How to Get Scholarship to Study Abroad: A Simple Guide

Latest update: Nottingham Trent University (UK) has introduced merit-based scholarships for Indian students enrolling in postgraduate programs starting January 2026, offering up to 50% tuition fee coverage. 

How to Get Scholarship to Study Abroad is a question many Indian students ask when planning their international education. Scholarships can cover tuition, living expenses, and even travel costs, making studying abroad more accessible. Understanding the types of scholarships, eligibility criteria, and application process is essential to secure funding for undergraduate, postgraduate, or research programs. 

In this guide, you'll read more about why scholarships matter, the different types available, and the step-by-step process to apply. We’ll also cover how Indian students can find scholarships, tips for getting full or free scholarships, country-specific opportunities, common mistakes to avoid, and additional resources. By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap for successfully getting a scholarship to study abroad. 

Also Check: Top 33+ Study Abroad Scholarships to Help You Fulfill Your Dreams in 2025 

Why Scholarships Matter for Studying Abroad? 

Studying abroad is a dream for many students, but it often comes with a high price tag. Tuition fees, accommodation, travel, and living expenses can quickly add up. This is where scholarships become essential. They make international education more accessible and help students focus on learning rather than worrying about finances. 

Here’s what makes scholarships important: 

• Financial Relief: Scholarships can cover tuition partially or fully, easing the burden of expensive programs. 

• Access to Top Universities: Some scholarships are tied to prestigious institutions, giving students a chance to study at world-renowned universities. 

• Encourages Academic Excellence: Many scholarships reward high academic performance, motivating students to maintain strong grades. 

• Supports Career Growth: Some programs offer mentorship, networking, and internship opportunities along with funding. 

• Reduces Debt: By covering costs, scholarships allow students to avoid heavy student loans and start their careers with financial freedom. 

Types of Support Provided by Scholarships:  

Scholarship Type	What It Covers	Example
Full Tuition	Entire course fee	Rhodes, DAAD
Partial Tuition	Part of the tuition	Chevening, Fulbright
Living Expenses	Accommodation, meals	Erasmus Mundus
Travel Allowance	Airfare and local transport	Australia Awards
Research/Project Grants	Specific research costs	Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship

 Understanding Scholarships to Study Abroad 

Before applying, it’s important to understand what scholarships actually are and how they work. Simply put, a scholarship is financial aid given to students to support their education. Scholarships are different from loans because you don’t have to repay them. For students planning to study abroad, scholarships can make a huge difference by covering tuition, living costs, travel, or even research expenses. 

Key Features of Study Abroad Scholarships 

• Merit-Based: Awarded for academic, artistic, or athletic achievements. 
• Need-Based: Given to students who demonstrate financial need. 
• Government-Funded: Provided by national governments to encourage international education. 
• University-Specific: Offered directly by universities to attract top talent. 
• Private or NGO Scholarships: Sponsored by organizations, foundations, or companies.  

How Scholarships Work for International Students:  

Feature	Description	Example
Coverage	Tuition, accommodation, living allowance, travel	Fulbright, Chevening
Duration	One semester, one year, or full program	Erasmus Mundus
Eligibility	Academic merit, country of origin, field of study	DAAD, Rhodes
Application	Usually includes essays, recommendation letters, and transcripts	UWC, Inlaks Shivdasani

Types of Scholarships to Study Abroad 

When planning to study abroad, it’s important to know that scholarships come in many forms. Understanding the different types of scholarships helps you identify the right opportunities and maximize your chances of success. 

1. Scholarships Based on Funding Source 

• Government Scholarships: Offered by national or foreign governments to encourage international education. Example: Fulbright (USA), Chevening (UK). 
• University Scholarships: Provided directly by universities to attract talented students from around the world. Example: Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship, Oxford Scholarships. 
• Private or NGO Scholarships: Sponsored by organizations, foundations, or companies for specific fields or regions. Example: Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation, Aga Khan Foundation. 

2. Scholarships Based on Criteria 

• Merit-Based Scholarships: Reward students for academic, artistic, or extracurricular excellence. 
• Need-Based Scholarships: Support students who demonstrate financial need. 
• Subject-Specific Scholarships: Target students pursuing specific courses, such as STEM, business, or arts. 
• Country-Specific Scholarships: Reserved for students from particular countries. 
• Research or Project Scholarships: Fund research projects or study in specialized fields. 

