Studying abroad offers Indian students global exposure, access to world-class education, and career opportunities. However, high tuition fees and living costs often become a hurdle. Fortunately, several scholarships help ease the financial burden, allowing students to pursue higher education without excessive debt.
This guide provides detailed information on the top 9 scholarships available for Indian students planning to study abroad, covering eligibility criteria, financial support, fields of study, and application details.
1. Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships (USA)
The Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships are awarded to outstanding Indian students pursuing a master’s degree in the United States. It is one of the most prestigious fully funded scholarships offered by the United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF).
- Eligibility:
- Indian citizens with at least three years of full-time work experience.
- Strong academic performance in undergraduate studies (minimum 55% marks).
- Leadership qualities and commitment to return to India after completion.
- Coverage:
- Full tuition fees, living stipend, J-1 visa support, round-trip airfare, and accident & sickness coverage.
- Fields Covered:
- Public administration, social work, international affairs, journalism, environmental studies, urban planning, and arts and culture.
- How to Apply:
- Applications open in March and close in June each year.
- Visit USIEF for more details.
2. Chevening Scholarships (UK)
The Chevening Scholarships, funded by the UK government, support Indian students pursuing a one-year master’s degree at UK universities.
- Eligibility:
- Indian students with at least two years of work experience.
- A strong academic background with an undergraduate degree.
- Leadership potential and a commitment to returning to India.
- Coverage:
- Full tuition fees, monthly stipend, travel costs, and visa expenses.
- Fields Covered:
- Open to all disciplines, including business, law, public policy, and engineering.
- How to Apply:
- Applications open in August and close in November.
- Apply at Chevening.org.
3. Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)
Offered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), this scheme is for Indian students planning to study master’s or PhD programs in the UK.
- Eligibility:
- Indian citizens with an upper second-class (60%+) undergraduate degree.
- Financial need and leadership potential.
- Commitment to development and returning to India.
- Coverage:
- Full tuition, airfare, and monthly stipend.
- Research support and family allowances for PhD scholars.
- Fields Covered:
- Science, technology, humanities, and social development-related courses.
- How to Apply:
- Applications open in September via CSC’s official website.
4. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
The Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst (DAAD) Scholarship is awarded to talented Indian students seeking master’s and PhD degrees in Germany.
- Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s degree with at least 2 years of professional experience.
- Proficiency in English or German (depending on the program).
- Coverage:
- Tuition fees, monthly stipend (€850 for master’s and €1,200 for PhD), travel allowance, and insurance.
- Fields Covered:
- Engineering, economics, management, environmental sciences, law, and social sciences.
- How to Apply:
- Visit DAAD India for application deadlines.
5. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree Scholarship (Europe)
This EU-funded program provides scholarships for Indian students pursuing joint master’s degrees across multiple European universities.
- Eligibility:
- Indian students with a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
- Strong academic record and motivation.
- Coverage:
- Full tuition fees, travel expenses, monthly stipend, and insurance.
- Fields Covered:
- Business, engineering, environmental studies, social sciences, and more.
- How to Apply:
- Visit Erasmus+ for updates.
6. Australia Awards Scholarships (Australia)
Funded by the Australian government, this scholarship supports Indian students pursuing a master’s degree in Australia.
- Eligibility:
- Indian students with a strong academic record.
- Demonstrated leadership qualities and development potential.
- Coverage:
- Tuition fees, travel costs, living allowance, and health insurance.
- Fields Covered:
- Public health, education, engineering, and technology.
- How to Apply:
- Applications open in February on DFAT’s website.
7. Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships
This privately funded scholarship supports Indian students at top universities in the US, UK, and Europe.
- Eligibility:
- Age under 30 with an excellent academic record.
- Admission offer from a top-ranked foreign university.
- Coverage:
- Up to $100,000 for tuition and living expenses.
- Fields Covered:
- Arts, humanities, sciences, and law.
- How to Apply:
- Visit Inlaks Foundation.
8. Tata Scholarship for Cornell University (USA)
Funded by the Tata Education and Development Trust, this scholarship supports Indian students admitted to undergraduate programs at Cornell University.
- Eligibility:
- Indian students with financial need.
- Coverage:
- Full tuition, housing, and living expenses.
- Fields Covered:
- Any undergraduate course.
- How to Apply:
- Apply directly through Cornell University.
9. Rhodes Scholarship (UK)
One of the world’s most prestigious scholarships, the Rhodes Trust funds Indian students at Oxford University.
- Eligibility:
- Indian students under 25 years old with exceptional academic records.
- Coverage:
- Full tuition, living allowance, and travel expenses.
- Fields Covered:
- Any postgraduate course at Oxford University.
- How to Apply:
- Applications open in June at Rhodes House.
Closing Remarks
These scholarships provide financial support and opportunities for Indian students to study at some of the best universities globally. Whether you’re aiming for a master’s, PhD, or undergraduate degree, start preparing early, improve your academic profile, and apply before deadlines to increase your chances of success.
For more scholarship details, regularly check official websites and consult education advisors.
