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    Study Abroad Scholarships for Indian Students in 2025
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    • Study Abroad Scholarships for Indian Students in 2025

    Study Abroad Scholarships for Indian Students in 2025

    Prabhjyot KaurUpdated on 07 Aug 2025, 05:08 PM IST

    Obtaining a study abroad scholarship for Indian students is a ticket that can help them to achieve their dream of higher education in a foreign country without breaking the bank. This is certain that studying abroad is very expensive. However, different scholarships supporting studies abroad in India can help meritorious or economically weaker students. Studying abroad includes different expenses, from tuition fees and living expenses to miscellaneous and personal costs. Several fully funded scholarships to study abroad in India cover all the expenses. Besides the 100% scholarships to study abroad, there are several partially funded scholarships as well that support dreamers. There are different kinds of scholarships for studying abroad, including merit-based, need-based, university-specific, government grants, fellowships, and more. Prominently, a few of the top fully funded scholarships by the government include Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships, Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarships, Great Scholarships, and more.

    This Story also Contains

    1. Study Abroad Scholarships Highlights
    2. Types of Study Abroad Scholarships 2025
    3. Top Scholarships in USA for Indian Students
    4. Top Scholarships in UK for Indian Students
    5. Top Scholarships in Canada for Indian Students
    6. Top Scholarship in Australia for Indian Students
    7. Scholarships to Study Abroad Offered by the Indian Government
    8. When to Apply for Study Abroad Scholarships 2025?
    9. Eligibility for Study Abroad Scholarships
    10. How to Apply for Study Abroad Scholarships?
    11. How to Win a Scholarship to Study Abroad in 2025?
    12. Tips to Apply for the Best Scholarships to Study Abroad
    Study Abroad Scholarships for Indian Students in 2025
    Study Abroad Scholarships for Indian Students 2025

    The study abroad scholarships may differ in terms of cost coverage, benefits, and duration; however, all of these factors are distinguished based on the country one chooses to study in. Therefore, we have mentioned some of the most popular study abroad scholarships for countries like USA, UK, Australia, Canada, and many more for your reference. One can also check out the other information related to these top study-abroad scholarships, like eligibility and expenses covered as well. We have mentioned the comprehensive guide on top study abroad scholarships for Indian students in this article. It includes all information from available scholarships to study abroad, the application process, and eligibility requirements, to tips and strategies to increase your chances of obtaining one.

    Read More:

    Study Abroad Scholarships Highlights

    • Different types of scholarships to study abroad are available, ranging from university-specific and merit-based to government-granted and financial need-based scholarships.
    • Study abroad scholarships for Indian applicants can be either partially or fully funded.
    • Scholarships can also be available depending on the study abroad destination.
    • A few of the notable scholarships to study abroad offered by the Indian government include Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships, National Overseas Scholarship for SC Students, and Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarships.
    • A few of the other notable scholarships to study abroad include Chevening Scholarships, Oxford Reach Scholarships and the Rhodes Scholarship.
    • The scholarships are generally quite competitive for candidates.
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    Types of Study Abroad Scholarships 2025

    There are different types of scholarships to study abroad for Indian students available in 2025. These include:

    • Government-funded scholarships: These scholarships are funded by the government to promote higher foreign education. There are many Indian government scholarships for studying abroad. Some of the popular ones are National Overseas scholarship, Fulbright Nehru Master's Fellowships, and more.
    • University-specific scholarships: These are the scholarships that are offered by some top universities worldwide to attract deserving international students. Some of the most popular ones are Rhodes Scholarship, Gates Cambridge Scholarship, Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship, UCL Global Scholarships, Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees, and more.
    • Private/corporate scholarships: These scholarships are funded by Indian or international foundations to support study broad studies. Some of the most popular ones include JN Tata Endowment, Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation, KC Mahindra Scholarships, Tata Scholarship (Cornell), etc.
    • Need-based or merit-based scholarships: These scholarships are offered to students who are able to demonstrate financial need or excellent academic records. Some of the most popular ones are Gates Cambridge, DAAD-WISE, National Overseas Scholarship, Tata Trusts Education Grant, and more.
    • Destination-specific scholarships: These scholarships are offered for specific study abroad destinations like USA, UK, Canada, Australia.

