Top 10 Scholarships for Indian Students to Study Abroad
For many Indian families, this is the moment when studying abroad suddenly feels out of reach.
But here’s something many students don’t realise.
Every year, thousands of Indian students study abroad with the help of scholarships. Some scholarships cover a part of your tuition fees, while others can pay for almost your entire education, including living expenses, travel, and health insurance.
The challenge isn’t that scholarships don’t exist.
The challenge is that many students either don’t know about them or apply too late.
The good news?
If you’re planning to study abroad , there are several scholarships specifically designed to support talented Indian students.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top scholarships for Indian students, who can apply, what they cover, and practical tips to improve your chances of receiving funding.
Why Scholarships Matter More Than Ever
Studying abroad is an investment.
Depending on the country and course, the total cost of education can range from ₹20 lakh to over ₹1 crore.
While education loans are an option, scholarships can significantly reduce your financial burden.
Apart from financial support, receiving a scholarship also strengthens your academic profile and reflects your achievements, leadership potential, and commitment to your chosen field.
Many universities also consider scholarship recipients for research opportunities, internships, and networking programmes.
In short, scholarships don’t just reduce costs—they open doors.
Types of Scholarships Available for Indian Students
Before exploring specific scholarships, it’s important to understand that not all scholarships work the same way.
Merit-Based Scholarships
Awarded to students with outstanding academic performance, leadership qualities, or extracurricular achievements.
These are among the most competitive scholarships.
Need-Based Scholarships
Designed for students who demonstrate financial need.
Universities may require income proof or financial documents during the application process.
Government Scholarships
Several governments offer scholarships to attract talented international students.
These often cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel, and health insurance.
University Scholarships
Many universities automatically consider international students for scholarships based on their admission applications.
Others require a separate scholarship application.
Subject-Specific Scholarships
Certain scholarships are available only for specific fields such as Engineering, Business, Public Policy, Medicine, Sustainability, or STEM programmes.
Top 10 Scholarships for Indian Students to Study Abroad
1. Chevening Scholarship (United Kingdom)
If you’re planning to pursue a one-year master’s degree in the UK, the Chevening Scholarship is one of the most prestigious options available.
Funded by the UK Government, this scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate strong academic ability, leadership potential, and a commitment to creating positive change.
What It Covers
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly living allowance
- Economy-class airfare
- Visa costs
- Arrival allowance
Best For
Students applying for master’s programmes in the UK.
2. Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowship (United States)
One of the most well-known scholarships for Indian students interested in studying in the United States.
The programme supports outstanding Indian graduates pursuing master’s degrees at selected US universities.
What It Covers
- Tuition fees
- Living expenses
- Health insurance
- Airfare
Best For
Students with strong academic records and leadership experience.
3. Commonwealth Scholarship (United Kingdom)
The Commonwealth Scholarship supports talented students from Commonwealth countries who may not otherwise be able to afford postgraduate education.
What It Covers
- Tuition fees
- Living allowance
- Airfare
- Research grants (where applicable)
Best For
Master’s and PhD students.
4. Australia Awards Scholarships
If Australia is your dream destination, this scholarship can significantly reduce your study expenses.
Funded by the Australian Government, it aims to develop future leaders from partner countries.
What It Covers
- Full tuition fees
- Living expenses
- Airfare
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
Best For
Students interested in postgraduate education in Australia.
5. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's Scholarship (Europe)
Planning to study in multiple European countries?
The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship is one of the most generous scholarships available.
Students study at two or more universities across Europe and receive a joint degree.
What It Covers
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly stipend
- Travel expenses
- Installation allowance
- Health insurance
Best For
Students looking for international exposure across multiple European countries.
6. GREAT Scholarships (UK)
If you’re looking for a scholarship that combines support from the UK Government and leading British universities, the GREAT Scholarships programme is worth exploring.
Offered in partnership with the British Council, these scholarships are available across a wide range of universities and subjects.
What It Covers
- Tuition fee support (usually around £10,000)
Best For
Indian students pursuing postgraduate programmes in the UK.
Pro Tip: Since participating universities change every year, always check the latest list before applying.
7. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
Germany has become one of the most popular destinations for Indian students because of its affordable education and excellent universities.
The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) scholarship supports international students pursuing postgraduate studies and research.
What It Covers
- Monthly living allowance
- Health insurance
- Travel allowance
- Research support (for selected programmes)
Best For
Students applying for Master’s or PhD programmes in Germany.
8. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
If you’re planning to pursue research or doctoral studies in Canada, this is one of the country’s most prestigious scholarship programmes.
The scholarship recognises academic excellence, leadership, and research potential.
What It Covers
- Generous annual funding for doctoral studies
Best For
Outstanding PhD applicants.
9. Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship
One of India’s oldest and most respected private scholarships.
It supports exceptional Indian students pursuing postgraduate education at top universities worldwide.
What It Covers
- Tuition fees
- Living expenses
- Travel assistance
- Other academic expenses
Best For
Students admitted to leading universities in the USA, UK, and Europe.
10. University-Specific Scholarships
One of the biggest mistakes students make is focusing only on famous government scholarships.
In reality, many universities offer generous scholarships specifically for international students.
Examples include:
- University of Melbourne Scholarships
- University of Toronto Scholarships
- Monash International Merit Scholarship
- University of British Columbia Scholarships
- Warwick Chancellor’s Scholarship
- University of Sydney International Scholarships
Some universities automatically consider students for scholarships after admission, while others require a separate application.
Always check the university’s official scholarship page.
Scholarship Opportunities by Study Destination
| Country | Popular Scholarships |
|---|---|
| UK | Chevening, Commonwealth, GREAT, University Scholarships |
| USA | Fulbright-Nehru, University Scholarships |
| Canada | Vanier, Ontario Graduate Scholarships, University Scholarships |
| Australia | Australia Awards, Destination Australia, University Scholarships |
| Germany | DAAD Scholarships |
| Europe | Erasmus Mundus, University Scholarships |
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting a Scholarship
Many students believe scholarships are awarded only to students with perfect marks.
That’s simply not true.
Scholarship committees look at your overall profile, not just your academic score.
Here are a few ways to strengthen your application.
Maintain Strong Academic Performance
Consistent grades always help.
You don’t necessarily need to be a topper, but maintaining a solid academic record improves your chances.
Write a Powerful Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Your SOP is often the deciding factor.
Explain:
- Why you chose the course
- Why you selected that university
- Your career goals
- How the scholarship will help you make an impact
A genuine, well-structured SOP is far more effective than a generic one.
Build Leadership Experience
Scholarship committees value students who have taken initiative.
Examples include:
- Organising college events
- Leading student clubs
- Volunteering with NGOs
- Social impact projects
- Entrepreneurship
Leadership doesn’t always mean holding a title—it means making a meaningful contribution.
Gain Relevant Experience
Internships, research projects, certifications, and work experience help demonstrate your commitment to your chosen field.
Even short-term internships can strengthen your profile.
Prepare for English Language Tests Early
Many scholarships require proof of English proficiency.
Prepare well for:
- IELTS
- TOEFL
- PTE (where accepted)
If your programme requires it, also prepare for exams like:
- GRE
- GMAT
Strong test scores can make your application more competitive.
Turn Your Study Abroad Dream into Reality?
Expert career & study abroad counseling to guide you in making the right choice.