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What is ASEAN scholarship program and why it is the perfect launchpad for your career

What is ASEAN scholarship program and why it is the perfect launchpad for your career

What Are Asean Scholarships?

The Ministry of Education (MOE), Singapore, offers full scholarships to bright young minds from other ASEAN countries to give them a leg up in their careers. Only a handful of students get selected, so the competition is fierce. That’s why winning this scholarship is a remarkable achievement and can open access to some of the best universities and academic programmes in the region.

An ASEAN scholarship has many advantages, including full tuition fees, monthly living expenses, housing, and travel. Additionally, scholars have access to a wide range of academic and cultural activities and networking and mentorship opportunities. Furthermore, ASEAN scholarship recipients will be able to expand their knowledge and skills in a dynamic and diverse environment, surrounded by students and faculty from various cultures and backgrounds.

If you are interested in applying for an ASEAN scholarship, you will need to understand the application process, eligibility criteria, and benefits. 

Application Timeline For The Asean Scholarship

Country Application Period
Malaysia 15 Feb - 31 May 2023
Vietnam 15 Feb - 26 April 2023
Brunei 15 Feb - 26 April 2023
Cambodia 5 April - 31 May 2023
Indonesia 15 Feb - 26 April 2023
Lao PDR 5 April - 31 May 2023
Myanmar 3 March - 26 April 2023
Thailand 1 March - 26 April 2023
The Philippines 15 Feb - 26 April 2023

 


 🇲🇾  Eligibility criteria for Malaysian nationals  🇲🇾 

To be eligible for the program, Malaysian nationals must meet the following criteria:

1. Proficiency In English

One of the most important eligibility criteria for this program is English proficiency. Candidates must have a strong command of both written and verbal language. This is because the program is conducted in English and candidates will be required to communicate in English with their peers and instructors.

2. Consistent Academic Excellence

Another eligibility criterion for the program is consistent academic excellence. Candidates must have a good academic record and must have performed consistently well in their school examinations. This is because the program is designed for high-achieving individuals who have the potential to succeed in their academic pursuits.

3. Participation In Co-Curricular Activities

In addition to academic excellence, candidates must also have a good record of participation in co-curricular activities. This is because the program values well-rounded individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to their community and have developed a range of skills and interests outside of the classroom.

Types Of Scholarships For Malaysia

  1. Secondary 1: This is a 6-year scholarship that's available for students who are currently in Standard 6 or Form 1.
  2. Secondary 3: This is a 4-year scholarship for students who are in forms 2 or 3.
  3. Pre-university 1: This is a 2-year scholarship for students who are in form 5 or similar, or who have taken the 2021 SPM / 2021-2022 GCE O-Level examination.

Key Dates After Application For Malaysia

Jun 2023 - Selection test
Aug 2023 - Selection interview
Sep 2023 - Results on who gets the scholarship
Nov 2023 - Scholars for Sec 1 and 3 arrive in Singapore
Jan 2024 - Pre-university scholars arrive in Singapore


 🇻🇳  Eligibility Criteria For Vietnamese Nationals  🇻🇳 

Vietnamese nationals can apply for a 4-year scholarship that needs to be reviewed each year - depending on the student's performance. To be eligible for the program, Vietnamese nationals must meet the following criteria:

1. Age Requirement

Candidates must have been born between 2 January 2007 and 1 January 2010. 

2. Proficiency In English

Proficiency in the English language is a vital eligibility criterion for this program. Applicants must possess a high level of proficiency in both written and verbal English since the program is conducted entirely in the language.

3. Consistent Academic Excellence

To be considered for the program, candidates must possess a strong academic record and have consistently performed well in their school examinations. 

4. Grade Level Requirement

Candidates must be currently enrolled in Grades 8, 9, or 10 to be eligible for the program. 

5. Participation In Co-Curricular Activities

In addition to academic excellence, candidates must also have a good record of participation in co-curricular activities. 

Key Dates After Application To Vietnam

Jun 2023 - Selection test
Aug 2023 - Selection interview
Sep 2023 - Results on who gets the scholarship
Nov 2023 - Scholars arrive in Singapore


Check out the MOE's guidelines for other countries' eligibility here. If you want tips on how to prepare for the ASEAN selection test and interview, check out our blog here.


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