The Department offers a fully-funded 4-year research programme leading to a degree of PhD in Chemistry. Successful applicants will join a research laboratory under the supervision of a faculty member to pursue research at the leading edge of chemistry. Graduation requirements include completing 6 coursework courses (4 units each) and defending an original research thesis.
Science
Chemistry
chmsec@nus.edu.sg
National University of Singapore Block S8 Level 3, 3 Science Drive 3 Singapore 117543- The Department of Chemistry traces its lineage to 1929 when the Raffles College was established in Singapore. We are one of the oldest departments at NUS; meanwhile, we are also a very dynamic and rapidly growing department. NUS Chemistry is widely recognized as one of the top chemistry departments in Asia, well-reputed in a global context.
- In the Department of Chemistry, we are working towards the theoretical and experimental understanding of behaviours of atoms and molecules, advancing fundamental knowledge and the forefront of chemical sciences, for the benefit of society and mankind. NUS Chemistry has a group of very talented, outstanding faculty members, renowned and well-recognized in their respective fields of research.
| Commitment | Average Candidature | Maximum Candidature |
|---|---|---|
| Full Time | 4 Years | 5 Years |
| Part Time | 5 Years | 5 Years |
Bachelor’s or master’s degree holders with a background in the sciences that seek to explore many emerging areas in the chemical sciences, including: advanced and functional materials, catalysis and synthesis, chemical biology and biochemistry, energy and environmental chemistry, as well as sustainable chemistry.
| Criteria | Minimum Score | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| GPA | A good NUS Honors degree (Second Class and above) or equivalent (e.g. a four-year Bachelor degree with at least an average grade of B or equivalent) in a relevant discipline | ||
| English Proficiency Tests | TOEFL Internet-based | 85 / 120 | |
| IELTS | 6 / 9 | ||
GRE is optional. However, evidence of strong quantitative, verbal, and analytical skills through GRE scores, as well as indicators of research skills and experience will significantly strengthen your application.
Either TOEFL or IELTS is required for students whose main language of undergraduate university instruction is not English. Waivers may be granted to students who are native English speakers or proficient in English but are currently enrolled in a non-English medium university. Contact programme administrator to inquire. Test scores for the TOEFL and IELTS are valid for 2 years from the test dates. TOEFL and IELTS Academic scores that have expired by the time the application period closes will not be accepted. For more information about the TOEFL or IELTS, please visit www.toefl.org (for TOEFL) and www.ielts.org (for IELTS).
- Applicants should browse the User Guide before applying.
- NUS graduates should have at least a honours with Distinction
- The ability to pursue research in the candidate’s proposed field of advanced study
- 2 reference reports are required
Supporting Documents List
- Singapore NRIC (for Singapore Citizens or Singapore Permanent Residents)
- Passport information page (for international applicants)
- Academic Transcript of Bachelor/Master’s degree with CAP/GPA/Average Marks. Academic Transcript in English and Chinese versions are required from China universities.
- Degree Certificate of Bachelor/Master’s. Degree Certification in English and Chinese versions are required from China universities.
- Valid TOEFL/IELTS Score. Applicants whose native tougue and/or medium of university instruction is not in English should provide TOEFL/IELTS as evidence of their proficiency in the English Language.
- TOEFL/IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date and should not have expired at point of application. Expired scores will not be considered for the applications.
- Financial document e.g. bank statement/recent payslip/sponsor’s letter
- CV (optional)
| Category | Application Window | Application Result Released | |
|---|---|---|---|
Semester 1 Intake (August) | All students of any nationalities | Deadline: November 15 2025 | May 31 2025 |
Semester 2 Intake (January) | Deadline: May 15 2025 | October 31 2025 | |