Asean Undergraduate Scholarship by NUS
The ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship (AUS) is a prestigious award granted by the National University of Singapore (NUS), one of Asia’s most renowned institutions of higher learning. The scholarship is designed to attract and support bright, ambitious students from ASEAN countries who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and active involvement in co-curricular activities. The AUS provides recipients with an invaluable opportunity to study at NUS, one of the leading universities globally, and to contribute to the academic and cultural exchange between Southeast Asian countries.
The scholarship is aimed specifically at students who are citizens or permanent residents of ASEAN countries, excluding Singapore. The ASEAN member states eligible for this scholarship are Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. The scholarship is awarded to freshmen entering their undergraduate studies at NUS, based on their outstanding academic merit and co-curricular activities. This demonstrates the importance NUS places on not only academic excellence but also the development of well-rounded individuals who contribute to their communities both inside and outside of the classroom.
In terms of academic eligibility, applicants for the ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship must be students who have displayed exceptional performance in their secondary education. They are expected to have high grades and standardized test scores, which place them at the top of their respective national educational systems. As the competition for this scholarship is fierce, prospective scholars are required to have a solid academic foundation, typically reflected in a strong Cumulative Average Point (CAP) from their secondary or pre-university studies. For instance, a high CAP is necessary for continued eligibility for the scholarship throughout the duration of the undergraduate program, as itrequires scholars to maintain a CAP of at least 3.5 to continue receiving the award. This requirement not only upholds the integrity and standards of the scholarship but also ensures that only the most dedicated and academically capable students are able to take advantage of this opportunity.
The ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship covers tuition fees for the entire duration of the undergraduate program, which allows recipients to focus solely on their studies without the concern of financial burdens. Additionally, scholars are provided with an annual living allowance of S$5,800, which helps cover basic living costs, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other personal expenses. While the scholarship provides comprehensive financial support for tuition and living costs, it does not cover travel expenses or additional costs, such as materials or personal items. As a result, students who are awarded the AUS should be prepared to manage these additional expenses on their own. The scholarship amount, though substantial, is designed to enable students to live comfortably while pursuing their degree at NUS, ensuring they can dedicate their energy and attention fully to their academic pursuits.
One of the most distinctive features of the ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship is that it is tenable for the full duration of the undergraduate studies, provided the scholar maintains the required academic standard. As mentioned earlier, recipients must maintain a minimum CAP of 3.5, which is a reflection of their academic performance throughout their time at NUS. This ongoing requirement underscores the scholarship's commitment to rewarding not just one-time excellence but continuous dedication to academic and personal growth. Scholars must also show continued involvement in co-curricular activities, which plays a significant role in shaping their overall educational experience. NUS, like many top universities, believes that well-rounded individuals who engage in activities outside of the classroom develop leadership, teamwork, and interpersonal skills, which are just as crucial as academic success.
The ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship is available to students across all faculties at NUS, which includes a broad range of disciplines such as engineering, business, arts and social sciences, and science. However, there are a limited number of scholarships available for students who wish to pursue particularly competitive programs such as Medicine, Dentistry, and Law. These programs have higher entry requirements and a more selective admission process, making them more competitive and difficult to gain entry into. Despite this, NUS remains committed to offering the AUS to students from all academic fields, encouraging a diverse range of scholars to apply and enriching the university’s cultural and intellectual environment.
For students, being awarded the ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship is not only a financial boon but also an opportunity for personal and professional growth. Studying at NUS offers scholars a world-class education and an unparalleled academic environment. NUS is consistently ranked as one of the top universities in the world, particularly for its research output, faculty quality, and diverse student body. Students at NUS are exposed to a dynamic learning environment where they can collaborate with peers from all over the world and engage in cutting-edge research across various fields. This exposure provides invaluable opportunities for academic and professional networking, opening doors for future employment, internships, and collaborations both in Singapore and internationally.
In addition to academic benefits, students who are awarded the ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship also become part of a network of like-minded individuals who share a commitment to academic excellence and cultural exchange. As part of the ASEAN community, scholars have the chance to form lifelong friendships and connections with students from other Southeast Asian nations, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of the region's diverse cultures and perspectives. These international connections can be invaluable in both personal and professional contexts, providing a support network that extends beyond the university experience.
The scholarship also has a broader impact, as it contributes to the development of Southeast Asia by nurturing the next generation of leaders, professionals, and scholars. The recipients of the ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship are expected to return to their home countries after completing their studies and use the knowledge, skills, and experiences they have gained at NUS to contribute to the development of their communities and nations. By investing in the education of talented students from ASEAN countries, NUS and the Singapore government aim to foster stronger regional integration, economic development, and social progress. The scholarship plays an essential role in ensuring that future leaders are equipped with the necessary tools to drive positive change in the region.
The application process for the ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship is highly competitive, as the award is granted only to the most academically accomplished and promising students. Candidates must meet the academic qualifications set by NUS, and they must submit an application that demonstrates their academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. Alongside their academic records, applicants may be required to submit personal statements, letters of recommendation, and other supporting documents to demonstrate their suitability for the scholarship. The selection process aims to identify students who not only excel academically but also show promise in leadership and community involvement, ensuring that the recipients of the AUS are well-rounded individuals who will make a meaningful impact both at NUS and in their home countries.
In conclusion, the ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship offered by the National University of Singapore is an excellent opportunity for talented students from Southeast Asia to receive a top-tier education at one of the world's leading universities. With its generous financial support, commitment to academic excellence, and encouragement of co-curricular involvement, the AUS is a life-changing opportunity for students who are passionate about furthering their education and contributing to their communities. Through this scholarship, NUS continues to promote the exchange of knowledge, culture, and ideas across the ASEAN region, creating a strong network of future leaders who will drive the region’s growth and development.
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