Scholarships to Study Abroad for Indian Students
Study Abroad Scholarships: Types, Government and Non-Government Opportunities
There are various kinds of overseas scholarships available for every kind of student, and some strategic planning and in-depth research can help you land the best of them. Indian government scholarships to study abroad offer strong financial support for students pursuing higher education overseas. Non-government scholarships to study overseas are typically funded by corporate organisations, private trusts, and some universities. Plus, there are programs available for students intending to undertake undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD studies abroad as well. Regardless of whether you want to undertake a Bachelor of Arts in Australia or PhD research in the UK, there could be scholarship opportunities available for you. Some of the key steps in the scholarship application process for studying abroad include starting research early, building a strong academic profile, and meeting specified deadlines and eligibility requirements.
Types of scholarships available to study abroad
There are various kinds of overseas scholarships available for every kind of student, and some strategic planning and in-depth research can help you land the best of them. Scholarships for studying abroad are majorly categorised as:
Merit-basis | Based on a student’s academic record or extracurricular activities such as achievements in sports and service to the community. |
Student specific | Students who qualify based on factors such as gender, race, religion, family, and medical history can apply for such scholarships. |
Destination specific | Several public authorities, governments, or universities grant bursaries and funds to students from a particular country. For instance, scholarships offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of New Zealand or the Chevening fellowship granted by the UK Government for international students from Commonwealth countries. |
Subject-specific | Certain universities and institutions award grants to students who plan to pursue a specific field of study. |
Need Based | Targeted towards students facing financial constraints, these scholarships are offered on the basis of your parent’s financial background. Authorities may ask you for documents such as family income, tax statements, employment proofs, etc. |
Athletic scholarships | Provided to top-notch sportsmen, these scholarships require you to contribute with rigorous training and representing your university at events whilst balancing your education. |
We know it can be a little confusing about which scholarship to go for with so many options available, and that’s why our international education experts work with you to explore and apply for the best scholarships for you.
Indian government scholarships to study abroad
Indian government scholarships to study abroad offer strong financial support for students pursuing higher education overseas. Prestigious programs such as the Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships and Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships are merit-based awards that cover living expenses, tuition fees, travel allowances, J-1 visa support, and health coverage. The Fulbright-Kalam Climate Fellowship provides a monthly stipend along with visa and insurance support, while the National Overseas Scholarship Scheme by the Indian Government focuses on student-centric funding, covering tuition fees, books, airfare, visa charges, medical insurance, and living costs. Additionally, Goa Education Trust Scholarships offer merit-based assistance with variable funding, helping deserving students achieve their international study goals.
Scholarship | Types of scholarship | Expenses covered |
Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships | Merit-based | Living costs, travel allowance, tuition Fees, sickness coverage, J-1 visa support, and accidents |
Fulbright-Kalam Climate Fellowship | NA | Monthly stipend, J-1 visa support, accident & sickness coverage |
Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships | Merit-based | Monthly stipend, J-1 visa support, air travel allowance (Round-trip economy class), accident and sickness coverage |
National Overseas Scholarship Scheme by the Indian Government | Student-centric | Cost of books, tuition fees, airfare, medical insurance, visa fees, living costs |
Goa Education Trust Scholarships | Merit-based | Variable |
Read more: Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships
Non-government scholarships to study abroad
Non-government scholarships to study overseas are typically funded by corporate organisations, private trusts, and some universities. Some popular ones for Indian students include the Cornell University Tata Scholarship for UG courses, the MPOWER Financing Scholarships, and the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships for Master’s/PG courses.
These scholarships cover full tuition fees for Indian students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate courses at international universities. Some of them also cover living costs abroad and travel fares worldwide (generally return airfare between India and the study abroad destination).
Scholarship | Type of scholarship | Expenses covered |
Cornell University Tata Scholarship | Need-based | Full tuition fees and mandatory university charges are covered for international students for up to 8 semesters in the first year of a UG course at Cornell University |
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships | Merit-based | Up to USD 120,000 coverage of tuition fees, living costs, visa fee, one-way travel fare, and medical allowance |
Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation PG Scholarship | Merit-based | Full or partial coverage of tuition fees at an international university |
JN Tata Endowment Loan Scholarship | Merit-based | Tuition fees, living expenses, travel fare, and potential cash gift awards for exceptional performers |
KC Mahindra Scholarship for Post-Graduate Studies | Merit-based | Interest-free financial grants to help students finance their tuition and basic living expenses abroad |
Explore your opportunities abroad with scholarships
There are numerous government and university-specific scholarships designed to attract students for abroad studies as well as those hoping to work in the country after graduation. Many of these programs offer substantial bulk payments, educational subsidies, or living allowances designed to make life easier for those looking to study internationally.
