Recent Update: Australia recently announced a 20% rise in fully funded scholarships for South Asian students in 2025, adding to the already prestigious options like Rhodes, Chevening, Fulbright, and Tata Scholarships.
Studying abroad is a dream for many Indian students, but the rising cost of tuition and living expenses often becomes a major barrier. This is where scholarships step in, making quality global education more accessible. Among the most lucrative opportunities are the top fully funded scholarships for Indian students, best study abroad scholarships which cover tuition fees, living costs, travel, and sometimes even additional allowances.
According to UNESCO data, over 1.3 million Indian students are currently studying abroad in 2025, and the number continues to rise every year. With such high demand, universities and governments worldwide are expanding their scholarship programs to attract the brightest minds from India. Prestigious awards like Rhodes, Fulbright, Chevening, and Tata Scholarships are highly competitive but open life-changing pathways.
In this guide, we explore the best fully funded scholarships for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD students. You’ll also find insights on eligibility, application process, and tips to maximize your chances of winning.
What is a Fully Funded Scholarship?
A fully funded scholarship or 100% scholarship is a financial aid offered to students that covers 100% or nearly most of the essential costs associated with higher education abroad. Unlike partial scholarships, these scholarships require strong academic and leadership skills.
Fully funded scholarships are mostly offered by government, universities or global foundations. That is why, these scholarships are regarded as one of the competitive and prestigious opportunities available.
What Does it Cover?
A Fully Funded Scholarship covers:
Tuition fee which covers full academic fees throughout the program duration.
Living expenses or stipend which are given monthly to cover rent, food, transport, and daily living costs.
Air travel including domestic travel and international round trips
Health and Medical insurance covering for basic medical services during the course of study.
Research or books expenses allowance.
Visa and Settling costs
Types of Fully Funded Scholarships
Fully Funded Scholarships can be classified on many basis like on the basis of countries, programmes (bachelor’s / master’s / PhD) etc. But this classification is based on who funds it. So, it is mainly classified into three categories:
Government Funded Scholarships: Fully funded scholarships under this type are funded by the government or a group (like EU). These scholarships typically cover all expenses, including tuition fees, accommodation, and travel costs. They are often awarded to students pursuing graduate, post-graduate, or research programs.
University Sponsored Scholarships: These scholarships are offered and funded by the university itself in which a student intends to study to attract top talent globally. They are often merit-based and tied to the academic program you are admitted to.
Private or External Scholarships: In addition to government and university scholarships, many non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and private organizations also offer fully funded scholarships for Indian students. These scholarships are often field-specific or targeted at underrepresented groups. For Eg: Gates Cambridge Scholarship (UK) or Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship (USA)
A comprehensive table may help you understand more effectively:
International Major Entrance Scholarships (Canada)
AAUW International Fellowship (USA)
What are Top Fully Funded Scholarships for Undergraduate Courses?
Several universities worldwide offer financial aid in the form of fully funded scholarships to their international students at under-graduate level. If you are thinking of studying abroad, there are approximately 10-12 fully funded scholarships for Indian students to pursue undergraduate courses.
These scholarships are largely university sponsored and minority of them are privately/externally funded. Regardless, students can get their entire expenses covered up or if not, most of it. Let’s look at some top fully-funded scholarships for under-graduate courses.
1. Cornell University TATA Scholarship (USA)
The Cornell University Tata Scholarship is one of the most prestigious opportunities for Indian undergraduate students in the United States. This private / external sponsored scholarship is funded by the Tata Education and Development Trust. It ensures that academically talented Indian students with financial need can study at Cornell without worrying about tuition costs. The scholarship is highly competitive and is awarded to a limited number of students each year.
Coverage: Full tuition fees for the entire undergraduate program. Exception are for five-year program where student has to complete 10 full time semesters, only 8 semesters are covered under the scholarship.
Eligibility: Open only to Indian students admitted to Cornell; requires academic excellence and proof of financial need.
Special Note: Around 20–25 Indian students receive this scholarship annually.
2. Reach Oxford Scholarship (UK)
The Reach Oxford Scholarship, university sponsored, offers students from low-income and developing countries the chance to study at the University of Oxford. It supports students who cannot afford to study in the UK otherwise and is one of the most respected undergraduate opportunities offered by Oxford. The scholarship is one of the most competitive as only 2-3 scholarships are awarded every year.
Coverage: Full tuition fees, one return airfare and a stipend for living expenses.
Eligibility: Indian students with excellent academic results, financial need and strong leadership potential; must secure admission to Oxford.
Application Timeline: Scholarship applications are submitted after receiving an offer from Oxford (usually January 2025 deadlines).
Special Note: Covers a variety of undergraduate programs, excluding medicine.
