Study Abroad Scholarships for Indian Students: Top University-Specific Options & More

Pursuing higher education abroad offers much more than just earning a degree; it provides a well-rounded experience, enriching students with in-depth knowledge, fostering global connections, and immersing them in diverse cultures. One of the most empowering aspects of this journey is the availability of scholarships, which play a crucial role for international students.

In addition to government-funded programs, many universities offer substantial scholarships specifically designed for international students, including those from India. These scholarships often cover tuition fees—partially or fully—and may even extend to living expenses. Applying early for these opportunities significantly increases the likelihood of securing them.

This article highlights some of the most prestigious scholarships available for Indian students aspiring to study abroad. It explores scholarship options across the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and Asia, detailing their values, eligibility criteria, and more. Read on to discover how these scholarships can support your academic and personal growth.

Study Abroad Scholarships for Indian Students by US Universities

The United States is one of the most sought-after destinations for Indian students pursuing higher education abroad. To support talented international students, including those from India, many US universities offer a wide range of scholarships. These scholarships aim to reduce the financial burden and provide opportunities to excel academically and professionally.

Below are some notable scholarships offered by US universities:

1. Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships

• Eligibility: Indian students applying for master’s programs in fields such as Arts, Environmental Studies, Public Administration, and Public Health.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and health insurance.

  
  

2. Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship

• Eligibility: Indian students admitted to Stanford’s MBA program with demonstrated leadership potential and financial need.

• Scholarship Value: Covers approximately 80% of tuition fees.

  
  

3. The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships

• Eligibility: Indian students pursuing graduate programs at top US institutions in fields such as Fine Arts, Film, Architecture, and Music.

• Scholarship Value: Provides up to $100,000, covering tuition and living expenses.

  
  

4. University-Specific Scholarships

• Harvard University Financial Aid

  • Eligibility: Based on financial need and academic merit.

  • Scholarship Value: Varies, often covering tuition and living costs.

    
    

• Yale University Scholarships

  • Eligibility: Open to all international students, including Indians, based on financial need.

  • Scholarship Value: Awards up to full tuition.

    
    

• Cornell Tata Scholarship

  • Eligibility: Indian students admitted to Cornell’s undergraduate programs.

  • Scholarship Value: Covers partial tuition fees.

    
    

5. American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship

• Eligibility: High-achieving international students committed to positive civic and social change.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition, room, and board.

  
  

6. Rotary Peace Fellowships

• Eligibility: Indian students pursuing master’s or professional development certificate programs in fields related to peace and conflict resolution.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.

  
  

Tips for Applying:

• Start your research and application process early.

• Highlight your academic achievements, leadership skills, and extracurricular activities.

• Tailor your application essays to reflect your personal goals and aspirations.

These scholarships are a testament to the commitment of US universities to fostering global talent. By applying for these opportunities, Indian students can make their dream of studying in the US a reality.

Study Abroad Scholarships for Indian Students by UK Universities

The United Kingdom is a leading destination for Indian students seeking quality education, renowned institutions, and vibrant cultural experiences. Many UK universities and organizations offer scholarships to ease the financial burden for international students, encouraging academic excellence and fostering global connections.

Below are some of the most prominent scholarships available for Indian students aspiring to study in the UK:

1. Chevening Scholarships

• Eligibility: Indian students with at least two years of work experience, applying for a one-year master’s program in any subject.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition fees, travel expenses, living allowances, and additional grants for essential expenses.

  
  

2. Commonwealth Scholarships

• Eligibility: Indian students pursuing master’s or Ph.D. programs in fields that align with the development goals of Commonwealth countries.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition fees, airfare, living expenses, and other allowances.

  
  

3. Rhodes Scholarships at the University of Oxford

• Eligibility: Exceptional Indian students applying for postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford. Candidates must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to public service.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition fees, a living stipend, and travel expenses.

  
  

4. GREAT Scholarships

• Eligibility: Indian students applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs in various fields at participating UK universities.

• Scholarship Value: Provides a minimum of £10,000 toward tuition fees.

  
  

5. University-Specific Scholarships

• University of Cambridge - Cambridge Trust Scholarships

  • Eligibility: Indian students applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs.

