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Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy PhD Scholarship 2026

  • Writer: Omran Aburayya
    Omran Aburayya
  • Aug 27
  • 2 min read


If you envision yourself shaping global governance and mastering the art of public policy, the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (LKYSPP) PhD Scholarship 2026 awaits you. This rigorous and fully funded opportunity, based in Singapore’s vibrant academic hub, is now open for applications. If you're ready to dive into transformative research with no service bonds tethering your ambitions, read on—this could be your launchpad to influence and impact. Read on for details.


🎓 Scholarship Summary

  • Location: Singapore

  • Host Institution: Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore (NUS)

  • Study Level: PhD in Public Policy

  • Target Group: All nationalities (Singapore Citizens, Singapore Permanent Residents, and international students)

  • Fields of Focus: Social Sciences, Public Policy, International Affairs; a strong interest in international affairs is expected

  • Value & Coverage:

    • Stipend (Before Qualifying Examination):

      • SG Citizens: SGD 2,800 /mo

      • PR: SGD 2,400 /mo

      • International: SGD 2,200 /mo

    • Stipend After Qualifying Examination:

      • SG Citizens: SGD 3,300

      • PR: SGD 2,900

      • International: SGD 2,700

    • Additional CPF contributions for Singapore Citizens

  • Duration: Typically 3 years

  • Application Deadline: 10 December 2025 for January 2026 intake

  • Start Date: January 2026 intake (Semester 2)

  • Eligibility: Relevant Master’s degree, preferably with at least 2 years work experience, academic background in Social Sciences, and keen interest in international affairs


📚 Scholarship Overview

The LKYSPP PhD Scholarship is a fully funded doctoral opportunity at the heart of global policy discourse, offered by one of Asia’s leading public policy schools. It offers competitive stipends that increase significantly after passing the PhD Qualifying Examination—all with no service bonds or obligations, giving scholars the freedom to focus on research and innovation.



🧩 Programme Structure

The PhD in Public Policy at LKYSPP emphasizes interdisciplinary, rigorous training and research excellence. Scholars will:

  • Complete rigorous coursework including core modules, electives, and common graduate research courses

  • Prepare and pass a PhD Qualifying Examination

  • Engage deeply in research leading up to a doctoral thesis and oral defense


Areas of specialization include Policy Studies, Governance, Global Affairs, Social Policy, and Economic Development .


🎁 Scholarship Benefits

  • Fully funded tuition (as a scholarship award covers relevant academic fees)

  • Monthly stipend with escalating benefits after Qualifying Exam

  • CPF contributions on top of stipend for Singapore citizens

  • No service bond or commitments, maximizing academic flexibility and post-PhD autonomy


✅ Eligibility Criteria

  • Nationality: Open to all—Singapore citizens, PRs, and international students

  • Academic: Master’s degree in a relevant field in social sciences

  • Experience: At least 2 years of work experience preferred

  • Interests: Demonstrated interest in international affairs and public policy



📝 Application Procedure

  1. Apply through NUS GradApp, indicating interest in both admissions and scholarship via the same platform

  2. Required Documents:

    • Academic transcripts & degree certificates

    • CV / résumé

    • Research proposal

    • Statement of purpose

    • Writing sample

    • Two academic reference letters

  3. Submission Window: 1 August to 10 December 2025 for January 2026 intake


💡 Why You Shouldn’t Miss This

Imagine pursuing your PhD at LKYSPP—a globally respected school located in Singapore, one of the world’s top research hubs for policy studies. With generous funding, a strong academic community, and no service restrictions, this scholarship enables you to devote yourself wholly to producing world-class research and developing leadership in public policy.






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