3. Scholarships Based on Level of Study 

Level of Study	Type of Scholarships	Example
Undergraduate	Merit-based, Need-based, Country-specific	UWC, Lester B. Pearson (Canada)
Postgraduate	University-specific, Government-funded, Research	Chevening, Erasmus Mundus
PhD / Research	Research grants, Full scholarships	DAAD, Rhodes

How to Get Scholarship to Study Abroad (Step-by-Step Process) 

Getting a scholarship to study abroad may seem overwhelming at first, but breaking it down into clear steps makes it manageable. Following a structured approach can improve your chances of success. 

Step 1: Start Early and Research Opportunities 

• Begin your search at least 12–18 months before your intended program. 
• Use scholarship databases, university websites, and government portals. 
• Create a list of scholarships that match your profile, level of study, and destination country. 

Step 2: Check Eligibility Requirements 

• Look for academic requirements, language proficiency, and field-specific criteria. 
• Some scholarships require community service, leadership experience, or extracurricular achievements. 

Eligibility for each scholarship:  

Scholarship	Academic Requirement	Language Requirement
Chevening	Bachelor’s degree	IELTS 7.0
Fulbright	Bachelor’s degree	TOEFL/IELTS
DAAD	Bachelor’s/Master’s	English/German

Step 3: Prepare Application Documents 

• Common documents include transcripts, a letter of recommendation, a resume, and a statement of purpose (SOP). 
• Keep your documents organized and tailor each application to the specific scholarship. 
• Check formatting and deadlines carefully. 

Step 4: Write a Strong Scholarship Essay 

• Highlight your achievements, goals, and why you deserve the scholarship. 
• Be authentic and concise. 
• Proofread multiple times and get feedback from mentors or peers. 

Step 5: Apply Before Deadlines 

• Submit applications early to avoid last-minute issues. 
• Apply to multiple scholarships to increase your chances. 
• Keep track of submission confirmations. 

Step 6: Prepare for Interviews (if applicable) 

• Some scholarships require an interview or online assessment. 
• Practice answering questions about your academic goals, motivation, and financial needs. 
• Present yourself confidently and professionally. 

Step 7: Follow Up and Stay Informed 

• Track the status of your applications. 
• Respond promptly to any additional requests from the scholarship committee. 
• If unsuccessful, learn from feedback and apply for the next opportunity. 

How to Get a Full Scholarship to Study Abroad 

Getting a fully funded scholarship to study abroad means studying at a world-class university without the financial burden. These scholarships are the most competitive, but also the most rewarding, covering almost every major expense from tuition to housing. With the right mix of academic excellence, leadership, and early planning, you can significantly improve your chances. 

Fully Scholarships Cover:  

Full scholarships are designed to eliminate financial barriers and allow you to focus entirely on your education and experience abroad. While coverage may vary slightly between programs, most of them include: 

Expense Category	What’s Covered
Tuition Fees	100% coverage of academic tuition for the entire duration of the program
Accommodation / Housing	On-campus or approved off-campus housing is fully paid
Travel / Airfare	Round-trip flight tickets from India to the host country
Health Insurance	Comprehensive medical insurance for the study period
Monthly Stipend	Living allowance for food, books, and daily needs
Research or Project Allowance	Additional funding for academic projects or fieldwork (in some cases)

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting Fully Funded Scholarships? 

Winning a full scholarship is all about standing out among thousands of global applicants. Here’s what most successful students have in common: 

1. Maintain an exceptional academic record 
Top scholarships often require at least 90%+ in school or university grades, or a high GPA. Consistent academic excellence shows commitment and ability to handle rigorous coursework. 

2. Show leadership and extracurricular impact 
Full scholarships don’t just reward good marks; they look for individuals who create change, whether through volunteering, student clubs, or social initiatives. 
Example: Organizing a climate awareness campaign or leading a tech club can strengthen your case. 

3. Score high on English and aptitude tests 
Most full scholarships require strong IELTS/TOEFL scores and, for postgraduate programs, a GRE/GMAT score that ranks in the top percentile. These scores demonstrate your academic readiness. 

4. Apply early and strategically 
Early applications give you an advantage; some scholarships operate on a rolling basis. 
Create a shortlist of 5–6 programs that align with your profile and start drafting essays and recommendations at least 6–9 months before deadlines. 

5. Tailor each application 
Avoid sending generic essays. Use each application to show why you fit the program’s values, goals, and vision. The selection committee should clearly see how funding you benefits both you and your community. 

