The Fulbright U.S. Student Program is currently open and will close on October 7, 2025, at 5 PM Eastern Time.
Study abroad scholarships offer valuable financial support to international students planning to study in countries like the US, UK, Canada, and more. These scholarships are available through both university-specific programs and government-funded initiatives, such as the renowned Chevening Scholarship.
For Indian students, the average tuition fees for studying master’s range from $30,000 to $80,000 ( INR 25.4L to INR 67.6L). Fortunately, study abroad scholarships can cover anywhere between 30% to 50% of these expenses, greatly alleviating the financial burden for both students and their families.
Popular Study Abroad Scholarships for Indian Students
Scholarships are one of the key reasons many Indian students apply to study abroad. With international options like the Fulbright program, students can pursue higher education overseas at a fraction of the total cost.
The US, known for its top universities and broad access, offers the highest number of scholarships to international students, including those from India.
Below are the top study abroad scholarships available for Indian students:
Study Abroad Scholarships in the USA for Indian Students
The US hosts top global universities such as Harvard and MIT, which offer merit-based and need-based scholarships for international students. Indian students can also apply for government-funded options like the Nehru-Fulbright program.
Study Abroad Scholarships in the UK for Indian Students
The UK government offers over 100 scholarships, including Chevening, which provide financial awards as well as additional benefits like networking opportunities. Universities like Oxford and Cambridge also offer their own internal scholarships, such as the Rhodes Scholarship, specifically for international students.
Below are some scholarship opportunities:
Scholarship
Type
Details
Chevening Scholarships
Merit-based, Government-funded
Eligibility: International students (including Indians) with a minimum of 2 years of work experience, applying for one-year UK master's programs
Benefits: Full tuition, airfare, monthly stipend, and other allowances
Study Abroad Scholarships in Canada for Indian Students
The Canadian government has allocated $825 million over five years to fund scholarships, including prestigious programs like the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship. Students can also apply for university-specific scholarships such as the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship at the University of Toronto.
Study Abroad Scholarships in Germany for Indian Students
Germany has a strong public university system where most institutions charge no tuition fees, even for international students. Despite this, students can still apply for scholarships, such as those offered by the DAAD, to cover living expenses.
Additionally, some universities offer their own scholarships, such as the Baden-Württemberg Scholarship at the University of Freiburg.
Study Abroad Scholarships in Australia for Indian Students
The Australian government offers more than 1,500 Australia Awards Scholarships, investing over $270 million to attract top international talent from around the world. Additionally, institutions such as the University of Melbourne offer international undergraduate scholarships to academically high-performing students.
Study Abroad Scholarships in New Zealand for Indian Students
New Zealand is actively attracting international students through fully funded scholarships such as the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships. With a focus on Indian students, the government has recently announced NZD 10,000 (approximately INR 5 lakh) scholarships for high-achieving Indian applicants.
Additionally, there are university-specific scholarships, such as the Tongarewa International Scholarship, offered by Victoria University of Wellington.
Eligibility: Students from developing commonwealth countries for master's and PhD.
Benefits: Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA)
Merit-based, Government-funded
Eligibility: Indian students studying in applicable universities.
Benefits: Financial aid of NZD 260,000 (INR 1.3L)
Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship
(University of Waikato)
Merit-based, University-specific
Eligibility: International graduate and postgraduate students.
Benefits: Up to NZD 15,000 (INR 7.5L) towards tuition fees.
International Student Excellence Scholarship
(University of Auckland )
Merit-based, University-specific
Eligibility: Graduate and post-graduate international students.
Benefits: Awards NZD 10,000 (INR 5L) to cover tuition fees.
Tongarewa International Scholarships
(Victoria University of Wellington)
Merit-based, University-specific
Eligibility: Fee-paying international students.
Benefits: Upto NZD 10,000 (INR 5L) financial aid
International Undergraduate Scholarship
(Lincoln University)
Merit-based, University-specific
Eligibility: International students in undergraduate programs.
Benefits: Financial award of NZD 3,000 (INR 1.5L)
To be eligible for study abroad scholarships in New Zealand, you need to fulfill the following criteria:
Maintain a strong academic record, equivalent to high distinction or top-ranking performance in previous studies.
Have an offer to be enrolled in an approved program at a New Zealand university or institution.
