A scholarship gives some funding support to attend college based on either academic merit or financial need related to tuition and related expenses, and often provides support related to continuing academic study or post-college activities.
Based on a UNESCO report, in the past three years, funding programs for scholarships around the world have increased 18%, and in specialized fields like AI, climate science, and public health, fellowships have flourished.
Even more encouraging, funding programs like the Fulbright Program and the DAAD Fellowship have established hybrid funding modes that combine funding support with on-site research funding for educational opportunities to support degree completion and post-collegiate work.
Realizing the distinction between scholarship and fellowship funding sources will help students, as well as professionals, select the right funding pathway to achieve their goals.
Understanding the Key Difference Between Scholarship and Fellowship
When it comes to funding your education or career growth, it's crucial to distinguish between scholarships and fellowships.
While scholarships are designed to cover educational expenses, fellowships provide support for advanced research or professional development.
Let’s dive into what makes a scholarship unique and how it can play a vital role in your academic path.
What Is a Scholarship?
A scholarship is a financial award given to students to help cover educational costs. The primary purpose is to make education more accessible by alleviating the financial burden. Scholarships are typically awarded based on merit, need, or specific talents.
Popular scholarship types include merit-based, need-based, and talent-specific, offering financial support for academic, financial, or talent achievements.
A fellowship supports advanced study, research, or career development in specialized fields, focusing on higher-level work. For Indian students and professionals, fellowships offer funding and resources to excel.
Notable types include Research, Teaching, Professional, and Postdoctoral Fellowships, promoting research, growth, and leadership.
Difference Between Scholarship and Fellowship: A Quick Comparison
Scholarships and fellowships are both forms of financial aid, but they serve different purposes. Knowing the distinction can help you choose the best option based on your academic or career aspirations.
Here’s a quick comparison to help you understand how they differ.
Parameter
Scholarship
Fellowship
Purpose
Financial support for education
Financial support for research or professional development
Eligibility
Students (undergraduate, graduate)
Graduate students, researchers, professionals
Funding Source
Universities, government, private bodies
Research organizations, institutions, companies
Duration
Typically, 1 year may cover the entire program
It can range from a few months to several years
Examples
Merit-based, need-based, talent-specific
Research, teaching, professional fellowships
Types of Scholarships and Fellowships Available
There are various types of scholarships and fellowships available, each designed to support different educational and professional goals. Let's explore the most popular options to help you choose the right opportunity.
Popular Types of Scholarships
Scholarships are a valuable opportunity to support your academic journey, whether you're excelling in studies, facing financial challenges, or aiming to pursue specialized education.
With various types available, there’s a scholarship to match your unique needs, goals, and talents.
Here's an overview of the most common types to help you find the right one for your future.
Merit-based Scholarships: Awarded based on academic performance or talent, such as the Rhodes Scholarship (UK) for outstanding students pursuing graduate study.
Need-based Scholarships: DAAD Scholarship given to students based on financial need, like the Need-Based Scholarship Program for post graduate students at Germany
Sports Scholarships: Offered to students excelling in sports, such as the NCAA scholarships for student-athletes in the U.S.
Minority Scholarships: Designed for underrepresented groups, like the U.S. Department of Education’s Pell Grant.
Government-funded Scholarships: Provided by governments for international studies, such as the Chevening Scholarship for postgraduate students in the UK.
Talent-specific scholarships: For skills in areas like music, arts, or sports. Example: Inlaks Scholarship (India/Abroad) – for talent in fine arts, music, or film.
Fellowships are tailored to support your growth in research, academia, or professional development.
Whether you aim to pursue groundbreaking studies, gain expertise, or explore international opportunities, fellowships offer the funding, mentorship, and resources needed to excel.
Popular types of fellowships include:
Research Grants: Support advanced research, like the Marie Curie Fellowship for scientific projects.
Teaching Programs: Fellowships like Teach for India focus on teaching in underserved areas.
