Dr Balaji Sadasivan Study Award: 2025 Profile
Download printable cheat-sheet (CC-BY 4.0)03 Oct 2025, 19:10 Z
TL;DR
SINDA's Dr Balaji Sadasivan Study Award sponsors up to S$5,000 of recognised social work or counselling degree fees, pairs recipients with SINDA internships, and requires a one-year service bond supporting the Indian community after graduation.
Scholarship Snapshot
- Status: Application Cycle Open (apply at least two months before your semester start; last checked 2025-10-03)
- Official Listing: Dr Balaji Sadasivan Study Award -- SINDA
- Who It Targets: Singapore Citizens of Indian origin in their second year onward of a SASW- or SAC-recognised social work or counselling undergraduate/postgraduate programme
- Eligibility: Good academic standing, passion for community service, and enrolment in an approved social service degree with capacity to complete a SINDA internship and subsequent service bond
- Tenable Institutions: Universities offering SASW/Singapore Association for Counselling recognised programmes (e.g., NUS Social Work, SUSS Social Work & Counselling, NUS Clinical Psychology)
- Bond: One-year service with SINDA (or an approved partner agency) plus a mandatory 20-day internship during study
Award Components
- Up to S$5,000 to offset course fees for approved social work or counselling programmes
- Structured 20-day internship with SINDA or an appointed partner during the course of study
- One-year full-time service placement with SINDA or, where approved, a partner social service agency after graduation
- Access to mentoring and community engagement opportunities within SINDA's network
Eligibility Highlights
- Singapore Citizen of Indian origin
- Enrolled in at least the second year (undergraduate honours years included) or pursuing postgraduate studies in a SINDA-recognised social work or counselling programme
- Strong academic results and demonstrated commitment to Singapore's Indian community
- Willingness to complete the internship and post-graduation service bond requirements
- Prepared to submit comprehensive supporting documentation (academic transcripts, essays, NRIC/CPF records, income statements, and volunteer portfolio)
Application Roadmap
- Confirm that your degree is recognised by the Singapore Association of Social Workers or Singapore Association for Counselling and aligns with SINDA's approved list.
- Compile academic transcripts, a 350-word motivation essay, professional/volunteer testimonials, and the required NRIC and household income documents.
- Submit the online SINDA scholarship application at least two months before your next semester begins so processing can be completed in time.
- Forward the referee appraisal link to your nominated referee immediately after filing; ensure it is submitted within seven days (or as soon as possible within two weeks).
- Prepare for an interview covering your community service record, commitment to social work, and how you plan to serve SINDA during the internship and bond period.
Service & Tenure Notes
- Internship placements are arranged by SINDA and may take place during semester breaks or part-time alongside study.
- The one-year bond typically begins immediately after graduation; SINDA may approve fulfilment with a partner social agency on a case-by-case basis.
- Scholars must maintain good academic standing and conduct; the award may be withdrawn if performance is unsatisfactory or bond obligations are breached.
Preparation Playbook
- Build a portfolio of community outreach, practicum work, and counselling/social work competencies to support your essay and interview responses.
- Engage current or past SINDA scholars to understand expectations for the internship and service bond.
- Map out how the S$5,000 award integrates with your tuition financing plan, especially if you are self-funded or balancing other subsidies.
- Discuss the service bond with family/employers early to align commitments post-graduation.
- Continue contributing to SINDA or other social service programmes while studying to strengthen your ongoing community engagement narrative.
