Study in Singapore - Apply now for the A*STAR Computing and Information Science (ACIS) Scholarship 2026.
Are you a highly ambitious researcher looking to push the boundaries of Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Robotics in one of the world's most advanced technological playgrounds? If so, the A*STAR Computing and Information Science (ACIS) Scholarship 2026 in Singapore is a premier opportunity that should be explored. Singapore has firmly established itself as the undisputed "Silicon Valley of Asia"—a global powerhouse where hyper-connectivity, smart infrastructure, and massive venture capital meet. At the absolute heart of this thriving digital ecosystem is the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR). By offering the fully funded ACIS PhD scholarship, ASTAR aims to cultivate the next generation of global computing pioneers, providing them with an elite launchpad to solve real-world industrial and societal challenges. Furthermore, studying in Singapore offers a unique, vibrant, and multicultural gateway to both Eastern and Western innovation networks.
The ACIS Scholarship is widely regarded as one of the most competitive and financially rewarding PhD programs in Asia. Consequently, selected scholars are integrated directly into Singapore’s top-tier universities and world-renowned research institutes, working alongside industry giants and international research labs. Therefore, if you hold an exceptional academic record and are ready to lead the charge in advanced computing fields, this prestigious scholarship must be prioritized.
Comprehensive Financial Benefits
The ACIS Scholarship offers an exceptional, multi-tier financial package designed to ensure scholars can devote their undivided attention to high-impact research. Specifically, the following benefits are awarded for up to four years of PhD studies:
1. Monthly Stipend Breakdown
Stipend rates are highly competitive and structured based on residency status:
- Singapore Citizens: SGD 5,800 per month.
- Singapore Permanent Residents (PRs): SGD 4,800 per month.
- International Students: SGD 4,550 per month.
2. Fully Funded Academic & Lifestyle Allowances
In addition to the monthly living stipend, the scholarship fully covers:
- 100\% Tuition Fees: Covered entirely for the full duration of the four-year program.
- Book & Computer Allowance: Direct grants to purchase essential research literature and high-performance computing hardware.
- Conference Support: Funding to travel, present papers, and network at major international technology conferences.
- Thesis & Miscellaneous Allowances: Support to ease the administrative costs of submitting your doctoral dissertation.
3. Global Exposure & Postdoctoral Fast-Track
- Overseas Research Attachment: Scholars are provided with funding for an overseas research attachment of up to 12 months, allowing them to collaborate with leading foreign labs.
- Postdoctoral Support: Upon graduation, scholars have a direct pathway to apply for the prestigious A*STAR International Fellowship to secure postdoctoral training at top global institutions.
Eligible Frontiers of Computing Research
Scholars are encouraged to pursue research across a wide array of forward-looking areas:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Natural Language Processing, and Computer Vision.
- Data Science & Analytics: Large-scale data engineering, database systems, and predictive modeling.
- Cybersecurity: Cryptography, network security, and secure software development.
- Robotics & Intelligent Automation: Autonomous vehicles, industrial automation, and human-robot interaction.
- Advanced Computing Systems: Cloud computing, high-performance computing (HPC), and quantum information science.
- Healthcare Computing: Bioinformatics, medical imaging, and data-driven healthcare diagnostics.
Strict Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the A*STAR ACIS Scholarship 2026, applicants must fulfill the following rigid standards:
- Academic Distinction: Must hold at least a Second Class (Upper) Honours degree (or its international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering field.
- Passion for Research: Must demonstrate a strong and active interest in pursuing a long-term research career in computing and information sciences.
- Institutional Entry: Applicants must meet the competitive admission requirements of their selected Singaporean host university (such as NUS, NTU, SUTD, or SMU).
- Technical Portfolio: While not strictly mandatory, candidates with prior research publications, strong coding portfolios (e.g., GitHub), or notable machine learning project completions will be given strong preference.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
The application process requires careful preparation and coordination between your chosen university's PhD admission and the A*STAR portal.
- Select Your Research Area: First, explore the eligible computing fields and identify a specific area of research that aligns with your background.
- Develop Your Proposal: Draft a highly rigorous research interest statement or proposal outlining your intended contributions to the field.
- Apply for University Admission: Submit an application to an eligible PhD program at a partner Singaporean university (e.g., National University of Singapore or Nanyang Technological University).
- Complete the A*STAR Portal Application: Visit the official A*STAR portal and submit your scholarship application. Ensure your CV, transcripts, proposal, and academic publications are attached in the required formats.
- Secure Referee Reports: Arrange for your academic and professional references to submit their recommendation letters directly via the portal.
- Interviews and Approvals: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to undergo rigorous panel interviews and supervisor matching evaluations.
Application Deadline
To secure enrollment for the January intake, you must submit your complete online application before the final deadline of August 1, 2026.