Frequently Asked Questions

Summation is a talent programme by SGInnovate that connects top global talent with cutting-edge Deep Tech projects in fields such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Biotechnology, Quantum Computing, Robotics, and more.

Through the programme, you’ll gain the opportunity to work on exclusive projects and build specialised, in-demand Deep Tech skills.

This hands-on experience allows you to contribute directly to the development of breakthrough technologies and be part of Singapore’s dynamic Deep Tech ecosystem.

Singaporeans, Permanent Residents, and foreigners are all welcome to join our programme.

The following are the key eligibility criteria to apply for the programme:

The applicant must be able to showcase relevant skills and knowledge for the project that you apply for. This could include: ​

• Academic courses taken at institutes of higher learning 

• Certifications from online platforms like Coursera or Udemy 

• Project portfolios (e.g., GitHub repositories, Stack Overflow contributions) 

• Professional experience (e.g., past internships, part-time work, freelance engagements) 

• Awards and competitions (e.g., hackathons, datathons) 

All international students and overseas students must satisfy the Work Holiday Pass criteria:

• You must be a student or graduate aged 18 to 25 from a university with a strong technical background  

• Your university needs to be recognised by the Singapore government

• For undergraduates: you have been a resident and a full-time student at the university for at least three (3) months before applying for the pass 

• For graduates: you were a resident and a full-time student at the university and have not graduated for more than 12 months. 

• Please refer here to check your eligibility as it will determine whether you are authorised to work in Singapore 

• If you do not meet the above criteria for a Work Holiday Pass, you must be a postgraduate with a strong technical background 

• Only applicants who have successfully attained a work visa and are able to work physically in Singapore will be considered. Generally, remote working is not allowed under the programme. Special arrangements will only be made on a case-by-case basis. Interested applicants may send in their inquiries to [email protected].  

Yes. If there is a good fit between yourself and the startup, you might be extended a full time return offer. Otherwise, most of our apprentices go on to fulfilling careers in the local innovation ecosystem.​​

All apprentices will receive a Certificate of Completion at the Graduation Ceremony. An e-certificate will also be sent to you via email. ​

Please note that SGInnovate does not issue recommendation letters. However, you may check with your mentors directly if they would like to provide one. ​

While conversion to a full-time role is possible, it is not guaranteed. Any offer of full-time employment is entirely at the discretion of the startup and may depend on factors such as:

• Your performance during the apprenticeship  
• Alignment with available opportunities and the startup’s business needs  

There are no application fees. ​

Undergraduates, postgraduates, and fresh graduates (within 12 months) are free to apply.​

The commitment period for Summation is a minimum of 3 months (full-time), up to a maximum of 6 months.

We strongly encourage all apprentices to commit to a minimum of three months in a full-time capacity. Part-time arrangements may be considered on a case-by-case basis, subject to SGInnovate’s approval.

Apply for a Summation project via our Deep Tech Central (DTC) website.

Summation programme is open all year round, applicants are encouraged to apply at least 3 months prior to their intended commencement date.

You are also welcome to apply in advance to reserve your preferred internship role in the future.

Start dates are flexible and should be agreed upon between the organisation and the Talent prior to signing the agreement. 

The total package amount varies based on applicant’s education level:

All figures are quoted in Singapore dollars. 

There will not be a standardised structured programme for Summation apprentices.

Depending on the startup’s needs, you might be given company specific training to familiarise the yourself with the company’s technologies or processes.

Participants are expected to be fully committed to the duration of their apprenticeship, actively engaging in project work and mentorship activities.

Summation offers projects in Deep Tech areas, such as Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Cybersecurity, IoT, Robotics, Quantum, Biotechnology and more.

You can check out the complete project list here.

All apprenticeships are in-person in Singapore. Participants will work on-site in the Singapore Deep Tech startups.

Certain components of the selection process, such as interviews might be conducted online.

The system only allows an applicant to edit his/her submission during the draft stage. Once the application form is successfully submitted, edits are no longer allowed.   

Alternatively, applicants can choose to re-submit another application form.

Applicants will need to check with their schools on such arrangement. SGInnovate will not be responsible for liaising with the IHLs regarding such arrangements. 

The shortlisting phase comprises two stages: 

Stage 1: Technical & Cognitive Assessments 

There will be assessments that you will take based on the projects you are shortlisted for. Applicants who select non-coding related projects will not be required to take the technical assessment.

Stage 2: Interviews

Shortlisted applicants who pass the assessment stage will be invited to attend interview sessions with the organisations. These organisations will contact relevant applicants directly to arrange the interviews.

During this phase, the organisations you applied to may administer additional technical assessments as part of their selection process.

If an organisation decides to proceed with an applicant, there will be a final round of interview with SGInnovate before any formal offer is made.

You are required to complete the below assessments once you apply for a project. 