Examples of 100% Fully Funded Scholarships 

Some of the world’s most prestigious scholarships cover all expenses, often including living stipends and leadership training. Here’s a quick comparison: 

Scholarship Name	Country / Region	Coverage
Rhodes Scholarship	UK (University of Oxford)	Full tuition, living stipend (~£19,000/year), airfare
DAAD Scholarships	Germany	Full tuition, monthly stipend (€934), travel, and insurance
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship	France	Full tuition, monthly stipend (€1,181), airfare, insurance
Gates Cambridge Scholarship	UK	Full tuition, stipend (~£20,000/year), visa, airfare
Australia Awards Scholarship	Australia	Full tuition, return airfare, living and health expenses

How to Get Scholarship to Study Abroad After 12th 

Getting a scholarship to study abroad after 12th might sound daunting, but it’s absolutely possible with the right strategy. Many international universities and organizations offer scholarships for high-achieving Indian students who have completed their school education and wish to pursue undergraduate programs abroad. The key lies in planning early, maintaining strong academic performance, and building a well-rounded profile that stands out globally. 

Popular Undergraduate Scholarships 

Several scholarships are designed specifically for students applying straight after high school. These not only fund tuition but also include living expenses, airfare, and even academic resources. Here are some of the most reputed ones for Indian students: 

Scholarship Name	Country	Coverage
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship	Canada	Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence for 4 years
UWC Scholarships	Global (UWC schools in 18+ countries)	Partial or full tuition and boarding
Ashinaga Africa Initiative	Global (for select developing nations)	Full tuition, travel, and living expenses
Global Citizen Scholarship (by MPOWER Financing)	USA/Canada	Up to USD 10,000
Reach Oxford Scholarship	UK	Full tuition, living allowance, and travel
HKUST International Admission Scholarship	Hong Kong	Partial to full tuition waiver

Tips for Class 12 Students to get a Study Abroad Scholarship 

Applying for scholarships while managing school exams can feel like juggling multiple tasks. Here’s how to make it manageable and effective. 

1. Balance Academics and Applications 

• Keep your academic performance consistent; most undergraduate scholarships require a high GPA (typically above 85–90%). 
• Dedicate fixed hours weekly for scholarship research and essay writing. 
• Use a simple calendar or project tracker to stay on top of deadlines. 

2. Build a Strong Extracurricular Profile 

Scholarships aren’t only about grades. They also reward initiative and impact. 

• Get involved in community service, leadership roles, or school projects that reflect your interests. 
• Participate in Olympiads, MUNs, or competitions related to your target field. 
• Keep a record of every achievement you’ll need for your statement of purpose and recommendation letters. 

3. Prepare Early for English Proficiency Tests 

Most scholarships abroad require IELTS, TOEFL, or SAT scores. Begin preparing at least 6–8 months before applications. Early preparation helps avoid last-minute stress. 

4. Get Strong Recommendations 

Ask teachers who know you well, especially those from your final two years, to write your recommendation letters. A detailed, personalized recommendation adds credibility to your application. 

5. Craft a Compelling Personal Statement 

This is where you show who you are beyond grades. Write about your goals, challenges, leadership, and what motivates you to study abroad. Avoid generic statements; keep it personal and sincere. 

Country-Specific Scholarships to Study Abroad (For Indian Students) 

Many countries run scholarship programs that target international students from India. Below are the major options by country, with short, exact details and official links you can use for application or verification. 

USA 

The United States offers scholarships that strongly favour research, leadership, and global impact. For Indian students, programs like the Fulbright-Nehru and Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai provide both prestige and substantial support. These scholarships evaluate academic excellence, potential for contribution, and often include travel or living stipends. Knowing the numbers helps you plan well and compete effectively. 

Key Figures & Stats:  

• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (though Canada, a useful benchmark): CAD $50,000 per year for 3 years for doctoral students.  
• In comparison, many US scholarships for graduate study often grant tuition + stipend but amounts vary broadly depending on institution and program. 

Scholarship in the USA:  

Scholarship	Typical Coverage	Award Amount / Duration
Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship	Tuition, living, travel, research	Varies by university/program; usually covers the full cost of a master’s or research abroad
Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship	Full tuition + living expenses	Covers MBA/Graduate program costs at Stanford (varies yearly)

UK 

For Indian students aiming to study in the UK, fully funded master’s scholarships like Chevening and Commonwealth stand out. These not only support academic costs but also include travel, accommodation, visa, and monthly allowances. Understanding what is included versus what is not helps avoid surprises in budgeting. 

