The ASEAN Scholarship Singapore gives eligible students from Southeast Asian countries an opportunity to continue their education in Singapore. Offered by the Singapore Ministry of Education (MOE), the scholarship supports selected international students entering local secondary schools and pre-university education. It provides financial assistance for school fees, accommodation, allowances and other approved expenses. Students and parents considering this opportunity should understand the nationality rules, academic requirements, scholarship benefits and selection process before applying. Here is what to know about the Singapore ASEAN Scholarship and how to prepare an application.
TL;DR: ASEAN Scholarship Singapore at a Glance
The Singapore Ministry of Education offers the ASEAN Scholarship to eligible students from nine ASEAN countries. Available study levels include Secondary 1, Secondary 3 and Pre-University 1, depending on the applicant’s country. Benefits include school fees, an annual allowance, hostel accommodation and return airfare. Applicants may be shortlisted for a selection test and interview.
What Is the ASEAN Scholarship in Singapore?
The ASEAN Scholarship is a Singapore government scholarship designed to give outstanding students from ASEAN countries the opportunity to study in Singapore. The Ministry of Education (MOE) administers the programme and provides financial support to selected students during their approved period of study.
Scholars attend participating Singapore schools, where they experience the local education system, take part in Co-Curricular Activities (CCA) and study alongside students from different backgrounds. The programme also encourages friendship and understanding between young people from Singapore and neighbouring countries.
It is worth distinguishing this school-level award from the ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship. The latter is a separate scholarship for eligible students pursuing undergraduate studies at participating universities in Singapore. The MOE ASEAN Scholarship discussed here is intended for school-level education.
Which Countries Are Eligible for the ASEAN Scholarship?
Students from nine ASEAN countries may be eligible to apply for the Singapore ASEAN Scholarship. Applicants must hold the nationality required for the relevant scholarship programme.
| ASEAN country | Applicant nationality |
|---|---|
| Brunei Darussalam | Bruneian |
| Cambodia | Cambodian |
| Indonesia | Indonesian |
| Laos | Lao |
| Malaysia | Malaysian |
| Myanmar | Myanmar |
| Philippines | Filipino |
| Thailand | Thai |
| Vietnam | Vietnamese |
The application process is organised according to the applicant’s country and available study level. Age requirements, application periods and scholarship places can differ between nationalities.
Not every country necessarily offers the same entry level in every application cycle. Students should check the relevant MOE country-specific scholarship information before preparing their application. A student who meets the general requirements may still need to satisfy additional conditions for their nationality and intended school level.
ASEAN Scholarship Singapore Eligibility Criteria
The ASEAN Scholarship eligibility criteria cover nationality, academic performance, English proficiency, age and participation in school activities. Applicants should review the conditions for their country because the exact requirements can vary.
Academic Performance
Applicants are expected to have consistently good results in their school examinations. Strong performance across subjects can support an application, so students should prepare accurate records of their recent academic results.
Academic awards, competition results and other school achievements may also be included where requested.
English Language Proficiency
Students should be proficient in English, as it is the main language used for teaching in Singapore schools. They should be comfortable reading instructions, understanding lessons, writing answers and communicating with teachers and classmates.
Age and School Level Requirements
The age limit depends on the applicant’s country and scholarship level. MOE may specify an eligible date-of-birth range and current school grade for each programme.
The available entry levels include Secondary 1, Secondary 3 and Pre-University 1. Applicants should check the relevant year’s requirements rather than relying on age information from an older application cycle.
Co-Curricular Activities (CCA)
A good record of participation in Co-Curricular Activities (CCA) is also considered. Sports teams, school clubs, student leadership roles, competitions and community involvement can show a student’s interests and contribution beyond academic work.
| Requirement | What applicants need |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Eligible ASEAN country |
| Academics | Consistently good school results |
| English | Good English proficiency |
| CCA | Good participation record |
| Age | Depends on country and scholarship level |
What Does the ASEAN Scholarship Cover?
The ASEAN Scholarship benefits help selected students manage the cost of studying and living in Singapore. The award covers several education-related expenses, alongside support for accommodation and travel.
| Scholarship benefit | Coverage |
|---|---|
| School fees | Covered |
| Annual allowance | Provided |
| Hostel accommodation | Provided |
| Settling-in allowance | Provided |
| Return airfare | Economy class |
| Examination fees | Applicable examinations |
| Medical benefits | Subsidised medical benefits and accident insurance |
The annual allowance and hostel accommodation help scholars manage their living arrangements during their studies. A settling-in allowance provides initial support when they arrive in Singapore, while return economy airfare assists with travel between Singapore and their home country.
