Scholarships and opportunities through Global Study Awards

The Global Study Awards offer a unique opportunity for international students to pursue their educational dreams abroad. Established by a collaboration between Studyportals, the ISIC Association, and the British Council, the Scholarships for Global Study Awards aim to reduce financial barriers to education and promote cross-cultural exchange.

Over 400 students have benefited from the Global Study Awards, gaining access to prestigious institutions worldwide. According to the official website, 93% of recipients reported significant career advancements due to their international education, highlighting the continued impact of the awards.

This blog examines how the Global Study Awards ease financial burdens to make education more accessible and highlights top study abroad scholarships for Indian students in 2025, including eligibility and application tips.

What Are the Global Study Awards and Their Purpose?

The Scholarships for Global Study Awards support ambitious students in pursuing higher education abroad. To apply, students must submit their IELTS Band score, an academic transcript, a motivation letter, and a personal statement that showcases their career goals and leadership potential. Similar scholarships like Chevening (UK), Fulbright (USA), and Erasmus Mundus (Europe) also require strong academics and impactful personal statements.

Here is the overview of the Global Study Awards.

Let's explore who can take advantage of the incredible opportunity that the Global Study Awards offer.

Who Is Eligible to Apply for Global Study Awards?

Students from over 180 countries are eligible to apply for the global study awards, making it a highly accessible opportunity for a diverse pool of international students. Applicants must have a strong academic record, be between 18 and 30, and have received an acceptance letter from a recognized institution. 

For example, a student from India planning to pursue a master's degree in the UK or a Brazilian student aiming for undergraduate studies in Canada can apply if they meet these criteria.

Here, the table shows the eligibility criteria:

Looking for Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students? Unlock life-changing Scholarships and opportunities through Global Study Awards to study abroad without financial stress. Explore top fully funded scholarships tailored for Indian students - covering tuition, living expenses, and more.

Now, let's look at the financial support offered through the Global Study Awards.

How Much Financial Assistance Do Global Study Awards Offer?

The scholarship for Global Study Awards offers students a valuable opportunity to gain financial independence while studying. It can significantly reduce the economic burden of tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses. 

For instance, recipients can save an average of $15,000 (INR 12L) to $30,000 (INR 24L) annually, depending on the country and program. This allows them to focus more on academics, international internships, and extracurricular activities.

Here are the key benefits:

• Generous Funding: Each award offers up to £10,000 (INR 10.5L) to cover tuition fees. If tuition costs are below this amount, the remaining funds can be allocated for living expenses for up to 52 weeks.
• Global Exposure: Recipients can study in diverse international environments, enhancing cultural understanding and broadening perspectives.
• Networking Opportunities: Engagement with a global community of scholars fosters connections that can lead to collaborative projects and career advancements.
• Professional Development: The awards encourage students to develop leadership skills and contribute to intercultural exchange, preparing them for global careers.

The Global Study Awards provide financial support for tuition, travel, and living expenses, making higher education abroad more accessible. This assistance eases financial stress and offers transformative global learning experiences.

Here's a clear, step-by-step guide to ensure you follow all key steps when applying for the Global Study Awards.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Global Study Awards

Securing a Global Study Award can be a life-changing opportunity for students aiming to study abroad. With thousands of applicants each year, following a straightforward application process is essential to stand out. The awards are available in various fields, from engineering and medicine to business and social sciences. 

For instance, in recent years, students from countries like India, Nigeria, and Brazil have successfully used these awards to fund their studies in top destinations like the UK, Canada, and Australia. 

Here is the step-by-step guide:

1. Application Submission

• Description: Begin by completing the online application form available on the official Global Study Awards website. Ensure all personal details, academic information, and program details are accurately provided.
• Deadline: Applications are accepted in four rounds throughout the year. Specific deadlines vary; refer to the official website for the current year's schedule.

2. Document Upload

• Description: Upload necessary documents, including your IELTS Test Report Form (TRF), proof of acceptance into a full-time study program abroad, and a valid ISIC or IYTC card.
• Deadline: Documents must be submitted by the application deadline of the respective round.

3. Personal Statement Submission

• Description: Write and submit a personal statement detailing your career goals, reasons for choosing to study abroad, and how the Scholarships for Global Study Awards will assist you in achieving your objectives.
• Deadline: Submit your statement along with your application and documents.

4. Selection Process

• Description: Each application is reviewed by a panel based on criteria such as academic performance, personal statement quality, and alignment with the scholarship's objectives.
• Timeline: Selection results are typically announced within 4–6 weeks after the application deadline.

5. Award Notification

• Description: Successful candidates will receive an official email notification detailing the award amount and next steps.
• Timeline: Notifications are sent shortly after the selection process is completed.

6. Acceptance and Fund Disbursement

• Description: Accept the award by following the instructions provided in the notification. The scholarship funds will be disbursed directly to the educational institution to cover tuition fees.
• Timeline: Funds are typically disbursed before the commencement of the academic program.

Before applying for the Global Study Awards, it's essential to understand what makes a candidate stand out. The selection committee evaluates applicants based on several core factors beyond academics. Let’s have a look.

Key Selection Criteria for Qualifying for Global Study Awards

The award explicitly recognizes students with high IELTS scores, highlighting the importance of English proficiency for studying abroad. For example, the Commonwealth Scholarship and the Australia Awards also emphasize strong English language skills as a key eligibility criterion.

Here are the selection criteria for qualifying for global study awards:

Securing the Global Study Award is just the beginning—maintaining it requires consistent performance and adherence to specific guidelines. Let’s see what you need to know to keep your scholarship active.

