Scholarships For Indian Students To Study Abroad

September 8 2025

Scholarships For Indian Students To Study Abroad | Guide

Rising aspirations for overseas education among Indian students have made global education a valued pursuit. While international universities open doors to career opportunities and a global mindset, high tuition fees and living costs remain a hurdle. However, the scholarships for Indian students to study abroad covers financial assistance and this guide explores various funding options eligibility and application tips.

Understanding Study Abroad Scholarships for Indian Students

For many Indian students, the dream of studying abroad is often challenged due to the high cost of education, living expenses and travel charges. Fortunately, study abroad scholarships for Indian students can realize the dream by offering essential financial support for deserving candidates. Beyond covering tuition fee, many scholarships are extending support to living allowances, insurance, research grants and travel expenses for easing the transition into a new academic environment. This support not only helps to bring new academic experience, but also develops valuable skills like adaptability and cross cultural communication.

Types of Scholarships for Indian students to study abroad

Scholarships for Indian students to study abroad come in various forms. Merit based scholarships are recognized for the academic excellence of the students. Need-based scholarships are awarded as the financial support for the deserving students. Understanding the different types of scholarships helps students to choose most suitable funding option and maximize their chances of studying at top universities without the overwhelming financial expenses.

Merit-Based Scholarships

Merit scholarships are awarded on the basis of excellent academic performance and accomplishment in various activities like sports, works or research. These honours are subject to the prerequisites such as strong academics and high GPAs. These are very competitive scholarships offered to students who can demonstrate their ability to excel in challenging academic environments abroad.

Need-Based Scholarships

Needs-based scholarships are allocated to those students from economically weekend backgrounds. It is based on family income and proven need for financial dependence. Generally, categories like OBC (Other Backward Class) and EBC (Economically Backward Class) are available. These scholarships help to ensure that the deserving students should be able access international education without financial hindrance.

Destination-Specific Scholarships

Many governments and institutions offer scholarships to students choosing a specific country for their studies. Notable examples include the Chevening scholarships in the UK, Fulbright in the USA and Australia Awards in Australia. These programs aim to attract international talent, strengthen academic ties, and promote cross cultural understanding among students.

Course-Specific Scholarships

Scholarships and awards are available for students pursuing specific fields of study. While STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) scholarships are comprehensive, opportunities also exist in disciplines such as law, humanities and climate research. These grants often align with national or institutional research priorities and address areas with research shortages.

Fully Funded vs. Partial Scholarships

Fully funded scholarships cover all major expenses, including tuition fees, living costs, travel expenses and insurance. In contrast, partial scholarships reduce the expense but do not completely eliminate financial obligation by waiving tuition or covering certain expenses. Understanding this distinction helps students plan additional funding if needed.

Loan Scholarships with Interest Subsidies

Loan scholarships combine financial aid with repayable educational loans, often supported by subsidized interest rates. They help students who do not qualify for grants but still require assistance to manage tuition fees and living expenses while studying abroad.

Top Government and Foundation Scholarships for Indian Students to Study Abroad

Top government and foundation scholarships for Indian students to study abroad offer valuable funding to cover tuition, living costs and other expenses. These programs, run by national bodies and charitable foundations, help talented students access quality global education without heavy financial strain.

Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships (USA)

The Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships offer academic assistance to Indian students pursuing a master’s degree at leading universities in the USA. The complete funding of these merit based fellowships includes living expenses, tuition, flights and other educational expenditures. Moreover financial support, recipients gain valuable cultural exposure, access to advanced research facilities and opportunities to network with global professionals and scholars.

Dr Ambedkar Scheme of Interest Subsidy on Educational Loans for Overseas Studies

The Dr. Ambedkar Scheme of Interest Subsidy on Educational Loans for Overseas Studies is a Government of India initiative. It aims to increase access to international education for students from Other Backward Classes (OBC) and Economically Backward Classes (EBC) by providing an interest subsidy on their education loans. This subsidy reduces the financial burden of interest payments during the moratorium period, making international studies more attainable for those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

The JN Tata Endowment for the Higher Education of Indians

This scholarship is eligible for the Indian students who are pursuing postgraduate or doctoral studies abroad. This meritorious opportunity avenue in the form of loan based scholarships provided by the JN Tata Endowment. These financial grants have flexible repayment conditions and are intended to assist qualified candidates with higher grades and future potentiality to succeed in leadership positions.

GREAT Scholarships (UK)

GREAT Scholarships are jointly funded by the British Council and the UK Government to support Indian students who are pursuing postgraduate programs in the UK. These merit-based awards aim to strengthen academic and cultural ties between the UK and India while enabling access to high-quality education.

The Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarships (UK, USA, Europe)

Providing up to USD 100,000 in funding, these scholarships assist outstanding Indian students enrolling in master’s, MPhil or doctoral programs in leading institutions across the UK, USA and Europe. The scheme focuses on nurturing talented individuals who are expected to contribute significantly in their chosen fields.

Fulbright-Kalam Climate Fellowship (USA)

Fulbright-Kalam Climate Fellowship (USA) helps to support Indian researchers working on climate change-related projects in the United States. Covering travel and living expenses, it encourages collaborative research, promotes environmental leadership and develops cross-border scientific exchange.

The Lady Meherbai D Tata Education Trust

Designed specifically for Indian women, this merit-based award funds postgraduate social science education overseas. It enables female academics to make significant contributions in fields such as community development, social work and public policy.

Cornell University Tata Scholarship (USA)

This scholarship is fully financed for undergraduate programs at Cornell University by covering tuition fees, living expenses, and other necessary costs. It allows Indian students to attend an Ivy League school without being concerned about being in debt.

