The Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) invites outstanding candidates to apply for its fully funded and subsidized Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Programme. SUTD provides an interdisciplinary, research-intensive environment focused on design, technology, and artificial intelligence to tackle real-world challenges.
Overview & Key Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Institution | Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) |
| Designation | PhD Researcher / Doctoral Candidate |
| Location | Singapore |
| Study Mode & Duration | Full-time (36–48 months) / Part-time (36–60 months) |
| Upcoming Intake | January 2027 (and regular September intakes) |
| Application Deadline | 30 September 2026 (for Jan 2027 intake) |
Designation
Successful candidates will be admitted as Graduate Research Students / PhD Candidates working toward a Doctor of Philosophy degree awarded under one of SUTD’s academic pillars and research clusters.
Research Areas
SUTD offers cutting-edge research opportunities across interdisciplinary academic pillars and clusters, including:
- ASD: Architecture and Sustainable Design
- DAI: Design and Artificial Intelligence
- EPD: Engineering Product Development
- ESD: Engineering Systems and Design
- ISTD: Information Systems Technology and Design
- HASS: Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences
- SMT: Science, Mathematics and Technology
Scholarship & Programme Description
The SUTD PhD Programme is designed to equip scholars with deep technical expertise, multidisciplinary design thinking, and innovative problem-solving skills. Candidates collaborate closely with top global faculty and industry leaders.
Eligible full-time doctoral students may be awarded comprehensive scholarships or fellowships that provide:
- Full tuition fee subsidies
- Monthly living stipends
- Conference support and research funding
- Opportunities for international exchange and industry-sponsored research programmes (e.g., EDB Industrial Postgraduate Programme)
Eligibility Criteria & Qualifications
Prospective applicants must meet the following admission requirements:
- Academic Background: At least a Bachelor’s degree (or Master’s degree) with excellent academic standing in a relevant field.
- English Language Proficiency: A minimum score of 90 on TOEFL (iBT) or 6.5 on IELTS (Academic). This requirement is waived if the medium of instruction for your undergraduate degree was English.
- GRE Score: Not mandatory, but highly recommended.
- Research Aptitude: Demonstrated strong passion and capability for interdisciplinary research.
How to Apply
Candidates must submit their application online through the official SUTD Online Application Portal. The application process takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes to complete.
Required Supporting Documents
- Official undergraduate (and master’s, if applicable) degree certificates and academic transcripts with grading policy.
- Statement of Objectives (up to 3,000 words outlining research interests and background).
- Contact details of three (3) academic referees (institutional email addresses required).
- Valid TOEFL / IELTS score reports (if applicable).
- Copy of Passport (for international applicants) or NRIC (for Singapore citizens/PRs).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV), portfolio of work, published papers, or relevant awards (if available).
- Non-refundable application fee of S$21.80 (inclusive of prevailing GST).
Last Date for Application
Applications for the January 2027 intake close on 30 September 2026. (Applications for the cycle open on 16 April 2026). Early submissions are strongly encouraged.
Official Application Link
For detailed admissions criteria, scholarship enquiries, and to start your online submission, please visit:
For specific inquiries regarding the PhD application process, you may contact the SUTD Graduate Admissions Office at phd@sutd.edu.sg.
