Scholarships and Funding for Part-Time Master’s Students in Singapore

Pursuing a master’s degree on a part-time basis in Singapore can feel like threading a needle—balancing a demanding job, family commitments, and late-night study sessions. Yet, it’s becoming a popular choice for professionals eager to level up their careers without stepping off the corporate ladder. The real hurdle? The financial side of things. Tuition fees, materials, and even the opportunity cost of time can stack up. Fortunately, Singapore’s education landscape is dotted with scholarships, grants, and loans designed to ease that burden. In this article, we’ll explore the key options available specifically for part-time students, from government initiatives to private funds. Whether you’re in tech, business, or healthcare, there’s likely something here to help make your goals more attainable. Let’s dive in.

Why Part-Time Master’s Programs Are Booming in Singapore

Singapore’s universities are adapting to the needs of working adults, offering flexible programs that fit around full-time schedules. Institutions like the National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), and Singapore Management University (SMU) provide evening classes, online modules, and weekend intensives. These part time masters Singapore programs focus on practical skills in high-demand areas such as data analytics, finance, and sustainable engineering.

What sets part-time study apart is its appeal to mid-career professionals. With the government’s emphasis on lifelong learning, especially post-2020, enrollment has surged. However, funding isn’t as straightforward as for full-time students. Traditional research scholarships often favor immersion, leaving part-timers to seek alternatives. The good news? As of 2026, policies are shifting to support hybrid models, making aid more inclusive.

Government-Backed Funding: The Foundation for Affordability

When it comes to reliable support, start with what the government offers. These programs are straightforward, often non-repayable, and aimed at keeping Singapore’s workforce sharp.

SkillsFuture Credit and Subsidies

Every Singaporean over 25 receives SkillsFuture Credit, starting at S$500 with periodic top-ups—like the S$4,000 boost for those in their 40s. This can directly offset fees for approved part-time master’s courses at local universities. It’s not a loan; it’s free money for upskilling.

Complementing this is the SkillsFuture Mid-Career Enhanced Subsidy, covering up to 90% of fees for eligible programs. If you’re eyeing a coursework-based degree in business or IT, this could slash your out-of-pocket costs significantly. Eligibility is broad, focusing on citizens and permanent residents in mid-career stages.

Loans and CPF Options

For those needing more coverage, the Tuition Fee Loan (TFL) is a solid pick. Administered by the Ministry of Education and available through banks like DBS or OCBC, it funds up to 90% of subsidized fees. Interest-free during studies, repayment kicks in post-graduation with flexible terms. No strict income limits make it accessible to many.

Another gem is the CPF Education Loan, allowing you to tap into your Central Provident Fund savings—or a family member’s—for tuition. Interest is low, and it’s repayable over time, ideal for part-timers who want to minimize debt.

Public sector workers might qualify for the PSC Master’s Scholarship, which covers fees and offers allowances, though it includes a bond. While geared toward full-time, negotiations for part-time in fields like public policy are possible.

University-Specific Scholarships: Tailored to Your Institution

Each university has its own pot of funds, often tied to specific programs or merits. These can be competitive but rewarding.

Opportunities at SMU

Singapore Management University shines for part-timers in professional degrees. The SG Digital Scholarship (Postgraduate) supports tech-focused master’s, covering local programs. Additionally, the Merit Award offers up to S$5,000 based on your track record. For internationals from certain countries, like Vietnam, the Vingroup Young Talent Scholarship provides full tuition and stipends.

NUS and NTU Offerings

At NUS, while research scholarships like the NUS Research Scholarship (up to S$3,800 monthly) lean full-time, coursework part-timers can access the CDE Global Fellowship or ME Scholarship, with stipends starting at S$1,000. These are open to all nationalities, emphasizing work experience.

NTU’s graduate scholarships support both research and professional tracks, though part-time details vary—always confirm with admissions. Strong academics and relevant jobs boost your chances here.

Besides the major public universities, private institutions like Amity Global Institute offer compelling alternatives for part-time master’s students in Singapore. Amity provides a variety of master’s programs, such as MBAs and MSc degrees in areas like business analytics, logistics, supply chain management, and accounting and finance, with flexible full-time and part-time options that can be completed in as little as 12 months. Funding-wise, they feature automatic tuition waivers ranging from SGD 1,000 to 3,000 based on enrollment dates for most diploma, degree, and master’s programs, along with merit-based and need-based scholarships to help offset costs. Partnering with prestigious UK universities, Amity ensures internationally recognized qualifications, making it an appealing choice for working professionals seeking practical, industry-oriented education without the rigidity of traditional setups.

Employer Sponsorships: Leveraging Your Workplace

Don’t underestimate your employer as a funding source. Many organizations invest in staff development, especially if it aligns with company goals.

Government-linked companies and agencies like the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) or Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) often sponsor part-time studies. This might include full fees plus allowances, in exchange for a bond—typically one year per S$20,000 funded.

Private firms are catching on too. During appraisals, pitch how your master’s will add value. For internationals on work passes, part-time study won’t disrupt your visa, opening doors to employer aid.

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Private and International Scholarships: Broader Horizons

Beyond public options, private funds and global programs fill the gaps.

The LBKM Bursary supports Singapore citizens from specific educational backgrounds pursuing master’s. For research-oriented paths, the SMART Graduate Fellowship offers up to four years of funding at major unis.

Internationals might tap Fulbright or Erasmus+ grants, though part-time eligibility varies. The Singapore Government Scholarships (SINGA) provide stipends up to S$2,500 but target advanced degrees.

Tips for Securing Funding: Strategies to Stand Out

Landing these opportunities takes preparation. Apply early—deadlines like PSC’s run from September to March. Compile strong applications: transcripts, references, and a statement linking your degree to career aspirations.

Network at university open houses or alumni meetups. For mid-career folks, emphasize professional achievements over grades. Cast a wide net—combine multiple sources, like SkillsFuture with a loan.

Conclusion: Making Your Master’s Dream a Reality

Funding a part-time master’s in Singapore is about strategy: layering government grants, university awards, and employer support. With the push toward reskilling in 2026, options are expanding. Take that first step—research, apply, and persist. The investment in yourself could pay dividends for years to come.