Top Study Abroad Scholarships for Indian Students in 2025

Updated on 10 May, 2025

Rakhee Talukdar

Rakhee Talukdar

Global Education Expert

Latest Update

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.

Here are some popular scholarships to study in the USA for Indian students:

Scholarship Type  Details 
Nehru-Fullbright Scholarships

Merit-based

Government-funded

Eligibility:

  • Indian citizens with a Master's degree, strong academic record, and professional experience. 
  • Must return to India after completing studies.

Benefits: Full funding for a Master’s or PhD program in the U.S., including living expenses, airfare, and tuition.

Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships Merit-based, Private-funded

Eligibility: Indian students with outstanding academic records, intending to study in the U.S., UK, or Europe.

Benefits: Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and one-way travel from India to the university.

Cornell University Tata Scholarship  Need-based, University-specific

Eligibility: Indian students who demonstrate financial need and have received admission to Cornell University.

Benefits: Financial aid covering up to the full cost of education for undergraduate programs.

Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship Merit-based, Corporate-funded

Eligibility: Indian citizens applying to an MBA program at Stanford.

Benefits: Full funding for MBA studies abroad, including tuition, travel, and living expenses.

Horace W. Goldsmith Fellowship Merit-based, University-specific

Eligibility: International students admitted to a full-time MBA program at the Graduate School of Business at Stanford University.

Benefits: Covers full tuition and living expenses for two years at Stanford.

Education Future International Scholarship Merit-based, Private-funded

Eligibility: Indian students with excellent academic records who wish to study undergraduate or postgraduate courses abroad.

Benefits: INR 2L - INR 10L in funding towards tuition fees for students pursuing higher education abroad.

Here are some common eligibility criteria considered for study abroad scholarships in the US:

  • Strong academic record, typically with a GPA of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale.
  • Valid standardized test scores like GREGMATSAT, or ACT, depending on program requirements.
  • English language proficiency through TOEFLIELTS, or Duolingo scores.
  • Proof of financial need for need-based scholarships.
  • Well-written Statement of Purpose (SOP) and scholarship essays.
  • Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
  • Evidence of leadership, community service, or extracurricular achievements (especially for merit-based scholarships).

Also Read: Fully Funded Scholarship in USA for International Students

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

Commonwealth Scholarships Merit-based, Government-funded

Eligibility: Commonwealth country students from low-income backgrounds applying for UK master’s or PhD programs.

Benefits: Tuition fees, airfare, monthly stipend, and thesis or travel grants

GREAT Scholarships Merit-based, University-specific

Eligibility: International students, including Indians, pursuing one-year postgraduate programs at participating UK universities

Benefits: £10,000 (INR 11.3L) towards tuition fees.

Rhodes Scholarship Merit-based, University-specific (Oxford)

Eligibility: Exceptional students from specific constituencies (including India), applying for postgraduate study.

Benefits: Full tuition, living expenses of £19,800 (INR 22.3L), visa, and round-trip airfare to the UK

Felix Scholarship Merit-based, University-specific (Oxford)

Eligibility: Indian students with high academic performance.

Benefits

  • 100% of course fees
  • Grant for living cost of £18,300 (INR 20.6L)
  • Return flight from India to the UK. 

To be eligible for study abroad scholarships in the UK, you need to fulfill the following criteria:

  • Hold an offer from a recognized UK university.
  • Demonstrate strong academic performance (usually a first-class or upper second-class degree).
  • Meet English language proficiency requirements (IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo, depending on the scholarship).
  • Submit a compelling personal statement or statement of purpose.
  • Provide relevant work experience or leadership evidence (required for scholarships like Chevening).
  • Be a citizen of an eligible country (varies by scholarship).
  • Fulfill any additional criteria specific to the scholarship (e.g., subject area, financial need).

Also Read: Top 10 UK Scholarships for Indian Students in 2025

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.

Here are some popular scholarships in Canada for Indian students:

Scholarship Type  Details 
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship Merit-based, Government-funded

Eligibility: Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and international students.

Benefits: CAD 50,000 (INR 30.6L) per year for three years for doctoral studies.

Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Scholarships Merit-based, Government-funded

Eligibility: Open to Indian students pursuing higher education in Canada.

Benefits: Cover research funding, travel expenses, tuition fees, and living costs.

Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program Merit-based, Government-funded

Eligibility: International students enrolled in graduate programs at eligible Ontario universities

Benefits: Up to CAD 15,000 (INR 9.2L) per year (for full-time students) to support tuition and living expenses.

