Scholarships in Singapore: Opportunities for Local Students | Singapore Schools Guide

In Singapore, scholarships provide valuable financial support and open doors to mentorship, networking, and career opportunities. Scholarships are available for students at various levels, from secondary school to university, allowing them to pursue their education with reduced financial strain. Here’s an overview of scholarship options for Singaporean students, along with tips for preparing strong applications.


1. Scholarships for Secondary and Pre-University Students

MOE Financial Assistance and Merit Awards

The Ministry of Education (MOE) offers financial aid and merit-based scholarships for secondary students with strong academic performance. Programs like the Edusave Awards help cover expenses for school fees, transport, textbooks, and reward students for academic and CCA achievements.

DSA-Linked Scholarships and School-Based Awards

Many secondary schools in Singapore offer scholarships for students admitted through the Direct School Admission (DSA) program. These awards recognize talents in areas like sports, music, and arts, encouraging students to develop their skills further.

Polytechnic Foundation Programme (PFP) Scholarships

The Polytechnic Foundation Programme (PFP) provides funding for Normal (Academic) students transitioning to polytechnic studies after performing well in the O-Levels. Fully funded, this program supports students through their foundational polytechnic year.


2. Scholarships for University Students

ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarships

The ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship is available to students attending Singapore’s top universities, including NUS, NTU, and SMU. This scholarship covers full tuition fees and provides additional financial assistance based on merit.

University-Specific Scholarships

Each local university, such as NUS, NTU, SMU, SUSS, and SUTD, offers its own scholarships. These include the NUS Global Merit Scholarship and NTU’s Nanyang Scholarship, which recognize academic excellence, leadership, and CCA involvement. Each scholarship has its own application process, so students should research requirements carefully.

Bonded Scholarships

Certain scholarships, like those from government agencies and private organisations, come with a bond requirement. Recipients must work for the sponsoring organisation for a set period after graduation. Examples include the Public Service Commission (PSC) scholarships, Defense Science & Technology Agency (DSTA) scholarships, and scholarships from major banks. These scholarships often cover tuition, living expenses, and overseas exchange programs.


3. Tips for Applying for Scholarships

Start Early and Research Thoroughly

Many scholarships are highly competitive, with specific requirements and deadlines. Starting research early allows time to gather recommendation letters, essays, and prepare thoroughly for each application.

Highlight Holistic Achievements

Scholarship providers value well-rounded students. In addition to academic results, highlight CCA achievements, leadership roles, and community service in your application to demonstrate a balanced profile.

Prepare for Interviews

Some scholarships require interviews. Practice answering questions about your goals, achievements, and motivations. Show how your values align with the scholarship’s mission, especially if the scholarship is sponsored by a specific organisation or government agency.


Final Thoughts

With various scholarships available, Singaporean students have excellent opportunities to pursue education with financial support and gain valuable experiences. Whether you’re in secondary school or university, a well-prepared scholarship application can open doors to resources, exposure, and mentorship. Start early, research thoroughly, and take advantage of these opportunities to build a bright future.


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