  • Scholarship Value: Covers partial or full tuition fees and may include living expenses.

• University of Edinburgh - Global Research Scholarships

  • Eligibility: Ph.D. candidates demonstrating outstanding research potential.

  • Scholarship Value: Covers tuition fees partially.

• London School of Economics (LSE) India Scholarships

  • Eligibility: Indian students admitted to LSE’s programs with strong academic credentials.

  • Scholarship Value: Offers partial tuition fee waivers.

    
    

6. Felix Scholarships

• Eligibility: Indian students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds pursuing postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford, University of Reading, or SOAS, University of London.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and airfare.

  
  

7. British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM

• Eligibility: Indian women applying for master’s programs in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) at participating UK universities.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition fees, travel costs, visa fees, and living expenses.

  
  

8. Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships

• Eligibility: Mid-career Indian professionals in fields like Arts, Heritage Conservation, and the Humanities.

• Scholarship Value: Includes financial support for short-term research or professional courses.

  
  

Tips for Applying:

• Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria before applying.

• Craft compelling essays or personal statements highlighting your goals, achievements, and potential contributions.

• Gather strong letters of recommendation to enhance your application.

The UK’s commitment to fostering international talent makes it an attractive destination for Indian students. With the right scholarship, you can embark on a transformative educational journey and unlock unparalleled opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Study Abroad Scholarships for Indian Students by Canadian Universities

Canada is a top choice for Indian students due to its world-class education system, multicultural environment, and affordable living standards. To further attract talented international students, Canadian universities and organizations offer numerous scholarships to ease financial burdens and reward academic excellence.

Here are some of the prominent scholarship opportunities for Indian students in Canada:

1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)

• Eligibility: Doctoral candidates with exceptional academic records, research potential, and leadership skills.

• Scholarship Value: CAD 50,000 per year for up to three years.

• Applicable Universities: All Canadian institutions offering doctoral programs.

  
  

2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships

• Eligibility: High-achieving international students, including Indians, applying for undergraduate programs at the University of Toronto.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four years.

  
  

3. University-Specific Scholarships

• University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program

  • Eligibility: Indian students with excellent academic standing and significant financial need.

  • Scholarship Value: Offers partial or full tuition coverage based on need and merit.

• University of Toronto - President’s Scholars of Excellence Program

  • Eligibility: High-achieving international undergraduate applicants.

  • Scholarship Value: CAD 10,000 and access to mentorship programs.

• University of Alberta International Scholarships

  • Eligibility: Indian students applying for undergraduate or graduate programs.

  • Scholarship Value: Varies, with awards up to CAD 5,000.

    
    

4. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)

• Eligibility: Indian graduate students pursuing master’s or doctoral programs in Ontario.

• Scholarship Value: CAD 15,000 per year.

  
  

5. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships

• Eligibility: Doctoral students in social sciences or humanities fields with a strong commitment to leadership and societal contributions.

• Scholarship Value: CAD 40,000 per year, plus CAD 20,000 annually for research and travel.

  
  

6. IDRC Research Awards

• Eligibility: Indian master’s or doctoral students conducting research in development-related fields.

• Scholarship Value: CAD 15,000 to CAD 20,000 for research and living expenses.

  
  

7. Carleton University Awards for International Students

• Eligibility: High-achieving Indian students applying to undergraduate programs.

• Scholarship Value: CAD 4,000 to CAD 16,000 over four years.

  
  

8. Dalhousie University Scholarships

• Eligibility: Indian students applying for undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral programs with academic excellence.

• Scholarship Value: Varies, with awards ranging from CAD 2,000 to CAD 30,000.

  
  

Tips for Applying:

• Research deadlines and eligibility requirements for each scholarship.

• Highlight academic achievements, leadership experiences, and extracurricular activities in your application.

• Prepare a strong personal statement or research proposal showcasing your goals and contributions.

• Obtain recommendation letters from professors or employers to strengthen your application.

  
  

Canada's welcoming attitude towards international students and robust scholarship programs make it an excellent destination for Indian students. With careful planning and timely applications, you can secure funding to pursue your academic dreams in Canada.