Meet the specific eligibility requirements of the scholarship, including degree level (undergraduate/postgraduate), field of study, and country of citizenship.
Show English language proficiency through recognized tests such as IELTS or PTE Academic.
Submit a personal statement or motivation letter outlining your academic goals, career aspirations, and reasons for selecting New Zealand.
Provide academic references or letters of recommendation, often from lecturers or supervisors.
Meet health and character requirements, including medical clearance and, for some scholarships, a police certificate.
Demonstrate financial need, a commitment to return to your home country, or alignment with development goals (e.g., Commonwealth New Zealand Scholarships).
Submit a viable research proposal aligned with faculty expertise and national priorities (for research scholarships).
Study Abroad Scholarships in France for Indian Students
Every year, France offers scholarships worth over INR 15 crore to Indian students. The French Government and the Franco-Indian Education Trust award more than 500 scholarships annually to meritorious students, including the Charpak Scholarship.
In addition, there are internal university-specific scholarships such as the Émile-Boutmy Scholarship offered by Sciences Po.
Here are some popular scholarships:
Scholarship
Type
Details
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program
Merit-based, Government-funded
Eligibility: International students pursuing masters or doctoral studies in France.
Benefits: Financial award of €1,181 - €1,800 (INR 1.1L - INR 1.7L) per month.
Legrand Empowering Scholarship 2025
Merit-based, Trust-funded
Eligibility:
Indian students applying for a Master’s programme in France
Applicable to fields such as management, science, and engineering
Benefits:
Monthly stipend of INR 59,500
Student visa fee waiver
Charpak Scholarship
Merit-based, Government-funded
Eligibility: Indian/OCI student aged 30 or younger, having completed a bachelor's degree from an Indian higher education institute.
Benefits: Monthly living allowances of €860 (INR 82.4K), visa fee waiver, and discounted meals at €1 (INR 95.8).
Ampère Scholarships of Excellence
(ENS de Lyon)
Merit-based, University-specific
Eligibility: International students enrolled in one of the ENS de Lyon master's programs in sciences, arts, or humanities.
Benefits: €1,000 (INR 95.8K) per month for 12 months
HEC Paris MBA Scholarships for Excellence
Merit-based, University-specific
Eligibility: Every candidate admitted to the MBA program.
Benefits: Financial award of up to 50% of the tuition fees.
Emile-Boutmy Scholarship
(managed by Sciences Po)
Merit-based, University-specific
Eligibility: First-time UG/PG candidates from outside the EU.
Benefits: Financial award between €6,500 - €13,100 (INR 6.2L - INR 12.5L)
Hold a strong academic record, typically with first-class or distinction-level grades in previous qualifications
Be admitted to or applying for a full-time program at a recognized French higher education institution (e.g., university, grande école)
Choose an eligible field of study, as some scholarships are field-specific (e.g., science, engineering, humanities, or arts)
Meet age requirements, where applicable (e.g., under 25 or 30 years old for certain programs like Eiffel or Charpak)
Demonstrate proficiency in the language of instruction
English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) for English-taught programs
French proficiency (DELF/DALF/TCF) if applying to French-taught programs
Submit a motivation letter or statement of purpose, clearly outlining academic goals and reasons for studying in France
Provide letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
For research or PhD scholarships, submit a detailed research proposal that aligns with French academic and research priorities.
Meet specific nationality or residency requirements, depending on the scholarship (e.g., Indian nationals for Charpak).
Not already receiving another major French government scholarship, if applying to government-funded awards (e.g., Eiffel).
Study Abroad Scholarships in Singapore for Indian Students
Singapore has awarded over 950 scholarships to international students, including the prestigious SINGA scholarship, which is a fully funded scholarship in Singapore for international students. Additionally, there are university-funded scholarships, such as the SUTD Global Excellence Scholarship, which covers both tuition fees and living expenses.
For research or PhD scholarships, submit a research proposal that aligns with the university's or research institution's priorities (especially for SINGA).
Meet specific nationality or residency requirements, depending on the scholarship (e.g., SMU-ASEAN Scholarship is for ASEAN nationals).
You must not be receiving another major government-funded scholarship, especially for government-funded awards like SINGA or NTU’s Nanyang President’s Graduate Scholarship (NPGS).
With popular study abroad scholarships explored, let's examine the steps involved in applying for scholarships.
How to Apply for Study Abroad Scholarships?
