Everyone deserves an opportunity to pursue what they love doing. How many have that option?


At CIMB, we are committed towards helping young talent in need to realise their dreams. We go beyond providing financial support by also providing professional development and a mentor support system designed to empower the region's young talent to build a bright future and make a difference for those around them.


The CIMB ASEAN Scholarship is a highly selective, full scholarship for exceptional students from ASEAN countries in which CIMB has a presence. We are looking for individuals fueled up to go beyond the ordinary.

 

In recognition of the evolving nature of the banking industry, CIMB welcomes applicants from a wide variety of academic disciplines.

 

We have previously sponsored applicants studying Computer Science, Data Science and Psychology, in addition to applicants pursuing degrees traditionally associated with a career in banking such as Accounting, Economics and Finance.

Application Period

 

Application is now closed

The Scholarship Award:

 

  • Full scholarship
    We provide comprehensive coverage of expenses, including tuition fees, laptop, related expenses such as books ,visa, flight and allowances for accommodation and living expenses.

  • World class education
    Our scholarship covers top universities from all the world so that you can experience a world class education right at your fingertips.

  • Mentorship program
    We provide comprehensive mentorship program which includes dedicated mentors that can guide and support you throughout your journey with us.

  • Internship & Management Trainee Program
    We provide opportunities to be involved in high-priority projects that can provide you with a holistic overview and experience within the banking industry through programs like The Complete Banker™.

  • Guaranteed Employment
    Scholars are bonded with the Bank, and we offer exciting employment opportunities right after graduation so you can hit the ground running.

 

Basic Eligibility:

 

  • A citizen of either Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam or Philippines.

  • Aspire to pursue a career in the financial and banking industry.

  • Applicants who are about to start their undergraduate degree or Master’s programme or those who have already started and have a minimum of one full academic year remaining.

  • Min. CGPA of 3.25/4.0 score or equivalent with excellent academic track record and active in curricular activities.

  • Applicant must not be a recipient of any other scholarship that comes with contractual obligations such as a service bond.

Selection Criteria

 

The assessment process is as follows:

STAGE 1

All applications are screened to ensure that the basic eligibility criteria are fulfilled.

STAGE 2

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to take part in CIMB’s online assessments.

STAGE 3

Shortlisted applicants will participate in our CIMB ASEAN Scholarship Assessment Centre.

STAGE 4

Shortlisted applicants will meet with a panel of interviewers.

STAGE 5

Shortlisted applicants will undergo a final interview with CIMB Group’s senior management team.

The selection of suitable candidates for the CIMB ASEAN Scholarship will be based primarily on the following:

 

  • The next generation of change-makers.
    You must not only be able to adapt easily to change, we want you to embrace it and thrive in a synergistic environment.

  • A strong ability to communicate your thoughts is key. 
    Candidates are expected to be able to listen with empathy and communicate with impact.

  • A strong academic track record and an active participation in extracurricular activities.
    We prioritise individuals with robust leadership, team work and interpersonal skills.

  • The ability to think outside the box.
    Individuals that can demonstrate creativity and innovativeness in providing solutions and solving real problems.

 

CIMB Group reserves the right to amend these criteria from time to time.

FAQs

Who can apply for the CIMB ASEAN Scholarship?


We welcome applicants from Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Philippines. Applicants are also required to possess an unconditional offer for their academic studies from a top-tier university in the world OR a top-tier university in their respective home country/ASEAN region by the time the scholarship is awarded. Students with a minimum of 1 full academic year of study remaining of the programme may also apply.

Do I need to have been accepted by a university to apply?


Not necessarily, we also welcome applicants expecting acceptance from a top-tier university for their studies. However, applicants must possess an unconditional offer by the time the scholarship is awarded.

Do I need to be a student of Finance and Banking background?


Our scholarship is open to applicants from a wide variety of academic disciplines- Business & marketing, economics, finance, sciences & engineering, social sciences and digital and data related courses. However, please note that all scholars are expected to return to CIMB to serve their bond upon completion of study. As such, applicants should foresee themselves building a career in the financial and banking industry.

Will I be bonded with CIMB Group upon graduation?


Yes, you will be bonded with CIMB Group – one year for every year of study locally (candidate’s home country), and two years for every year of study outside the candidate’s home country. However, the bond period will not exceed the maximum of 5 years.

What is the coverage of the CIMB ASEAN Scholarship?


The CIMB ASEAN Scholarship is a full scholarship award covering all academic fees, including registration, examination and tuition fees, as well as living allowance. Other miscellaneous expenses related to airfare, visa/travel documents will also be subsidised.

How do I apply?


CIMB ASEAN Scholarship 2024 applications will be open from 17 May to 5 June 2024

How will I know whether I am shortlisted?


Only shortlisted applicants will be notified. If you are shortlisted, we will get in touch with you via the email address provided in your online application. During application, kindly ensure that all contact details provided are accurate.

Can I appeal if I am not shortlisted?


Unfortunately, no. All decisions of the selection committee will be considered final.

I missed the application deadline. Can I submit my application manually?


No. Only applications submitted by the stipulated closing date will be accepted. Any applications made after the deadline will not be considered.

If I do not complete the programme or fail to obtain the education qualification, do I need to repay CIMB Group?


Yes, you will need to reimburse all expenditure borne by CIMB Group.

During my application, will I need to use my results from a specific pre-university programme to apply?


No, we accept results from country-specific, local or international pre-university/foundation programmes or degree.

I have family members working in CIMB Group; can I apply for the scholarship?


Yes, we will accept your application as long as you are able to satisfy our basic eligibility criteria.

If I have enquiries, who can I contact?


We look forward to speaking to you at cimbaseanscholarship@cimb.com!

Testimonials
 

Congratulations to our 14 new CIMB ASEAN Scholars 2023!

 

Welcome onboard, we are looking forward to seeing you grow, progress both personally and professionally, and achieve success throughout the journey ahead.