3. University of Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship (Australia)
The Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship (university sponsored) supports high-achieving international students, including Indians, to study in Australia. It is offered by the University of Melbourne, one of the top-ranked global institutions, and attracts outstanding students from across the world.
Coverage: 25% fee remission for the duration of the undergraduate course.
Eligibility: Indian students applying to undergraduate programs at the University of Melbourne; selection is merit-based.
Application Timeline: Automatically considered at the time of admission; no separate application needed.
Special Note: At least 110 scholarships are awarded each year to outstanding international students.
4. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (Canada)
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship at the University of Toronto is designed for exceptional international students, including Indians, who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, creativity and leadership. It is considered one of the most generous and competitive undergraduate awards in Canada.
Coverage: Full tuition fees, books, incidental expenses, and residence support for four years.
Eligibility: Indian students applying to an undergraduate program at the University of Toronto with high academic and leadership records. Students must be nominated by their school in their last year i.e. 12th standard.
Application Timeline: School nominating their students must do it earlier than October 10, 2025. The deadline of completing the scholarship application is November 7, 2025.
Special Note: About 37 students worldwide are selected each year, making it extremely prestigious.
The HKUST International Undergraduate Scholarship is aimed at bright students from around the globe, including India, who wish to pursue undergraduate studies in Hong Kong. HKUST, known for its strong research and innovation focus, provides this award to attract top talent.
Coverage: Full tuition fees plus a living allowance to cover accommodation and personal expenses.
Eligibility: Indian students with strong academic records, high school achievements, and English language proficiency.
What are the Top Fully Funded Study Abroad Scholarships for Master’s Courses?
Fully funded scholarships for Indian students at graduate levels can be expensive, but several prestigious scholarships ease this financial burden for Indian students. Most fully funded scholarships at the postgraduate level are offered by governments and global universities to attract high-achieving international students. These scholarships usually cover tuition, living expenses, airfare, and sometimes research or professional development costs. Below are some of the most renowned opportunities available for Indian master’s applicants:
1. Chevening Scholarship (UK)
The Chevening Scholarship is the UK Government’s flagship global award, designed to develop future leaders. It offers Indian students the chance to pursue a one-year master’s degree at top UK universities while building a strong international network.
Coverage: Full tuition fees, monthly living stipend, airfare, and additional allowances.
Eligibility: Strong academic background, at least 2 years of work experience, and leadership potential.
Timeline: Applications open in August and close by 7 October in 2025.
Special Note: Around 1,000 students gets the scholarship every year all over from the UK.
The Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowship is among one of the most esteemed fully funded scholarships for Indian Students for studying in USA. This scholarship is jointly funded by Indian and US governments having the aim to empower exceptional Indian students to pursue master’s programs in the United States, focusing on leadership and community impact.
Coverage: Tuition, living costs, J-1 Visa Support, round trip economy class airfare and health insurance.
Eligibility: Indian citizenship, at least 4 years of bachelor’s degree from any Indian institute with minimum 55% marks, three years of work experience, and community service involvement.
Timeline: Applications usually open in February and close in May.
Special Note: Encourages return to India post-study to contribute to national development.
The DAAD EPOS scholarships are funded by the German government and support students from developing countries, including India, to pursue master’s programs in development-related fields. For those pursing master’s courses in Germany, DAAD postgraduate scholarship is a great opportunity for getting financial aid.
Coverage: Monthly payment of €992 for Master’s students, living allowance, travel costs, and health insurance.
Eligibility: At least two years of professional experience and a degree completed within the last six years.
Timeline: Varies by course/university but generally between August–October.
Special Note: Focuses on fields like engineering, public policy, and environmental studies.
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degrees Scholarship is a prestigious scholarship program funded by the European Union, allowing students from all over the world to pursue master’s degree at top universities in Europe.
Coverage: Tuition, travel allowance, installation allowance, and a generous monthly stipend.
Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree and meeting program-specific criteria.
Timeline: Applications typically close between October–January depending on the consortium.
Special Note: Offers a multi-country study experience in Europe.
The Australia Awards Scholarships is a fully funded scholarship awarded to students pursuing master’s degree from Australian Universities or institute. This program, funded by government of Australia, is designed to build skills and leadership potential in students from partner countries like India.
Coverage: Full tuition, return airfare, establishment allowance, and living costs.
Eligibility: Indian citizenship, academic merit, and commitment to development goals.
Timeline: Applications usually open in February and close in April.
Special Note: The recipient has to leave Australia for at least 2 years after completion of course.
What are the Top Fully Funded Scholarships for PhD Courses?
