Author: Hammad Ishaq
Last verified on: September 10, 2025

Overview

The Global Connect Fellowship (GCF) is a programme run by Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore. (Corporate NTU)

• It allows young scholars (Bachelor’s or Master’s level) from around the world to spend two months at NTU under mentorship of faculty, engaging in research across a wide range of disciplines. (Corporate NTU)

• The purpose is to give exposure to world-leading research, build connections, professional development, and possibly prepare students interested in pursuing a PhD. (Corporate NTU)

Benefits / Funding

Here are the key benefits for successful fellows: (Corporate NTU)

So, in summary: Fellows receive SGD 5,000 + free housing, for a 2-month period in Singapore.

Eligibility

To apply, you must meet these criteria: (Corporate NTU)

• Academic level: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree students. (Corporate NTU)

• Graduating year: Must be graduating in 2026 or 2027. (Corporate NTU)

• Fields/disciplines: All disciplines are allowed; students in STEM are preferably given attention. (Corporate NTU)

• Strong research interest: Especially a desire to pursue PhD research at NTU. (Corporate NTU)

• Good GPA / academic standing: The rules call for “good” academic performance. Exact minimums are not specified in all cases. (Corporate NTU)

Ineligibilities / unstated limits

• The official page does not specify any requirement for language test scores (e.g. TOEFL/IELTS) for all applicants. (Corporate NTU)

• It also does not state any citizenship restrictions — open to international students. (Corporate NTU)

• There is no indication of eligibility for PhD students or those graduating outside 2026-2027. (Corporate NTU)

Timeline & Deadlines

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Here is the application process according to NTU’s official materials: (Corporate NTU)

1. Ensure eligibility: Confirm you are a Bachelor’s or Master's student graduating in 2026 or 2027, with good academic record and a strong interest in research.

2. Prepare required documents (see checklist below).

3. Access the application portal: The NTU Global Connect Fellowship has an online application portal. All applications must be submitted via that portal. (Corporate NTU)

4. Submit application during window: Between 1-30 September 2025. (Corporate NTU)

5. Await result: Decisions will be communicated by end December 2025. (Corporate NTU)

6. If selected, meet all programme requirements: attend masterclasses, progress reports, final presentation/symposium, good research progress, and demonstration of conduct. (Corporate NTU)

Required Documents Checklist

These are the official document requirements: (Corporate NTU)

• Personal particulars / information (name, contact, etc.) (Corporate NTU)

• Academic qualifications: latest transcripts (official, in English) (Corporate NTU)

• Soft copy of a recent passport photo (Corporate NTU)

• Soft copy of passport (valid) (Corporate NTU)

• Statement of Purpose (why you want to join, research interests, future plans) (Corporate NTU)

• 2-3 minute video expressing motivation for the programme (Corporate NTU)

• Academic referee letters: optional (Corporate NTU)

Selection Criteria & What Reviewers Look For

From what the official documents indicate, reviewers will evaluate based on:

• Academic excellence / strong GPA — they look for students with good academic records. (Corporate NTU)

• Research interest & clarity — clear motivation, interest in research, and ideally an idea of what you hope to research. (Corporate NTU)

• Ability to benefit from mentorship & environment — how well you will use the two months (e.g. prior experiences, readiness) (Corporate NTU)

• Communication skills — via Statement of Purpose + motivation video. (Corporate NTU)

• Completeness and quality of application — timely, polished, all required items, well-presented. Implicit in most review processes.

Practical Tips to Strengthen Your Application

1. Start early: The video portion takes time to plan and record well, plus you may need to translate or get transcripts certified.

2. Craft a clear Statement of Purpose (SoP): Explain your research interests, why NTU specifically, and how the fellowship fits into your longer-term goals (e.g. PhD).

3. Use the video wisely: Be concise (2-3 minutes), expressive, show passion, clarity, and reflect your personality. Focus on “why this fellowship matters” not just your CV.

4. Highlight prior research / relevant experience even if small (e.g. projects, coursework, publications). It shows readiness.

5. Ensure transcripts are official & English: If your transcripts are in another language, get certified translation; ensure dates and grades are clear.

6. Referee letters (though optional): If possible, get strong academic references. Even if optional, they can help reinforce your case.

7. Show fit: Familiarise yourself with NTU faculty / labs / projects; if you can, mention what supervisors or themes interest you.

8. Polish presentation and video: Good lighting, clear speech, structured flow, avoid filler -- first impressions count.

9. Check technical requirements: e.g. video format, file sizes, portal deadlines. Late/incomplete applications are likely rejected.

Official Links & Apply Now

• Programme page (official): Global Connect Fellowship – NTU About-Us page (programme overview, eligibility, etc.) — NTU Global Connect Fellowship (Corporate NTU)

• How to apply: Official instructions for applying — How to Apply – NTU Global Connect Fellowship (Corporate NTU)

• Programme Details: More on what the fellowship entails — Programme Details – NTU Global Connect Fellowship (Corporate NTU)

• Contact Email: [email protected] (Corporate NTU)

Apply Now via the official application portal during the application window 1-30 September 2025. (The “Application Link” is provided in the NTU programme page. As of last check, the portal is live. ) (Corporate NTU)

FAQ

Q1: Can I combine this fellowship with another scholarship or funding?
A: There is no official statement forbidding holding another scholarship. But check terms of the other funding, and disclose properly. Ensure there are no conflicting obligations (e.g. full-time presence, no other stipends) if required by either party.

Q2: Do I need to provide TOEFL, IELTS, or other English proficiency test scores?
A: No: the official page does not require a language test score for all applicants. (Corporate NTU) However, in some partner-university announcements, they may suggest or require such scores locally. Always check local internal nomination processes.

Q3: Is there a tuition waiver included?
A: The NTU official pages mention stipend and housing, but do not clearly state that tuition is waived. So far, there is no verified information confirming a tuition fee waiver. (Corporate NTU)

Q4: Can PhD students apply?
A: No. The eligibility is explicitly for Bachelor’s or Master’s students graduating in 2026 or 2027. PhD students are not mentioned among eligible applicants. (Corporate NTU)

Q5: Do I need a nomination from my university?
A: For this cycle (2026 Spring intake), NTU does not require internal nominations; all eligible students may apply directly via the application portal. (IITM Global Engagement)

Call-to-Action

If you meet the eligibility criteria, do not miss the chance: begin preparing your documents now, craft your SoP, record a strong motivation video, and mark your calendar.

Apply now on the official NTU Global Connect Fellowship portal (Corporate NTU)

Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to verify all details, programme rules and dates may change. Please double-check the official NTU programme page(s) before applying.