Postdoctoral Fellowships: Programs like the Alexander von Humboldt offer advanced research opportunities for PhDs.
Entrepreneurship: Initiatives like Echoing Green support early-stage social entrepreneurs.
Public Policy Fellowships: The Carnegie Fellowship supports research on global policy issues
These fellowships provide international exposure, advancing both academic and professional careers.
Purpose and Target Audience of Scholarships and Fellowships
Scholarships and fellowships serve distinct purposes and are aimed at different groups. While scholarships are designed to support students’ educational expenses, fellowships focus on advancing research, professional growth, or specialized study.
Let’s explore how each of these opportunities caters to specific needs and goals.
Why Are Scholarships Awarded?
Scholarships help you cover tuition or related expenses by recognizing your academic achievements, talents, or financial need.
For example, a study abroad scholarship in 2026 could fund your tuition, allowing you to pursue a STEM degree at a top university without the financial burden.
Why Are Fellowships Awarded?
Fellowships offer funding for your advanced research, projects, or professional development, focusing on skill-building, mentorship, and networking.
For instance, a fellowship could support your research in AI, providing resources and connections to help you drive innovation in your field.
Comparing the Target Audiences of Scholarships and Fellowships
Scholarships and fellowships serve distinct purposes and target different groups at varying stages of their academic or professional journey.
This table breaks down the key differences in their target audiences, helping you determine which funding option is the best fit for your current educational or career goals.
Type
Target Audience
Scholarships
Ideal for students pursuing undergraduate or graduate degree programs
Fellowships
Designed for advanced learners, researchers, or professionals in niche areas
Funding Mechanism and Duration of Scholarships and Fellowships
Scholarships and fellowships differ in funding mechanisms and durations based on their purpose.
Scholarships usually cover a shorter period, such as a semester or degree duration, while fellowships are project-based and may last several years, depending on the work's scope.
Let’s look at their funding and timeframes.
How Are Scholarships Funded?
Scholarships are made possible by a diverse range of funding sources, including governments, universities, non-profit organizations, and private companies.
These sources reduce financial burdens for students and provide access to educational opportunities.
Here are four key sources of scholarship funding:
Government Programs: Scholarships like the Chevening Scholarship (UK) and DAAD Scholarships (Germany) are funded by governments to promote education and global talent exchange.
Non-profits and Foundations: Foundations like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation fund scholarships, including the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, to promote academic excellence and diversity.
Private Companies: Major companies, including Google and Microsoft, provide scholarships to help students pursue careers in specific industries, such as tech, with programs like the Google Generation Scholarship.
Fellowships are supported by various funding bodies, each aiming to help you advance your studies, lead projects, and develop professionally. These often include stipends, research grants, travel allowances, and mentorship.
Here’s how they break down:
Research Organizations: Fellowships like Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (Europe) and NIH Fellowships (USA) fund innovative research across various scientific fields.
Universities: Fellowships such as the Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship (Germany) and Stanford University Fellowships (USA) support postdoctoral researchers and graduate students in advancing their academic pursuits.
Government Grants: Fulbright Fellowships and Commonwealth Fellowships fund international research, teaching, and professional development opportunities.
Philanthropic Foundations: Obama Foundation Fellowship and Ford Foundation Global Fellowship back global leaders focused on social impact and justice initiatives.
Application Processes for Scholarships and Fellowships
The application process for scholarships typically involves submitting academic and financial documentation.
These documents are essential for proving your qualifications and your potential as a scholar, especially when applying for study abroad scholarships in 2026.
Here’s what you need:
Academic Transcripts: These highlight your academic performance, like for the Rhodes Scholarship, where your academic record plays a crucial role in your eligibility.
Financial Statements: Required for need-based scholarships, such as the Harvard Financial Aid Initiative, to assess your financial situation.
Essays: Many scholarships ask for personal statements, like the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, to demonstrate your goals and impact.