Applying for a study abroad scholarship is a highly competitive process. Only about 20% to 25% of applicants get selected. This makes it essential to understand the eligibility criteria and tailor your application accordingly.
Proof of language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo scores)
Financial documents (if required)
Step 4: Track Application Deadlines
Create a calendar for each scholarship's opening and closing dates.
Some may close 8–12 months prior to the start of the academic year. So, prepare early.
Step 5: Apply Through Official Portals
Use the official website or university portal to submit your application.
Fill all fields accurately and upload only valid, verified documents.
Step 6: Attend Interview or Further Rounds (if required)
Some competitive scholarships require interviews or additional essays.
Prepare for them in advance by researching likely questions.
Step 7: Monitor Application Status and Results
Check email or applicant portals regularly for updates.
Respond promptly to any communication from the scholarship committee.
With a clear understanding of the application steps, you can avoid delays and improve your chances of securing a study abroad scholarship. Now, let's look at how these scholarships can benefit you.
What are the Benefits of Study Abroad Scholarships?
One of the benefits of studying abroad is the availability of scholarships, which provide more than just tuition fee coverage. They often include academic advantages such as access to top research facilities and career opportunities like internships or networking events.
In some cases, scholarships like the Chevening or DAAD are recognized globally, making your profile more attractive to employers.
Here are the top benefits of study abroad scholarships:
1. Financial Benefits
Reduced Tuition and Living Costs: Scholarships such as the Fulbright (USA) or Vanier (Canada) can cover up to 100% of tuition and provide stipends for living expenses.
Less Reliance on Loans: Many students avoid high-interest education loans through government-funded scholarships like Commonwealth or Erasmus+.
Application Fee Waivers: Some scholarships, like Chevening, also waive application or visa-related fees.
2. Academic Benefits
Access to Top Programs: Scholarships often support entry into highly competitive programs at universities like Oxford, MIT, or the University of Toronto.
Research Funding: Prestigious awards like DAAD (Germany) support academic research and dissertations.
Mentorship & Academic Support: Programs like the Rhodes Scholarship offer ongoing academic guidance and faculty mentorship.
3. Career Advantages
Industry Exposure: Scholarships, such as Chevening, include professional development components and networking opportunities with industry leaders.
Resume Credibility: Employers globally recognize merit-based scholarships as a mark of excellence and leadership.
4. Global Opportunities
Cross-Cultural Exchange: Programs like Erasmus Mundus promote multicultural learning and mobility across multiple countries.
Alumni Networks: Being part of global networks like Fulbright or Commonwealth alumni increases access to international job markets.
Conference & Event Participation: Scholarship holders often get invited to speak or attend global forums, seminars, and workshops.
5. Personal Growth
Independence & Confidence: Managing academics, finances, and daily life abroad builds personal resilience.
Perspective Building: Exposure to diverse ideas, people, and systems promotes critical thinking and adaptability.
Study abroad scholarships offer great opportunities for financial and career support, but small mistakes can impact your chances. Let's explore these common mistakes and tips to avoid them.
Study Abroad Scholarships: Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes
Study abroad scholarships often have specific deadlines and require specific documents, such as essays or financial statements. Failing to submit these within the specified time frame can result in your application being rejected.
Below are some common mistakes in study abroad scholarships and tips to avoid them:
1. Generic Applications
Mistake: Sending the same application to multiple scholarships without personalization.
Tip: Customize each application to reflect how your qualifications align with the specific scholarship's goals and values.
2. Incomplete Documents
Mistake: Missing required documents such as recommendation letters, transcripts, or financial statements.
Tip: Check the scholarship checklist carefully and ensure every document is complete and submitted before the deadline.
3. Ignoring Eligibility Criteria
Mistake: Applying for scholarships without meeting all the eligibility requirements, such as household income.
Tip: Review the eligibility criteria thoroughly to ensure you qualify before applying to avoid wasting time and effort.
4. Weak Personal Statements
Mistake: Submitting a generic, unoriginal personal statement that lacks impact.
Tip: Write a strong, personalized personal statement that clearly outlines your goals, aspirations, and why you're a good fit for the scholarship.
5. Overlooking Small Scholarships
Mistake: Focusing only on high-value scholarships and ignoring smaller, lesser-known ones.
Mistake: Applying on your own without seeking advice or feedback.
