Amgen Scholars Program (Asia)

Amgen Foundation with NUS, Tsinghua, University of Tokyo, Kyoto University and IIIT Hyderabad

♡ Save

Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

Undergraduates enrolled at a college or university in Asia who have finished at least one year, will not graduate before the programme ends and will return to study for at least one more term. Citizenship is not restricted, no Asian language is needed, any major can apply, and you need proof of English (for example TOEFL iBT 72 or IELTS 5.5). Apply to one Amgen region only.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

Amgen Scholars gives undergraduates in Asia hands-on laboratory research at five leading universities. Host sites for 2027 are the National University of Singapore, Tsinghua University, the University of Tokyo, Kyoto University and IIIT Hyderabad.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Undergraduates enrolled at a college or university in Asia who have finished at least one year, will not graduate before the programme ends and will return to study for at least one more term. Citizenship is not restricted, no Asian language is needed, any major can apply, and you need proof of English (for example TOEFL iBT 72 or IELTS 5.5). Apply to one Amgen region only.
2. Note the deadline. Nov – Feb (annual; the 2027 round closes on 1 Feb 2027 for all five hosts, results by early April - each host has its own application) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Essays on Research Interest & PhD Plans: Structured essays detailing why you chose your target UTokyo host laboratory and how this summer research leads toward a research PhD or MD-PhD career.; Official Academic Transcripts & Enrollment Certificate: University verification of undergraduate status and top GPA.; Two Letters of Recommendation: Submitted online by university faculty members.; English Proficiency Proof: TOEFL/IELTS score or certification that English is the medium of instruction..
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

How applicants are selected

Holistic Review of Academic Excellence, Research Potential & PhD Commitment → Lab Matching by UTokyo Faculty Mentors → Notification in March.

Profile of past winners

Undergraduates explicitly committed to pursuing a research PhD in biotechnology, chemical biology, biomaterials, or biomedical engineering who clearly articulate why their chosen UTokyo lab matches their scientific trajectory.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

Browse all free materials →

Tips from our advisors

1. Tailor your CV to the role: lead with the skills and projects the posting asks for.
2. Write a short, specific motivation statement. Name the team or project you want to join and why.
3. Beyond grades, show leadership and community impact with concrete numbers and outcomes.
4. Spend most of your time on the criteria with the highest weight in the selection breakdown above.
5. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.
6. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.

Quick answers

Who can apply for Amgen Scholars Program (Asia)?

Undergraduates enrolled at a college or university in Asia who have finished at least one year, will not graduate before the programme ends and will return to study for at least one more term. Citizenship is not restricted, no Asian language is needed, any major can apply, and you need proof of English (for example TOEFL iBT 72 or IELTS 5.5). Apply to one Amgen region only.

What does Amgen Scholars Program (Asia) cover?

A funded summer research programme of about 8 to 9 weeks at one of five host universities, plus travel, room and board for the August symposium in Japan; housing, food and travel to the host vary by university

When is the deadline for Amgen Scholars Program (Asia)?

Nov – Feb (annual; the 2027 round closes on 1 Feb 2027 for all five hosts, results by early April - each host has its own application) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with Amgen Scholars Program (Asia)?

Host countries: Singapore, China, Japan, India.

What documents do I need for Amgen Scholars Program (Asia)?

Essays on Research Interest & PhD Plans: Structured essays detailing why you chose your target UTokyo host laboratory and how this summer research leads toward a research PhD or MD-PhD career.; Official Academic Transcripts & Enrollment Certificate: University verification of undergraduate status and top GPA.; Two Letters of Recommendation: Submitted online by university faculty members.; English Proficiency Proof: TOEFL/IELTS score or certification that English is the medium of instruction..

How are applicants selected for Amgen Scholars Program (Asia)?

Holistic Review of Academic Excellence, Research Potential & PhD Commitment → Lab Matching by UTokyo Faculty Mentors → Notification in March.

How much work is the Amgen Scholars Program (Asia) application?

Very High: Online UTokyo Amgen Portal + Statement of Purpose & Future Plans Essays + Host Lab Selection + Official Transcripts + 2 Reference Letters