30 Abroad Study Scholarships for Indian Students
Are you looking for study abroad scholarships for Indian students? Explore a comprehensive list of prestigious scholarships such as Erasmus Mundus, Rhodes Scholarship, Gates Cambridge Scholarship, and more. Discover their descriptions, eligibility criteria, benefits, and application processes. Find the perfect scholarship opportunity to fulfil your educational aspirations.
Studying abroad is now famous for Indian students seeking to broaden their horizons and gain a competitive edge in today’s globalized world. However, the general cost of studying in foreign countries for Indian students can be prohibitive for many. That’s where abroad study scholarships come in, offering financial assistance and opening doors to educational opportunities worldwide.
This comprehensive guide will explore the various scholarships available to Indian students. We will provide valuable insights and resources to help them navigate the application process and secure funding for their international education dreams.
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Abroad Study Scholarships for Indian Students
Embarking on an overseas education journey is a significant undertaking, and scholarships are crucial in making it accessible to deserving students. Here, we delve into the various scholarships available specifically for Indian students pursuing their studies abroad.
Merit-Based Scholarships
#1. The Excellence in Academics Scholarship:
This prestigious scholarship recognizes Indian students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievements throughout their educational journey. It aims to reward and support individuals with extraordinary dedication and intellectual prowess. To apply, candidates must tender their academic transcripts, letter of recommendation, and an essay featuring their educational goals.
#2. The Leadership Excellence Scholarship:
Designed for Indian students with exceptional leadership qualities, this scholarship seeks to nurture future leaders and change-makers. It values applicants who have made significant contributions to their communities and showcases the potential to bring a positive impact on a global scale. Alongside the application, candidates must submit recommendation letters, a detailed leadership resume, and a personal statement highlighting their leadership experiences.
Need-Based Scholarships
#3. The Financial Assistance Scholarship:
Recognizing the financial constraints faced by many Indian students, this scholarship aims to support those who require assistance to pursue their studies abroad. Indian Students willing to apply for the FAS offer must tender their family’s financial status, including income statements and tax returns, along with a report outlining their financial needs and the potential impact of the scholarship on their educational journey.
#4. The Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship:
Encouraging diversity and inclusivity, this scholarship targets Indian students from marginalized communities or underrepresented backgrounds. It seeks to provide equal educational opportunities and empower individuals who have faced adversity. Applicants must share their personal stories, featuring the financial, social or otherwise challenges they have overcome and how they envision contributing to a more inclusive society.
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Government Scholarships
#5. The Indian Council for Cultural Relations Scholarship:
As a government-funded scholarship program, the ICCR scholarship offers opportunities for Indian students to study in various countries across the globe. It covers tuition fees, accommodation, and a monthly stipend. The selection process involves a competitive examination and an intensive interview to check candidates’ suitability for the program.
#6. Ministry of External Affairs Scholarship:
Under the MEA scholarship scheme, Indian students can study engineering, technology, management, and applied sciences abroad. This scholarship aims to strengthen bilateral ties and promote academic exchange between India and the host countries. Eligible candidates undergo a rigorous selection process, including a written examination and personal interview.
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OTHERS: Abroad Study Scholarships for Indian Students.
#7. Erasmus Mundus Scholarship
The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship is a prestigious international scholarship program funded by the European Union. It aims to promote higher education and enhance intercultural understanding by providing opportunities for students from around the world to study in European countries. The scholarship covers tuition fees, travel expenses, monthly living allowance, and insurance.
Eligibility: Indian students who have completed their undergraduate studies and meet the specific requirements of the Erasmus Mundus program are eligible to apply. Each Erasmus Mundus program has its own set of eligibility criteria, which may include academic excellence, language proficiency, and relevant work experience.
Benefits:
- Full tuition fees coverage
- Travel expenses
- Monthly living allowance
- Health insurance coverage
Application Process: Interested applicants for the Erasmus Mundus scholarship program should visit the official website and explore the available programs. Each program will have its application process and requirements. The selection process may also include interviews or additional assessments conducted by the program coordinators.
#8. Rhodes Scholarship
The Rhodes Scholarship is among the most prestigious international scholarships awarded to exceptional students worldwide. Established in 1903, it enables recipients to study at the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom.
Eligibility: academically outstanding Indian students who possess strong leadership potential and are committed to positively impacting their communities are eligible to apply for the Rhodes Scholarship. Intended candidates must be between 19 and 25 and have completed their undergraduate studies.
