In a highly competitive academic environment, scholarships do more than just defray costs: they recognize potential, leadership, and commitment to public service. The Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship (often abbreviated “LKY Scholarship”) remains one of Singapore’s top postgraduate awards. In parallel, there is also the Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship to Encourage Upgrading (LKY-STEP) for undergraduate entry from polytechnic diploma holders. In 2026, as always, these scholarships promise excellence and high standards. This article walks you through what they are, who is eligible, how to apply, and how to maximize your chances.
What Are These Scholarships?
Lee Kuan Yew (LKY) Scholarship – Postgraduate
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This is Singapore’s premier postgraduate scholarship, established in 1991 in remembrance of Mr Lee Kuan Yew, to reward individuals who have both outstanding achievement and a strong desire to serve Singapore and society.
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The LKY Scholarship covers both Master’s and PhD studies, whether local or overseas. There is no restriction on the field of study.
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Recipients must demonstrate excellence in multiple dimensions, including academic/professional track records, leadership, service, and a clear intention to contribute to Singapore.
LKY-STEP Award (Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship to Encourage Upgrading) – Undergraduate
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Aimed at outstanding polytechnic graduates (Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents) who will matriculate into full-time undergraduate degree programmes at one of Singapore’s universities (NUS, NTU, SMU, SUTD, SIT, or SUSS).
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The award is designed to encourage lifelong learning, bridging the gap from diploma level to degree. It rewards academic excellence, leadership potential, and co-curricular achievement.
Eligibility Criteria in 2026 (Based on Recent Precedents)
While the specific 2026 announcement has not been fully published as of late 2025, the past and ongoing criteria provide a good template for reference. If trends hold, here’s what you will likely need:
LKY Scholarship (Postgraduate)
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Must be a Singapore Citizen.
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Strong academic credentials (often high honours, or equivalent).
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Demonstrated leadership skills, service, or societal contribution—beyond just grades. Involvement in volunteerism, social enterprise, community work, or other forms of service is important.
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A plan for postgraduate studies (Master’s or PhD), either in Singapore or overseas. No restriction on discipline.
LKY-STEP Award (Undergraduate via Polytechnic Diploma)
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Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident.
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Possess a strong Polytechnic Diploma (often Diploma with Merit preferred).
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Excellent performance in co-curricular activities (CCA) and leadership potential.
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Be matriculating into a full-time undergraduate degree in the same academic year for which you apply.
Key Benefits & Obligations
For LKY Scholarship (Postgraduate)
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Covers full tuition fees (whether overseas or local).
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A generous annual allowance (living stipend) to help with costs. In previous cycles, this is often substantial.
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No restrictions on the field, as long as the candidate can make a strong case for how their work will benefit Singapore.
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While there is no formal bond tied to the scholarship in many instances, recipients are expected to contribute to society and Singapore in meaningful ways.
For LKY-STEP
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A one-off cash award (recently S$3,500) upon successful selection.
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If the student does not secure any other scholarship, universities will often waive tuition fees (after any government tuition grant) after the award is made.
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There is no bond attached, except standard obligations applicable to Permanent Residents for the Tuition Grant Scheme.
Application Process & Time-Frame
Although the specific 2026 timetable may slightly differ, here is what past schedules suggest, so you can plan ahead.
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Application periods typically occur in the first half of the year (for the LKY-STEP award, around April–May for AY 2025/2026).
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Shortlisting and interviews occur soon after the application period ends (often in June).
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Applicants are required to prepare the following supporting documents: diploma/transcripts, certificates of co-curricular activities, leadership/achievement records, and, if applicable, referee letters.
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For postgraduate LKY, similar supporting evidence plus statements of purpose, research proposals (for PhD), professional portfolio, etc.
- Application link/visit https://www.nus.edu.sg/
How to Put Together a Strong Application
Securing either of these scholarships isn’t just about having excellent grades. Here are strategies that can make your application stand out:
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Demonstrated Leadership & Service
Schools awarding these scholarships want people who give back. Whether through student leadership roles, community service, volunteering, or initiating new projects, demonstrate how you’ve made a positive impact. -
Consistent Excellence
Not just top grades, but consistency. If there are semesters with challenges, be ready to explain them in context. Transparent narratives help. -
Strong Co-Curricular Record
Participation in clubs, societies, arts, sports, research, and external competitions—even if not always winners. The quality of the involvement often matters more than the quantity. -
Clear Vision of Contribution
One thing that often separates top candidates is how well they articulate how their studies will contribute to Singapore. For the LKY Scholarship, demonstrating plans for public service, community work, or other societal benefits is helpful. -
Good References
Referees should be able to speak not just of your grades, but your character, work ethic, ability to overcome difficulties, leadership, and potential. Managing relationships with professors, employers or mentors ahead of time helps. -
Preparation for Interview
If shortlisted, the interview is a major deciding factor. Practice typical questions: “Why this course?”, “What impact do you want to make?”, “What challenges have you faced?”, etc. Also, prepare to discuss current issues in Singapore and globally, since scholarship boards often want broader thinkers. -
Timely, Complete Documentation
Missing paperwork or late submissions typically lead to disqualification. Gather transcripts, certificates, identity documents, proof of citizenship/PR status, etc., early.
What to Watch Out for in 2026
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Changed Award Amounts or Allowances: Government budget allocations or changes to scholarship funds can affect award amounts. Always verify the latest figures.
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Deadline Variations: Application windows might shift by a few weeks each year. Mark calendars and set reminders.
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Criteria Tweaks: Expectations for co-curricular achievement or leadership may evolve. The scholarship administrators sometimes adjust what “outstanding” means.
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Concurrent Scholarship Policies: For LKY-STEP, especially since awardees may hold other scholarships concurrently, rules around overlapping funding may be strictly enforced.
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Obligations or Return Service: Even when there is no formal bond, there may be expectations of public service, knowledge sharing, or giving back in some way.
The Lee Kuan Yew Scholarship and LKY-STEP Award are both more than just financial aid: they are recognition of promise and a call to serve. If you aim for these awards, cultivate excellence not just academically, but personally: leadership, service, vision, and integrity. Start early, prepare carefully, and let the narrative of your application weave together what you’ve achieved and what you hope to contribute.
