NTUC Youth is taking applications for the bond-free NTUC Starter Awards from 20 August to 25 October 2026, with an information session on 18 September 2026 at 3pm. Quantum is S$2,000 a year for ITE, S$3,000 for Nanyang, Ngee Ann, Singapore and Temasek polytechnics, and S$4,000 for NTU and SIT.
Who can apply
Applicants must be Singapore citizens with leadership through CCA or volunteering, a good academic record, and a place at a partner institute. ITE applicants must be in Year 1 of a three-year Higher Nitec. Polytechnic diploma students and NTU or SIT undergraduates must not be in their final year at the point of application. Awardees must be NTUC members on acceptance, or become members before accepting.
What comes with the money
Beyond the cash award, NTUC Starter Awards include a one-year leadership programme: mentorship, community immersion, workshops and, for eligible awardees, an overseas learning journey. Attendance must hit at least 75 per cent of programme components. Shortlist interviews are due by end-November 2026, with outcomes in December 2026.
Applications close on 25 October 2026 via the NTUC Youth Starter Awards page. The information session is on 18 September 2026 at 3pm.