Extracurriculars and Leadership: Activities outside the classroom, like in the Coca-Cola Scholars Program, showcase your leadership and community involvement.
For most fellowship programs, a well-crafted proposal is crucial, as it demonstrates your potential to contribute meaningfully to the field, especially in top fellowships for professionals.
Fellowship applications generally require more detailed and specialized documents such as.
Research Proposal: A detailed document outlining your objectives, like for the Marie Curie Fellowships, to show alignment with program goals.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): An updated CV showcasing academic and research achievements, such as for the Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship.
Recommendation Letters: Required for most fellowships, like the Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship, to validate your qualifications.
Work Experience: Relevant experience, such as lab work for the NIH Fellowship, is crucial to demonstrate your expertise.
Tips for Successful Applications
Whether you are applying for a scholarship or fellowship for higher education or aiming for international opportunities, these steps will help ensure that your application stands out.
Tailor Your Application: Customize your materials to match the program’s focus, like highlighting achievements for scholarships or research contributions for fellowships.
Prepare for Interviews: Research thoroughly and practice discussing your goals to make a strong impression, like when applying for the Rhodes Scholarship or Marie Curie Fellowships.
Top Scholarships for Indian Students to Study Abroad in 2026
Whether you're aiming for a master's, PhD, or an undergraduate program, 2026 offers a wide array of scholarship opportunities across top destinations such as the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and Germany. These scholarships help cover tuition, living expenses, and other associated costs.
Let’s explore some of the top scholarships for Indian students in these countries.
Scholarships for Indian Students in the USA
The USA offers a variety of scholarships to Indian students, helping ease the financial burden of education while supporting academic and professional growth.
These scholarships provide opportunities for tuition coverage, living expenses, and valuable networking.
USD 20,000 to USD 50,000 (INR 16.5 Lakhs to INR 41 Lakhs)
Women pursuing graduate/postgraduate studies
Note: INR amounts may vary with exchange rates. Check official sources for updated figures.
Scholarships for Indian Students in the UK
The UK provides a variety of fully funded and partial scholarships, offering Indian students opportunities to pursue higher education with financial support. Below are some of the top scholarships available:
Ready to study in the UK? Explore upGrad’s comprehensive courses that offer expert guidance, top-tier content, and global recognition. Start your journey to and unlock a world of opportunities today!
Scholarships for Indian Students in Canada
Canada is home to numerous scholarship opportunities designed to support Indian students in their academic journey.
From doctoral research funding to graduate study assistance, these scholarships aim to make education in Canada more accessible and rewarding.
Below are some of the top scholarship options available:
Scholarship
Coverage
Eligibility
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
CAD 50,000 (INR 30 Lakhs) per year for three years
Doctoral students in Canadian universities
Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Scholarship
Up to CAD 8,500/per (INR 5 Lakhs) SSRIF Project Grant.
Ready tostudy in Canada? Explore UpGrad’s diverse range of courses tailored to help you succeed in your Canadian education journey. With expert-led programs, you’ll gain the skills needed to excel in your field. Start your Canadian adventure today!
Scholarships for Indian Students in Australia
Australia offers a wide range of scholarships designed to support Indian students in pursuing their education at some of the best universities in the world. These scholarships cover various expenses, including tuition, living costs, and travel.
Below are some of the most popular scholarships available for Indian students:
Germany is a popular destination for Indian students, offering a variety of scholarships that can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying abroad in 2026.
The below scholarships open doors to world-renowned institutions, allowing students to pursue their academic goals without worrying about tuition fees and living costs
Top Fellowships for Indian Students to Study Abroad in 2026
Fellowships provide a unique opportunity for advanced study, research, and professional development. These programs are tailored to support Indian students and professionals pursuing excellence across the globe.
Let’s explore the top fellowships available for Indian students to study abroad.
1. Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships (USA)
This prestigious fellowship supports Indian students, professionals, and artists aiming to study or conduct research in the USA. It focuses on fostering cultural exchange and academic growth.