Key Figures & Stats:  

• Chevening Scholarship: approximately £30,000 total value (tuition + living + travel etc.) per scholar.  
• The number of Indian recipients varies, but Chevening typically awards ~50 scholarships to Indian candidates annually.  

Scholarship Table in the UK:  

Scholarship	Typical Coverage	Award Amount / Duration
Chevening Scholarship	Tuition, stipend, travel (to & from UK), visa costs, allowance	~£30,000 for 1 year
Commonwealth Scholarships	Tuition + living expenses	Varies by university; could cover the full cost of the master’s program

Canada 

Canada’s high standard of research funding, especially for doctoral studies, makes it one of the strongest destinations for Indian students seeking full scholarships. The Vanier CGS is particularly notable for the clear criteria and strong financial support it provides. 

Key Figures & Stats:  

• Vanier CGS: CAD $50,000/year for up to 3 years 
• Approximately 166 new Vanier scholarships are awarded each year.  

Scholarship Table in Canada:  

Scholarship	Typical Coverage	Award Amount / Duration
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships	Full tuition + stipend + research costs, etc.	$50,000/year for 3 years (doctoral)

Tips to Get Free Scholarship to Study Abroad 

Getting a free scholarship to study abroad means finding opportunities that cover tuition, living costs, and sometimes additional expenses without requiring repayment. While highly competitive, these scholarships are achievable with the right strategy and preparation. 

1. Start Research Early 

• Begin your search at least 12–18 months before your intended program. 
• Use scholarship databases, university websites, and government portals. 
• Create a list of scholarships that match your profile, level of study, and destination. 

2. Focus on Fully Funded Scholarships 

• Look for programs explicitly labeled as full or fully funded. 
• Examples include Fulbright, Chevening, DAAD, Erasmus Mundus, and Inlaks Foundation. 
• Verify what each scholarship covers: tuition, accommodation, travel, and stipends. 

3. Maintain Strong Academic Records 

• High grades and consistent performance increase eligibility. 
• Merit-based scholarships often require top scores in board exams, undergraduate studies, or entrance tests. 

4. Highlight Leadership and Extracurricular Achievements 

• Many scholarships assess potential beyond academics. 
• Include volunteer work, internships, sports, or club participation in your application. 

5. Prepare a Compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Essays 

• Clearly explain your goals, achievements, and why you deserve the scholarship. 
• Tailor each essay to the scholarship’s values and objectives. 
• Proofread multiple times to avoid errors. 

6. Secure Strong Recommendation Letters 

• Recommendations from teachers, mentors, or employers who know you well can strengthen your application. 
• Provide recommenders with context about the scholarship and your achievements. 

7. Apply to Multiple Scholarships 

• Don’t rely on a single scholarship. 
• Applying to several programs increases your chances of success. 

8. Leverage Online and University Resources 

• Check scholarship portals, newsletters, and social media updates for new opportunities. 
• Universities often have internal fully funded scholarships for international students. 

Common Mistakes Students Make When Applying for Scholarships 

Applying for scholarships to study abroad can be competitive, and small mistakes can reduce your chances of success. Being aware of common errors helps students submit stronger applications and improve their odds of securing funding. 

Common Mistakes Students Make When Applying for Scholarships:  

Mistake	Impact	How to Avoid
Missing Deadlines	Disqualification	Maintain a deadline calendar
Ignoring Eligibility	Waste of effort	Read requirements carefully
Generic Essays	Low engagement	Tailor essays for each scholarship
Poor Documentation	Rejection	Prepare and check all documents
Weak Recommendations	Reduces credibility	Choose recommenders wisely
Overlooking Language Tests	Ineligibility	Schedule and prepare for tests early
Not Showcasing Achievements	Less competitive	Highlight key accomplishments
Applying to a Few Scholarships	Fewer chances	Apply broadly

Conclusion 

Learning how to get scholarship to study abroad is a journey that combines research, preparation, and persistence. From understanding why scholarships matter to identifying the right opportunities, preparing strong applications, and avoiding common mistakes, each step brings you closer to making your international education dream a reality. 

By focusing on eligibility, academic performance, extracurricular achievements, and tailored application essays, students can maximize their chances of obtaining financial support. Whether it’s a full scholarship, country-specific program, or opportunities right after 12th, careful planning and early action are key. 

If you are still unsure about your options, you can book a free counseling session with upGrad and seek professional guidance! We’d be happy to help you figure this out.