The Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR) provides the ASTAR Graduate Scholarship (AGS) for students pursuing a PhD degree. This scholarship supports researchers in the fields of science, technology, and engineering. Recipients conduct their research at an A*STAR Research Institute and graduate from a top university in Singapore.
I am writing this post to provide research-based facts regarding the ASTAR Graduate Scholarship application for 2026. This article uses official data from ASTAR to help students meet eligibility criteria and submit an application that highlights achievements accurately. I have compiled these details to ensure applicants understand the financial benefits and academic requirements of this prestigious award.
A*STAR integrates scholars into a vibrant research community focused on global challenges. The scholarship program bridges the gap between academic study and industrial application. Scholars gain access to state-of-the-art facilities, world-class mentors, and international networking opportunities.
Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: PhD (Doctorate)
- Location: Singapore
- Institution(s): National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), or Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD)
- Program Period: Up to 4 years
- Course offered: Science, Engineering, and Technology (Biomedical Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Engineering)
- Deadline: August 1 (for January intake) or January 1 (for August intake)
A*STAR Graduate Scholarship Coverage
The ASTAR Graduate Scholarship offers full financial support for up to 4 years of doctoral study. The award covers full tuition fees at the university of enrollment. Scholars receive a monthly stipend of S$2,800 to S$3,200 to fund your education and living costs. The coverage includes additional benefits such as book allowances, computer allowances, and thesis allowances. ASTAR also provides a one-time settling-in allowance and airfare to Singapore for international students.
Eligibility Criteria
There are three main eligibility requirements for the ASTAR Graduate Scholarship: attaining a Second Class (Upper) Honours degree, passion for research, and successful admission to a local university. Applicants must hold a degree in relevant fields, such as Chemistry, Biological Sciences, or Computer Science. You must demonstrate leadership through academic honors, such as Dean’s List awards, research publications, or competition wins. Applicants should possess strong interest in working at ASTAR labs (Genome Institute of Singapore, Institute of Bioengineering and Bioimaging, or Institute of Microelectronics).
Application Process
To apply for the ASTAR Graduate Scholarship, you must submit an online application through the ASTAR scholarship portal.
- Register an Account: Create a profile on the official A*STAR application system.
- Submit Academic Documents: Upload your academic documents, such as official transcripts, degree certificates, and grading scales.
- Submit Test Scores: Provide standardized test results, such as GRE, TOEFL, or IELTS scores, if required by the university.
- Find a Supervisor: Identify a potential supervisor from an A*STAR Research Institute to support your research proposal.
- Request Recommendation Letters: Arrange for 2 academic referees to submit letters of recommendation directly to the portal.
- Attend Interviews: Complete two rounds of interviews with the scholarship committee and research directors.
Deadline
The A*STAR Graduate Scholarship has two main application cycles each year. You must submit your application by August 1 for the January intake or by January 1 for the August intake. Late submissions are not accepted by the committee.