Coverage
J-1 visa support
Round-trip economy class air travel from fellow’s home city to the host institution in the USA
Funding for tuition and fees, living, and related costs
Eligibility
Indian citizens with at least 3 years of work experience in relevant fields.
Key Areas
Arts, sciences, public health, and more.
2. Chevening Scholarships (UK)
Chevening is designed for emerging leaders and professionals who want to pursue a one-year master’s degree in the UK. It empowers individuals to create global change in their fields.
Coverage
EUR 22,000 (INR 19L) in total
Eligibility
Outstanding professionals with leadership potential.
Key Areas
Global studies, international relations, and more.
3. Humboldt Research Fellowships (Germany)
The Humboldt Research Fellowship is a prestigious opportunity for early-career researchers to pursue long-term, self-designed research projects in Germany.
Coverage
Monthly stipend of EUR 2,670 (INR 2.4L)
Eligibility
Must have completed their doctorate within the last 4 years.
Key Areas
Open to researchers across all academic disciplines.
4. DAAD Research Fellowship (Germany)
DAAD fellowships enable Indian students to conduct cutting-edge research at German institutions. They also support academic excellence in STEM, social sciences, and other disciplines.
Coverage
Monthly stipend of EUR 2,400 (INR 2.1L)
Eligibility
Graduate students with research proposals in STEM or social sciences.
Key Areas
Engineering, social sciences, natural sciences, and more.
Benefits of Scholarships and Fellowships for Career Growth
Scholarships and fellowships are not just financial aid; they are stepping stones to a successful career. Both offer unique advantages that can transform one's academic and professional journey and open doors to unparalleled opportunities.
How Do Scholarships Enhance Career Opportunities?
Scholarships do more than cover your tuition they can shape your career in meaningful ways. Here are a few:
Focus on Academics: With financial stress alleviated, you can focus on excelling in your studies and developing your skills.
Strong Resume: Scholarships highlight your academic achievements, making your profile stand out to employers and top universities.
Networking Opportunities: Many scholarships provide access to alumni, mentors, and industry leaders, opening doors to internships and job prospects.
Access to Prestigious Institutions: Scholarships can make top universities and programs more accessible, offering you a competitive advantage.
Career Credibility: Earning a scholarship showcases your potential and determination, making you an attractive candidate in competitive fields.
How Fellowships Accelerate Professional Development
Fellowships aren’t just funding they’re a chance to fast-track your career. Here’s how fellowships contribute to your professional development.
Networking Opportunities: Fellowships connect you with industry experts, mentors, and peers, expanding your professional network.
Hands-On Experience: You'll gain practical experience working on specialized projects, boosting your credibility and expertise.
Leadership Pathways: The recognition and skills gained through fellowships make you a strong contender for leadership roles in your field.
Choosing the Right Opportunity: Scholarship or Fellowship?
Selecting between a scholarship and a fellowship depends on your academic level, career aspirations, and field of interest. Understanding the below factors will help you make an informed decision to achieve your goals.
Assess your academic level undergraduate, postgraduate, or professional and align it with your career goals.
Research the availability of scholarships or fellowships specific to your field of interest and expertise.
Examples of When to Choose a Scholarship
Here are some examples of when to choose a scholarship:
You are an undergraduate student in need of financial assistance to pursue higher education.
You excel academically or in extracurricular activities and seek recognition and support to advance your studies.
Examples of When to Choose a Fellowship
Here are some examples of when to choose a fellowship:
You aim to conduct advanced research or gain niche professional training in your area of expertise.
You are a professional seeking to build your industry-specific skills and enhance career prospects through mentoring and networking.
How upGrad Can Help You Study Abroad in 2026
Planning your academic future or securing funding for higher education can be daunting, but upGrad is here to help. Here’s how upGrad can simplify the process of understanding scholarships vs. fellowships in 2026.