Study Abroad Scholarships for Indian Students by Australian Universities

Australia is a preferred destination for Indian students due to its world-renowned universities, high-quality education, and multicultural environment. To make studying in Australia more accessible, many universities and organizations offer scholarships specifically for international students, including Indians.

Below are some of the most prominent scholarships offered by Australian universities:

1. Australia Awards Scholarships

• Eligibility: Indian students applying for full-time undergraduate or postgraduate courses at participating Australian universities.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel allowances, health insurance, and more.

• Note: These scholarships emphasize academic merit and leadership potential.

  
  

2. Destination Australia Scholarships

• Eligibility: Indian students applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs at regional Australian universities.

• Scholarship Value: Up to AUD 15,000 per year.

• Objective: Encourages international students to study in regional areas of Australia.

  
  

3. University-Specific Scholarships

• University of Melbourne - Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarships

  • Eligibility: High-achieving Indian students applying for undergraduate programs.

  • Scholarship Value: Offers partial or full tuition fee waivers (AUD 10,000 to complete coverage).

• Australian National University (ANU) Chancellor’s International Scholarship

  • Eligibility: Indian students with outstanding academic credentials applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs.

  • Scholarship Value: 25% to 50% reduction in tuition fees.

• University of Sydney International Scholarships

  • Eligibility: High-achieving Indian students applying for master’s or Ph.D. programs.

  • Scholarship Value: Covers tuition fees and offers a living stipend of up to AUD 40,000.

• University of Queensland (UQ) International Scholarships

  • Eligibility: Indian students applying for undergraduate, postgraduate, or research programs.

  • Scholarship Value: Partial tuition fee waivers of up to 25%.

    
    

4. Adelaide Global Academic Excellence Scholarships

• Eligibility: Indian students with excellent academic records applying for undergraduate or postgraduate coursework programs at the University of Adelaide.

• Scholarship Value: Covers 50% of tuition fees.

  
  

5. Monash University International Merit Scholarships

• Eligibility: Indian students with outstanding academic performance applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs.

• Scholarship Value: AUD 10,000 per year for the duration of the course.

  
  

6. Deakin Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship

• Eligibility: Indian students with academic excellence and leadership potential.

• Scholarship Value: Covers 50% to 100% of tuition fees.

  
  

7. Macquarie University India Scholarships

• Eligibility: Indian students enrolling in undergraduate or postgraduate programs at Macquarie University.

• Scholarship Value: AUD 10,000 applied as a tuition fee reduction.

  
  

8. Flinders International Postgraduate Research Scholarships (FIPRS)

• Eligibility: Indian students pursuing research-based postgraduate degrees at Flinders University.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition fees, living allowance, and relocation costs.

  
  

Tips for Applying:

• Begin your scholarship search and applications early.

• Highlight your academic achievements, leadership qualities, and career goals in your applications.

• Tailor your personal statement or essay to align with the scholarship’s objectives.

• Obtain recommendation letters from credible sources.

  
  

Australia's robust scholarship ecosystem is designed to attract global talent and support ambitious students. With the right scholarship, Indian students can access world-class education while significantly reducing financial barriers.

Study Abroad Scholarships for Indian Students by New Zealand Universities

New Zealand is an increasingly popular destination for Indian students, offering a blend of high-quality education, affordable living, and a safe environment. To make education more accessible, many New Zealand universities and organizations provide scholarships for international students, including Indians. These scholarships help reduce financial barriers and reward academic excellence.

Below are some of the notable scholarships available:

1. New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA)

• Eligibility: Indian students applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs at participating New Zealand universities.

• Scholarship Value: Up to NZD 10,000 for tuition fees.

• Applicable Fields: Various disciplines, including Business, STEM, and Humanities.

  
  

2. New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships

• Eligibility: Indian students pursuing master’s or Ph.D. programs in fields aligned with New Zealand’s development goals.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition fees, living allowances, airfare, and other expenses.

• Focus: Supports students who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential.

  
  

3. University-Specific Scholarships

• University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship

  • Eligibility: High-achieving Indian students applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs.

  • Scholarship Value: Up to NZD 10,000 toward tuition fees.

• University of Otago International Research Master’s Scholarships

  • Eligibility: Indian students enrolling in research-based master’s programs.

