A-Level and polytechnic results are just around the corner, and with them comes the next big milestone: university. For most students, that also means confronting the tuition bill that needs to be paid. This is usually where scholarships enter the picture. Many help with more than just tuition, coming with allowances, mentorship, or even overseas exposure..
This guide breaks down what Singapore scholarship bond obligations actually involve, from bond duration to internship opportunities and what happens if you break your bond, so you know exactly what you are signing up for.
Bond duration, maintaining grades, compulsory internships, and commencement of bond are the four main scholarship obligations to take note of.
1. Bond duration
For bonded Singapore scholarships, bond duration generally depends on where you study: locally, overseas in an English-speaking country, or overseas in a non-English-speaking country.
For local universities, bond duration is typically around four years. This applies to Singapore’s six autonomous universities:
For overseas universities, bond duration is typically five years for non-English-speaking countries and six years for English-speaking countries. For overseas study, double-check that your chosen university is on your scholarship provider’s approved list, as not all universities qualify.
2. Maintaining grades
Most scholarships require you to maintain good grades throughout your studies, not just at the point of application. The GPA requirements vary by scholarship provider and course of study, and many require you to attain a set score every semester, not just by the time you graduate.
Falling below the minimum GPA requirement can put your scholarship itself at risk. It is worth checking your scholarship’s academic requirements closely, since providers rarely apply the same standard across the board.
3. Internships
As part of most scholarship bond obligations, you may be required to complete a compulsory six to 12-week internship with your scholarship provider during your term break.
Looking beyond fulfilling a scholarship obligation, a compulsory internship gives you a genuine head start. You get real-world experience, hands-on exposure to professionals in your field, and a foothold in the workforce ahead of your peers.
4. Commencement of bond Â
For most scholarships, the bond begins immediately upon graduation. A short break may be possible, though this depends on the individual provider.
One notable exception is medicine scholarships, where the Ministry of Health bond, also known as the Medical/Dental Undergraduate Agreement, only begins after completing a compulsory one-year housemanship and successfully registering with the Singapore Medical Council as a practising doctor.
What is a scholarship bond?
A scholarship bond is a contractual obligation to work for your scholarship provider for a set number of years after graduation. In return, they fund your local or overseas university education and living expenses.
What does a bonded Singapore scholarship offer?Â
A bonded scholarship typically covers more than tuition fees or a one-time cash sum, it can include:
Are bonded Singapore scholarships worth it?
Bonded scholarships offer substantial financial support, tuition fees, allowances, and sometimes even overseas exposure that can significantly ease the financial burden of a university education.
Apart from the financial support, they also open the door to a range of career opportunities, typically within the scholarship provider’s own ranks. For scholars who already have a clear sense of the field or organisation they want to work in, a bonded scholarship can double as a head start into that career, not just a way to pay for university.
Can I hold more than one Singapore scholarship at a time?
That is possible, but it depends on the specific scholarships involved. Most providers require prior written approval before you take up a second scholarship, and some do not allow it at all.
What happens if I break my Singapore scholarship bond?
Students break bonds for a range of reasons, from a better career opportunity elsewhere, to personal or family circumstances, to simply changing direction midway. Whatever the reason, breaking a scholarship bond generally means repaying what was spent on your education, often with interest.
The exact amount owed is usually pro-rated based on how much of the bond you have already served, so leaving earlier in the bond period typically costs more than leaving closer to its end.
If I am unsure of the career I want, should I still take up a bonded Singapore scholarship?
It depends on how comfortable you are with flexibility. Role placements are mostly shaped by your chosen university discipline and what the scholarship provider sees in you, so it helps to know what you are passionate about and where your interests lie, even if the bigger picture is still unclear.
Take scholarships from Singapore Armed Forces (SAF), for example. The role you are eventually placed in may have little to do with your degree. Most SAF roles call for a wide range of skills and strong character.Â
Weighing your aspirations against how much flexibility you are comfortable with may be what this decision comes down to.
Start your journey by browsing bonded and non-bonded Singapore scholarships and find one that aligns with your interests and career aspirations. If you are looking for more scholarship guides instead, head over to our resource page, where we cover everything from crafting a standout essay, to acing your scholarship interview, and how to spot scholarship scams.
