Pursuing higher education abroad has become a dream for many Indian students, offering them the opportunity to gain world-class education, exposure to diverse cultures, and the chance to enhance their career prospects. However, the high cost of studying at foreign universities can be a significant barrier. To alleviate this financial burden, the Indian government offers a range of scholarships specifically aimed at helping Indian students realize their academic goals overseas.
In this article, we will explore the various Indian government scholarships available for studying abroad, covering their eligibility, benefits, and application processes.
List of Top Scholarships for studying abroad by Indian government
1. National Overseas Scholarship (NOS)
The National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) is a flagship scheme by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. This scholarship is aimed at providing financial assistance to students from Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) to pursue Master’s and Ph.D. programs in prestigious institutions abroad.
Eligibility criteria of Scholarships for studying abroad by Indian government
- The candidate must belong to the SC/ST/OBC category.
- The candidate should have secured at least 60% marks in their previous degree.
- The applicant’s family income cannot be more than INR 8 lakhs per year.
- Candidates must have an offer letter or admission confirmation from a recognized university abroad.
Benefits:
- Financial assistance for tuition fees, visa fees, and living expenses.
- The scholarship covers travel expenses and medical insurance.
- The number of awards varies yearly, but usually, 100 students are selected.
Application Process of Scholarships for studying abroad by Indian government
- The application process is conducted online, and students are required to submit documents related to their educational qualifications, income, and caste certificates.
- Financial need and intellectual merit are the main deciding factors.
2. Dr. Ambedkar Scheme for Overseas Scholarships
This scholarship scheme is also offered by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. It is designed to help meritorious students from marginalized communities to pursue higher education abroad in fields like engineering, medicine, and law.
Eligibility:
- The candidate must belong to SC or OBC categories.
- The applicant should have obtained at least 55% marks in their qualifying degree.
The family’s annual income should not exceed INR 8 lakhs.
Benefits of Scholarships for studying abroad by Indian government
- The award pays for living expenses, travel, and tuition.
- Financial assistance is provided for up to three years for Master’s programs and four years for Ph.D. programs.
Application Process:
- Applicants can apply online through the official portal of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
The selection process includes academic merit and socio-economic factors.
3. National Fellowship for OBC Students
Managed by the University Grants Commission (UGC), the National Fellowship for OBC students is designed to provide financial assistance to OBC students to pursue M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs in both Indian and foreign institutions.
Eligibility:
- The applicant needs to be an OBC member.
Applicants must have completed their postgraduate degrees and must have qualified for the National Eligibility Test (NET) conducted by UGC or CSIR.
Benefits:
- The fellowship provides a monthly stipend for living expenses and a contingency grant for study materials.
- A travel allowance is included for international studies.
Application Process:
- Applicants must apply online through the UGC portal.
- Selection is based on NET scores and academic performance.
4. Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Scholarship
The ICCR is a part of the Ministry of External Affairs, providing scholarships to Indian students who wish to study abroad, especially in countries with which India shares strong diplomatic relations.
Eligibility:
- Open to Indian students interested in pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral programs abroad.
- Students must demonstrate academic merit and proficiency in the language of instruction of the host country.
Benefits:
- The scholarship covers tuition fees, airfare, living expenses, and health insurance.
It also provides assistance for accommodation.
Application Process:
- Students must apply through the ICCR website and provide relevant academic documents and a statement of purpose.
Selection is based on academic merit and the diplomatic significance of the host country.
5. The Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship
Although managed in collaboration with the United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF), the Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship receives support from the Indian government. It is one of the most prestigious scholarships for Indian students aiming to pursue higher studies in the United States.
Eligibility:
- Open to Indian citizens holding a Bachelor’s degree.
- Candidates must demonstrate leadership qualities and proficiency in English.
Preference is given to those with work experience in the public or private sector.
Benefits of Scholarships for studying abroad by Indian government
- The fellowship covers tuition, travel expenses, living costs, and health insurance.
- It is applicable for Master’s, Ph.D., and postdoctoral research programs.
Application Process:
- The application process is highly competitive, with students required to submit detailed academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays.
The selection process includes an interview and evaluation of leadership potential.
6. Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships
The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships are offered to exceptional students from India who want to study at leading institutions in the United States, the UK, or Europe. Although it’s not a government scholarship, it works closely with Indian educational institutions and offers support for deserving candidates.
Eligibility:
- Applicants have to be younger than 30.
- Applicants should have received an admission offer from a recognized university abroad.
- The scholarship is merit-based, and academic excellence is a key selection criterion.
Benefits:
- Covers tuition, living expenses, and airfare.
- It also provides additional funding for research and internships.
Application Process of Scholarships for studying abroad by Indian government
- Applicants must submit an online application, including a detailed project proposal and recommendation letters.
- Selection is based on interviews and the quality of the proposal.
7. Swarna Jayanti Fellowships
The Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, offers the Swarna Jayanti Fellowships to Indian students who wish to pursue scientific research abroad. The fellowship is aimed at promoting cutting-edge research in science and technology.
Eligibility criteria of Scholarships for studying abroad by Indian government
- Open to Indian students with a Ph.D. in science or engineering.
- Applicants must be below 40 years of age and demonstrate excellence in research.
Benefits:
- Financial assistance for research, travel, and living expenses.
- The fellowship also covers laboratory expenses and research materials.
Application Process:
- Candidates need to submit their research proposal to the Department of Science and Technology.
Selection is based on the potential impact of the research on science and technology.
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Conclusion
Studying abroad is an incredible opportunity for Indian students, and the Indian government has implemented various scholarships to help deserving candidates overcome financial challenges. From the National Overseas Scholarship to the prestigious Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship, these programs open doors to world-class education and research opportunities. By offering financial assistance and removing barriers, these scholarships ensure that talent and ambition, not economic status, determine a student’s academic future.
Students should carefully review the eligibility criteria and application procedures for each scholarship and apply to the ones best suited to their academic goals. With the right financial support, the dream of studying abroad can become a reality for countless Indian students.
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