Examination fee coverage applies to relevant examinations under the scholarship terms. Medical support is also subject to the conditions of the award. Students and parents should read the offer details carefully to understand what is covered, how benefits are provided and which expenses may remain their responsibility.
ASEAN Scholarship Study Levels and Duration
The ASEAN Scholarship offers different entry points into Singapore’s school system. The duration depends on the level at which a student receives the award.
| Study level | Scholarship duration |
|---|---|
| Secondary 1 (S1) | 6 years |
| Secondary 3 (S3) | 4 years |
| Pre-University 1 (Pre-U 1) | 2 years |
Secondary 1 Scholarship
The Secondary 1 scholarship provides a six-year education pathway. Students enter secondary school at the beginning of this level and continue through the relevant secondary and pre-university stages, subject to the scholarship conditions and academic progress.
Secondary 3 Scholarship
The Secondary 3 award covers a four-year pathway. It is intended for eligible students who have already completed earlier years of secondary education in their home country.
Pre-University 1 Scholarship
The Pre-University 1 scholarship provides a two-year pathway for students entering the pre-university stage. Scholars work towards the relevant qualification offered through their school.
The availability of each level depends on the applicant’s nationality and the current MOE programme listing. Students should confirm the entry level offered to their country before applying.
How to Apply for ASEAN Scholarship Singapore
The application for the ASEAN Scholarship Singapore is completed online through the MOE Tuition Grant and Scholarships system. Follow these steps to prepare and submit your application:
- Check your nationality and eligibility: Confirm that your country is included and that you meet the age, school grade and academic requirements.
- Find your country-specific programme: Check the MOE scholarship information for your nationality and intended study level.
- Create an applicant account: Register through the Tuition Grant and Scholarships portal using your personal details and email address.
- Complete the online application form: Select the relevant scholarship programme and fill in the requested information.
- Provide your educational background: Enter your current school details, teaching language and examination results.
- Add achievements and CCA details: Include relevant awards, school activities and leadership experience.
- Select a test centre: Provide your preferred selection test centre choices where requested.
- Review and submit: Check every section carefully and submit the completed application before the stated deadline.
Documents and Information to Prepare
Applicants should have their personal particulars, academic records, examination results, achievements and awards ready. Details of CCA participation and parent or legal guardian contacts may also be required.
The application system can request additional information, so students should monitor their registered email address and applicant account after submission.
ASEAN Scholarship Selection Test and Interview
Submitting an application does not guarantee a scholarship offer. Applicants may be shortlisted for further assessment, with test and interview invitations communicated through the application system.
Selection Test
Shortlisted students receive information about the selection test, including the schedule and venue. Applicants should revise their school subjects, practise English communication and maintain a good understanding of Mathematics and other academic topics relevant to their current level.
Follow the instructions in the official test invitation, as the assessment arrangements may differ between programmes.
Scholarship Interview
Students who progress to the interview stage may be asked about their academic interests, school experiences, achievements and reasons for wanting to study in Singapore.
Good preparation includes speaking clearly, explaining personal interests and discussing CCA or leadership experiences honestly. Applicants should check their portal for attendance confirmation, interview arrangements and any supporting documents requested by MOE.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the ASEAN Scholarship Singapore fully funded?
The scholarship covers school fees, an annual allowance, hostel accommodation, a settling-in allowance and return economy airfare. Applicable examination fees and medical benefits are also included under the award conditions. Check the official terms for any expenses not covered.
Who can apply for the ASEAN Scholarship?
Eligible students from Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam may apply. Academic, age and other conditions depend on the relevant country and study level.
What is the age limit for the ASEAN Scholarship?
There is no single age limit for every applicant. MOE sets country- and level-specific requirements, which may include a permitted date-of-birth range and current school grade.
Does the ASEAN Scholarship cover hostel accommodation?
Yes. Hostel accommodation is included among the scholarship benefits, together with an annual allowance. Students should review their offer information for the applicable arrangements.
How can I apply for the ASEAN Scholarship in Singapore?
Applicants should find their country-specific programme and apply online through the MOE Tuition Grant and Scholarships system. They must complete the required sections and submit before the programme deadline.
Is an interview required for the ASEAN Scholarship?
Shortlisted applicants may be invited to an interview after the relevant selection stages. The applicant portal provides further instructions and attendance details.
Conclusion
The ASEAN Scholarship Singapore offers eligible students an opportunity to study in Singapore with support for school fees, accommodation, allowances and travel. Check your country’s eligibility rules, available study levels and application requirements early. Use the latest MOE information when preparing your application.