For Indian students aspiring to pursue doctoral studies abroad, fully funded PhD scholarships are among the most rewarding opportunities. These scholarships not only cover tuition and living expenses but often provide research grants, travel support, and professional development opportunities. Since PhD programs demand long-term dedication, most funding comes from governments, universities, or large research bodies. Below are some of the most prestigious fully funded scholarships available for Indian students pursuing doctoral research abroad:
1. Rhodes Scholarship (UK)
The Rhodes Scholarship, established in 1902, is one of the most renowned and competitive awards worldwide. It supports exceptional students to pursue PhD or other postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford. Rhodes Scholars are chosen for their academic excellence, leadership qualities, and commitment to driving positive global change. Being part of this community connects students with a long tradition of influential alumni across disciplines.
Coverage: Full tuition, living allowance, health insurance, and travel costs.
Eligibility: Strong academics, leadership record, and aged 18–28.
Timeline: Applications open in June, deadline in October.
Special Note: Builds lifelong global connections through the Rhodes Trust.
2. Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (USA)
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University funds outstanding students from around the globe for PhD and other graduate-level programs. Designed to foster a multidisciplinary and leadership-driven environment, the program emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and community impact. Scholars benefit from full financial support as well as additional enrichment activities to enhance personal and professional growth.
Coverage: Tuition fees, living stipend, academic expenses, and travel allowance.
Eligibility: Excellent academics, leadership qualities, and admission into Stanford PhD programs.
Timeline: Applications usually close in October.
Special Note: Offers leadership training and global networking opportunities.
The SINGA Scholarship is a collaboration between Singapore’s universities and research institutes, attracting talented PhD candidates in science, technology, and engineering. The program supports international students, including Indians, to pursue high-level research in one of Asia’s leading innovation hubs. It is especially attractive for those interested in interdisciplinary research with strong industry linkages.
Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, settlement allowance, and airfare.
Eligibility: Excellent academic results in relevant fields, English proficiency, and research interest.
Timeline: Applications close in June and December annually.
Special Note: Provides opportunities to work with world-class researchers in Singapore.
The Vanier CGS program was established by the Canadian government to attract top-tier international PhD candidates. It is known for recognizing academic excellence, research potential, and leadership. That is why, it is among the top fully funded scholarships for Indian Students to study in Canada.
Coverage: CAD 50,000 per year for three years to cover tuition and living costs.
Eligibility: Strong academic record, demonstrated leadership, and high research potential.
Timeline: Applications usually close in November.
Special Note: One of the most generous and competitive PhD scholarships worldwide.
5. MEXT Scholarship (Japan)
The Japanese Government’s MEXT Scholarship is among the most generous awards for international PhD students. It offers Indians the chance to study at top Japanese universities while receiving comprehensive funding. Beyond academics, the program also fosters cultural exchange and deeper ties between India and Japan.
Coverage: Full tuition, monthly living stipend, travel allowance, and preparatory training.
Eligibility: Strong academic performance, age under 35, and research proposal in chosen discipline.
Timeline: Applications open in April via Japanese embassies.
Special Note: Includes intensive Japanese language training for better integration
How to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students in 2025?
To get a fully funded scholarship and win a place to study abroad among Indian students, there should be a good level of preparation and a strategy in this process. It is important to know the procedure of applying to a scholarship grant be it government-funded or a university-type-award.
To increase the possibility of getting a fully funded scholarship to study overseas, pay attention to these fundamental steps that were developed on the basis of researching the eligibility criteria and making a convincing application.
Start Early: Most scholarships open their application windows 8–12 months before the academic intake. Start researching and preparing well in advance.
Use Reliable Platforms: Explore scholarship databases and university websites. Consider platforms like upGrad Study Abroad for updated scholarship alerts, eligibility matching, and application support.
Check Eligibility Criteria: Ensure you meet academic requirements, financial need criteria, and other conditions set by the scholarship provider.
Compete and Submit the Application: Carefully fill out the application form available online and upload all the required documents.
Prepare for the Interview: If your university demands an interview, prepare the questions which are most likely to be asked. Keep your intent and goals clear in your mind. Practice answering questions about your academic journey, career goals, and how the scholarship will benefit you.
Follow up: Keep yourself updated with the notifications by regularly checking emails and scholarship portals.
Accept the Scholarship: If you get selected in the application process, apply and complete further formalities like acceptance procedures, sign agreements, and apply for a student visa.
Common Requirements for Fully Funded Scholarships
Strong academic record (minimum 70–80% or equivalent GPA).
Valid standardized test scores (GRE/GMAT for some, IELTS/TOEFL for English proficiency).
Leadership qualities, extracurricular activities, and community engagement.
Research proposal (for PhD applicants).
Statement of Purpose (SOP) or personal essay highlighting motivation and goals.
