Apply for A STAR Graduate Scholarship in Singapore with full funding, stipend, and overseas research. Check exact deadlines, benefits & apply now.
Overview of A*STAR Graduate Scholarship
The ASTAR Graduate Scholarship (AGS) is a fully funded PhD scholarship in Singapore offered by the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR). It supports outstanding students to conduct research in top universities and A*STAR research institutes.
This scholarship is highly competitive and offers structured PhD training, global exposure, and guaranteed research opportunities, making it one of Asia’s top research scholarships.
A STAR Graduate Scholarship Program Details
- Host Organization: Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)
- Study Destination: Singapore
- Degree Level: PhD
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- Number of Scholarships: Multiple (highly competitive selection)
- Maximum Funding: Full tuition + monthly stipend + multiple allowances
- Duration: Up to 4 years
- Application Deadline:
- Cycle 1: 2 August – 15 February
- Cycle 2: 1 May – 1 August
- Program Start: Multiple intakes annually
Also Apply For:Â Brunei Darussalam Government Scholarship
Eligibility Criteria for A STAR Graduate Scholarship
- Minimum Second Class Upper Honours (or equivalent GPA)
- Strong background in STEM-related fields
- Must gain admission to a Singapore autonomous university PhD program
- Final-year undergraduate students can apply
- Strong research potential and academic excellence
- International students eligible (with conditions)
Important:
- Non-Singaporeans must complete their degree in a Singapore university (for AGS track)
- A 3-year service commitment in Singapore-based companies applies for international scholars
Available Study Fields & Research Areas
Available Study Fields
-
Biomedical Research
-
Antimicrobial Resistance
-
Bioinformatics
-
Food Science & Food Processing
-
Human Potential & Clinical Sciences
-
Infectious Diseases
-
MedTech
-
Metabolic & Brain Health
-
Precision & Preventive Health
-
Synthetic Biology
-
Therapeutics
Science & Engineering Research
-
Automated Hub Operations
-
Data, AI & Compute
-
Quantum Technologies
-
Real-time, Resilient & Optimised Supply Chain
-
Semiconductors
-
Smart & Sustainable Advanced Manufacturing
-
Sustainable Energy & Chemicals
Also Apply For:Â Italy government scholarships
Application Requirements for A*STAR Graduate Scholarship
Required Documents
- CV
- Academic Transcripts
- Research Proposal / Study Plan
- Letters of Recommendation (Minimum 2 referees)
- Degree Certificates
- Passport Copy
Language Requirements
IELTS Requirements
IELTS/TOEFL may be required depending on the university.
However, IELTS can often be waived if:
- Previous degree was taught in English
- Applicant studied in English-medium institutions
Countries like Pakistan, India, Malaysia, and Nigeria often qualify for IELTS exemption depending on university policies.
Many Singapore scholarships are becoming IELTS-flexible, especially for research-based programs.
Is Supervisor Required?
NO, you do not need to secure a supervisor before applying. However, A*STAR assigns supervisors after selection. Your research proposal plays a critical role in matching. Align with A*STAR research domains. Show strong prior research or projects.
Also Apply For:Â Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarships Program
Benefits of A*STAR Graduate Scholarship
A Star Graduate Scholarship Stipend
- Stipend: Monthly stipend (competitive + increases after milestones)
- Accommodation: Covered through stipend
- Airfare: Overseas research attachment funding (up to 12 months)
- Insurance: Medical coverage
Additional allowances:
- Book allowance
- Computer allowance
- Conference allowance
- Thesis allowance
Additional Benefits
- Mentorship: Work with top A*STAR scientists
- Networking: Global research collaborations
- Lab Access: Advanced research labs
- Cultural Exposure: Up to 12-month overseas attachment
Program Duration, Timeline & Selection Process
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Apply through A*STAR scholarship portal
- Submit academic records + research proposal
- Provide 2 referee reports
- Shortlisting based on merit
- Attend 2 rounds of interviews
- Final selection and offer
Timeline:
- Application to result: ~5 months processing time
Also Apply For:Â Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarships
Application Deadline & Important Dates
Exact Timeline
Cycle 1
- Opens: 2 August
- Closes: 15 February
- Interviews: Feb – March
- Results: Mid-April
Cycle 2
- Opens: 1 May
- Closes: 1 August
- Interviews: Aug – Oct
- Results: Mid-November
Participating Universities / Host Institutions
- National University of Singapore (NUS)
- Nanyang Technological University (NTU)
- Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD)
- A*STAR Research Institutes
Why Apply for This Program?
- Fully funded PhD with zero tuition cost
- Monthly stipend + multiple allowances
- 12-month international research exposure
- Access to top-tier labs and facilities
- Strong career pathway in global R&D sector
- Work opportunities in Singapore after graduation
Also Apply For:Â Taiwan International Graduate Program
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
- Weak or unclear research proposal
- Not aligning with A*STAR research priorities
- Incomplete referee submissions
- Late application submission
- Ignoring eligibility conditions (especially nationality rules)
Apply Now to Secure you Future in Singapore
The A STAR Graduate Scholarship offers a rare opportunity to pursue a fully funded PhD in one of Asia’s most advanced research ecosystems. With guaranteed funding, structured mentorship, and international exposure through overseas research attachments, this program positions you at the forefront of innovation and scientific discovery.
If you are serious about building a global research career, gaining industry-relevant experience, and working with world-class scientists, this is the right time to act. Prepare a strong research proposal, apply within the official deadlines, and take a decisive step toward a high-impact future in Singapore’s thriving research and technology sector.