Embarking on the Discover NUS & ASEAN Exchange Scholarship 2026 applications process is the first step toward an unforgettable academic adventure at one of Asia’s top universities. You’re likely dreaming of a semester in the vibrant city-state of Singapore, expanding your horizons, and adding a world-class experience to your resume. But you might also be feeling a bit overwhelmed by the application process. Don’t worry. This guide is designed to be your trusted companion, breaking down everything you need to know—from eligibility to crafting a standout personal statement—into clear, actionable steps. Let’s unlock this incredible opportunity together.
DiscoverNUS & ASEAN Exchange Scholarship 2026 applications
| Key Fact | Detail |
| Host Institution | National University of Singapore (NUS), NUS Global |
| Eligible Students | Undergraduates from partner universities, NUS Partner Universities List |
| Primary Audience | ASEAN Nationals (for ASEAN Exchange) & All Nationalities (for DiscoverNUS) |
| Key Benefits | Tuition fee waiver, living allowance, accommodation support |
The journey to applying for the DiscoverNUS & ASEAN Exchange Scholarship is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a genuine passion for the opportunity. Every successful applicant I’ve seen has shared one common trait: authenticity. They let their true academic interests and personal curiosity shine through in their application.
What Are the DiscoverNUS & ASEAN Exchange Scholarships?
First, let’s clear up a common point of confusion. While often discussed together, these are two distinct opportunities offered by the National University of Singapore (NUS) to welcome international exchange students. Think of them as two different doors leading to the same incredible experience.
The ASEAN Undergraduate Exchange Scholarship
This scholarship is specifically for undergraduate students who are nationals of an ASEAN member state (excluding Singapore). If you’re from Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand, or Vietnam, this is the primary scholarship you’ll be considered for. It’s part of a broader initiative to foster collaboration and understanding within the Southeast Asian community. This is a fantastic study in Singapore scholarship aimed at nurturing future regional leaders.
The DiscoverNUS Scholarship
What if you’re not from an ASEAN country? That’s where the DiscoverNUS Scholarship comes in. This award is open to excellent undergraduate exchange students from all partner universities worldwide. It serves the same purpose: to support talented students during their semester at NUS by alleviating financial burdens.
The great news is that you generally don’t apply to them separately. When you submit your exchange application to NUS, you are typically considered for whichever scholarship you are eligible for based on your nationality and academic merit.
Are You Eligible? Key Requirements for 2026
Meeting the eligibility criteria is the first and most critical step. While minor details can change year to year, the core requirements remain consistent. Before you get too deep into the application, make sure you tick these boxes.
1. University Nomination
This isn’t a scholarship you can apply for directly out of the blue. You must be an undergraduate student at one of NUS’s partner universities.
- Action Step: Your journey begins at your home university’s international relations or student exchange office. Contact them first to understand their internal selection process and deadlines for the NUS exchange program scholarship. You must be officially nominated by your university to even be considered by NUS.
2. Academic Standing
NUS is a top-tier institution, and they look for students with a strong academic record.
- You’ll need a minimum GPA, which is often a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, or its equivalent. Check the specific requirements listed in the agreement between your university and NUS.
- You must have completed at least two semesters of study at your home university before your exchange begins.
3. Nationality and Citizenship
This is the main differentiator between the two scholarships.
- For the ASEAN Exchange Scholarship: You must be a citizen of an ASEAN member state.
- For the DiscoverNUS Scholarship: All nationalities are welcome, as long as you are from a partner university.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to the Application
Once your home university nominates you, it’s time to tackle the official DiscoverNUS & ASEAN Exchange Scholarship 2026 applications. Follow these steps methodically to ensure a smooth process.
Step 1: Complete the NUS Online Application
After your nomination, NUS will send instructions to you via your university coordinator on how to access their online application portal. This is where you’ll fill in your personal details, academic history, and proposed courses of study at NUS.
Step 2: Prepare Your Supporting Documents
You’ll need to upload a series of documents. Having these ready in digital format (usually PDF) will save you a lot of stress.
- Official Academic Transcript: An up-to-date record of your grades from your home university.
- Copy of Passport: A clear scan of your passport’s photo page.
- Passport-Sized Photograph: A recent, professional-looking headshot with a plain background.
- Personal Statement / Motivation Letter: This is your chance to shine. More on this below!
- Proof of English Proficiency (if required): If your native language isn’t English, you may need to provide TOEFL or IELTS scores.
Step 3: Craft a Compelling Personal Statement
In my experience advising students, the personal statement is the single most important qualitative part of your application. It’s your opportunity to speak directly to the selection committee and show them who you are beyond your grades.
Your statement should answer three key questions
- Why NUS? Be specific. Mention particular modules, professors, or research opportunities that attract you. Avoid generic praise.
- Why Singapore? Show your interest in the culture, society, or strategic location of Singapore. How will being there contribute to your personal and academic growth?
- What will you contribute? How will you be a good ambassador for your home university and country? What unique perspectives will you bring to the NUS community?
- Structure it simply: Start with a strong hook, develop your points in the body, and end with a confident conclusion summarizing your ambitions for the exchange. Keep it concise—usually around 500 words.
Step 4: Submit and Wait
Once you’ve double-checked everything, submit your application through the portal. The waiting period can be nerve-wracking, but rest assured that the NUS Global team conducts a thorough review. You’ll typically be notified of the outcome via email within a few months.
Life as a Scholar: Beyond the Classroom
Winning the scholarship is just the beginning. An exchange semester at NUS is a transformative experience. You’ll be living and learning in a melting pot of cultures, both on campus and in the city itself.
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FAQs
Q1:Do I apply for the DiscoverNUS and ASEAN scholarships separately?
No. Typically, you submit one application for the exchange program. The NUS admissions team will automatically consider you for the scholarship for which you are eligible based on your nationality and application strength.
Q2:Do I need to apply for admission to NUS as a full-time student?
No, this process is separate. You are applying as a non-graduating, fee-paying exchange student. The scholarship helps cover these costs. You remain enrolled at your home university.
Q3:What is the typical selection timeline?
Generally, nominations for the August (Semester 1) intake happen from March to April, and applications are due by May. For the January (Semester 2) intake, nominations are usually from August to September, with applications due by October. Always confirm the exact dates on the official NUS Global website.