Tip: Get feedback from mentors, teachers, or scholarship advisors to improve your application and increase your chances of success.
Once you've identified the mistakes to avoid, it's time to start applying. Let's explore how upGrad can help you identify and apply for study abroad scholarships.
upGrad's Guidance for Securing Scholarships
Applying for scholarships is not easy. It involves selecting the right opportunities and submitting the required documents (e.g., financial documents) within the specified timeframe. upGrad assists you throughout this process, from identifying scholarships to submitting your applications.
Here's how upGrad supports you:
Scholarship Discovery: Study abroad experts help you identify and discover scholarships that align with your profile, preferences, and study abroad goals.
Application Planning and Strategy: You will get step-by-step guidance on creating a solid application strategy, from choosing the right scholarships to planning submission timelines.
Profile Building: upGrad assists you in building a strong academic and extracurricular profile, improving your chances of receiving scholarships.
SOP and Essay Writing Support: It provides personalized coaching to help you write compelling Statements of Purpose (SOPs) and scholarship essays.
Document Review and Feedback: Experts review all your documents, such as transcripts, to ensure everything is in order before submission.
Interview Preparation: You will get coaching on how to present yourself confidently, boosting your chances of securing the scholarship.
Is scholarship selection delaying your study abroad plans? Book a free 1:1 counselling session with upGrad's experts for personalized advice, document preparation, and timely applications!
FAQs
Do I need an offer letter before applying for a scholarship?
While most scholarships do not require an offer letter to apply, some may ask for proof of acceptance to a university as part of their eligibility criteria. For example, scholarships like the Chevening require a conditional offer from a university before applying.
Can I apply for multiple scholarships at once?
Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously. Many scholarships, like Goldwater Scholarship, allow this, and it can increase your chances of receiving funding. However, it’s crucial to ensure that you meet all eligibility criteria for each scholarship and submit all required documents by their respective deadlines.
Do language test scores affect scholarship chances?
Yes, language test scores like TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo play a significant role in scholarship applications. High scores can make you eligible for merit-based scholarships or increase your chances of getting selected. For example, a score of 100 or above on the TOEFL can improve your eligibility for scholarships at top universities in the US and UK.
Are there age limits for study abroad scholarships?
Age limits for study abroad scholarships vary depending on the program. Some scholarships, like the Commonwealth Scholarship, have age restrictions (generally between 25-40 years). However, other scholarships like the Fulbright Program or university-specific ones do not have strict age limits.
When is the best time to apply for study abroad scholarships?
The best time to apply for scholarships is 6 to 12 months before your intended study start date. Most scholarships have deadlines between November and January for fall intake (August-September), so it's wise to start preparing your applications by summer of the previous year.
Do part-time or online students qualify for scholarships?
Most merit-based and government-funded scholarships require full-time on-campus enrollment. However, several programs support part-time or online learners. For instance, the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships are designed for online master’s degrees from UK universities.
Can I lose a scholarship after receiving it?
Yes, scholarships can be revoked after being awarded. Reasons for revocation include failure to maintain required academic performance, violation of university policies, or changing your study program.
Do scholarships cover living expenses and travel costs?
Some scholarships, like the Fulbright or the Erasmus Mundus, offer comprehensive funding that covers tuition, living expenses, travel costs, and health insurance. However, many university-specific scholarships focus only on tuition fees, leaving students to cover their living and travel expenses.
Are scholarships taxable for international students?
In most countries, scholarships are not taxable if they are used for tuition, fees, and required educational supplies. However, if a scholarship covers living expenses, it may be considered taxable income. For example, in the US, scholarships that cover living costs are taxed, whereas those used for tuition are not.
What role do personal essays play in scholarship selection?
Personal essays allow the selection committee to understand your goals, motivation, and suitability for the scholarship. A well-written essay can significantly enhance your chances, especially in competitive scholarships like the Rhodes Scholarship or university merit scholarships.
Can I apply for scholarships if I am already receiving financial aid?
Yes, you can apply for scholarships even if you are already receiving financial aid. In fact, many students apply for additional scholarships to supplement their financial aid. Some scholarships, like Fulbright, can be combined with existing funding, while others may reduce the total amount of financial aid you receive.
Rakhee Talukdar is an edtech expert with five years of experience in the education technology sector, focusing on K-12 and higher education systems in various countries, including Canada, USA, Finland...
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