Benefits:
- Full tuition fees coverage
- Living expenses allowance
- Travel allowances
- Access to the Rhodes House community and network
Application Process: Interested applicants must apply directly to their country’s Rhodes Scholarship selection committee. Shortlisted candidates will be notified to attend interviews and additional assessments before the final selection.
#9. The Felix Scholarship
The Felix Scholarship program financially supports outstanding students from developing countries, including India. The Felix scholarship for Indian students covers tuition fees and a living allowance to enable recipients to study postgraduate programs at the University of Oxford, the University of Reading, or the SOAS in the United Kingdom.
Eligibility: Indian students with a solid academic background, demonstrate financial need, and have an unconditional offer for a postgraduate program at one of the participating universities are eligible to apply for The Felix Scholarship.
Benefits:
- Tuition fees coverage
- Living allowance
Application Process: Eligible candidates must apply for admission to the desired postgraduate program at the University of Oxford, the University of Reading, or SOAS. Once they receive an unconditional offer, they can apply for The Felix Scholarship by submitting an application form, academic transcripts, a personal statement, and reference letters.
#10. Chevening Scholarships
The Chevening Scholarships are prestigious scholarships the UK government offers outstanding individuals with leadership potential. The scholarships provide full financial support for Indian students to study for a one-year master’s degree at any UK university.
Eligibility: Indian students who meet the application criteria must have at least two years of work experience and meet the English language proficiency requirements.
Benefits:
- Full tuition fees coverage
- Monthly stipend
- Travel allowances
- Thesis or dissertation grant
- Arrival and departure allowances
- Visa application support
Application Process: Interested candidates must apply online through the official Chevening Scholarships website. The application process includes submitting academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and proof of English language proficiency certificate. Shortlisted applicants for the Chevening Scholarships will be notified to attend the interviews conducted by the British High Commission or Embassy in India.
#11. Commonwealth Scholarship
The UK government funds this scholarship program for students from Commonwealth countries, including India, to study postgraduate programs in the United Kingdom. The scholarship covers total tuition fees, living expenses, and travel allowances.
Eligibility: Indian students who hold a bachelor’s degree with excellent academic records and demonstrate the potential to contribute to the development of their home country are eligible to apply for the Commonwealth Scholarship.
Benefits:
- Full tuition fees coverage
- Living expenses allowance
- Travel allowances
Application Process: Interested applicants must apply online through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s Electronic Application System.
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#12. Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship
The Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship supports educational and cultural exchange between India and the United States. This fellowship program provides opportunities for outstanding Indian students, scholars, and professionals to research, study, or teach in the US.
Eligibility: Indian students and professionals from various fields, including academia, arts, sciences, and social sciences, can apply for the Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship. Applicants must have a solid academic background, demonstrate leadership potential, and propose a well-defined research or study plan.
Benefits:
- Tuition fees coverage
- Living expenses allowance
- Health insurance coverage
- Air travel allowances
- Research allowances
Application Process: Interested applicants must apply online through the Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship’s official website. The application process includes submitting academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a detailed research or study proposal. Successful candidates will be invited for interviews conducted by the United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF).
#13. Inlaks Scholarship
The Inlaks Scholarship is a highly competitive program supporting Indian students pursuing postgraduate studies at leading universities worldwide.
Eligibility: Indian students who have completed their undergraduate studies with excellent academic records and secured admission or have an offer letter from a top-ranking university can apply for the Inlaks Scholarship.
Benefits:
- Tuition fees coverage
- Living expenses allowance
- Other related costs
Application Process: Interested? Submit an online application through the Inlaks Scholarship’s official website. The application process includes providing academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a detailed study plan. Successful candidates will be invited for interviews conducted by the Inlaks Foundation.
#14. Tata Scholarship
This scholarship is a merit-based scholarship program the Tata Education and Development Trust offers to support Indian students who wish to pursue undergraduate studies at Cornell University in the US. The scholarship covers total tuition fees and living expenses.
Eligibility: Indian students who have completed their secondary education in India and have been admitted to Cornell University can apply for the Tata Scholarship. The scholarship is available for various undergraduate programs at Cornell.