Plus, there are programs available for students intending to undertake undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD studies abroad as well. Regardless of whether you want to undertake a Bachelor of Arts in Australia or PhD research in the UK, look out, there could be scholarship opportunities available for you.
Scholarships in Australia
The Australian Government and universities have a large scholarship program for international students and invest over $770 million per year in programs at universities and other tertiary institutions around the country. Many of the country’s top universities offer scholarships to study in Australia with added extras like health coverage.
Scholarships to study in Canada
Students can apply for scholarships provided by the Canadian government, universities and several independent bodies. Indian students can be seen in large numbers in Canada, and most universities are happy to provide grants and scholarships to students from countries including India.
Explore scholarships in Canada
Scholarships to study in New Zealand
Many of New Zealand’s scholarships are focused on enabling students from the Pacific and Commonwealth regions to access their universities. The government has a number of programs designed to assist international students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Explore scholarships in New Zealand
Scholarships to study in the US
The US universities prioritise internationalisation thereby offering scholarship options to several international students including Indians. Your IDP experts will help you with the available government as well as non-government scholarship options.
Explore scholarships in the US
Scholarships to study in the UK
There are numerous scholarships open to students from developing countries. The Government of India also provides scholarship options for academically sound students to pursue education abroad.
Explore scholarships in the United Kingdom
Scholarships to study in Ireland
The Irish Government, higher education institutions and several private establishments have many scholarship options available for students from India. Your IDP experts will help you find the best available scholarships and guide you in your application process.
Explore scholarships in Ireland
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Study Abroad Scholarships
Some of the key steps in the scholarship application process for studying abroad include starting research early, building a strong academic profile, and meeting specified deadlines and eligibility requirements. Listed below is the exact step-by-step guide on how to apply for a scholarship to study abroad:
Step 1: Identify available scholarship options
Research the various scholarship programs offered by different countries. Check whether they offer merit- or need-based grants, and whether they are government-funded or university-specific.
Step 2: Check eligibility requirements
Once you have identified the programs that you want to apply for, check the eligibility criteria for each. Verify whether you meet those requirements and start preparing the documentation to be submitted. These may include official academic transcripts, standardised test scores, proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS), a Statement of Purpose (SOP), a Letter of Recommendation (LOR), and an updated resume.
Step 3: Apply for the eligible program
You can then proceed with applying for the program(s) that you meet the eligibility criteria of, craft a compelling application, and submit the required documents in order. Make sure to meet the specified deadlines to avoid rejection.
Note: IDP Education study abroad consultants offer professional assistance and support at every stage of the scholarship application process to ensure that your study abroad application is error-free and you have maximum chances of acceptance.
FAQs on Scholarships to Study Abroad for Indian Students
1. Who is eligible for scholarships to study abroad for international students?
Eligibility for scholarships to study abroad for international students varies by scholarship. Some scholarships may be open to all international students, while others may have specific eligibility requirements based on factors such as academic achievement, financial need, a field of study, or country of origin.
2. How do I find scholarships to study abroad for international students?
There are several ways to find scholarships to study abroad for international students. You can check with your chosen university or college to see if they offer scholarships to international students. You can also search for scholarships offered by governments, private organisations, and foundations in your home country or the country you wish to study in. Also, there are many scholarships for students by the Indian government. Finally, you can use scholarship search engines and databases to find scholarships that match your qualifications.
3. What is the application process for scholarships to study abroad for international students?
The application process for scholarships to study abroad for Indian students varies by scholarship. Generally, you will need to provide personal and academic information, transcripts, letters of recommendation, essays, and other materials as required by the scholarship. Be sure to carefully review the scholarship's application instructions and deadlines to ensure you submit a complete and competitive application.
4. Can I apply for multiple scholarships to study abroad for international students?
Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships to study abroad for international students. In fact, it is a good idea to apply for as many scholarships as you are eligible to increase your chances of receiving financial aid.
5. How can Indian students increase their chances of securing study abroad scholarships?
One of the best ways to boost your chances of obtaining a scholarship for studying abroad is to research early, especially for competitive scholarships, and to adhere to the specified deadlines. Also, work on building a strong academic profile and focus on developing extracurricular skills that are highly preferred in merit-based scholarships.
6. What documents are required to apply for study abroad scholarships from India?
Some of the key documents required for Indian students to apply for study abroad scholarships include:
Valid passport
Official academic transcripts
Standardised test scores
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
Updated CV
Proof of finances