The Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) drives mission-oriented research that advances scientific discovery and technological innovation. They play a key role in nurturing and developing talent and leaders for their Research Institutes, the wider research community, and industry.
A*STAR’s research creates economic growth and jobs for Singapore. As a Science and Technology Organisation, they bridge the gap between academia and industry in terms of research and development.
To find out more about all the opportunities listed below and more, see the Scholarships page on the A*STAR website.
The Singapore International Pre-Graduate Award (SIPGA)
The Singapore International Pre-Graduate Award (SIPGA) offers you the chance to immerse yourself in a dynamic scientific landscape for 2-6 months at A*STAR’s research institutes. Gain short-term research experience under leading scientists and develop industry-relevant skills in your area of interest, as you explore opportunities for PhD training and build connections with a diverse network of researchers.
Benefits
- Awarded applicants will receive a monthly stipend of $2,000 during the attachment in Singapore.
Eligibility
- Open to international 3rd nd 4th year Bachelor’s and Master’s students from overseas universities in STEM courses.
- Obtained/on track to obtain at least a 2:1 or equivalent for a Bachelor’s degree.
- Students must remain matriculated in their home university during the attachment period.
- Proficient in written and spoken English.
- Strong interest in a research career.
How to apply
- Project selection: download the latest SIPGA project list.
- Prepare supporting documents: passport copy, Bachelor’s and Master’s (if applicable) transcripts and resume.
- Apply to SIPGA: submit your application here.
- Online interview: shortlisted applicants will be contacted by the A*STAR researcher.
- Await award outcome: shortlisted applicants will be notified by email.
The Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)
With the Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA), leverage Singapore’s vibrant research ecosystem and receive a bond-free award to pursue a PhD at a leading university in Singapore. Engage in diverse research environments alongside the mentorship of renowned researchers and state-of-the-art facilities.
Benefits
- Funding support for up to four years of PhD studies (tuition fees, monthly stipend, one-time airfare grant, one-time settling-in allowance).
- Supervision by outstanding researchers at A*STAR and the universities.
- English PhD training in labs with world-class infrastructure.
Eligibility
- Open for application to all international students with a passion for research and excellent academic results.
- Strong passion for research and excellent academic performance.
- Proficient in written and spoken English.
- Strong academic references.
How to apply
- Browse PhD research projects: browse projects you are interested in.
- Prepare supporting documents: valid passport and recent passport-sized photo (in .jpeg or .png format) and transcripts and reports (all transcripts should be in English).
- Apply to SINGA: submit your application here.
- Online interviews: shortlisted applicants will be contacted for two rounds of interviews.
- Await award outcome: shortlisted applicants will be notified by email.
A*STAR Research Attachment Programme (ARP)
The A*STAR Research Attachment Programme (ARP) is a 12-24 month programme that provides a unique opportunity to experience the research scene in Singapore while pursuing your PhD in your current university. Benefit from the guidance of researchers from both A*STAR and your university in your PhD journey.
Eligibility
- International PhD students, on a nomination basis (applicants with a Bachelor’s degree with at least a 2:1 or equivalent may be nominated for this programme if their home university supervisor has a collaboration with an A*STAR researcher).
- Strong referral reports.
- Possess a good track record in research.
Benefits
- Monthly stipend
- One-time airfare grant
- One-time settling-allowance
- Monthly housing subsidy
- Medical insurance
- Conference support
- One-time IT allowance
How to apply
- Joint research project between A*STAR’s supervisor and your university faculty.
- Be nominated by your PhD supervisor to A*STAR Graduate Academy for further assessment.
- Successful nominations will be notified by email within two moths from the nomination deadline.
International Awards at a Glance