    Related Reads:

    Top Scholarships in USA for Indian Students

    The USA is among the most popular study-abroad destinations for international students when it comes to pursuing higher education. The country is home to top universities, global companies, and a beautiful landscape. Hence, the reason why so many students choose to study, live, and work in the USA is that it provides better facilities and standardised living conditions. Hence, we have given below some of the top study-abroad scholarships that one can check out if they are planning to study in the country.

    Best Scholarships in USA

    Scholarships

    Eligibility

    Amount covered

    AAUW International Fellowship Programme

    Should be a non-US-based female student with a good academic background.

    USD 20,000 - USD 50,000

    Fulbright Scholarship

    Should meet minimum academic qualification, GMAT or GRE, as well as English language proficiency score requirements.

    • Tuition fees

    • Living costs

    • Travel allowance

    • Health insurance

    Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Programme

    Should have previous work experience, must be from a developing country, and have a need-based obligation.

    • Tuition fees

    • Monthly stipend

    • Travel airfare

    Davis United World Scholars

    Should have an exceptional academic background and must be applying for a postgraduate degree.

    Up to full-tuition fees

    Also Read: Scholarships in USA for Indian and International Students

    Some Famous USA Universities and Their Scholarships

    US University

    Scholarship Name

    Full / Partial Waiver

    Brandeis University

    The Wien International Scholarship

    Full Waiver

    Duke University

    Karsh International Scholarship

    Full Waiver

    Georgia University

    Foundation Fellowship

    Full Waiver

    Swarthmore College

    Swarthmore Scholarship Grant

    Full Waiver

    CWRU

    Special Scholarships

    Both full & partial waivers

    Columbia University

    Automatically selected

    Full Waiver

    Top Scholarships in UK for Indian Students

    The UK can be a pretty expensive country to study, work, and live in. Hence, many international students often look for different ways to financially support themselves. Fortunately, there are numerous scholarships for Indian students to study abroad available to make the UK study abroad dream a reality.

    Popular Scholarships in UK

    Scholarships

    Eligibility

    Amount covered

    Chevening Scholarships

    The candidates should possess a good academic background and must have applied to pursue a Master’s degree.

    • Tuition fees

    • Airfare charges

    • Monthly stipend

    Rhodes Scholarship

    It is based on merit, and one should be a bachelor’s degree holder.

    GBP 88,750 per year

    Commonwealth Scholarships

    It is based on merit, and one should be a bachelor’s degree holder.

    • Tuition fees

    • Living costs

    • Travel allowance

    • Health insurance

    Felix Scholarships

    Should have applied to Oxford University, Reading University, or SOAS University for a master’s degree.

    • Tuition fees

    • Living costs

    • Travel allowance

    • Health insurance

    Read more: Top Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in UK

    Top Scholarships in Canada for Indian Students

    Canada provides some of the best study-abroad scholarships for Indian students due to the vast population applying to the country every year for higher education purposes.

    The nation is the most popular destination for pursuing higher studies due to the availability of a wide range of courses, well-established universities, and better employment opportunities. Therefore, we have mentioned some study abroad scholarships for 2025 in Canada below.

    Scholarships in Canada

    Scholarships

    Eligibility

    Amount covered

    Vanier Graduate Scholarship

    Should apply for a doctoral or postgraduate degree.

    CAD 50,000 for 3 years

    Ontario Graduate Scholarship

    Should apply for a doctoral or postgraduate degree in full-time mode.

    CAD 10,000 - CAD 15,000

    IDRC Research Awards

    Actively pursuing Master’s or Doctoral students in Canada can opt for it.