Also Read: How to Get a Scholarship to Study Abroad: A Simple Guide

Important Renewal Requirements for Continuing Global Study Awards

The Global Study Awards (GSA), backed by ISIC, StudyPortals, and British Council IELTS, support outstanding students studying abroad. Like Rhodes and Gates Cambridge Scholarships for Global Study Awards, recipients must uphold values like academic excellence, cultural engagement, and leadership.

Renewal and Continuation Criteria:
Although the GSA is primarily a one-time award, recipients must meet specific ongoing requirements to remain in good standing and qualify for future opportunities.

Planning to pursue undergraduate studies in India? The FAEA Scholarship 2025 offers full financial support for deserving students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Winning the Global Study Award opens doors to some of the world’s most prestigious institutions. Here are the top universities where recipients commonly pursue their studies.

Top Universities That Accept Global Study Awards

The Global Study Awards are recognized by some of the world’s most prestigious universities. For example, universities like the University of Oxford, Stanford University, the University of Toronto, and the University of Melbourne are popular choices among award recipients. 

These institutions consistently rank in the top 50 globally and attract students from over 150 countries yearly. Below is a list of popular universities across various regions, commonly chosen courses, and the advantages of studying at these institutions.

Planning to pursue an MBA in Australia? Don’t let finances hold you back. Explore top MBA scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, and more for international students.

Applying for the Global Study Award is highly competitive, but you can significantly enhance your chances with the right strategy. Below are practical tips to help you craft a standout application.

Practical Tips for Successfully Winning a Global Study Award

Winning a Global Study Award is a remarkable achievement that can significantly enhance your academic and professional prospects. For instance, Priya Sharma from India received this award for studying data science at the University of Edinburgh, using the funding to gain research skills and network with global professionals. 

The scholarship covers educational costs and provides career support through professional development resources.

To enhance your chances of success, consider the following practical strategies:

1. Crafting a Strong Application

• Start Early and Stay Organized: Begin your application process well in advance to ensure ample time for gathering necessary documents, writing essays, and obtaining recommendations.
• Tailor Your Application: Customize each component of your application to align with the specific values and criteria of the Global Study Awards.
• Highlight Academic Excellence: Emphasize your academic achievements, such as GPA, standardized test scores, and relevant coursework.
• Demonstrate Extracurricular Involvement: To present a well-rounded profile, showcase your participation in extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and community service.

2. Writing Impactful Essays

• Tell Your Unique Story: Share personal experiences that have shaped your aspirations and demonstrate your passion for your chosen field of study.
• Be Specific and Authentic. Provide concrete examples of your accomplishments and challenges overcome to ensure your narrative is genuine and relatable.
• Align with Scholarship Goals: Clearly articulate how receiving the Global Study Award will help you achieve your academic and career objectives, and how you plan to contribute to your community or field.
• Proofread and Seek Feedback: Review your essays multiple times and consider seeking input from mentors or peers to ensure clarity and coherence.

3. Acing the Interview

• Understand the Interview Format: Familiarize yourself with the interview structure, whether behavioral, panel, or one-on-one, to tailor your preparation accordingly.
• Practice Common Questions: Prepare responses for typical interview questions, focusing on your motivations, experiences, and goals.
• Use the STAR Technique: Structure your answers by discussing the Situation, Task, Action, and Result to provide clear and concise responses.
• Demonstrate Enthusiasm and Confidence: Express genuine interest in the opportunity and confidence in your abilities, while maintaining humility.
• Ask Insightful Questions: Prepare thoughtful questions for the interviewers, showing your engagement and interest in the program.

Also Read: Explore Scholarships for MBBS Abroad

One of the best ways to understand the impact of the Global Study Award is to learn from those who’ve already walked the path. Here are inspiring success stories of past recipients who made their dreams a reality.

Success Stories: Inspiring Global Study Award Recipients

The Global Study Awards, supported by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge English, have empowered countless students to achieve their dreams of studying abroad.

For example, you can use the award to pursue a master’s degree in Environmental Science at the University of Manchester, transforming your career prospects and becoming an advocate for sustainable development in your community. 

Here are the Notable Success Stories

1. Sharifa Sultana: An assistant professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Illinois, Sharifa Sultana's research focuses on human-computer interaction to design technologies that improve the lives of underserved communities.

2. Colby Silvert: A graduate of the University of Maryland, Colby Silvert's journey underscores the importance of resilience and adaptability in achieving academic and professional goals.

3. Mehrdad Mohammadi: An Illinois graduate student, Mehrdad Mohammadi's experiences highlight the significance of interdisciplinary research and its application in addressing global challenges.

4. David Mock: An Illinois undergraduate student, David Mock's achievements reflect the value of community engagement and leadership in academic settings.

5. Taeghwan Hyeon: A distinguished professor at Seoul National University, Taeghwan Hyeon's groundbreaking research in nanoscience has earned him recognition as one of the "Top 100 Chemists" of the decade by UNESCO.

These success stories illustrate the diverse backgrounds and fields of study of Global Study Award recipients. Their achievements demonstrate the profound impact of international education on personal growth and global contributions.

How upGrad Can Guide You in Winning Global Study Awards

upGrad is committed to helping students like you successfully apply for Scholarships for Global Study Awards. Through tailored guidance, expert mentorship, and comprehensive test preparation, upGrad offers all the support you need to stand out and increase your chances of securing the award.

upGrad offers personalized mentorship and expert test preparation for IELTS, TOEFL, and GRE. They provide strategic guidance on applications and essay writing. With full support, upGrad helps ensure a successful Global Study Award and study abroad journey.

Get personalized guidance on study abroad options, scholarships, visa processes, and university admissions from expert counsellors - Book Your FREE 1:1 Counselling Session with upGrad Today! - and take the first step toward your global education journey.