Quebec Merit Scholarship Program for Foreign Students Merit-based, Government-funded

Eligibility: Open to international students enrolled in postgraduate studies at eligible universities in Quebec.

Benefits: Covers partial or full tuition fees depending on the scholarship category. 

Lester B Pearson

(University of Toronto)

Merit-based, University-specific

Eligibility: International students who have shown exceptional academic achievements and leadership skills. 

Benefits: Covers full tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four years.

Major Entrance Scholarships 

(McGill University)

Merit-based, University-specific

Eligibility: Students entering a full-time undergraduate degree program at McGill University.

Benefits: Financial award between $12,000 and $48,000 (INR 10.1L - INR 40.6L) for up to 4 years.

By fulfilling the following criteria, you can be eligible for study abroad scholarships in Canada:

  • Maintain a strong academic record, typically equivalent to a first-class or distinction level.
  • Meet the specific eligibility requirements of the scholarship (degree level, field of study, nationality).
  • Provide proof of English or French language proficiency through standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
  • Obtain an offer of admission from a recognized Canadian institution (for most university-linked or government scholarships).
  • Submit a well-written statement of purpose or research proposal if required.
  • Provide academic references or letters of recommendation as specified.
  • Meet any country-specific conditions, such as being a citizen of a partner country (for programs like Vanier or Study in Canada Scholarships).
  • Fulfill any additional requirements such as work experience or leadership involvement (required for certain merit-based awards).

Also Read: Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada for International Students (2025 Admissions)

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.

Here are the top scholarships in Germany for Indian students:

Scholarship Type  Details 
DAAD Scholarship Merit-based, Government-funded 

Eligibility: International students with good academic performance.

Benefits

  • Monthly stipend of €934 - €1300 (INR 89.5K - INR 1.2L)
  • Travel allowance
  • Health insurance
Deutchlandstipandium Government-funded 

Eligibility: German and international students

Benefits: €300 (INR 28.7K) per month

International Student Scholarships

(Technical University of Munich)

Merit-based, University-specific

Eligibility: International students enrolled in bachelor's or master's program.

Benefits: One-time financial aid between €500 (INR 48K) and €1,800 (INR 1.7L) per semester.

Baden-Württemberg Scholarship

(University of Freiburg)

Merit-based, University-specific

Eligibility: International students enrolled at the University of Freiburg.

Benefits: € 600 to € 1,400 (INR 47.5K - INR 1.3L) per month

Hans-Peter Wild Talent Scholarships

(Heidelberg University)

Merit-based, University-specific

Eligibility: Students interested in mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, or technology.

Benefits: €1,000 (INR 95.8K) per month till the end of the course.

To be eligible for study abroad scholarships in Germany, the following criteria must be met:

  • Maintain a strong academic record, usually equivalent to a first-class or distinction level.
  • Meet the specific eligibility criteria of the scholarship (such as degree level, field of study, nationality, or work experience).
  • Provide proof of English or German language proficiency through standardized tests like TOEFL, TestDaF, or DSH.
  • Be admitted to or currently enrolled in a recognized German higher education institution.
  • Submit a well-written motivation letter or statement of purpose outlining your academic goals and career plans.
  • Demonstrate relevant professional experience, especially for postgraduate or research-based funding.
  • Show evidence of leadership skills, extracurricular achievements, or community involvement.

Also Read: Fully Funded Scholarships in Germany for International Students

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.

Here are some popular scholarship for Indian students in Australia:

Scholarship Type  Details 
Australia Awards Scholarships Merit-based, Government-funded  

Eligibility: Students from developing countries in the Indo-Pacific region.

Benefits: Covers full tuition fee, living expenses, flight ticket for travel, and health insurance.

QUAD Fellowship Merit-based, Government-funded 

Eligibility: Residents of QUAD countries or ASEAN countries. Must be graduates in a STEM field.

Benefits: Financial award of $20,000 (INR 17.2L) for academic purposes.

Australia for ASEAN Merit-based, Government-funded 

Eligibility: Students from ASEAN countries enrolling in a master's degree.

Benefits: Financial award to cover full tuition fee, living expenses, flight ticket for travel, and health insurance.

Sydney Scholars India Scholarship Program Merit-based, University-specific

Eligibility: Indian citizen, applied for a postgraduate degree

Benefits: Up to $100,000 (INR 84.6L)

Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship

(University of Melbourne)

Merit-based,  University-specific

Eligibility: International undergraduate students.

Benefits: 25% fee remission

International Student Award

(University of New South Wales)

Merit-based,  University-specific

Eligibility: International students from the notified countries.

Benefits: 15% reduction in annual tuition fees.

