The A*STAR Computing and Information Science (ACIS) Scholarship funds international students to pursue a PhD at an autonomous university in Singapore. It covers tuition fees, a competitive monthly stipend and generous allowances for books, computer equipment, conferences and overseas attachments.
ApplyMate Quick Verdict
This is a premier scholarship for those aiming to conduct high‑impact research in computing and information science. Singapore’s tech ecosystem is world‑class, and ACIS scholars benefit from mentorship and resources at leading universities. The requirements are strict but transparent; if you meet them, the opportunity is hard to beat.
African candidates with a strong first degree (and preferably a master’s) in computing, information science or a closely related field are encouraged to apply. The scholarship is open to all nationalities, but you must have at least a second upper‑class honours or equivalent. Prepare early by contacting potential supervisors at Singapore universities and aligning your research proposal with national priorities such as AI, cybersecurity or data science.
Who This Opportunity Is Best For
International graduates with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in computing and information science (or a related discipline) who have achieved at least a second upper‑class honours (or equivalent). Ideal applicants are motivated by research, possess prior research or project experience and aim to contribute to fields such as AI, machine learning, big data or cybersecurity.
Who Should Think Twice Before Applying
If your academic background is outside computing and information science, you do not meet the honours degree requirement, or you are not interested in pursuing a multi‑year PhD in Singapore, you should consider alternative scholarships. This programme is not appropriate for undergraduate or taught‑master’s study.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Singapore has positioned itself as a global technology and research hub. Through ACIS, you gain access to cutting‑edge laboratories and collaborations with industry. The generous funding allows you to focus on research without financial worries and to attend conferences and overseas attachments that broaden your professional network.
Simplified Eligibility
Applicants can be of any nationality. You must have completed, or be in your final year of, a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from an autonomous university and achieved at least a second upper‑class honours or equivalent. You must also satisfy the admission requirements of a PhD programme in computing and information science at one of Singapore’s autonomous universities.
What This Scholarship Covers
- Full tuition fees for up to four years of PhD study
- A monthly stipend (amount increases after passing the PhD qualifying exam)
- One‑time computer allowance to purchase a laptop or workstation
- Annual book allowance for reference materials
- Conference allowance to present papers at international conferences
- Support for overseas research attachments
- Thesis allowance at the end of your programme
No‑Stress Application Steps
- Research the autonomous universities in Singapore (e.g., NUS, NTU, SMU) and identify a PhD programme that fits your interests.
- Contact prospective supervisors to discuss your research proposal and secure preliminary support.
- Prepare your ACIS scholarship application, including CV, academic transcripts, research proposal, referees’ details and any test scores required by the university.
- Submit your scholarship application through the A*STAR Graduate Academy portal before the official closing date, and separately apply for admission to the university’s PhD programme.
Documents to Prepare Early
- Certified copies of degree certificates and transcripts
- Detailed curriculum vitae highlighting research experience
- Research proposal outlining your proposed PhD topic and its relevance
- Names and email addresses of at least two referees who can comment on your academic potential
- Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL) if required by the university
Challenges African Applicants Should Not Ignore
- Competition is global; ensure your academic transcripts clearly show equivalencies to Singapore standards.
- Securing a supervisor’s support is often a critical step; take time to craft a compelling research proposal.
- Visa and relocation processes involve medical checks, financial declarations and sometimes security clearances; start early.
- Living in Singapore can be expensive despite the stipend; plan a budget for housing, food and travel.
Common Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Application
- Applying without confirming the university’s admission requirements or deadlines
- Submitting an unfocused research proposal or one not aligned with computing and information science
- Not contacting potential supervisors early enough to discuss fit and support
- Missing documentation such as transcripts, references or English test scores
Deadline and Preparation Timeline
Deadline: The ACIS scholarship usually accepts applications once or twice a year, with closing dates often in March or August. Check the A*STAR Graduate Academy website for the exact 2026 cycle deadlines and begin preparing at least three months before submission.
Final Advice
Use this guide as a starting point, but always follow the official instructions from A*STAR and your target university. Tailor your application to show how your research will contribute to Singapore’s scientific ecosystem and, ultimately, to advancements in your home country. Good preparation and clear alignment between your goals and ACIS’s objectives will set you apart.
Ready to make your move?
Use the official link below and ensure you meet both the scholarship and university admission requirements.
Source and Verification
ApplyMate verification note: Always cross‑check scholarship amounts, deadlines and eligibility on the A*STAR Graduate Academy website before submitting your application.