Benefits:
- Full tuition fees coverage
- Living expenses allowance
Application Process: Eligible applicants admitted to Cornell University must submit a separate application for the Tata Scholarship. The application process includes providing academic transcripts, a personal statement, and demonstrating financial need. The selection committee will interview shortlisted candidates.
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#15. Australia Awards Scholarship
The Australian government funds it. The AA scholarship provides opportunities for Indian students to study for undergraduate or postgraduate programs in Australia. The scholarship covers total tuition fees, living expenses, and other allowances.
Eligibility: Indian students who have completed their secondary education or undergraduate studies, depending on the level of the scholarship, are eligible to apply for the Australia Awards Scholarship. Indian students must meet the eligibility criteria set by the Australian government, which may include academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to contribute to India’s development.
Benefits:
- Full tuition fees coverage
- Living expenses allowance
- Health insurance coverage
- Air travel allowances
- Contribution to research or study materials
- Introductory academic program
Application Process: Interested applicants must apply online through the official Australia Awards Scholarship website. The application process includes submitting academic transcripts, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and proof of English language proficiency.
#16. New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarship
The New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarship is a scholarship program funded by the New Zealand government that offers opportunities for Indian students to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate studies in New Zealand.
Eligibility: Indian students who have completed their secondary education or undergraduate studies, according to the level of the scholarship, are eligible to apply for the New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarship. Applicants must obtain the specific eligibility criteria set by the New Zealand government.
Benefits:
- Full tuition fees coverage
- Living expenses allowance
- Travel allowances
- Health and medical insurance coverage
- Establishment allowance
- Research and thesis allowances
Application Process: Interested applicants must apply online through the official New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarship website. The application process includes submitting academic transcripts, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and proof of English language proficiency.
#17. Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship
This scholarship supports outstanding students from developing countries, including India, to study in postgraduate programs.
Eligibility: Indian students with a solid academic background, demonstrate leadership potential, and have been admitted to a reputable postgraduate program are eligible to apply for the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship.
Benefits:
- Tuition fees coverage
- Living expenses allowance
- Research and travel grants
- Health insurance coverage
Application Process: Interested applicants must apply directly to the Aga Khan Foundation through their online application portal. The application process includes providing academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a detailed research proposal.
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#18. DAAD Scholarship
The DAAD Scholarship is a program funded by the German Academic Exchange Service that offers opportunities for Indian students to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate studies in Germany.
Eligibility: Indian students who have completed their undergraduate studies. Applicants must obtain the application criteria set by the DAAD, which may include academic excellence, language proficiency, and a clear study plan.
Benefits:
- Tuition fees coverage
- Monthly stipend
- Travel allowances
- Health insurance coverage
Application Process: Interested applicants must apply online through the DAAD’s official scholarship portal. The application process includes providing academic transcripts, a research proposal or statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and proof of language proficiency.
#19. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
The United States Department of State offers a prestigious scholarship to Indian students. This scholarship enables them to pursue master’s or doctoral degrees at universities in the United States.
Eligibility: Indian students who hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree, depending on the level of study, are eligible to submit their applications for the Fulbright Foreign Student Program. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to promoting mutual understanding between India and the United States.
Benefits:
- Tuition fees coverage
- Living expenses allowance
- Health insurance coverage
- Air travel allowances
- Research and professional development grants
Application Process: Interested applicants must show their interest through the Fulbright Foreign Student Program’s official website or the United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF). The application process includes submitting academic transcripts, a letter of recommendation, a statement, and proof of English language proficiency.
#20. Charpak Scholarship
The Charpak Scholarship is funded by the Embassy of France in India. It aims to promote academic exchange and collaboration between India and France. The scholarship provides opportunities for Indian students to pursue master’s degrees, internships, or research programs in France. It covers tuition fees, living expenses, and other allowances.
Eligibility: Indian students who are enrolled in an Indian institution of higher education or have recently graduated are eligible to apply for the Charpak Scholarship. Applicants must have an excellent academic background, demonstrate a clear interest in France, and meet the specific eligibility criteria the scholarship program sets.
Benefits:
- Tuition fees coverage
- Living expenses allowance
- Health insurance coverage
- Assistance with visa application
Application Process: Interested Indian students must apply through the Charpak Scholarship’s official website.
#21. Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP)
The Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP) is a scholarship program offered by the South Korean government to international students, including Indian students. The scholarship provides opportunities to pursue undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral degrees at Korean universities. It covers tuition fees, living expenses, airfare, and other allowances.