    CAD 20,000 - CAD 25,000

    Also Read: Scholarships in Canada for Indian and International Students

    Top Scholarship in Australia for Indian Students

    To study in Australia as an international student, one must be prepared to bear the educational and living expenses thoroughly. The country offers some of the top-ranking universities in the world with excellent courses, experienced faculty, and a high-paying job market. Therefore, we have enlisted some of the best study-abroad scholarships for Australia below.

    Scholarships in Australia for Indian Students

    Scholarships

    Eligibility

    Amount covered

    Australia Awards Scholarships

    Must have a strong academic background and leadership skills.

    • Tuition fees

    • Living costs

    • Travel allowance

    • Health insurance

    Endeavour Scholarships

    Students applying for postgraduate or doctoral programmes only.

    Fully-funded tuition fees

    Destination Australia Scholarship

    Applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programmes.

    • Tuition fees

    • Living expenses

    Know more about: Scholarships in Australia for Indian and International Students

    Scholarships to Study Abroad Offered by the Indian Government

    To boost the quality of education and career opportunities, the Indian government also offers various top study-abroad scholarships and funding for eligible students. These scholarships are generally fully funded, and the selection of the candidates is generally based on their economic statistics and academic performance. Candidates can check the availability, deadlines, and eligibility criteria of these scholarships for students abroad on the official website. A few of the popular scholarships offered by the Indian government for candidates to study abroad are given below.

    Indian Government Scholarship for Studying Abroad

    Scholarships

    Eligibility

    Coverage

    National Overseas Scholarships (NOS)

    Candidates with a minimum of 60% marks or GPA in their senior secondary school, Bachelor’s, or Master’s degree.

    Rs. 8 lakhs annually

    Fulbright- Nehru Master’s Fellowship

    A minimum score of 55% for the last education qualification, and should have a minimum band of 6.0 in IELTS.

    • Tuition fees

    • Living costs

    • Travel allowance

    • Health insurance

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

    Should belong to the OBC or EBC Category with the income not being more than 8 lakhs and 2.5 lakhs respectively.

    Provide subsidiaries on interest that needs to be paid back in the future.

    GREAT Scholarships

    Must be an Indian citizen and a Bachelor’s degree holder.

    Upto USD 10,000 per annum

    The Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarships

    Should be a citizen of India and hold a minimum of 65% to 70% scores in their field of study.

    Upto USD 1,00,000

    Cornell University Tata Scholarships

    Offered to students who have applied for undergraduate studies.

    Fully-funded tuition fees

    National Overseas Scholarship for Scheduled Cast Students

    Should have scored 60% and the family income shouldn’t be above 8 lakhs per annum.

    • Tuition fees

    • Living costs

    • Books and supplies

    • Airfare

    When to Apply for Study Abroad Scholarships 2025?

    Scholarships are the first thing that you must look and start applying for when you start planning to study abroad,. This is because, most of the scholarship applications open at least 6 months to 1 year prior the next session begins. Therefore, ensure to apply for study abroad scholarships at least 8-12 months before the planned intake(especially for Fall or Spring semesters).

    Eligibility for Study Abroad Scholarships

    Every scholarship has its own requirements that might vary depending on the university chosen and the country. These scholarships to study abroad are quite competitive for international students, and hence, it is crucial for them to stand out from the crowd to have higher chances of acceptance. Let us now discuss some of the common eligibility for study abroad scholarships:

    • High scores or GPAs in the previous course of studies.
    • Excellent standardised test result as per the course level (SAT/ACT/GRE/GMAT)
    • Good English language proficiency scores
    • A prior work experience is generally required for some top scholarships to study abroad.
    • Admission to a recognised university
    • Several universities or other organisations require applicants to be from a particular nationality and residency to grant study abroad scholarships to international students.
    • Show financial capacity. Several need-based scholarships to study abroad require students to provide proof of financial need, such as low-income certificates, tax returns, etc.

    How to Apply for Study Abroad Scholarships?

    Candidates looking for study abroad scholarships must know that a few scholarships can be applied for before admission, while for others, they need to apply after receiving the letter of acceptance from the university.