  • Scholarship Value: NZD 15,000 stipend and tuition fee waiver.

• Victoria University of Wellington Tongarewa Scholarship

  • Eligibility: Indian students applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs.

  • Scholarship Value: NZD 5,000 to NZD 10,000 for tuition fees.

• AUT International Excellence Scholarships

  • Eligibility: Indian students with outstanding academic performance applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs.

  • Scholarship Value: Varies, with partial tuition fee waivers.

    
    

4. Lincoln University International Taught Master Merit Scholarships

• Eligibility: Indian students enrolling in master’s programs at Lincoln University.

• Scholarship Value: Up to NZD 10,000 toward tuition fees.

  
  

5. Massey University International Postgraduate Excellence Scholarships

• Eligibility: High-performing Indian students enrolling in postgraduate coursework programs.

• Scholarship Value: Up to NZD 10,000 for tuition fees.

  
  

6. University of Canterbury International First Year Scholarships

• Eligibility: Indian students applying for undergraduate programs.

• Scholarship Value: Up to NZD 20,000, depending on academic performance.

  
  

7. Southern Institute of Technology Zero Fees Scheme

• Eligibility: Indian students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate programs.

• Scholarship Value: Tuition fees are significantly reduced under this scheme.

  
  

Tips for Applying:

• Research scholarship options early and check deadlines.

• Highlight your academic achievements, career goals, and extracurricular activities in your application.

• Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria, including English language proficiency requirements.

• Obtain strong recommendation letters and prepare compelling personal statements.

  
  

New Zealand’s commitment to fostering global talent and its range of scholarships make it an excellent choice for Indian students seeking an enriching educational experience. By securing a scholarship, you can reduce financial constraints and focus on achieving academic and personal growth.

Study Abroad Scholarships for Indian Students by European Universities

Europe is a hub for world-class education, offering diverse courses, historic campuses, and rich cultural experiences. To make studying in Europe more accessible for international students, including Indians, various scholarships are available. These scholarships are funded by governments, universities, and private organizations, making Europe an affordable destination for higher education.

Below are some of the most prominent scholarship opportunities:

1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree (EMJMD) Scholarships

• Eligibility: Indian students pursuing joint master’s degrees across multiple European universities.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition fees, travel costs, living expenses, and insurance.

• Duration: 1 to 2 years.

• Key Highlight: Offers opportunities to study in at least two European countries.

  
  

2. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)

• Eligibility: Indian students applying for postgraduate or doctoral programs at German universities, particularly in fields like Engineering, Sciences, and Public Policy.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition fees, a monthly stipend, travel allowance, and health insurance.

• Special Focus: Encourages applications from academically strong candidates with leadership potential.

  
  

3. Chevening Scholarships (UK)

• Eligibility: Indian students with at least two years of work experience, applying for master’s programs in any discipline at UK universities.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition fees, travel expenses, living allowance, and additional grants.

  
  

4. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)

• Eligibility: Indian students pursuing master’s programs in Sweden, with leadership experience and academic excellence.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel grants, and insurance.

  
  

5. The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program (France)

• Eligibility: Indian students pursuing master’s or Ph.D. programs at French universities, especially in Engineering, Economics, or Management.

• Scholarship Value: Includes a monthly stipend, travel expenses, health insurance, and cultural activities.

  
  

6. VLIR-UOS Scholarships (Belgium)

• Eligibility: Indian students applying for master’s or training programs in fields related to development at participating Flemish universities.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition, travel costs, accommodation, and a monthly allowance.

  
  

7. Italian Government Scholarships

• Eligibility: Indian students applying for master’s or Ph.D. programs at Italian universities.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition fees, health insurance, and a monthly stipend of €900.

  
  

8. Holland Scholarship (Netherlands)

• Eligibility: Indian students pursuing undergraduate or master’s programs at Dutch universities.

• Scholarship Value: A one-time grant of €5,000.

  
  

9. ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarships (Switzerland)

• Eligibility: Indian students with outstanding academic records applying for master’s programs at ETH Zurich.

• Scholarship Value: Covers full tuition fees and provides a living stipend.

  
  

10. Radboud Scholarship Program (Netherlands)

• Eligibility: Indian students applying for master’s programs at Radboud University.

