The ASTAR Graduate Scholarship (AGS) is the PhD award of Singapore’s Agency for Science, Technology and Research, run by the ASTAR Graduate Academy. Scholars take a PhD (or EngD, per the scholarships listing) at a Singapore autonomous university, co-supervised by an A*STAR researcher and a university faculty member.
Applicants choose one of four tracks: STEM, Semiconductor, Quantum or Computing. Students in their final semester apply full-term; PhD students at least one semester in apply mid-term. Two cycles run each year.
Benefits & funding
- Up to 4 years: full tuition, a monthly allowance (with CPF where applicable), and book, computer, conference and thesis allowances; rates may be adjusted.
- Monthly allowance, STEM: $4,500 citizens / $4,100 PRs / $3,600 international students; specialised tracks: $6,200 / $5,600 / $5,000.
- Up to 12 months of overseas attachment.
- Bond-free for citizens and PRs; others serve 3 years in Singapore-based companies.
Eligibility
- Any nationality. Applicants who are neither Singapore citizens nor PRs must hold, or be completing, a Bachelor’s or Master’s at a Singapore autonomous university.
- At least a Second-Class (Upper) Honours degree or equivalent in a relevant field, held or on track; the FAQ adds that assessment is holistic, weighing research experience and achievements.
- Full-term: in the last semester of current studies, and admitted to a PhD programme at an autonomous university.
- Mid-term: enrolled at a Singapore autonomous university with at least one semester done, on track for excellent standing, with research potential or achievements.
- A*STAR may add criteria under prevailing policy.
Can you apply?
Here's who can apply
Decoded from the official rules. A free account checks them against your passport, degree and age in seconds.
Education required
Bachelor Enrolled · PhD Enrolled
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Application process
- 1Secure two co-supervisors, an A*STAR researcher (usually Principal Investigator or Principal Scientist level) and a university faculty member, and develop a proposal with them.
- 2Obtain the A*STAR supervisor’s endorsement.
- 3Apply online with academic credentials, a research-area description and at least 2 referee reports; mid-term applicants include their current supervisor as one referee.
- 4Apply separately, at the same time, for PhD admission at the university.
- 5Shortlisted candidates sit at least 2 interview rounds.
Program timeline
Second 2026 cycle closed
Aug 10, 2026
Next cycle opens
Nov 1, 2026
Next cycle closes (listing page says 15 February)
Feb 1, 2027
Interviews
Mid-February to March 2027
Outcomes
From mid-April 2027