Fully-Funded Scholarships at NUS and NTU for 2026-2027

Singapore has long been a global magnet for academic excellence, but as we look toward the 2026-2027 academic year, the appeal has reached a new high. At the heart of this draw are two giants: the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU). For many international students, the primary hurdle isn't the rigorous curriculum, it's the cost of living and tuition in one of the world's most expensive cities.

However, the narrative is shifting. Both NUS and NTU have expanded their financial aid portfolios, offering fully-funded scholarships that cover everything from tuition fees to airfare. If your goal is to secure a world-class education without the lifelong burden of student debt, understanding the current scholarship landscape in Singapore is the first step toward that dream.

The Current Landscape: Why Singapore in 2026?

As we move into the 2026-2027 cycle, Singapore’s educational ecosystem has evolved significantly. Here is a breakdown of the current environment and what you need to know:

• Strategic Investment: Singapore’s "Smart Nation" initiative has funneled significant resources into higher education, with a heavy focus on STEM, sustainability, and digital innovation.
• Global Recognition: NUS and NTU are no longer just regional leaders; they are global trendsetters, consistently ranking in the top 20 of the QS World University Rankings 2026.
• Student Advantages: For international students, this means access to cutting-edge labs, a multicultural environment, and a strategic gateway to the booming Southeast Asian economy.
• Financial Support: Top-tier scholarships offer 100% tuition coverage in addition to living stipends.
• Application Timelines: Undergraduate applications generally close between January and March 2026.
• Automatic Consideration: Many scholarships require no separate fee and are automatically considered upon your university application.
• The "Bond" Factor: Most subsidized paths include a requirement to work in a Singapore-registered company for three years post-graduation.
• Evolving Criteria: A major development for the upcoming year is the integration of "Sustainability" and "AI" tracks into nearly every scholarship criteria.
• What Universities Want: Institutions are looking for more than just high grades; they are seeking students who demonstrate the ability to navigate a tech-driven future.

Top Fully-Funded Opportunities at NUS

NUS remains the gold standard for many, and its scholarship offerings reflect its prestige. For the 2026 intake, the university has streamlined its application process, making it easier for international candidates to be considered.

1. NUS International Undergraduate Scholarship

This is the flagship award for high achievers. It's highly competitive but incredibly rewarding.

• Benefits: Full tuition coverage and an annual living allowance of approximately S$6,000 (~₹4.36 Lakhs). That covers your basics while you focus on studying.
• Eligibility: Open to all international students (excluding Singaporeans). Selection is based on academic merit and strong leadership potential.
• The Deadline: To be eligible for this award, international students must submit their full application by February 23, 2026. 
• The Catch: Recipients must take up the MOE Tuition Grant, which involves a three-year bond to work in Singapore after graduation. Think of it as Singapore investing in you, and you investing three years back into their economy. It's not a bad deal, you're getting work experience in one of Asia's most dynamic cities.

2. Science & Technology (S&T) Undergraduate Scholarship

Tailored for students from Asian countries, this scholarship targets those pursuing degrees in Computing, Engineering, or Science (excluding Pharmacy).

• Benefits: Tuition fees, an S$6,000 annual stipend, a S$200 (~₹14,500) settling-in allowance, and even airfare coverage. They're literally paying to get you there.
• The Deadline: Similar to other merit awards, the application window for this scholarship for the 2026 intake closes on February 23, 2026.
• Note: This is an excellent bridge for students from India or neighboring Asian nations looking to break into Singapore's tech sector.

Leading the Way at NTU

NTU is often the preferred choice for those leaning toward Engineering, Technology, and Research. Its scholarship structure for 2026-2027 is designed to attract "global citizens."

1. The Nanyang Scholarship

This is NTU's most prominent award. It doesn't just pay the bills; it invests in your personal growth.

• Coverage: Full tuition fees, a living allowance of S$6,500 (~₹4.72 Lakhs) per year, and a housing allowance of up to S$2,000 (~₹1.45 Lakhs).
• Perks: For the 2026 cycle, the scholarship includes a one-off travel grant of up to S$5,000 (~₹3.63 Lakhs) for overseas study programs and a S$1,750 (~₹1.27 Lakhs) computer allowance. That's a new laptop on them, plus funding for a study abroad experience.
• Requirement: Maintain a minimum CGPA of 3.5/5.0 to keep the funding active. It's generous, but they expect you to take your studies seriously.
• Deadline: The application for the July 2026 intake must be completed no later than January 15, 2026.

2. NTU Global Scholarship

A newer addition to the portfolio, this award focuses on students with a passion for interdisciplinary studies. It offers similar financial benefits to the Nanyang Scholarship but places a heavier emphasis on co-curricular achievements and "global impact." If you've been leading projects, starting initiatives, or making a difference, this is your scholarship.

Deadline: To ensure you are considered for this global impact award, your application must be submitted by the university's priority deadline on March 19, 2026.

Comparing the Giants: 2026-2027 Scholarship Guide

Choosing between NUS and NTU often comes down to the specific program, but the financial support is comparable. Here's what to expect:

The SINGA Award: The Ultimate PhD Route

For those looking beyond undergraduate studies, the Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) is the "holy grail." It's a collaboration between A*STAR, NUS, NTU, and other top institutions.

In the 2026-2027 cycle, SINGA continues to be a bond-free scholarship. This means after finishing a PhD in Science or Engineering, you're free to pursue careers anywhere in the world, though many choose to stay in Singapore's thriving research ecosystem. The monthly stipend increases significantly after passing the "Qualifying Exam," reaching up to S$3,200 (~₹2.32 Lakhs) per month. That's a real salary while you're doing your PhD.
Deadline: Prospective researchers looking at the January 2027 intake must have their applications in by the official deadline of June 1, 2026.

Navigating the Application Process

Applying for these scholarships is rarely a separate task. In most cases, the box for "Scholarship Consideration" is ticked during the standard admission application. However, the 2026-2027 cycle requires a more holistic approach:

1. Early Preparation: Standardized test scores (like the SAT, ACT, or IELTS) should be ready by late 2025. Don't procrastinate on these.

2. The Personal Essay: For 2026, universities are looking for "resilience" and "adaptability." Essays should reflect how you've handled challenges or contributed to your community. They don't want perfection, they want growth.

3. Referee Selection: One strong recommendation from a teacher who knows your character is worth more than three generic ones. Choose wisely.

4. Interview Readiness: Shortlisted candidates will face a panel interview between March and May 2026. Be confident, be calm, and show genuine interest in Singapore's culture. They're assessing fit, not just credentials.

The Bottom Line

Studying at NUS or NTU is a life-altering experience. It places you at the crossroads of East and West, in a city that operates with futuristic efficiency. While the competition for fully-funded scholarships is stiff, the 2026-2027 scenario shows that Singapore is more eager than ever to welcome global talent.

Financial constraints should never be the reason a brilliant mind stays home. With the right research and a well-prepared application, the gates of Singapore's leading universities are wide open. The journey might seem long, but with the support available, it's entirely within reach.

The three-year bond might feel like a commitment, but think about it this way: you're getting a free world-class education and three guaranteed years of work experience in one of Asia's most innovative economies. That's not a burden, that's a launchpad.

Need help shortlisting the right university? Book a free consultation with a Leap Scholar expert today.