1. Cognitive Assessments (General Reasoning Test - GRT) - Required for all applicants.

2. Technical Assessment (HackerRank Test) - Only for projects/roles requiring coding knowledge.

The General Reasoning Test (cognitive assessment) will be valid for life. ​ ​

However, the HackerRank Test (technical assessment) is only valid for 12 months upon completion. If your application process extends beyond this period, you might need to retake the test. ​ ​

Programming-related projects will typically require proficiency in at least one programming language.

Apart from technical skills, relevant knowledge and/or experience related to the project or the industry the startup is in will also be considered.​

You can check out the complete list of projects and the specific eligibility criteria here.

Yes, you can reapply for the same project. However, you may also want to look for other projects to apply which are more aligned to your skillsets and experience. ​

Yes, you may apply. One of the goals of our Summation programme is to help undergraduates develop new skills while gaining hands-on experience in their fields of interest. However, as each application is reviewed individually, you will need to demonstrate a certain level of relevant skills or knowledge.

While you do not necessarily need to meet every requirement, there should still be some alignment between your abilities and the role’s expectations.​​​

There is no fixed limit on number of projects you can apply for. However, to make the most out of the experience, it is recommended that you apply for projects that truly interest you and align with your skills and experiences.

We aim to review all completed applications every week.

The talent assessments will take place two weeks after your application is submitted. Applicants will be notified of their application status via email.

Those who are shortlisted will receive further instructions approximately 1–2 months after the talent assessment stage. ​

You can also check the progress of your application on Deep Tech Central. .

Note: A complete application is one with all necessary documents uploaded and one with a completed General Reasoning Test and HackerRank test (if applicable). Delaying your completion of the above tests will affect the timeline your application is considered.

We will contact shortlisted applicants within 4-6 weeks of submission.

Applicants will be evaluated against the respective criteria of the projects that they have identified in their preference selection.

The organisation will assign a mentor to each apprentice, along with a training and development plan that outlines the key skills to be taught throughout the project.

This plan will be shared with the apprentice to ensure alignment on the programme’s goals and expectations.​

You will be given three (3) working days to confirm your acceptance of the offer.​​

Once you accept the offer, you will be required to sign a three-way contract between yourself, SGInnovate, and the startup you will be working with prior to the start of the programme. Start dates will be agreed upon between you and the organisation prior to the signing of the contract.​​​

Depending on the startup, there may also be additional onboarding procedures—such as documentation submission or preliminary training—before your first day.​

Yes, there will be a structured training development plan outlining the expected learning outcomes from the apprenticeship. ​​​​

Mid-program and/or end-program check-ins will also be conducted, where we will review your performance and overall experience. ​​​

Talent are required to maintain a weekly training log to document what they have learned and reflect on their progress. This allows us to better assess their performance and overall experience.

In addition, Talent are expected to:

• Complete feedback forms
• Attend scheduled training workshops
• Participate in programme-related events

These activities are essential to ensure a meaningful and well-rounded learning journey.

Yes. The 3-way contract signed between you, the organisation and SGInnovate will act as a confirmation, securing the spot for the Talent. 

However, offer made to the Talent is still subjected to the talent securing a Work Holiday Pass in Singapore. All Talent are required to provide an in-principle approval (IPA) letter to be guaranteed a spot in the organisation. More information will be shared with the selected applicants.  

Yes, your spot is secured once you sign the 3-way contract.

However, offer confirmation to the foreign Talent is still subjected to the Talent securing a Work Holiday Pass (WHP) or Temporary Exployment Pass (TEP) in Singapore. For Talent who is applying for WHP, you are required to provide an in-principle approval (IPA) letter to be guaranteed a spot in the organisation.

Please refer to the FAQ: “How do I apply for a Visa to come to Singapore?” for more details.

The monthly stipend will be paid out fully by the organisation along with the organisation’s monthly payroll.

We recommend that Talent bring at least SGD$1,500 when arriving in Singapore. On average, international students spend between SGD$750 to SGD$2,000 per month on living expenses. This amount will vary depending on individual lifestyle and spending habits.   

Below are some potential costs the Talent will incur. We strongly encourage all Talent to plan their budget carefully before coming to Singapore: 

• Opening of bank savings account: Depending on the bank, you may be required to make an initial deposit of SGD$500 to SGD$1,000. 

• Work Holiday Pass:  A one-time issuance fee of SGD$175. 

Estimated living and transport expenses per month: 

• Meals: SGD$300-450 (based on SGD$10-15 per day for three (3) meals at a food court) 

• Transport: SGD$50-100 (dependent on the mode of transport you take) 

• Personal expenses: SGD$100-350 (e.g. clothes, toiletries, miscellaneous expenses) 

More information will be sent to the Talent when they are selected for the programme. 

Talent will receive a Certificate of Participation upon completing the programme, which will be presented during the Graduation event.

