.
Other Scholarship Opportunities in Singapore
Beyond NUS, other Singaporean universities offer fully funded BSc scholarships for international students:
Nanyang Scholarship (NTU): Provides full tuition coverage, a living allowance of SGD 6,500, and an accommodation allowance of SGD 2,000 for outstanding international students. Application deadline: January 15, 2025.
SUTD Scholarships: Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and conference funding for students pursuing technology and design-focused BSc programs.
Dr Goh Keng Swee (GKS) Scholarship: A fully funded scholarship for students from Brunei, Cambodia, India, and other Asian countries to study at local Singapore institutions.
Explore these options to find the best fit for your academic and career goals.
Conclusion
The NUS International Undergraduate Scholarship is a golden opportunity for international students to pursue a BSc degree in Singapore without financial worries. With 100% tuition coverage, generous allowances, and access to world-class education, this scholarship can transform your academic and professional future. By meeting the eligibility criteria, preparing a strong application, and understanding the terms, you can take the first step toward studying in one of Asia’s most dynamic cities.
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