MILK Scholarship: 2026 Profile

TL;DR\ The MILK Scholarship backs resilient students from low-income households with fee support across ITE, polytechnic, and university pathways—show proven need, consistent grades, and a track record of giving back, then pitch a meaningful community project you will deliver as part of the award.

Scholarship Snapshot

• Status: Application Cycle Closed (last checked 2025-10-14)
• Official Portal: MILK Scholarship
• Who It Targets: Youths aged 25 and below in ITE, polytechnic, or university programmes who need sustained help to finish their studies
• Eligibility: Singapore Citizens from financially disadvantaged backgrounds; selection favours applicants who demonstrate resilience, leadership, and compassion in spite of hardship
• Tenable Institutions: All local ITE colleges, polytechnics, and autonomous universities
• Bond Guide: No formal employment bond, but scholars must deliver an approved community project and remain actively involved with MILK's beneficiary programmes

What the Scholarship Covers

• Full tuition and compulsory fees for the approved course of study, disbursed directly to the institution each semester
• Exam fees and other compulsory academic charges that would otherwise hinder progression
• Access to mentoring, pastoral care, and community service placements coordinated by the MILK Fund's youth development team
• Tailored hardship top-ups (transport, learning devices) on a case-by-case basis once you document the need with supporting evidence

Eligibility & Scholar Commitments

• Be a Singapore Citizen aged 25 or younger at the point of application, enrolled in or holding an offer from a local ITE, polytechnic, or university
• Demonstrate significant financial need—prepare to submit household income documents, proof of government assistance schemes, and any supporting social worker letters
• Show consistent academic performance with a clear plan to maintain progression (GPA targets, remediation strategies, or planned internships)
• Pledge to design and execute a community project that supports MILK's beneficiary groups (e.g., peer tutoring, respite programmes, inclusive events)
• Commit to serving as a peer mentor or ambassador for future MILK cohorts, sharing experiences at outreach events when invited

Application Timeline & Checklist

1. January – March: Gather documents (latest exam results, household income proof, CCA records, testimonies). Draft a personal statement detailing your resilience journey and intended community project.
2. April – June: Submit the online application when the portal opens; double-check that referees (teachers, social workers) can respond within two weeks.
3. July: Shortlisted candidates attend interviews with MILK's selection panel and partner social workers—expect questions on budgeting, academic plans, and community impact.
4. August: Finalists refine their project proposal and undergo a risk/feasibility review with programme officers before award confirmation.
5. September onwards: Successful scholars sign the award letter, are matched with a mentor, and begin planning their service project timeline for the coming academic year.

Selection Breakdown

• Application review: Panel assesses financial need and academic consistency side-by-side; they look for evidence that fees are the main barrier preventing progression.
• Interview: Conducted in small groups or one-to-one. Showcase problem-solving during crises, a realistic view of your family finances, and how you will juggle studies with service.
• Community project pitch: Present a project with clear beneficiaries, volunteer mobilisation, risk management, and measurable outcomes—link it to MILK's focus on disadvantaged children and youth.
• Final vetting: Background checks with schools or social workers ensure information is accurate before offers are issued.

Bond, Service & Alumni Expectations

• There is no employment bond, but scholars sign a service agreement committing to project delivery and termly progress reports.
• Expect regular check-ins with MILK staff mentors to review academic standing and community milestones; missing targets may lead to probation.
• Alumni are invited to mentor incoming scholars, support fundraising events, and co-design new programmes—continued engagement strengthens renewal prospects if you pursue further studies.

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

• Track your finances meticulously. Bring a simple spreadsheet showing fees, household expenses, and how the scholarship bridges the shortfall.
• Collect impact stories: document community work you've already done (photos, testimonials, reflection logs) to demonstrate authenticity.
• Share academic recovery plans if you experienced dips—show how you sought help (consultations, tutoring, bridge courses) and the results.
• Involve your referees early so they can speak to both character and financial circumstances; teachers who witness your community contributions carry weight.
• During interviews, balance gratitude with agency—explain how the scholarship enables you to contribute back, not just receive support.

Stay Updated

• Monitor the MILK Fund's official announcements and social media feeds for the next application window or information sessions.
• Subscribe to Scholarship Guide alerts so you are notified the moment the cycle reopens—slots can fill quickly once outreach begins.
• If your circumstances change (e.g., new bursary, shift to a longer programme), inform MILK immediately so funding can be recalibrated without delays.