Imagine conducting world-class research at one of Asia’s leading universities while receiving generous financial support that covers your tuition and living expenses. For high-achieving graduates from Commonwealth countries, the NUS Commonwealth Scholarship makes this a reality.
This prestigious award from the National University of Singapore (NUS) Graduate School supports outstanding new incoming students who want to pursue research-based Master’s or PhD programmes. It removes financial barriers so you can focus fully on your academic and research goals in one of the world’s most dynamic and innovative cities.
Whether you are passionate about engineering, biomedical sciences, computing, environmental studies, social sciences, or any other research field, this scholarship opens doors at a globally recognised institution. Here is everything you need to know to determine your eligibility and submit a strong application.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: Singapore
- Host University: National University of Singapore (NUS)
- Scholarship Type: MSC Scholarships/PhD Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: Commonwealth Countries
- Scholarship Benefits: Full tuition fee, Living stipend, etc.
Overview of NUS Commonwealth Scholarship
The Commonwealth Scholarship at NUS is awarded to outstanding graduate students from Commonwealth countries for research leading to a higher degree (Master’s by research or PhD) at the University.
It targets new, incoming international students who are not Singapore citizens or permanent residents. The scholarship combines a monthly stipend with a full tuition fee subsidy. A number of students are selected each semester based on academic merit and research potential.
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NUS is consistently ranked among the world’s top universities (global top 20 and a leader in Asia across many subjects). Studying here gives you access to cutting-edge facilities, renowned faculty, strong industry connections, and a vibrant multicultural environment in Singapore.
Key Benefits and Financial Support
This scholarship is designed to be genuinely supportive for international research students.
Monthly Stipend (effective from 1 January 2026):
- PhD students: SGD 3,000 per month
- Master’s (Research) students: SGD 2,900 per month
Additional Support for PhD Scholars: After passing the PhD Qualifying Examination (typically held 12–18 months after registration), scholars may receive an additional stipend of up to SGD 500 per month. This top-up is renewable each semester subject to good performance and may vary slightly by faculty.
Tuition Fee Subsidy: Full tuition fee subsidy at the University for the duration of the award.
Award Duration:
- Master’s (Research): Maximum 2 years (typical award period)
- PhD: Maximum 4 years (typical award period)
The scholarship is initially tenable for one year and can be renewed each semester based on satisfactory academic progress at the University’s discretion.
These amounts are competitive and help cover living costs in Singapore while allowing scholars to dedicate themselves fully to research. There are no specific service bonds beyond standard Graduate Assistantship Programme (GAP) duties that apply to many NUS research scholarships for international students admitted from AY2014/2015 onwards.
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Who Is Eligible for the NUS Commonwealth Scholarship?
To qualify, you must meet all of the following criteria:
- Qualification Type: You must be applying as a new incoming student for a PhD or Master’s by research programme.
- Nationality: You must be a citizen of a Commonwealth country. (See the full list of 56 member countries on the official Commonwealth website.)
- Academic Background: You must have graduated with an undergraduate degree with at least Second Class Honours (Upper Division) / Honours (Distinction) or equivalent.
- MOE Subsidy Eligibility: You must first be eligible for the Ministry of Education (MOE) subsidy. Review the detailed Eligibility Guidelines for MOE Subsidy (PDF).
- Other: This scholarship is only for new incoming students. Singapore citizens and permanent residents are not eligible. You should not have already commenced studies at NUS at the time of application.
The scholarship supports research in any graduate programme at NUS. There are no restrictions on field of study as long as it is a research degree.
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How to Apply for the NUS Commonwealth Scholarship
The application process is integrated with your graduate programme admission:
- Choose and Apply to a Research Programme: Identify the Master’s by research or PhD programme that aligns with your research interests. Strong applications usually include a clear research proposal and evidence of fit with NUS faculty expertise.
- Submit Your Application via GradApp: All applications go through the NUS Graduate Admission System (GradApp). Create or log in to your account at the GradApp portal.
