Tri-University Exchange with Oxford and National University of Singapore
No.1 Education, the University of Oxford, and the National University of Singapore (NUS) have signed a landmark agreement establishing the Global Scholars Tri-University Exchange Program — a first-of-its-kind initiative that will allow students to spend a semester at each of three world-class institutions across three continents, earning dual credentials and gaining an unparalleled global perspective.
The program will launch with 60 spots in its inaugural Fall 2027 cohort, with plans to scale to 120 students annually by 2029.
Program Structure
Students admitted to the program will complete a carefully sequenced academic journey spanning three semesters:
- Semester 1 (Home Institution): Foundation coursework in the student's chosen field, alongside a seminar series on global leadership, cross-cultural communication, and comparative institutional analysis
- Semester 2 (First Exchange): Specialized study at one of the two partner universities, including a capstone research project mentored by faculty at the host institution
- Semester 3 (Second Exchange): An applied practicum at the remaining partner university, culminating in a tri-university thesis defense conducted via videoconference with advisors at all three institutions
Participants will receive a primary degree from their home institution and a supplementary credential from the two partner universities recognizing the breadth and depth of their international study.
Why These Three Partners
The partnership was designed to offer students complementary academic strengths and cultural contexts. Oxford brings its centuries-old tutorial tradition and deep expertise in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. NUS offers world-leading programs in technology, public policy, and Asian studies, situated in one of the most dynamic economic regions on earth. And No.1 Education contributes its strengths in innovation, entrepreneurship, and interdisciplinary research.
"We looked for partners who would genuinely stretch our students — not just academically, but as citizens of the world. Oxford and NUS were the clear choices."
Admissions and Financial Support
The program is open to students from all three institutions who have completed at least two years of undergraduate study or one year of graduate study with a minimum GPA of 3.5 (or equivalent). Selection is competitive, based on academic merit, a personal statement, two faculty recommendations, and a video interview.
Critically, all three universities have committed to ensuring that financial circumstances do not prevent any admitted student from participating. Students receiving financial aid at their home institution will have their aid packages transferred and supplemented as needed. Additional scholarships funded by the three institutions' endowments will cover travel, housing differentials, and incidental costs.
Information Sessions
Prospective applicants are invited to attend one of four virtual information sessions being held in February and March 2026. Faculty directors from all three institutions will present the program structure, answer questions, and offer guidance on preparing a strong application. Registration is available through the International Programs Office website.
Looking Ahead
University leaders expressed hope that this model could inspire similar multi-institutional partnerships around the world. "The problems we face — climate change, public health, economic inequality — don't respect national borders," said NUS President Professor Tan Eng Chye. "Neither should our approach to education."
Applications for the Fall 2027 cohort open on September 1, 2026. The application deadline is December 15, 2026, with decisions released by March 1, 2027.