Eligibility: Indian students who have completed their secondary education or hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree, depending on the level of study, are eligible to apply for the KGSP. Applicants must meet the specific eligibility criteria the Korean government sets, which may include academic excellence, language proficiency, and a clear study plan.
Benefits:
- Tuition fees coverage
- Living expenses allowance
- Airfare to and from Korea
- Research Allowance
- Settlement allowance
- Korean language training
Application Process: Interested applicants need to apply through the Korean Embassy or Consulate in India.
#22. The Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)
The Swedish government offers a scholarship program called SISGP, which enables Indian students to pursue master’s degree programs in Sweden.
Eligibility: Indian students who have completed their undergraduate studies and have demonstrated leadership skills and a commitment to contributing to sustainable development are eligible to apply for the SISGP.
Benefits:
- Tuition fees coverage
- Living expenses allowance
- Travel allowances
- Health insurance coverage
Application Process: Interested applicants must apply online through the Swedish Institute’s official website.
#23. Gates Cambridge Scholarship
This scholarship program is funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. It offers opportunities for outstanding students worldwide, including Indian students, to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom. The scholarship covers total tuition fees, living expenses, and additional benefits.
Eligibility: The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is open to Indian students with a solid academic background, leadership skills, and a burning mind to positively impact others’ lives. To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must meet the eligibility criteria set by the Gates Cambridge Trust.
Benefits:
- Full tuition fees coverage
- Living expenses allowance
- Additional discretionary funding
- Travel expenses
- Access to a global network of scholars
Application Process: Interested applicants must apply online through the Gates Cambridge Scholarship’s official website. To begin your application, you must provide your academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a research proposal, and a personal statement. If you are chosen as a potential candidate, you will be asked to attend an interview with the Gates Cambridge Trust.
#24. Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme
The UK Department for International Development funds the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme. The program offers master’s degree opportunities for students from developing Commonwealth countries, such as India in the United Kingdom. The scholarship includes coverage for tuition fees, living expenses, and additional allowances.
Eligibility: Indian students who are citizens of India and have an offer of admission from a UK university that is part of the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme are eligible to apply.
Benefits:
- Tuition fees coverage
- Living expenses allowance
- Travel allowances
- Thesis grant
- Arrival and departure allowances
- Study travel grant
Application Process: Interested Indian students must apply through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s Electronic Application System. The application process includes submitting academic transcripts, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and proof of English language proficiency.
#25. Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship
The Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship provides opportunities for Indian students to pursue undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral degrees at Japanese universities.
Eligibility: Indian students who have completed their secondary education or hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree, depending on the level of study, are eligible to apply for the MEXT Scholarship.
Benefits:
- Tuition fees coverage
- Living expenses allowance
- Travel allowances
- Settlement allowance
- Monthly stipend
- Health insurance coverage
Application Process: Interested Indian students must submit their applications through the Embassy or Consulate of Japan in India. The application process includes providing academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a study plan, and proof of language proficiency. Shortlisted candidates will undergo a selection process, including interviews or additional assessments.
#26. Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarship
The Rotary Foundation offers the Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarship. This opportunity supports graduate-level studies or research in one of Rotary’s six focus areas.
Eligibility: If you’re an Indian student who has finished their undergraduate studies and been accepted into a graduate program that aligns with one of the Rotary Foundation’s focus areas, you can apply for the Global Grant Scholarship. However, you must meet the specific eligibility criteria the Rotary Foundation sets.
Benefits:
- Tuition fees coverage
- Living expenses allowance
- Travel allowances
- Funding for academic studies or research
- Participation in Rotary events and activities
Application Process: Interested applicants need to apply through their local Rotary club. The application process may vary depending on the Rotary district and club. Generally, applicants must provide academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a detailed study or research plan.
#27. Commonwealth Scholarships for Developing Countries
The Commonwealth Scholarships for Developing Countries is a scholarship program funded by the UK government. It provides opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries, including India, to pursue master’s or doctoral degrees at UK universities in various fields of study.
Eligibility: If you’re an Indian citizen with a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, you can apply for the Commonwealth Scholarships for Developing Countries. Just make sure you meet the specific eligibility criteria.
