LKY-STEP Award (NUS): 2026 Poly Graduate Playbook

Q: What does LKY-STEP Award (NUS): 2026 Poly Graduate Playbook cover?
A: Breakdown of the bond-free LKY-STEP Award for top polytechnic graduates moving into NUS and other local universities, covering funding, eligibility signals, and application prep.

TL;DR LKY-STEP is a bond-free NUS award for top polytechnic graduates-here’s what it covers and how to apply (confirm the latest quantum/window on NUS).

Cross-check it with other bond-free poly-to-university pathways inside our Scholarship Matcher so you know whether to prioritise LKY-STEP, institutional donor awards, or corporate sponsors.

Scholarship Snapshot

• Status: AY2026/27 applications run from 11 May 2026 to 2 June 2026; NTU is the secretariat for this cycle
• Official Portal: LKY-STEP Award
• Who It Targets: Polytechnic graduates progressing to NUS, NTU, SMU, SIT, SUTD, or SUSS in AY2026/2027
• Eligibility: Singapore Citizens or PRs with Diploma with Merit-calibre results, notable CCA contributions, and strong leadership records (male applicants must have completed NS)
• Tenable Institutions: Local autonomous universities (NUS, NTU, SMU, SIT, SUTD, SUSS)
• Bond: None; recipients must sustain academic and conduct standards during study

Funding & Benefits

• One-off S$3,500 cash award.
• Subsidised tuition fees are waived by the admitting university if the award holder does not secure a concurrent scholarship.
• Access to NUS alumni and donor engagement programmes tied to STEP awardees.

Selection Signals

• Diploma with Merit or equivalent GPA from a local polytechnic.
• Leadership roles in student government, CCAs, community projects, or entrepreneurship ventures.
• Strong character references that highlight resilience, service orientation, and growth mindset.

Application Timeline & Process

1. Application window: Submit the online application through the AY2026/27 secretariat during the 11 May to 2 June 2026 window.
2. Shortlisting: Shortlisted applicants may be asked for referee reports or clarifications on achievements.
3. Offers: Released prior to university matriculation; disbursement follows enrolment confirmation.

Reviewed by

Marcus Pang·Managing Director (Maths)