- Indicate Interest in the Scholarship: During the admissions application, clearly indicate your interest in the Commonwealth Scholarship. Some faculties may require an additional one-page write-up explaining why you should be awarded the scholarship.
- Prepare Supporting Documents: Strong applications typically include academic transcripts, degree certificates, CV, research proposal, and letters of recommendation. Contacting potential supervisors in advance can significantly strengthen your case.
- Submit Before Faculty Deadlines: Deadlines vary by faculty and programme. There is no single university-wide deadline for this scholarship.
Pro Tip: Apply early. Research programmes at NUS are competitive, and funding decisions are made alongside admission offers. Prepare a compelling research proposal that demonstrates originality, feasibility, and alignment with NUS strengths.
Full instructions and any additional scholarship-specific requirements are listed within the GradApp system and on individual faculty websites.
Application Deadlines and Intakes
NUS offers two main intakes each year:
- August Intake (Semester 1): Most popular intake. Check your specific faculty or school website for exact deadlines.
- January Intake (Semester 2): Smaller intake. Again, refer to faculty websites for precise closing dates.
Because deadlines differ significantly across faculties (e.g., Engineering, Science, Arts & Social Sciences, Computing, Medicine), always verify the latest information on the relevant faculty graduate admissions page and the official Commonwealth Scholarship page.
Tips to Strengthen Your NUS Commonwealth Scholarship Application
- Demonstrate Research Potential: Highlight any previous research experience, publications, or relevant projects in your application and proposal.
- Show Academic Excellence: Your undergraduate results (minimum Second Class Upper or equivalent) are the baseline — stronger results and relevant Master’s qualifications (if applying for PhD) improve your chances.
- Align with NUS Faculty: Identify and mention specific professors or research groups whose work matches your interests. A well-crafted research proposal that fits ongoing projects stands out.
- Write a Strong Personal Statement: Some applications require a short write-up on why you deserve the scholarship. Focus on your achievements, research goals, and how the scholarship will help you contribute to your field and home country.
- Secure Strong References: Choose referees who can speak specifically about your research abilities and academic potential.
- Prepare Early for English Proficiency (if required): Most programmes require IELTS or TOEFL unless you qualify for an exemption.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can students from any Commonwealth country apply? Yes. You must be a citizen of one of the 56 Commonwealth member countries. Check the official list here.
Is the scholarship available for coursework Master’s programmes? No. It is only for research-based Master’s and PhD programmes.
Do I need to apply separately for the scholarship and admission? No. You indicate your interest in the Commonwealth Scholarship within your single GradApp admission application.
What happens if I pass my PhD Qualifying Examination? You may become eligible for an additional stipend of up to SGD 500 per month, renewable based on performance.
Are there any bonds or repayment requirements? There is no specific service bond mentioned beyond the standard Graduate Assistantship Programme duties required of many international research scholars.
When will I know the outcome? Scholarship decisions are usually made together with admission offers. Check your GradApp portal and email regularly.
Can I apply for both Semester 1 and Semester 2? You can apply for either intake, but you must meet the specific deadlines for your chosen programme and faculty.
Where can I get more information or ask questions? Contact the NUS Graduate School at nusgsenquiry@nus.edu.sg or visit the official scholarship page for the latest details.
Start Your Journey at NUS Today
The NUS Commonwealth Scholarship represents a significant opportunity for talented researchers from across the Commonwealth to advance their careers at a world-class institution without the burden of tuition fees and with meaningful monthly support.
If you meet the eligibility criteria and have a strong research vision, this could be the funding that transforms your future.
Begin by exploring NUS research programmes that match your interests, then prepare your GradApp application and clearly indicate your interest in the Commonwealth Scholarship.
Visit the official NUS Commonwealth Scholarship page for complete details and start your application through GradApp.
Deadlines vary by faculty — check early and submit a competitive application. Good luck!
This guide is based on the latest publicly available information from the NUS Graduate School as of 2026. Requirements and details can change, so always verify directly on the official NUS websites before applying.