Benefits:
- Tuition fees coverage
- Living expenses allowance
- Travel allowances
- Thesis grant (for doctoral students)
- Arrival and departure allowances
- Study travel grant
Application Process: Interested Indian students must submit their applications through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s Electronic Application System. The application process includes submitting academic transcripts, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and proof of English language proficiency.
#28. Erasmus+ Scholarship
The Erasmus+ Scholarship is a scholarship program funded by the European Union. It provides opportunities for Indian students to study at partner universities in European countries.
Eligibility: Indian students enrolled in or accepted by an Indian higher education institution participating in the Erasmus+ program can apply for the scholarship.
Benefits:
- Tuition fees coverage
- Living expenses allowance
- Travel allowances
- Health insurance coverage
- Cultural and linguistic preparation
Application Process: Interested applicants must apply through their home institution participating in the Erasmus+ program. The application process may vary depending on the institution and the Erasmus+ program. Generally, applicants must provide academic transcripts, a personal statement, and proof of language proficiency. Shortlisted candidates will undergo a selection process conducted by the home institution.
#29. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program
The program provides opportunities for outstanding international students, including Indian students, to pursue master’s or doctoral degrees in France.
Eligibility: Indian students who hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree, depending on the level of study, are eligible to apply.
Benefits:
- Tuition fees coverage
- Living expenses allowance
- Health insurance coverage
- Return trip allowance
- Cultural activities
Application Process: Interested applicants need to apply through the French Embassy or Consulate in India. Shortlisted candidates will undergo a selection process, including interviews or additional assessments.
#30. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
The Swiss Federal Commission for Scholarships offers the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships. It provides opportunities for international students, including Indian students, to pursue doctoral or postdoctoral research in Switzerland.
Eligibility: If you’re an Indian student who has completed a master’s or doctoral degree, you may be eligible for the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships. Remember that you’ll need to meet the eligibility requirements outlined by the scholarship program.
Benefits:
- Tuition fees coverage
- Living expenses allowance
- Health insurance coverage
- Airfare
- Research fund
Application Process: Interested applicants need to apply through the Swiss Embassy or Consulate in India. The application process includes providing academic transcripts, a research proposal, a letter of recommendation, and proof of language proficiency. Shortlisted candidates will undergo a selection process, including interviews or additional assessments.
FAQs
Are abroad study scholarships only available for postgraduate programs?
No, scholarships are available for undergraduate and postgraduate programs, depending on the scholarship provider and the eligibility criteria. Researching and identifying scholarships that align with your educational goals and level of study is essential.
Can I apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously?
You can apply for multiple scholarships if you meet the eligibility requirements specified by each scholarship provider. However, it is crucial to carefully review each scholarship’s terms and conditions and ensure no conflicts regarding commitments or obligations.
Are scholarships awarded based solely on academic performance?
While academic performance is a critical factor considered by scholarship providers, many scholarships also value extracurricular involvement, leadership potential, community service, and other achievements. Highlighting all aspects of your profile that make you a well-rounded and deserving candidate is essential.
What are the standard documents required for scholarship applications?
The required documents vary depending on the scholarship. However, standard documents typically include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements, proof of nationality, and financial records (if applying for need-based scholarships). It is essential to carefully review the application guidelines provided by each scholarship provider to ensure you submit the necessary documents.
Can I apply for scholarships before receiving an offer from a foreign university?
You can start applying for scholarships before receiving an offer from a foreign university. It is advisable to commence the scholarship application process early to maximize your chances of securing funding. However, check the scholarship provider’s requirements regarding admission offers and ensure you can fulfil any conditions related to university acceptance.
Are there scholarships tailored explicitly for Indian students studying in certain countries?
Yes, many countries offer scholarships exclusively for Indian students. Countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and Germany have specific scholarship programs that cater to Indian students. Exploring the scholarship opportunities the target country offers is recommended to enhance your chances of receiving financial aid.
Conclusion
Abroad study scholarships present Indian students with an excellent opportunity to pursue their dreams of higher education internationally. Whether merit-based, need-based, or government-funded, these scholarships serve as gateways to unlock global opportunities and shape promising futures. By thoroughly researching and preparing scholarship applications, Indian students can improve their chances of securing funding and embark on a transformative educational journey abroad.
So, if you aspire to broaden your horizons, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and acquire a world-class education, don’t let financial constraints hold you back. Take advantage of the abundant scholarships available for Indian students and pave your way to success on the global stage.