The Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship 2026 is one of Singapore’s most prestigious postgraduate awards, designed for outstanding students with strong leadership qualities and a passion for contributing to global policy and governance.
Offered through the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (LKYSPP) at the National University of Singapore (NUS), this scholarship provides full financial support and a generous monthly stipend for doctoral studies in public policy, governance, and related fields.
This fellowship empowers both Singaporean and international students to pursue world-class research without service bonds or restrictive obligations—allowing them to focus entirely on academic growth and impactful scholarship.
Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship 2026 – Quick Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Country | Singapore |
| Host Institution | Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore |
| Eligible Levels | PhD (Doctoral Studies) |
| Eligible Applicants | Singapore Citizens, Permanent Residents, and International Students |
| Funding Coverage | Fully Funded |
| Monthly Stipend (Pre-Qualifying Exam) | SGD 2,800 (Citizens), SGD 2,400 (PRs), SGD 2,200 (International Students) |
| Monthly Stipend (Post-Qualifying Exam) | SGD 3,300 (Citizens), SGD 2,900 (PRs), SGD 2,700 (International Students) |
| Duration | Up to 3 years |
| Application Deadline | December 10, 2025 |
About the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy PhD Scholarship
Located in the heart of Asia’s financial and policymaking hub, the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (LKYSPP) is globally recognised for shaping future leaders in governance, policy, and international relations.
The Lee Kuan Yew PhD Scholarship is designed to:
- Support cutting-edge research in public policy and social sciences.
- Provide full financial freedom through tuition coverage and stipends.
- Encourage global participation, welcoming talented students from all countries.
- Promote Singapore’s vision as a leader in regional and international policymaking.
This program is highly competitive, aimed at students with exceptional academic records, practical work experience, and a vision for contributing to international affairs.
Eligibility Criteria for Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship 2026
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be a Singapore Citizen, Permanent Resident, or International Student.
- Apply for a graduate program at LKYSPP.
- Hold a relevant Master’s degree (preferably in social sciences, public policy, or related fields).
- Have at least two years of professional work experience.
- Demonstrate a strong academic background and commitment to international affairs.
Scholarship Benefits
The Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship 2026 offers one of the most generous PhD funding packages in Asia:
- Before Qualifying Examination:
- SGD 2,800/month (Singapore Citizens)
- SGD 2,400/month (Singapore Permanent Residents)
- SGD 2,200/month (International Students)
- After Qualifying Examination:
- SGD 3,300/month (Singapore Citizens)
- SGD 2,900/month (Singapore Permanent Residents)
- SGD 2,700/month (International Students)
- Duration: Funding is awarded for up to 3 years of doctoral study.
- No Service Bond: Students are free to pursue careers or academic opportunities after completion.
How to Apply for the Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship 2026 (Step by Step)
Applicants may apply for the scholarship within their admissions application through GradApp and fulfil additional scholarship application requirements stated there. Log in or register, click Apply now.
Why Choose the Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship?
- World-Class Institution: NUS ranks consistently among the top universities globally.
- Generous Support: Provides financial stability, enabling students to focus on impactful research.
- Policy Leadership Hub: Offers unmatched access to policymakers, global leaders, and research opportunities in Asia.
- Career Pathways: Graduates have gone on to pursue influential roles in academia, international organisations, and government.
- No Service Bond: Flexibility to choose career paths freely after graduation.
FAQs
Who can apply for the Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship 2026?
The scholarship is open to Singapore Citizens, Singapore Permanent Residents, and international students with strong academic backgrounds in social sciences, international affairs, or related fields.
Do I need prior work experience to be eligible?
Yes. Applicants are expected to have at least two years of relevant work experience before applying.
Does the scholarship cover tuition fees?
Yes. The scholarship provides full tuition coverage in addition to the monthly living stipend.
How long is the scholarship valid?
The award is usually granted for up to three years of PhD study.
Is there any service bond or work commitment after completion?
No, the Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship does not impose a service bond. Scholars are free to pursue careers in academia, research, or policy work.
What documents are required for the application?
Applicants should prepare:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Research proposal (if required by the program)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Proof of work experience
- Statement of purpose
When is the application deadline?
The application closes on December 10, 2025.
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