    The scholarship application process usually starts at least 1 year before the admissions timeline because most of the deadlines will close in advance of the upcoming academic year. There are a few important steps to be considered while applying for scholarships to study abroad:

    • Start searching for scholarships, including the governments, universities, and other organisations scholarships.

    • Shortlist the scholarships based on the eligibility criteria.

    • Cross-check whether the scholarship must be applied for before or after enrolment into the university.

    • Arrange the necessary documentation like academic certificates, financial proofs, and English language test scores.

    • Few scholarships require an exam or essays for the selection criteria.

    • Kindly check with them and submit a study abroad scholarship application through the scholarship portal or university website as per the requirements.

    Also Check:

    How to Win a Scholarship to Study Abroad in 2025?

    Students can increase their chances of obtaining a scholarship to study abroad by keeping in mind the tips and tricks. Here are some of the ways by which you can increase your chances for the study abroad scholarship in India for 2025:

    • Start early and research well by visiting official university websites, government platforms, and private scholarship funding sites for thorough information.
    • Try to maintain an excellent academic profile with good grades, GPAs, and strong standardised test results.
    • Check whether the chosen university offers scholarships as per your nationality and course of study.
    • Apply to multiple scholarships, so that your chances of getting it increase.

    Tips to Apply for the Best Scholarships to Study Abroad

    To apply for top scholarships for higher education abroad, students must provide a perfect application profile that includes all the right eligibility documents and an application with accurate and complete information. Let us check some of the best strategies for international students to prepare for top study abroad scholarships correctly.

    Things to Keep in Mind Before Applying for Scholarships to Study Abroad

    • Research thoroughly and then choose a scholarship that perfectly aligns with your personal, academic and financial goals.
    • Apply early, that is, way before the scholarship application deadlines, to submit all documents and a completed application on time, as well as receive the scholarship (if granted) on time.
    • Submit a compelling statement of purpose that includes the candidate’s passion, interests, subject expertise, achievements, futuristic goals, and much more.
    • Submit a strong letter of reference. Make sure to choose the recommenders who can showcase your abilities in a genuine way and in the best way possible.
    • Students must make sure that their SOP and LOR are not as same as the templates available. They must be as per the scholarship requirements and preferences.
    • Show the extracurricular activities and leadership qualities that are relevant to their course of study, as well as the scholarship terms.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Q: Which country pays you to study?
    A:

    The most popular one is the Nordic countries, which offer a good option for all students going abroad. They include Norway, Iceland, Finland, Sweden, and Denmark. They offer free to low fees, which may be lowered by several scholarship opportunities.

    Q: How can an Indian student get a scholarship to study abroad?
    A:

    Indian students have the opportunity to opt for study abroad scholarships as much as any other foreign student. However, there are some prerequisites that one will have to fulfill in order to be eligible for financial aid while studying abroad. This may include havve great academic background, higher GPA, leadership skills, letter of recommendations, and much more.

    Q: Can I get a 100% scholarship to study abroad?
    A:

    Yes, there are many fully-funded schoalrships available to international students planning to study in top-tier countries such as USA, UK, Canada, etc. Some of these scholarships may include Chevening scholarships, Fulbright scholarships, Tata scholarships, Gates Cambrudge scholarships, and many more.

    Q: Which country is best to study abroad for Indian students for free?
    A:

    Some of the counties that offer higher education to international students at little to no cost are Germany, Norway, Austria, Finland, France, etc. They offer ample of courses and universities to choose from and provides a massive relief from the financial burden one might face when planning to study abroad.

    Q: How much percentage is required for a scholarship?
    A:

    There is no definite percentage required to apply for universities abroad as the eligibility criteria is different for all. However, the average or minimum score required for international students for admission in top universities is anywhere between 60% to 85% for their senior secondary school grades. The minimum GPA requirement on the other hand, would be around 2.5 to 3.5 for undergraduate students looking for admission into Master programmes.