1. Know the Key Differences Get clear insights into scholarships and fellowships, helping you choose the best option for your goals through abroad scholarships.
2. Application Guidance Access expert advice on applying for both, ensuring your applications are strong and meet all criteria.
3. Eligibility Assistance Understand the requirements for various scholarships and fellowships so you know where you stand.
4. Personalized Support Our team will help you find scholarships or fellowships suited to your profile and aspirations with our study abroad with upGrad program.
5. Application Writing Help From drafting essays to polishing your application, we’ll assist you every step of the way while writing your statement of purpose.
6. Post-Application Support Stay on track with follow-ups and explore more opportunities if needed.
6. Top Universities Offering Scholarships with Skills
upGrad partners with leading universities worldwide to offer you both financial support and top-tier academic opportunities.
Here's a look at some universities providing scholarships that can help you achieve your study abroad dreams.
Conclusion
While both fellowships and scholarships provide financial support, their objectives, eligibility criteria, and benefits differ significantly. Scholarships are generally aimed at helping students cover tuition and academic expenses, often based on merit or need.
Fellowships, on the other hand, usually support advanced research, professional development, or specialized projects, often with a stipend and networking opportunities.
With the rise of new funding programs in 2024, students and professionals now have more options than ever to align financial aid with their academic or career goals.
By understanding these distinctions, you can choose the path that best supports your aspirations and maximizes your growth potential.
Book a free counseling session with upGrad and explore scholarships and fellowships that can help you achieve your academic dreams.
FAQs
Will stipends be paid with the fellowships?
Most fellowships offer some stipend to cover living expenses while you are participating in research or training, but the amount and what the amount covers varies across fellowships.
Are fellowships for postgraduates only?
While many fellowships are directed towards postgraduate or doctoral level students, there are fellowships available also for exceptional undergraduate students, especially for academic achievement or academic leadership, and especially if research focused, or the skill/focus of the fellowship is specialized.
Do scholarships cover living costs?
Yes, some scholarships that are fully funded do provide a living allowance especially if the scholarship also covers tuition. However, most scholarships are merit or need-based, so they only cover costs that are associated with tuition, books, general academic costs, but don't typically consider your basic living expenses.
Do all fellowships require work experience?
Not all. Academic fellowships can be admission focused with new graduates, while professional and industry related fellowships typically require candidates to have relevant work experience, portfolios or published research that demonstrate expertise in the field.
Which provides better networking opportunities - fellowships or scholarships?
Fellowships generally provide better networking opportunities than scholarships. Mentorship, conferences and collaboration with experts in the field are all part of either the fellowship, or the topics that will be assessed with the fellowship.
Are scholarships renewable for each year?
Yes, many scholarships can be renewable for multiple years but the student must meet the minimum grades, stay in the same course and one of the eligibility requirements set out by the granting body.
Can international fellowships be accessible for all nationalities?
Most global fellowships are offered to a restricted number of nationalities, usually for specific geographical or partner countries (i.e., European Union, United Kingdom, etc.; however certain fellowships like the United Nations (UN) and global research fellowships may be open to wide-open applications from all worldwide candidates.
How competitive are fellowship programs when compared to scholarships?
Fellowships are typically more competitive due to the programs typically focusing on smaller specialized groups, and including assessments to short-list (i.e., leadership, research or project base, or some other type of skill in addition to academics).
Will I be able to switch from a scholarship to a fellowship at a later date?
Yes, there are no reasons preventing you from applying for fellowships after completing your scholarship funded studies, especially for research projects or professional projects in your field of studies.
Do fellowships require relocation?
Many fellowships require relocation to undertake research projects, fieldwork or training; however, many of these fellowships post-2020 developments have hybrid or a remote format.
Which one is easier to get-scholarship or fellowship?
Scholarships generally have a larger, much less specialized applicant pool, and they have a greater likelihood for someone eligible to be successful than a selective fellowship.
upGrad Abroad Editorial Team |4611 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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