Get a Fully Funded PhD in Public Policy at Asia's Best School and Reach Your Full Potential

The Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship for 2026 is a great chance for top students from all around the world to get a fully funded PhD in Public Policy at one of Asia's best schools

This highly regarded fellowship covers all of your costs including a monthly stipend of up to SGD $3,300 full tuition and the best research opportunities in the world of international policymaking

This complete guide has all the information that qualified candidates need to make successful applications before the deadline on December 10 2025

Overview of the Program and Its Historical Importance

The Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship is Singapore's best postgraduate scholarship program. It was started in 1991 by the Tanjong Pagar Citizens' Consultative Committee with public money to honor Mr Lee Kuan Yew's work for Singapore

This scholarship is part of Singapore's ongoing efforts to honor exceptional people who have the skills and desire to make a difference in Singaporean society

The Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (LKYSPP) of the National University of Singapore (NUS) runs the scholarship. This school is in the middle of one of the most active places in the world for international policymaking and research

The institution is a great place for academic growth since it combines Asian points of view with global policymaking expertise

Since the scholarship's start many people who have received it have made important contributions in numerous areas such as public service business law medicine the arts and academics both in Singapore and around the world

Full Financial Benefits

Selected scholars receive full financial support that covers all of the principal costs of getting a doctorate

More Benefits

• Help with research and money for conferences
• Full health insurance (with a co-payment)
• Opportunities for professional growth
• Events where you can meet policymakers and academic leaders
• After graduation you don't have to sign a bond or promise to serve

The fellowship usually pays for three years of doctoral study but it can be extended for up to four years if the student is making good progress in their studies and research

Requirements & Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for this renowned award applicants must complete certain requirements

Citizenship and Living Here

• Available to Singaporeans Singapore Permanent Residents and International Students
• There are no nationality restrictions for international applicants

Qualifications for School

• Must have a Master's degree in Social Sciences or a comparable discipline
• Must have done well in all of their previous studies
• Must have shown that they can do good research through previous work or publications

Work Experience

• At least 2 years of work experience is preferred
• A professional background in social science and a strong interest in international politics
• Experience as a leader and the ability to make a difference in the future

Details about the program

• Must be applying to or already accepted into the PhD program in Public Policy at LKYSPP
• Must have a well-thought-out research proposal that fits with the school's areas of interest
• Being able to speak English well enough to meet NUS standards

Deadlines and times for applications

Applicants must follow a set timeline for the application process

Important The application window for the January 2026 intake (Semester 2) is August 1 to December 10 2025 Applicants must submit their admissions application via GradApp and indicate interest in the PhD Scholarship during the process Additional scholarship requirements must also be fulfilled within the application system

[](https://daadscholarship.com/lee-kuan-yew-school-phd-scholarship-2026-in-public-policy/)

Necessary Papers

Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents

Main Application Documents

• Filled out online application form via GradApp (https://nusgs.nus.edu.sg/scholarships/lee-kuan-yew-school-of-public-policy-phd-scholarship)
• Academic transcripts and certificates (Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees)
• A detailed research proposal aligned with LKYSPP’s focus areas
• Two to three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees
• Proof of English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL or IELTS scores if required)
• Updated CV detailing academic achievements work experience and publications
• GRE test scores (optional but recommended to strengthen the application)

More Requirements

• A personal statement (highlighting leadership potential and interest in public policy)
• Evidence of academic excellence and suitable preparation for PhD-level work
• Indication of interest in the Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship within the GradApp system

How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Guide

To complete your Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship application follow these steps

• Check Eligibility Ensure you meet the citizenship academic and professional requirements
• Choose Program Confirm you are applying to the PhD in Public Policy at LKYSPP
• Prepare Documents Gather all required documents including transcripts recommendation letters and research proposal
• Access Application Portal Visit the GradApp platform 
• 
• Complete Application Form Fill out all required fields provide accurate personal and academic information and indicate interest in the scholarship
• Upload Documents Submit all necessary files in the correct formats
• Submit Application Review all information and submit before the December 10 2025 deadline
• Track Application Monitor the status of your application through the GradApp portal

Important Tips for Applying

• Start early to avoid technical issues as the deadline approaches
• Ensure your research proposal is clear innovative and aligned with LKYSPP’s focus areas (e.g., governance international affairs social policy)
• Highlight leadership experience and commitment to public service in your personal statement
• Secure strong letters of recommendation from referees familiar with your academic or professional work
• Provide clear evidence of your research potential through past projects or publications
• Verify that all documents are complete and correctly formatted before submission

How to Choose and What to Look For

The selection process for the Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship is highly competitive and involves several steps

Evaluation of Applications

• Initial screening for eligibility and completeness of application
• Assessment by the LKYSPP PhD Admissions Committee focusing on academic excellence and research potential
• Evaluation of leadership qualities and alignment with scholarship objectives

Criteria for Selection

• Academic excellence and strong academic records
• Quality and relevance of the research proposal
• Evidence of leadership and potential to contribute to public policy
• Professional experience in social sciences or related fields
• Fit with LKYSPP’s mission to advance governance and international affairs
• Potential for high-quality doctoral work and timely completion

After the Selection Process

• Notification of outcomes between January and February 2026
• Successful applicants may be invited for interviews or additional assessments
• Onboarding and enrollment for the January 2026 intake

Living in Singapore

Academic Setting

• World-class education at LKYSPP part of NUS ranked 8th globally and 1st in Asia (QS World University Rankings 2025)
• Access to cutting-edge research facilities and a global network of policymakers
• Diverse and vibrant student community fostering international collaboration

Cultural Experience

• Singapore is a cosmopolitan city with a blend of Asian and global cultures
• Strategic location in Asia offering insights into regional and global policy issues
• Safe clean and green city with world-class infrastructure and low crime rates

Things to Think About

• Health insurance provided with co-payment ensures comprehensive coverage
• Housing support available through university options
• Access to efficient public transportation and urban amenities
• No service bond allowing flexibility to pursue academic and career goals post-graduation

Important Things to Think About

Tips for Applying

• Start preparing early to secure strong recommendation letters and refine your research proposal
• Use a computer for the GradApp application to avoid technical issues
• Ensure all documents are translated and certified if required
• Strictly adhere to the December 10 2025 deadline

Planning Your Finances

• Stipends are designed to cover living costs in Singapore
• Additional research and conference funding supports academic activities
• Personal expenses beyond the stipend may require budgeting

Requirements After Acceptance

• Maintain good academic progress to retain the scholarship
• Pass the PhD Qualifying Examination within 12 to 18 months to access the higher stipend
• Comply with NUS and LKYSPP academic and research regulations
• No obligation to serve in Singapore post-graduation allowing global career flexibility

Conclusion

The Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship 2026 is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for outstanding students to pursue a fully funded PhD in Public Policy at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy one of Asia’s premier institutions

This scholarship offers unparalleled financial support world-class academic training and access to a global network of policymakers and researchers transforming your potential into impactful contributions

Applicants should begin preparing immediately ensuring meticulous attention to the specific requirements and documents needed for a successful application

The application deadline of December 10 2025 is approaching rapidly so act quickly

For the most accurate and up-to-date information candidates should regularly check the official LKYSPP 

 contact the LKYSPP Graduate Programmes Office for specific guidance

[](https://daadscholarship.com/lee-kuan-yew-school-phd-scholarship-2026-in-public-policy/)

Seize this transformative opportunity to study in Singapore a global hub for policymaking and advance your career in public policy with the prestigious Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship