Types of Scholarships Provided by the Indian Government for Studying Abroad

Many meritorious students in India often face financial constraints when pursuing higher education abroad. To bridge this gap and encourage Indian students to access quality education internationally, the Indian government has introduced multiple scholarship programs. These scholarships provide financial support by covering tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other related expenditures. Available to students from diverse backgrounds, these scholarships are granted irrespective of caste, religion, or race. Here are some of the top scholarships offered by the Indian government for highly motivated students aiming to study abroad.

Top Government Scholarships for Studying Abroad

Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships

This prestigious scholarship is designed for Indian students who wish to pursue a master’s degree in the United States.

• Type: Merit-based
• Coverage: Tuition fees, living expenses, health cover, and travel allowance
• Eligibility:
  • Bachelor’s or master’s degree with at least 55% marks
  • Minimum three years of relevant full-time work experience
  • Community service experience
  • A minimum IELTS score of 6.0
  • Applicants should not hold a U.S. degree or be currently enrolled in a U.S. program
  • Employer endorsement for employed applicants
• Benefits: Covers airfare, tuition fees, and medical expenses.

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

This initiative supports students from Other Backward Classes (OBC) and Economically Backward Classes (EBC) aspiring for higher education abroad.

• Type: Need-based
• Coverage: Interest subsidy on education loans
• Eligibility:
  • Admission to a recognized international institution for a master’s, PhD, or MPhil
  • Education loan from a bank under the Indian Banks Association (IBA) scheme
  • Family income limit: INR 8 lakhs for OBC and INR 2.5 lakhs for EBC
• Benefits: Covers interest on education loans during the study period.

JN Tata Endowment for Higher Education

This scholarship, initiated in 1892, provides financial assistance to Indian students pursuing PhDs or post-doctoral studies abroad.

• Type: Loan-based, need-based, and destination-based
• Coverage: Loan scholarships up to INR 10 lakhs, travel grants, and gift awards
• Eligibility:
  • Indian residents with an undergraduate degree
  • Minimum 60% marks
  • Age limit: 45 years

Great Scholarships

Awarded to Indian students enrolling in postgraduate courses at UK universities.

• Type: Destination-based
• Coverage: Tuition fee (up to USD 10,000), health insurance, and living costs
• Eligibility:
  • Indian citizenship
  • Undergraduate degree
  • English language proficiency
  • Participation in networking events for GREAT scholars

Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarships

Provides funding for students pursuing master’s degrees in mathematics, sciences, humanities, social sciences, law, fine arts, and architecture in the USA.

• Type: Destination-based
• Coverage: Up to USD 100,000 for tuition, living expenses, and health cover
• Eligibility:
  • Indian residents for at least six months
  • Minimum 70% marks in mathematics and science; 65% in humanities and arts
  • Admission to a recognized institution before applying

Fulbright-Kalam Climate Fellowship

A UNICEF-sponsored program supporting doctoral and research studies on climate change.

• Type: Course-specific
• Coverage: Monthly stipend, visa fees, health coverage
• Eligibility:
  • Registered PhD students with research experience
  • Employer endorsement (if employed)

The Lady Meherbai D Tata Education Trust

A merit-based program for women pursuing degrees in social sciences, public health, and social work.

• Type: Merit-based, destination-based
• Coverage: Tuition fees
• Eligibility:
  • Indian citizenship
  • Bachelor’s degree with two years of work experience
  • Admission to a recognized university in the US, UK, or Europe

Cornell University Tata Scholarship

Fully funds undergraduate Indian students studying at Cornell University.

• Type: Destination-based
• Coverage: Full tuition fees
• Eligibility:
  • Indian citizenship
  • Studied secondary school in India
  • Demonstrated financial need

Indian Global Leaders Scholarship

For Indian students enrolling in business, law, or economics programs at Queensland universities in Australia.

• Type: Course-specific
• Coverage: Tuition fees ranging from AUD 5,000 to 20,000
• Eligibility:
  • Indian citizenship
  • Strong academic record

National Overseas Scholarship for SC/ST Students

A government-funded initiative for students from Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) pursuing studies abroad.

• Type: Student-centric
• Coverage: Tuition fees, airfare, living expenses, books, and medical insurance
• Eligibility:
  • 60% minimum marks
  • Family income below INR 8 lakhs
  • Maximum age: 35 years

How to Apply for Scholarships to Study Abroad

To secure a scholarship, follow these steps:

1. Research Scholarships – Identify programs that align with your course and eligibility.
2. Check Eligibility – Ensure you meet academic and financial criteria.
3. Prepare Documents – Gather transcripts, recommendation letters, essays, and test scores.
4. Apply Early – Submit applications well before deadlines.
5. Take Standardized Tests – Perform well in exams like IELTS, GRE, or SAT.
6. Write a Strong Personal Statement – Highlight achievements and goals.
7. Seek Guidance – Consult education experts for professional advice.

Conclusion

Scholarships are a significant financial aid for students aspiring to study abroad. Whether merit-based, need-based, or course-specific, these funding options help students achieve their educational dreams without financial constraints. By applying early and meeting the necessary requirements, Indian students can benefit from these scholarships and gain access to world-class education.

For more details, consult experts at IDP or visit official government and university scholarship portals.