The A*STAR National Science Scholarship (NSS) Masters is a highly prestigious, fully funded program designed to identify and groom the next generation of scientific leaders in Singapore. Offered by the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), this scholarship provides a unique pathway for Singaporean citizens to pursue Master of Research (MRes) degrees at top-tier global universities.
The scholarship focuses on emerging and critical research areas like Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Food Technology, and Bioinformatics, ensuring that scholars are at the forefront of global innovation.
Scholarship Overview: NSS (Masters) 2026/2027
| Feature | Details |
| Host Organization | Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) |
| Degree Level | Master of Research (MRes) or equivalent |
| Target Audience | Singapore Citizens (Domestic Students) |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded (Tuition, Stipend, Airfare) |
| Cycle 1 Deadline | 1 April 2026 |
Comprehensive Scholarship Benefits
The NSS (Masters) provides full support for up to 2 years of overseas study, allowing scholars to focus entirely on their research.
- Full Tuition Fees: Direct payment to the overseas university.
- Living Allowance: A monthly stipend tailored to the cost of living in the host city.
- Travel Support: Annual return economy airfare.
- Additional Allowances:
- Settling-In & Computer Allowance: One-time payments upon commencement.
- Conference & Thesis Allowance: Financial support for presenting research and final submission.
Eligibility and Selection Criteria
A*STAR maintains exceptionally high standards for its scholars, seeking both academic brilliance and research potential.
- Academic Excellence: Must have obtained (or be on track for) at least a 2nd Upper-Class Honours Degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline.
- Admission Status: Must have applied or be applying to an MRes program at a top overseas university (e.g., Ivy League, Oxbridge, etc.).
- Research Focus: The proposed Master’s must be in a selected research area, such as AI, Food Tech, Bioinformatics, or Cyber Security.
- Post-Program Rule: NSS (Masters) scholars are not eligible to pursue a PhD immediately after their Master’s under this specific scheme; the program is designed to meet immediate demand for research talent.
The Application Cycles (2026)
There are two distinct windows to apply for the scholarship each year.
| Cycle | Applications Open | Applications Close |
| First Cycle | 1 January 2026 | 1 April 2026 |
| Second Cycle | 1 July 2026 | 1 October 2026 |
Step-by-Step Application Roadmap
- Identify Your Program: Secure admission or apply to a Master of Research program at a globally recognized university.
- Online Application: Visit the A*STAR Scholarship Portal and complete the online form.
- Referees: You must provide at least two academic referees. For Mid-Term applicants, at least one must be a Professor or tenured academic.
- Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will undergo two rounds of interviews (typically between April and May for Cycle 1).
- Final Award: Successful applicants for Cycle 1 are notified by mid-June.