The ASTAR Computing and Information Science (ACIS) Scholarship offers outstanding students the opportunity to pursue a fully funded PhD in computing and information science at leading universities in Singapore. They also become eligible for the ASTAR International Fellowship for postdoctoral training abroad. The Singapore A STAR ACIS Scholarship program prepares students for impactful careers in A*STAR, industry R&D, tech enterprises, and academia, encouraging diverse talent to drive innovation and solve real-world challenges.
Scholars receive a monthly stipend, support for up to four years of study, and the chance to undertake a 12-month overseas research attachment. The Singapore A STAR ACIS Scholarship benefits include tuition, stipend, book /computer /conference /thesis allowances, and up to 12 months overseas attachment. A 3‑year service bond in a Singapore-based company applies to non‑Singaporeans. Deadline: 1 August 2025
Scholarship Details
- Funded by: A STAR
- Host Country: Singapore
- Ranking: All are top QS-ranked institutions globally and regionally.
- Programs: PhD in Computing & Information Science (CIS)
- Duration: Up to 4 years
Study Areas:
- Deep learning for healthcare
- Data analytics & machine learning
- Modelling & simulation
- Other CIS disciplines
Singapore A STAR ACIS Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition fees covered
- Additional allowances:
- Book allowance
- Computer allowance
- Conference allowance
- Thesis allowance
- Overseas attachment support for up to 12 months
- Mid-term awardees receive same benefits from Year 1, including retrospective tuition support
- All benefits subject to change by A*STAR
Benefits Not Included:
- Living expenses above stipend
- Personal travel outside approved conference/attachment trips
- Optional insurance or housing unless specified by host university
Eligibility Requirements for Singapore A STAR ACIS Scholarship
General Eligibility (New Applicants)
- Open to Singaporeans and international applicants
- Non-Singaporeans must have completed or be completing a degree at a Singapore autonomous university
- Must have or be on track to obtain at least a Second Upper Class Honours degree (or equivalent)
- Final-year students may apply but must meet the final academic requirement to receive the award
- Must meet the admission criteria and secure a place in a PhD program at a Singapore autonomous university
- Must show strong interest in pursuing CIS research in industry, R&D, or academia
Mid-Term Applicants (Currently Enrolled PhD Students)
- Open to Singaporeans and international students
- Non-Singaporeans must already hold a degree from a Singapore autonomous university
- Must be currently enrolled in a PhD program in a Singapore autonomous university
- Must have completed at least one semester by the time of application
- Should demonstrate strong academic performance and research potential
- Current university supervisor must be one of the two academic referees
Additional Notes
- These are general guidelines; A*STAR may apply additional criteria as per current policies
- Refer to the A*STAR website for approved research areas and supervisors
- If your preferred supervisor isn’t listed, you may contact them directly to discuss project possibilities
Service Commitment
- Singaporeans & PRs: No service requirement
- Non-Singaporeans: 3-year service in Singapore-based companies (preferably in CIS fields)
- Companies must be registered with ACRA and based in Singapore
Required Documents
Typically required (based on related ACIS/SINGA guidelines):
- Academic transcripts & degree certificate
- CV / Resume
- Research proposal outlining interests and fit
- At least two academic references (often with supervisor’s support)
- GRE scores optional
- Proof of English proficiency (if required by university)
Singapore A STAR ACIS Scholarship Application Procedure
First Cycle:
- Opens: 1 November
- Closes: 1 February
- Interviews: Mid-February to March
- Results: From mid-April
Second Cycle:
- Opens: 1 June
- Closes: 1 August
- Interviews: Mid-August to October
- Results: From mid-November
- Application link available on A*STAR official website
- Shortlisted candidates undergo 2 rounds of interviews
- Notifications sent by email
During Your Studies
- Participate in Vista development programme by A*STAR Graduate Academy
- Sessions align with academic and career stages
- Engage with A*STAR leadership and R&D leaders
- Network with peers and attend talks by high-level speakers in science and policy
Tips for a Strong Application
- Research and connect early with potential supervisors to align interests
- Write a compelling and focused research proposal
- Highlight any research experience, publications, or relevant internships
- Secure strong reference letters, especially from academics
- Prepare well for in-depth interviews (know your research goals and methodology)
Monthly Living Expenses (International Students)
Estimated costs in Singapore:
- Accommodation (shared/apartment): S$800–$1,200
- Food & daily needs: S$600–$800
- Transportation & misc.: S$150–$250
Total: ~S$1,550–S$2,250/month
(The stipend exceeds this, comfortably covering usual living costs.)
Why Choose This Opportunity?
- Generous funding with extended support (tuition, stipend, allowances, overseas exposure)
- Access to top-tier research institutions and industry labs in Singapore
- Clear pathway for international students with support for post-doctoral advancement via AIF
- Builds strong career foundation through service commitment in local industry
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can final-year non‑Singapore undergraduates apply?
– Yes. As long as you finish with at least a 2nd Upper Honours and secure a PhD admission - Is GRE required?
– GRE is optional; it can strengthen your profile but isn’t mandatory - Do we need to secure a supervisor before applying?
– You don’t need a formal offer, but aligning your research interests and contacting supervisors early boosts your application. - What happens if I’m not from Singapore?
– You must commit to a 3-year work service in a Singapore-registered CIS company after graduation - Can I apply mid-PhD?
– Yes, mid-term ACIS applicants (already in Singapore universities) can apply anytime and receive retrospective benefits from year 1
Official Link
For full details and application portal, visit the A*STAR ACIS Scholarship page on the official A*STAR site.
