LKY-STEP Award (NUS): 2026 Poly Graduate Playbook
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).
Sponsor: National University of SingaporeBond: Bond-FreeOverseas: Primarily Singapore
21 Mar 2026, 00:00 Z· Last updated 30 Nov 2025
Reviewed by
Marcus Pang·Managing Director (Maths)
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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: Application Cycle Closed (last checked 30 Nov 2025)
- Official Portal: LKY-STEP Award
- Who It Targets: Polytechnic graduates progressing to NUS, NTU, SMU, SIT, SUTD, or SUSS in AY2025/2026
- 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
- Covers tuition fees payable to the admitting Singapore autonomous university (bond-free).
- Lump-sum transition grant (amount published by NUS; check the current cycle).
- 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
- Application window: Submit the online application with transcripts, CCA records, and a personal statement during the published window (see NUS page).
- Shortlisting: Shortlisted applicants may be asked for referee reports or clarifications on achievements.
- Offers: Released prior to university matriculation; disbursement follows enrolment confirmation.
