If you are a PhD graduate dreaming of building an international research career, the A*Star International Fellowship is one of the most rewarding opportunities you can apply for in 2027. Offered by the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR), Singapore, this fellowship gives outstanding early career researchers up to two years of fully funded postdoctoral training at leading overseas universities, world class research institutions, or selected deep tech startups. Whether your interest lies in biomedical research, engineering, or emerging technologies, the AStar International Fellowship opens the door to global exposure while keeping a clear pathway back to a research career in Singapore.

The AStar International Fellowship is offered under two distinct tracks Research and Innovation so applicants can choose the path that best matches their career goals. The Research track is designed for those who want to deepen their scientific expertise and drive independent, high impact research projects, while the Innovation track suits entrepreneurial minded researchers who wish to translate cutting edge science into investable ventures through placements with deep tech startups. After completing their overseas postdoctoral training, fellows return to Singapore to contribute to ASTAR’s research institutes, making this fellowship a true “go global, return to lead” opportunity for ambitious researchers.

A*Star International Fellowship Summary

Eligibility for A*Star International Fellowship

General Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the A*Star International Fellowship, applicants must be Singaporeans or Singapore Permanent Residents, although outstanding foreign applicants with exceptional track records may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Non-Singaporeans who are selected must obtain Singapore citizenship before the fellowship begins. Applicants must also have no existing service bonds with any other institution that would conflict with the fellowship’s requirements. Those pursuing the Research track need excellent publication records and must have applied, or be applying, for a relevant postdoctoral position at a top overseas university or laboratory, while Innovation track candidates should demonstrate a strong aptitude for innovation and entrepreneurship.

Age and Academic Requirements

There is no strict upper age limit stated for the AStar International Fellowship, but applicants must have completed a PhD within the last four years. Candidates who are in the final stages of completing their PhD may also apply, though their fellowship award will only be confirmed once the PhD is officially conferred. A relevant, strong academic record in a field aligned with ASTAR’s research priorities significantly strengthens an application.

Benefits of A*Star International Fellowship

Financial Benefits

The AStar International Fellowship offers a generous and comprehensive financial package for up to two years of overseas postdoctoral training. This includes a monthly overseas living allowance, a monthly sustenance allowance inclusive of CPF contribution, an annual return airfare, a one-off settling in allowance, a computer allowance, an annual conference allowance, and annual personal insurance coverage. These allowances vary depending on the host country and institution and are periodically adjusted by ASTAR.

Academic and Personal Benefits

Beyond the financial support, the AStar International Fellowship allows scholars to gain hands-on exposure to world-class research environments or entrepreneurial ecosystems, depending on their chosen track. Fellows deepen their technical expertise, build lasting international networks, and gain access to ASTAR’s Vista development programme, which connects scholars with A*STAR leadership and key opinion leaders. This structured pathway ultimately positions fellows for impactful, long-term careers in research, innovation, or academia after they return to Singapore.

Documents Required for A*Star International Fellowship

• Completed online application form
• Academic transcripts and PhD certificate or proof of PhD candidacy
• Updated curriculum vitae (CV) with publication record
• Research proposal aligned with A*STAR’s priority areas
• Letter of endorsement or confirmed placement from the proposed overseas university, institution, or startup
• Two academic or professional reference letters
• Proof of citizenship or Permanent Resident status
• Passport-sized photograph and identification documents

How to Apply for A*Star International Fellowship

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Identify a research area aligned with A*STAR’s priority fields and secure interest or confirmation from an overseas university, institution, or startup supervisor.
2. Prepare all required documents, including your research proposal, CV, transcripts, and reference letters.
3. Submit your online application through the official A*STAR Graduate Academy portal within the active application window.
4. Wait for initial screening; shortlisted candidates will be invited for at least two rounds of interviews.
5. Present your proposed research project during the first interview round, followed by a question-and-answer session.
6. Await the official outcome notification via email after the interview process is complete.

Application Tips for A*Star International Fellowship

Applicants should secure a strong overseas supervisor and institution before applying, since the award is conditional on a confirmed placement. It also helps to align your proposed research topic closely with ASTAR’s growth areas, such as biomedical sciences, quantum technology, or sustainable manufacturing, and to discuss your topic with the relevant ASTAR Research Institute beforehand. A well-articulated research proposal and a strong publication record will significantly improve your chances of selection.

Deadline for the A*Star International Fellowship

The AStar International Fellowship follows two application cycles each year. The first cycle opens on 1 January 2027 and closes on 1 April 2027, while the second cycle opens on 1 July 2027 and closes on 1 October 2027. Applicants are strongly advised to submit their applications well before these closing dates, as ASTAR generally does not accept late submissions outside these official windows.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)