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NUS Merit Scholarship 2026/2027 Guide
NUS MERIT SCHOLARSHIP
2026 / 2027 ACADEMIC YEAR
BOND-FREE • FULL TUITION • LIVING ALLOWANCE
NUS Merit Scholarship
University-Level Scholarship for High Calibre Freshmen
Introduction
The NUS Merit Scholarship is a highly coveted university-level award designed for high-calibre individuals entering their freshman year. These scholarships recognize students who demonstrate exceptional academic excellence, a distinguished record of co-curricular activities, and outstanding leadership qualities. NUS Scholars are expected to be active contributors to the university community and evolve into dynamic global leaders capable of effecting positive societal change after graduation.
Eligibility
- Nationality: Open exclusively to Singapore Citizens.
- Qualities: Must possess strong leadership qualities and significant potential.
- Records: Must have a good record of co-curricular activities.
- Qualifications: Must have outstanding GCE A Level, local Polytechnic Diploma, IB Diploma, NUS High School Diploma, or equivalent results.
- Status: Must be applying for admission to a full-time undergraduate degree programme at NUS.
Note: Transfer applicants from other local or overseas universities are not eligible.
Field of Study
This scholarship is applicable to almost all full-time undergraduate degree programmes at NUS. However, please note that there are only limited scholarships available for the following specialized fields:
- Dentistry
- Medicine
- Music
Host Institute
The scholarship is hosted by the National University of Singapore (NUS).
Scholarship Benefits
- Tuition: Fully subsidised tuition fees (after MOE Tuition Grant subsidy).
- Living Allowance: S$6,000 annual living allowance.
- Computer Allowance: S$2,000 one-time computer allowance upon enrolment.
- Student Exchange (SEP): Guaranteed SEP placement with an overseas partner university for one semester (not applicable to Medicine and Dentistry).
- Accommodation: Priority for on-campus accommodation for the first two years of study.
- Bond: This is a bond-free scholarship.
Number of Awards
While the exact number varies by cohort, the scholarship is awarded to several outstanding candidates who meet the high merit requirements. NUS reserves the right not to award the scholarship if no candidates of sufficient merit are identified.
Application Start and Closing Date
1 February to 19 March 2026. Only one common application is required. Applicants who are interested in the Temasek Foundation – Union Scholarship and the Wee Cho Yaw Future Leaders Award must apply for both NUS Scholarships and NUS Financial Aid, in the year of matriculation. Applicants seeking NUS Financial Aid must do so by 1 April 2026, after an admission application is submitted..
How to Apply
- Submit your application for admission to NUS first.
- Access the scholarship application through the Applicant Portal.
- Upload supporting documents (CCA records, achievements).
- Submit one Referee Recommendation Form online, to be completed by your Principal or Tutor.
Application Fee
There is no specific fee to apply for the scholarship itself, though standard NUS admission application fees apply.
Bond
The NUS Merit Scholarship is bond-free. Scholars are not required to serve a bond with a specific organization upon graduation.
Other Details (Terms & Conditions)
- Renewal: Renewal is subject to maintaining a GPA of at least 3.50 (or top 80% for Dentistry, Law, and Medicine).
- Exclusivity: Scholars may not hold other scholarships or grants concurrently without university approval.
- Conduct: Scholars must maintain good conduct and academic standing.
Conclusion
The NUS Merit Scholarship is a prestigious pathway for Singaporean students to secure a world-class education while developing essential leadership skills for a global future. With its bond-free nature and extensive financial support, it remains one of the most sought-after awards for freshmen.
Official Web Address
For more details and current dates, visit the official page:
NUS Scholarships & Admissions