Letters of recommendation from professors/employers.
Tips to Increase Chances of Winning a Fully Funded Scholarship
Fully funded scholarships are highly competitive, and selection committees look for more than just academic excellence. To stand out from thousands of applicants, Indian students should strategically plan their profile and applications. Here are some proven tips to boost your chances:
Maintain Consistent Academic Excellence: Aim for a strong GPA or high percentage throughout your studies.
Start Early: Research opportunities and prepare documents at least a year before deadlines.
Craft a Unique SOP/Essay: Clearly convey your career vision, leadership skills, and motivation for studying abroad.
Demonstrate Extracurricular Involvement: Show leadership in clubs, social work, or professional organizations.
Build Research or Work Experience: Particularly valuable for postgraduate and PhD scholarships.
Secure Strong Recommendations: Request recommendation letters from professors or employers who know you well.
Highlight Community Engagement: Many scholarships value candidates contributing positively to society.
Apply to Multiple Scholarships: Diversify applications to maximize chances of selection.
Stay Updated with Deadlines: Missing a deadline can mean losing a golden opportunity.
Prepare for Interviews: Practice answering questions about your goals, achievements, and future plans.
Connect with our experts for booking 1:1 consultation, for understanding the fully funded scholarships better
Conclusion
Securing a fully funded scholarship can completely transform your academic and career journey. With so many opportunities now expanding in 2025, Indian students have a greater chance than ever before to study at top universities without financial stress. By carefully planning your applications, meeting deadlines and highlighting both academic and leadership potential, you can stand out among thousands of candidates. Explore the top fully funded scholarships for Indian students and take the first step toward achieving your global education goals.
FAQs
Which country is best for getting fully funded scholarships?
Countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany and Japan offer the most fully funded scholarships for Indian students. The USA and UK lead in prestigious awards like Fulbright, Rhodes, and Chevening, attracting global talent.
What are fully funded Scholarships for Indian Students after 12th?
Fully funded scholarships after 12th include opportunities like Cornell University Tata Scholarship, Lester B. Pearson Scholarship (Canada), and Harvard financial aid programs. These cover tuition, accommodation, and living expenses for undergraduates.
What is Gates Cambridge Scholarship for and what does it cover?
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship funds outstanding international students pursuing postgraduate or PhD degrees at the University of Cambridge. It covers tuition, living costs, airfare, and academic expenses, making it one of the most prestigious global awards.
Which fully funded Scholarship is easiest to get?
No scholarship is “easy” to get, as most are highly competitive. However, country-specific awards like DAAD (Germany) or MEXT (Japan) have higher acceptance rates compared to elite ones like Rhodes or Gates Cambridge.
Can I get fully funded Scholarships without IELTS?
Yes, there are scholarships where IELTS requirement or any other English proficiency test requirement is not considered. This is all on the condition of giving the evidence of education in English medium. Some German and Japanese universities comes under these types.
Can I apply for multiple fully funded scholarships at once?
Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships at once just to increase the chances of getting selected at one of them. But you can only select one of them. Selecting multiple can be considered as fraudulent act and may cancel all your applications.
Can working professionals apply for fully funded scholarships?
Yes, many scholarships are available for mid-career professionals or those seeking higher education after work experience. They can apply to Chevening Scholarships (UK) which requires at least 2 years of work experience. Or Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships (USA) which are for professionals and researchers and Australia Awards Scholarship.
What is the highest amount of scholarship you can get?
Some fully funded scholarships can amount to over $75,000 per year, covering tuition, living costs, health insurance, and travel. For example, Knight-Hennessy at Stanford and Fulbright in the USA are among the most generous.
How much percentage is required to get a fully funded scholarship?
Most fully funded scholarships require at least 70–80% in academics, along with strong extracurriculars, leadership qualities, and language proficiency. Elite scholarships like Rhodes and Chevening expect top academic scores and holistic achievements.
Do I have to attain the country’s residency for getting fully funded scholarships?
No, residency may even make you ineligible for the scholarship. These scholarships are designed for international students, including Indians. However, you must hold a valid admission offer and meet specific eligibility criteria set by the university or funding body.
What documents are essentially required for getting a fully funded scholarship?
Common documents include academic transcripts, standardized test scores (IELTS/GRE/GMAT), Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation, proof of extracurricular activities, financial documents, and sometimes research proposals for PhD-level scholarships.
How to write an application for fully funded scholarships?
A strong application highlights academic excellence, leadership, community service, and career goals. Write a clear SOP, refine essays to each scholarship, get strong recommendations, and ensure documents are error-free and submitted before deadlines.
upGrad abroad Editorial Team |2858 articles published
We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education ...
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