• Scholarship Value: Covers partial tuition fees and living expenses.

  
  

Tips for Applying:

• Research eligibility criteria and deadlines for each scholarship.

• Craft personalized essays or statements of purpose emphasizing your academic goals, leadership qualities, and future aspirations.

• Gather recommendation letters from credible sources to strengthen your application.

• Ensure proficiency in required languages, such as English or the host country’s language.

  
  

Europe’s scholarships open doors to a rich educational experience, allowing Indian students to gain global exposure and achieve academic excellence. With proper planning and a strong application, you can secure funding and make your study-abroad dreams a reality

Study Abroad Scholarships for Indian Students by Asian Universities

Asia is becoming an increasingly popular destination for Indian students due to its world-class universities, affordable tuition fees, and geographical proximity. Many Asian countries and universities offer scholarships specifically tailored to international students, including Indians, to encourage academic and cultural exchange.

Here are some of the most prestigious scholarship opportunities for Indian students in Asia:

1. MEXT (Monbukagakusho) Scholarships (Japan)

• Eligibility: Indian students applying for undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral programs in Japanese universities.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition fees, monthly stipends (JPY 117,000 to JPY 145,000), travel expenses, and accommodation.

• Focus: Supports students with strong academic records and an interest in Japanese culture.

  
  

2. Chinese Government Scholarships (CGS)

• Eligibility: Indian students pursuing undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral programs at Chinese universities.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition fees, accommodation, living stipends, and medical insurance.

• Note: Includes the CSC (China Scholarship Council) scholarships, which are highly competitive.

  
  

3. Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP)

• Eligibility: Indian students applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs in South Korea.

• Scholarship Value: Full tuition coverage, monthly stipend (KRW 900,000 to KRW 1,000,000), airfare, and Korean language training expenses.

• Key Highlight: Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

  
  

4. Taiwan Government Scholarships

• Eligibility: Indian students applying for undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral programs in Taiwanese universities.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition fees, living stipends (TWD 15,000 to TWD 20,000 per month), and travel expenses.

  
  

5. Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)

• Eligibility: Indian students pursuing Ph.D. programs in science and engineering at Singaporean institutions.

• Scholarship Value: Covers full tuition fees, monthly stipend (SGD 2,000 to SGD 2,500), airfare, and settlement allowance.

• Applicable Universities: National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), and others.

  
  

6. Hong Kong Ph.D. Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)

• Eligibility: Indian students pursuing Ph.D. programs at Hong Kong universities.

• Scholarship Value: Annual stipend of HKD 322,800 and a travel allowance of HKD 13,500 for up to three years.

• Focus: Attracts top talent for research-focused programs.

  
  

7. Thailand International Postgraduate Programme (TIPP)

• Eligibility: Indian students pursuing master’s degrees in development-related fields at Thai universities.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, and medical insurance.

  
  

8. ASEAN-India Research Training Fellowship (AIRTF)

• Eligibility: Indian researchers collaborating on short-term research projects in ASEAN countries.

• Scholarship Value: Covers travel costs, accommodation, and living expenses.

  
  

9. President’s Scholarship for Excellence in Singapore

• Eligibility: High-achieving Indian undergraduate students applying to Singapore universities.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition fees and offers a generous living allowance.

  
  

10. Asian Development Bank-Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP)

• Eligibility: Indian students pursuing master’s programs in economics, management, or environmental sciences at participating Asian universities.

• Scholarship Value: Covers tuition fees, a monthly stipend, travel expenses, and health insurance.

  
  

Tips for Applying:

• Research specific requirements and deadlines for each scholarship program.

• Focus on academic excellence and demonstrate leadership qualities in your applications.

• Tailor personal statements to highlight how the scholarship aligns with your goals and aspirations.

• Obtain strong letters of recommendation and ensure your documents are complete and well-organized.

  
  

Asian universities and governments are investing heavily in attracting global talent. By leveraging these scholarships, Indian students can access affordable, high-quality education and enjoy rich cultural experiences in some of the most dynamic regions of the world.

To know more about such affordable study opportunities students can reach out to us at

 BK Overseas Education. We have been a trusted name in the study abroad industry. we offer end-to-end guidance to help students make informed decisions.