Are you a high-achieving student from an ASEAN country dreaming of studying in Singapore? The ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship is an excellent opportunity for talented students like you to study at Singapore’s top universities. And this comprehensive guide will provide you with important information about the benefits and financial support, specific eligibility requirements, application procedures and all other required details. Read ahead to find out more.
| Aspects | Details |
| Offered by | MOE, Govt. of Singapore |
| Type of Award | Merit Based |
| Level of Study | Undergraduate |
| Subjects/ Fields | All fields |
| Deadline | Varying (read ‘Important Dates’ below) |
| Website | https://www.moe.gov.sg/financial-matters/awards-scholarships/asean-scholarship |
Take the First Step Towards Securing your Scholarship and Funding your Future
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Eligible Countries
As the name suggests, the ASEAN Scholarship is offered to international students from ASEAN countries, excluding Singapore to stay and study in Singapore. The list of ASEAN member countries include- Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam.
Scholarship Benefits
The ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship offers the following benefits to students:
- Full coverage of subsidized tuition fees (after MOE Tuition Grant)
- An annual living allowance of SG$5,800
- Around SG$1,750 as one-time computer allowance upon enrolment
- An annual accommodation allowance of SG$3,000
*All scholarship recipients are required to take up the MOE Tuition Grant. It is yet another financial assistance offered by the Ministry of Education (MOE), Singapore to help students with the cost of tertiary education. The grant subsidizes a significant portion of tuition fees of selected full-time diploma or undergraduate studies in Singapore. Read more about MOE Tuition Grants here.
Eligibility Criteria
- Citizen of one of the above ASEAN member countries.
- Applying for a full- time undergraduate degree in Singapore
- Cambridge GCE ‘A’ level/ Diploma awarded by a polytechnic in Singapore/ High School Diploma/IB Diploma or Year 12 equivalent qualifications.
- Should be proficient in English
- Possess strong leadership qualities and potential
- Excellent co-curricular records.
- Must be above 21 and below 65 years of age
Documents Required
- Copy of Passport stating your full name, date and place of birth and expiration
- Original Senior High School Certificate
- A copy of Transcripts
- English Proficiency Test Score- IELTS/ TOEFL/ PTE/ ACT
- Passport size photographs- 2
- Personal Statement
- Letter of Recommendation
- Medical Reports (if applicable)
How To Apply For ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship
The application process of ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarships vary by country or university. The ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship application process usually aligns with university admission cycles, typically opening between January to April. You may be required to submit applications through the respective universities’ online portals. However, for some universities, candidates are considered and shortlisted through their application for undergraduate admission at universities as well. Check your specific university’s guidelines for successful application.
Important Dates
Applications for the ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarships are now closed for the 2024 session. For the upcoming year check out the tentative timeline below. We’ll update you with the exact dates as soon as the official notification is released.
| County | Application Timeline (Tentative) |
| Brunei Darussalam | Feb 10th- Apr 21st, 2025 |
| Cambodia | Apr 1st- May 30th, 2025 |
| Indonesia | Jan 6th- Mar 14th, 2025 |
| Lao PDR | April 1st- May 30th, 2025 |
| Malaysia | Feb 10th- Apr 21st, 2025 |
| Philippines | Jan 6th- Feb 21st, 2025 |
| Thailand | Feb 10th- Apr 21st, 2025 |
| Vietnam | Feb 10th- Apr 21st, 2025 |
Selection process and criteria
Applicants are selected based on various factors, including their academic achievements, involvement in extracurricular activities, leadership skills, and other abilities. Once you are shortlisted for selection test and/ or interview you will be notified by email at least a week before the selection tests and interview dates. Applicants who perform well in the selection tests will be invited to participate in a selection interview. Those who are considered suitable during the interview process will receive the scholarship. The selection tests and interviews will be conducted in English.
Selection Tests
The selection tests for ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship include two tests-
- English- Comprises of two parts for a 2- hour test; Language Use and Comprehension and a Writing section.
- Mathematics- Comprises of short answer and open ended questions to be completed in two hours
Keep in mind that all the selection tests will be conducted on the same day with a lunch break after the Mathematics test. There will also be a 30- minute break after the English tests. You can get more details on the test in the ASEAN Scholarship Test Section on the official website.
Tips for Applicants
- Your personal statement should highlight your academic achievements, leadership experiences, community involvement, future aspirations as well as interest in studying in Singapore.
- Grab strong recommendation letters from teachers who can speak to your academic abilities, character, and potential. The letter should provide specific examples of your achievements and contributions to your school community.
- Highlight your involvement in extracurricular activities, leadership roles, community service, and any other experiences that demonstrate your well-rounded character and commitment to making a positive impact.
- Consult with teachers, mentors, or peers for feedback on your application. They can provide valuable insights and help you strengthen your application.
FAQs
Yes, ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarships can be renewed every semester provided that you maintain a GPA of at least 3.50 and a good conduct at university.
No, most university will not allow you to concurrently hold any other scholarship, fellowship, bursary, grant, award or allowance. along with ASEAN Scholarship. However, you may confirm with your university once.
No, you cannot apply for an ASEAN Scholarship if you are already studying in a Singapore school.