Here are some eligibility criteria that must be fulfilled to qualify for study abroad scholarships in Australia:

  • Maintain a strong academic record, usually equivalent to a high distinction or first-class standing.
  • Be enrolled in or have an offer from an Australian university for a full-time course.
  • Meet the specific requirements of the scholarship, such as degree level (undergraduate/postgraduate), field of study, and country of citizenship.
  • Demonstrate English language proficiency through recognized tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.
  • Submit a personal statement or motivation letter, outlining your academic goals and how the scholarship will support your career.
  • Provide references or letters of recommendation from academic or professional contacts.
  • Show leadership potential or community involvement (especially for merit-based scholarships).
  • Meet age and residency requirements, if applicable (some scholarships have age limits or are country-specific).

Also Read: Is It Possible to Study in Australia for Free? Here’s How

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.

Here are some popular study abroad New Zealand scholarship for Indian students:

Scholarship Type  Details 
New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships Merit-based, Government-funded 

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).

Also Read: Fully Funded Scholarships in New Zealand for International Students

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)

The following criteria have to be fulfilled to be eligible for the France scholarships for Indian students:

  • 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.

Here are some must-know scholarships in Singapore for international students:

Scholarship Type  Details 
Lee Kong Chian Graduate Scholarship (NUS) Merit-based, Government-funded

Eligibility: Open to all nationalities, awarded to students with high academic and leadership potential.

Benefits: Full tuition, SGD 3,300 (INR 2.1L) monthly stipend, and research grant.

Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) Merit-based, Government-funded, and multi-institutional

Eligibility: Open to international students with a strong academic background.

Benefits

  • Full tuition fees
  • Monthly stipend of SGD 2,700 – SGD 3,200 (INR 1.7L - INR 2L)
  • Airfare grant  of up to SGD 1,500 (INR 97.1K)
  • Settling-in allowance of SGD 1,000 (INR 64.7K)
Asian Development Bank (ADB) – Japan Scholarship Program Need & merit-based

Eligibility: Citizens of ADB member countries with a bachelor's degree and 2 years of work experience.

Benefits: Full tuition, living stipend, and travel expenses.

SMU-ASEAN Scholarships  Merit-based, University-specific Eligibility: ASEAN Nationals
Benefits: Financial award of SGD 5,000 to SGD 10,000 (INR 3.1L - 6.3L)
SUTD Global Excellence Scholarship Merit-based, University-specific

Eligibility: All students applying to SUTD undergraduate programs.

Benefits

  • Full tuition fee waiver
  • Living allowance of SGD 7,000 (INR 4.5L)
  • Study abroad grant of SGD 9,000 (INR 5.8L)

SMU Global Impact Scholarship

(Singapore Management University)

Merit-based, University-specific

Eligibility: International students with leadership potential and a passion for global impact.

Benefits: Full tuition fee waiver, living allowance, and support for overseas internships. 

If you're aiming to apply for a study abroad scholarship in Singapore, here are some common eligibility criteria you must fulfill:

  • Maintain a strong academic record, typically with first-class or distinction-level grades, particularly for merit-based scholarships such as SINGA.
  • Meet the specific eligibility requirements of the scholarship, such as degree level (undergraduate, master's, or PhD) and field of study.
  • Submit proof of English proficiency through standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL if your previous education was not in English.
  • Be admitted to a full-time program at a recognized Singaporean university (e.g., NUS and Singapore Management University).
  • 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.

Here's how to get scholarship to study abroad:

  • Step 1: Research Available Scholarships: 
    • Start by identifying scholarships offered by universities, governments (e.g. Chevening, Fulbright), and private foundations. 
    • Focus on programs that align with your destination and course.
  • Step 2: Check Eligibility Criteria: Review the academic qualifications, nationality requirements, language scores, and financial conditions. 
  • Step 3: Prepare Required Documents: Gather all necessary documents such as:
    • Academic transcripts
    • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
    • Letters of Recommendation
    • 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.
  • Tip: Apply for smaller scholarships as well, as they could still cover a significant portion of your expenses. For example, the University of Sydney is one of the universities offering 50% scholarship for international students.

6. Not Seeking Guidance

  • 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

Global Education Expert

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, France, and Germany. Her background includes founding a startup and working with early-stage educational ventures, giving her a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities within these educational landscapes. Additionally, Rakhee specializes in helping students craft compelling Statements of Purpose (SOPs) for studying abroad, leveraging her insights into different education systems to guide students in articulating their academic and professional goals effectively. Her comprehensive knowledge and strategic approach make her a valuable resource for students navigating their educational journeys and financial planning.

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