Introduction to Study Abroad Scholarships
Overseas education is a major decision for students aiming for a bright future. Funding and managing finances for studying abroad can often seem overwhelming for students and parents. However, various scholarships are available for Indian students to aid their journey.
Today we will explore and take an overview of various types of scholarships available for Indian students, their target countries and basic eligibility for ensuring a smooth scholarship application. With the right guidance, you can turn your study abroad aspirations into reality without the heavy financial burden.
Most of these scholarships can be applied for through their official websites and portals
University-Specific Scholarships
Each University has its own funding options and scholarships available. They have their criteria and eligibility generally listed on their websites.
- Study Destinations : Various countries
- Benefit: Tuition fees and living costs
- Type of Scholarship: Merit-based
- Type of Degree: Various programs
- Eligibility Criteria: Varies by university
There are however some partnership scholarships available like :
Cornell Tata Scholarship
- Duration: Duration of the undergraduate program
- Study Destination : Cornell University, USA
Type of Scholarship: Need-based
Benefit: Fully-funded program (tuition and living expenses)
Type of Degree: Undergraduate program - Eligibility:
Indian citizen; completed secondary school in India; must demonstrate financial need from parents or guardian.
International Programs and Initiatives
Highlights
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree
- Duration: 1 - 2 years
- Study Destination : Participating universities across Europe (varies by program).
Type of Scholarship: Merit-based
Benefit: Fully funded (tuition fees, living allowance of €1,100 - €1,200 per month, travel, and health insurance)
Type of Degree: Master's and Doctoral - Eligibility:
Bachelor’s level education from a recognized institution; first-year students can apply if they will graduate before the master's program starts; only applicable to approved universities under Erasmus Mundus Joint Programs.
- Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships
- Duration: 1 - 2 years
- Study Destination : USA
- Type of Scholarship: Merit-based
- Benefit: Tuition fees, living costs, travel allowance, health cover and more.
- Basic Eligibility: Equivalent of U.S. bachelor's degree from a recognized Indian university with a minimum of 55% marks or must have a four-year bachelor's degree or completed master's degree; or a full-time postgraduate diploma if the bachelor's degree is less than four years., 3 years of work experience, engaged in community service, minimum 6 score in IELTS or similar exam
- Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships
- Duration: 6 - 9 months
- Study Destination : USA
- Type of Scholarship: Merit-based
- Benefit: Monthly stipend, accident and sickness coverage, air travel allowance.
- Eligibility: PhD candidate at an Indian institute preparing to submit thesis.
Indian Government Scholarships
Examples
- National Overseas Scholarship
- Duration: 2 years
- Study Destinations: Various countries (specific destinations depend on the chosen program of study).
- Type of Scholarship: Need-based
- Benefit: $15,400 one-time, covering tuition fees, living costs, and more.
- Eligibility: 60% in exams, under 35 years, family income meets government criteria.
- Agatha Harrison Memorial Fellowship
- Duration: 1 year (extendable)
- Study Destinations: United Kingdom - University of Oxford
- Type of Scholarship: Merit-based
- Benefit: Approx. €30,000, plus airfare compensation.
- Eligibility: 60%+ in previous education, aged 30-40 with 3 years teaching experience.
Corporate Scholarships
Highlights
- Benefit: Varies (tuition, living expenses)
- Type of Scholarship: Merit-based
- Type of Degree: Various programs
Examples:
- Tata Scholarship: Provides substantial financial support for students studying at Cornell University and some other universities
- Microsoft Scholarships (Undergraduate): Offers partial tuition fees.
Private Foundations and Trusts
Highlights
- Benefit: Varies based on the scholarship
- Type of Scholarship: Merit-based
- Type of Degree: Various fields
Examples:
- J.N. Tata Endowment: Provides a loan scholarship for higher studies abroad.
- Sahu Jain Trust Scholarships: For students in various fields pursuing education abroad.
International Organizations and NGOs
Highlights
- Benefit: Financial support varies
- Type of Scholarship: Merit-based/Need-based
- Type of Degree: Various programs
Examples:
- UNESCO Scholarships: Aimed at promoting education across nations.
- World Bank Scholarships: Targeted towards students from developing countries.
Field-Specific Scholarships
Highlights
- Benefit: Focused on specific areas of study
- Type of Scholarship: Merit-based
- Type of Degree: Specific fields like STEM, arts, etc.
Examples:
- DAAD Scholarships: Focused on students pursuing engineering and sciences (preferably in these fields but not solely ) : graduates, doctoral students and postdoctoral students for study and research universities and non-university research institutions in Germany.
Scholarships to Study in the UK
Highlights
- Benefit: Varies (tuition, living costs)
- Type of Scholarship: Merit-based/Need-based
- Type of Degree: Various postgraduate programs
Examples:
- Felix Scholarship
- Benefit: 100% tuition fees, €15,000 - €16,000 for living costs, airfare.
- Eligibility: Indian citizen, Bachelor’s degree from an Indian university, not already enrolled abroad.
- Rhodes Scholarship
- Benefit: Covers tuition fees and provides a monthly stipend of €1,515.
- Eligibility: Indian citizen, strong academic background.
- Chevening Scholarship
- Benefit: Covers tuition fees, accommodation, and airfare for up to a year.
- Eligibility: Minimum 2 years of work experience, unconditional offer from a UK university.
Scholarships to Study in Canada
Highlights
- Benefit: Varies (tuition, living costs)
- Type of Scholarship: Merit-based/Need-based
- Type of Degree: Various graduate programs
Examples:
- Ontario Graduate Scholarships
- Benefit: CAD 5,000 - CAD 15,000 over the course tenure.
- Eligibility: Full-time program from a participating Ontario university, good academic performance.
Essential Documents Needed for Scholarship Applications to Study Abroad
- Application Form: A completed scholarship application form, usually available on the scholarship provider’s website.
- Academic Transcripts: Official records of previous academic performance, including grades and degrees obtained. Sometimes students might be asked to provide additional information about the grading and marking system of their previous universities.
- Letters of Recommendation: Usually from teachers, professors, or employers who can vouch for your qualifications and character.
- Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose: A written essay explaining your motivation for applying, your academic goals, and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed outline of your academic background, work experience, and any relevant extracurricular activities.
- Proof of Language Proficiency: Results from standardized tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or other relevant exams to demonstrate your proficiency in the language of instruction. Higher score in these exams could be a criteria.
- Financial Documents: Evidence of financial need, such as income statements, tax returns, or bank statements- of students and parents
- Passport Copy: A photocopy of your valid passport or national ID.
- Research Proposal: For research-based scholarships, a detailed proposal outlining your intended research work or project.
- Portfolio: For courses in arts or design, a portfolio showcasing your work may be required.
Conclusion
There are several more scholarships available for different programs and universities. With these extensive options, Indian students have innumerable opportunities to explore for funding (fully or partially) their overseas education. For understanding the details of each scholarship and finding the best fit for your goals, connect with us at Study Smart. By researching effectively, and preparing a strong application, we can significantly enhance your chances of receiving funding for your international education. We are there to help you for each step.
Start your scholarship journey today and take the first step towards achieving your dreams!
About Study Smart
Study Smart is the leading overseas education consultant in India who has been helping students to achieve their dreams of studying abroad. With a team of richly experienced counsellors in Pune, Noida, Nashik & Kolhapur, Study Smart provides personalised guidance on university selection, application processes, visa assistance, and scholarship opportunities. Learn more about Study Smart here