Any arrangements beyond the official programme duration, such as part-time employment or extended engagements, will be handled directly between the participant and the organisation. SGInnovate will not be involved in facilitating or managing such agreements.

We may host talent engagement events for apprentices to build a strong support network with each other during your internship period.

Upon completion participants can stay connected through the Summation Alumni Club. ​

Yes, towards the end of your apprenticeship, you will be invited for a graduation event to celebrate what you have achieved during your apprenticeship and connect with peers within the broader Summation community.​ ​​​​

You can also join a Telegram channel where we will continue to share with alumnis about regular events we host for alumnis.​ ​

1. Work Authorisation​​

• You will need either a Work Holiday Pass (WHP) or a Training Employment Pass (TEP) to intern in Singapore. For details, please refer to the FAQ: “How do I apply for a visa to enter Singapore?”.
• You can also check out the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) website for the relevant eligibility requirements.​​

2. Transport​​

• Singapore offers an efficient, affordable, and reliable public transport system, including MRT trains, buses, and ride-hailing services. For more details, refer to the FAQ: “How do I get around Singapore?”.​​

3. Weather & Dress Code​​

• Singapore is hot and humid throughout the year. Light, breathable clothing is recommended for daily wear. However, workplaces may require business or smart casual attire. Don’t forget to bring an umbrella—sudden rain showers are common!

4. Food & Lifestyle

• Singapore is a food paradise, offering everything from affordable hawker fare to diverse international cuisines. In your free time, explore the city's vibrant lifestyle options—from lush nature parks and museums to bustling shopping districts and cultural neighbourhoods.​​​

As a foreign Talent, you will need to apply for either a Work Holiday Pass (WHP) or a Training Employment Pass (TEP), depending on your profile and the duration of your internship. 
Please submit your WHP/TEP application within one week of accepting the offer, or as soon as the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) allows—whichever is earlier. (Note: MOM processing time may take up to three weeks.)

You can check out the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) website for the relevant eligibility requirements.

​​​​​SGInnovate will arrange for you to arrive in Singapore a few days before the programme begins. This buffer allows time to set up a local bank account, settle into your accomodation and complete the issuance of your Work Holiday Pass.*​​

​​​​​*Note that Talent will not be reimbursed for the issuance of the Work Holiday Pass and it is the responsibility of the applicants to apply and obtain it. ​​

​​​​​Alternatively, should you not meet the eligibility criteria for the Work Holiday Pass, please reach out to the Summation team for further guidance on relevant visa options.​ ​

Singapore’s public transport system is efficient, affordable, and easy to navigate. Here’s a quick guide to help you get around:

Payment Options

• Use an EZ-Link card, NETS FlashPay card, or contactless bank cards (Visa/Mastercard) to pay for public transport fares.​​​

Mass Rapid Transit (MRT)

• The MRT is the fastest and most convenient way to travel across Singapore. Its extensive network connects key attractions, business districts, and residential areas.

Buses

• Buses complement the MRT by serving areas not directly accessible by train. They are affordable, reliable, and come equipped with electronic displays and announcements to guide your journey.

Taxis​​​

• Taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street, booked via apps (e.g., ComfortDelGro, TransCab, Strides), or found at taxi stands. Fares are metered, with possible surcharges based on time, location, and booking method.​ ​​​​

Private Hire Cars

• Apps like Grab, Gojek, and Tada offer convenient ride-hailing services. Simply book through the app and choose your preferred vehicle type and fare option.

Real time travel planning

• Use apps such as Google Maps or MyTransport for live travel updates and route planning.

For more tips, check out these travel guides:

• Lonely Planet - SG Travel Guide​​
• Visit Singapore - SG Travel Tips ​​

In addition to the stipend and living allowance detailed below, you will also receive a one-off air ticket allowance. This will be reimbursed through the startup, likely within your first month.

Please note that flight tickets should only be purchased after you have received budget approval for the flights from the Summation team. If tickets are bought before approval is granted, you may not be eligible for reimbursement.

The Summation team will follow up with the necessary details once you have received an offer.

If you're looking for short-term accommodation in Singapore without committing to a full-year lease, here are some options to consider:

• Co-Living Spaces – Fully furnished rooms with flexible lease terms and shared facilities​​
• Student Accommodation – Short-term stays available for students in purpose-built housing​

These options provide convenience, fully furnished spaces, and a community-focused environment. When choosing accommodation, consider your budget, preferred location, and the flexibility of lease terms.

Feel free to contact the SGInnovate team for recommendations.

Singapore generally embraces a professional and punctual work culture. However, each startup has its own unique environment shaped by its founders and team dynamics.

To make the most of your experience:

• Stay respectful and open-minded.
• Be mindful of cultural diversity and workplace norms.
• Embrace feedback and take initiative—startups value adaptability and proactiveness.

Dress Code

• Attire varies across industries and teams. It's best to check with your mentor or hiring manager before your first day to understand what's appropriate.