Indian Global Leaders Scholarship (Australia)

Indian Global Leaders Scholarship sponsored by institutions in Queensland, Australia, provides partial financial aid to Indian students pursuing degrees in Business, Law or Economics. Recipients also gain access to professional growth opportunities within a global learning environment.

National Overseas Scholarship for Scheduled Caste (SC) Students

This government-sponsored scheme covers all expenses, including tuition, living costs and travel, for SC/ST students pursuing master’s or doctoral programs abroad. It aims to promote educational equity by enabling access to world-class institutions at no personal cost.

Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree Programs (Europe)

Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree Programs are highly competitive, fully funded programs that allow students to earn joint or multiple degrees from universities across Europe. This scheme covers tuition fees, travel and living allowances, offering an immersive international academic experience for the aspirants.

Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)

Commonwealth scholarships are Awarded by the UK government to high score achieving students from Commonwealth nations. These fully funded scholarships support the students pursuing postgraduate studies in the UK. Also, these scholarships aim to develop future leaders and build cooperation between member countries.

University of New South Wales Future of Change India Scholarship

This merit-based award offers AUD 10,000 annually to Indian students admitted to undergraduate or postgraduate programs at UNSW. Selection is automatic upon application to the university; no separate scholarship application is required.

Other Prominent Scholarships

Other well-regarded programs include:

Goa Education Trust – Supports Goan students in overseas studies.
Ontario Trillium Scholarships – For PhD studies in Canada.
Scotland Saltire Scholarships – Funding for studies in Scotland.
Charles Wallace India Trust – Special focus on heritage, arts, and humanities in the UK.
Chevening Scholarships – The UK Government’s fully funded flagship program for emerging leaders.

Each of these scholarships brings for different needs, whether merit-based, need-based, region-specific or field specific; sometimes, it is crucial for students to evaluate its eligibility, benefits, and aim. Let us help narrow down options for drafting applications.

The Scholarship Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide for Indian Students

Applying for scholarships for Indian students to study abroad requires careful planning and attention to detail. From identifying the right funding options to submitting a polished application, every stage matters. Here we outline the process to prepare, apply and improve your chances of success.

Researching and Identifying Suitable Scholarships

Start by researching from official scholarship portals, university websites and trusted global education databases. Also, you can consult reliable study abroad consultancies like Berakah Elite for expert guidance.

Thoroughly Checking and Meeting Eligibility Criteria

Review requirements such as minimum grades, age limits, income thresholds and relevant experience. Apply only to Study abroad scholarships for Indian students that can meet all criteria to avoid rejections.

Preparing Essential Documents

Gather and organize essential documents like academic transcripts, statement of purpose (SOP), letters of recommendation (LORs), resume, proof of income, identification and admission letters in advance.

Mastering Standardised Tests

Many scholarships to study abroad require language and aptitude scores. Prepare for exams like IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, GMAT, SAT or ACT to meet or exceed cut-off scores.

Crafting a Compelling Personal Statement/Essay

Compose a compelling personal statement detailing your achievements, aspirations and elucidating their congruence with the mission of the scholarships.

Securing Strong Letters of Recommendation (LORs)

Choose respected mentors or professors who possess a thorough understanding of your contributions. Provide them with sufficient time and all requisite materials to draft a persuasive letter.

Submitting Your Application Strategically and Early

Avoid last-minute submissions. Double check all details, ensure document accuracy and confirm your application has been received. Keep both digital and physical versions and have a friend or mentor proofread them. Lastly, keep the screenshot or submission confirmation and if you don't get a confirmation, follow up.

Maximising Your Chances of Securing a Scholarship

Remember, higher grades are not enough to earn a scholarship. Selection committees choose from the most brilliant candidates who are able to exhibit talent, drive and perseverance. The academic achievements with self confidence can greatly increase your chance of securing scholarship in this highly competitive sphere.

Building a Strong, Holistic Profile

To build a strong profile, go beyond academics, engage in volunteer work, impactful projects, internships and leadership roles to demonstrate well rounded abilities. Even small contributions in your community can make a big difference in your profile

Showcasing Passion and Alignment

Make sure your academic aspirations and career goal should align with the mission of the scholarship. Clearly express why this opportunity matters to you. Use personal examples to show your dedication to the same values.

Preparing for Scholarship Interviews

Prepare for the interview in a confident way. Learn about the country, program and scholarship before the interview. Practice common questions and prepare strong, concise responses to make the best impression.

The Power of Perseverance

Apply to multiple scholarships more than just one. If you face any rejection, treat it as an opportunity for learning. Each application teaches you how to make your next one better.

Next Steps After Receiving a Scholarship Offer

Once you receive the scholarship, formally accept the offer and begin your visa application process. Prepare for travel by arranging accommodation and attending pre-departure orientations. Connect with the alumni network and fellow scholars for more insights and updates. Maintain strong academic performance to comply with eligibility maintenance requirements throughout your study period.

Conclusion

Are you dreaming of studying abroad? And yet concerned about the financial limitations? Scholarships are the gateways to high quality education, financial empowerment and personal growth. Your aspirations will definitely come true through proper planning and effective mentorship. Reach out and move to the next step now. To connect with experts in the field, consult Berakah Elite Education Pvt Ltd, the leading study abroad consultancy to find the right advice in terms of both funding and admission opportunities. Explore Scholarships for Indian students to study abroad and begin to create your path to overseas education.

Author : Jasmin Joseph

I’m Jasmin Joseph, Regional Manager at Berakah Elite Education, with over 11 years of experience in international student recruitment and counselling. As a British Council Certified Counsellor, I hold an MBA in Human Resources, along with certifications from ICCC and ICEF.I have successfully facilitated student placements across the UK, US, Canada, Europe, and Asia, while leading our regional operations and business development network. My focus is on building strategic partnerships and providing tailored guidance to help students achieve their global education goals.