Are you passionate about pursuing a career in research and want to experience cutting-edge scientific innovation in one of the world’s leading hubs for STEM research? The Singapore International Scholarship Pre-Graduate Award (SIPGA) offers a unique opportunity for international students to immerse themselves in world-class research at A*STAR’s research institutes. Here’s everything you need to know about SIPGA, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, and deadline!
What is SIPGA?
The Singapore International Pre-Graduate Award (SIPGA) is a prestigious award program that allows international undergraduate and master’s students to gain valuable research experience at A*STAR’s (Agency for Science, Technology, and Research) Research Entities in Singapore. SIPGA focuses on a wide range of STEM fields, giving students the chance to work in a vibrant scientific environment alongside world-renowned researchers.
Why Choose SIPGA?
SIPGA offers an enriching opportunity to explore research areas in:
- Biomedical Sciences (BMS)
- Physical Sciences (PS)
- Computing and Information Sciences (CIT)
- Engineering and Technology (E&T)
You’ll gain hands-on experience in interdisciplinary research projects that can broaden your academic horizons and provide you with valuable insights into a research career.
Benefits Package
As an awardee, you’ll receive:
- A monthly stipend of S$2,000 to cover living expenses during your stay in Singapore.
- The opportunity to conduct research in state-of-the-art facilities and collaborate with some of the best minds in the STEM fields.
- A chance to build your network within the international research community.
At the end of your attachment, you are required to complete an online SIPGA Attachment Report detailing your experience and research contributions.
Eligibility Criteria
The award is open to international students who meet the following criteria:
- You must be a 3rd or 4th year undergraduate or a master’s student enrolled in an overseas university.
- You must be pursuing a degree in a STEM course such as Computing, Information Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Physical Sciences, Engineering, or Technology.
- You must be on track to obtain at least a Second-Class (Upper) Honours or its equivalent for your bachelor’s degree.
- You must remain matriculated at your home university throughout the attachment period.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English is required.
- You should have a strong interest in research as a career.
Note: A*STAR may have additional selection criteria depending on its scholarship policies.
Application Process
To apply for the Singapore International Pre-Graduate Award, follow these simple steps:
1# View the SIPGA Project List for Selection: Download and review the list of available research projects. You may apply for up to 3 projects of your choice.
2# Prepare the Required Supporting Documents
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- A copy of your passport.
- Academic transcripts from your bachelor’s or master’s degree (translated into English if needed).
- An updated Resume/Curriculum Vitae.
3# Submit Your Online Application: https://www.a-star.edu.sg/Scholarships/for-undergraduate-studies/singapore-international-pre-graduate-award-sipga
4# Online Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by A*STAR researchers for an online interview. Only applicants who are shortlisted will be notified.
5# Award Outcome: Applicants nominated by A*STAR researchers will be evaluated on a competitive basis. If successful, you will be informed of your award within 2 months after the application deadline.
Key Dates
- Application Period: 1 September 2024 – 30 November 2024 (2359hrs GMT +8)
- Attachment Start Dates: May – August 2025
- Deadline: 30 November 2024 (for attachments starting in 2025).