SAF Scholarship (MSC): 2025 Military Leadership Blueprint

Q: What does SAF Scholarship (MSC): 2025 Military Leadership Blueprint cover?
A: Detailed look at the SAF Scholarship (formerly SAFOS) administered by MINDEF/SAF, covering overseas study options, command training, and bond expectations under the Military Service Commission.

TL;DR\ The SAF Scholarship (MSC) is Singapore's premier uniformed award after the President's Scholarship—excel in academics, leadership, fitness, and service ethos to earn an overseas education and command trajectory.

Scholarship Snapshot

• Status: Open Until 15 Mar 2026 (last checked 2025-03-07)
• Official Portal: SAF Scholarship
• Who It Targets: Singapore Citizens with outstanding A-Level, IB, polytechnic, or equivalent credentials who aspire to become SAF officers
• Support Provided: Full tuition and compulsory fees, living allowance, airfare, pre-university sponsorship, and leadership development platforms
• Tenable Institutions: Top overseas universities in the United Kingdom and United States, plus selected local pathways for specialised majors
• Bond: Six-year Military Service Commission bond with the SAF (longer for medicine/law)

Officer Development Journey

1. Officer Cadet School (OCS) – complete rigorous command, leadership, and military competency training.
2. Overseas education – pursue degrees in politics, economics, engineering, or other strategic disciplines.
3. Professional Military Education (PME) – attend SAF- and partner-led PME courses to hone operational art and strategic planning.
4. Operational commands – assume leadership roles in units, HQ formations, or joint/overseas postings.

Application Roadmap

1. Initial application – submit via the Public Service Commission (PSC Gateway) or MINDEF scholarship portal.
2. Assessment days – psychometric batteries, group exercises, planning missions, and situational leadership evaluations.
3. Medical screening – complete comprehensive medical and fitness assessments, including security vetting.
4. Scholarship board interviews – interact with SAF leadership, the Defence Scholarship Board, and the PSC.
5. Pre-OCS prep – attend military orientation, bonding camps, and attachments with SAF units before enlistment or recourse.