Top 7 Study-Abroad Scholarships by the Indian Government in 2025

Introduction

Are you an Indian scholar aspiring to pursue education overseas? Great news awaits to propel you towards your dream! With the rising costs of international education, financial support can make all the difference. That’s why the Government of India offers a range of prestigious scholarships specifically designed to support talented students like you in pursuing higher studies abroad. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and more, opening doors to top global universities. Dive into these 7 Indian Government Scholarships for Studying Abroad and get complete insights on eligibility, benefits, and the application process!

Scholarships offered by the Indian government for studying abroad

Many Indian students dream of studying abroad, and the government helps them accomplish their dreams by providing financial support. If you also have this dream, then keep reading! We have listed some popular scholarships offered by the Indian government for studying abroad. Let’s begin! 

Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships 

The Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships can be claimed by talented and determined Indian students with relevant work experience. These students need to display significant qualities of leadership, in addition to work experience and academic qualifications.

Here are some facts about this government scholarship for students –

• It is a merit-based and need-based program offered by the United States-India Educational Foundation. Please note that the amount is variable and can be renewed yearly. 
• Coverage of accident and sickness costs as per the United States government guidelines. Additionally, this scholarship also funds the round-trip economy class fare.
• Students who have completed a degree equivalent to the United States bachelor’s degree are eligible to receive this scholarship. This includes the completion of a four-year bachelor’s program, master’s program, or postgraduate diploma. 

Read More: Scholarships in the USA | 5 amazing options to choose from!

Great Wall Program Scholarship

If you want to pursue higher education in China, then learn about The Great Wall Program. This scholarship can make it happen for you.  

There are certain things you need to know about this government scholarship to study abroad. These include –

• First, the costs covered by this scholarship include a regular stipend, medical insurance, accommodation, and tuition fees. 
• Second, Students who are less than 45 years of age with a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or equivalent degree can apply for this scholarship.
• Last but not least, this government scholarship program is established by UNESCO for scholars and students seeking sponsorship to conduct research and study in China. 

The JN Tata Endowment – Scholarship For Indian Students For Higher Education 

The JN Tata Endowment Scholarship is one of the most popular scholarship programs. This government scholarship for students is applicable if you are seeking higher education in international universities across the world. 

• The scholarship amount can range from INR 1,00,000 to INR 10,00,000, depending upon the eligibility criteria met by the student. 
• Additionally, scholars can be recommended for a gift scholarship of a value of INR 75,000. Gift scholarships are offered depending on the student’s academic performance at their university.
• However, you will have to repay the scholarship amount in 20% equal instalments. 
• If you are a resident, then repayment can begin between the third and seventh years of your residency. 
• If you start earning before your third year, then you will need to begin repaying the government scholarship amount.

Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme 

The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarships offer students a remarkable opportunity to study in universities in Portugal, France, the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States. Therefore, it is one of the most sought-after Indian government scholarships for studying abroad.

However, you need to keep certain things in mind while seeking this government scholarship to study abroad. 

• Students who avail of this scholarship get a 50% loan and a 50% grant amount. 
• Preference is largely given to applications for Master’s programs. However, for short-term programs like certifications and postgraduate diplomas, you might have to look for other scholarship options.
• The selection process for this scholarship program includes the display of consistent academic effort and excellence. Additionally, you need to prove the genuine requirement for financial support to avail of the scholarship. 

Read: INSPIRE Scholarship: Everything you need to know

Fulbright-Kalam Climate Fellowship 

The Fulbright-Kalam Climate Fellowship program funds researchers working toward climate change-related studies and research. The aim is to accomplish this by promoting the education of technical and scientific research scholars. 

• This program is primarily for Indian scholars who possess a Ph.D. qualification from a recognised Indian institution. 
• This government scholarship supports Indian researchers who are beginning their careers and require financial resources to sustain their work. But the work needs to specifically pertain to climate studies and related teaching and research activities. 

Besides, this fellowship program is designed to strengthen the relationship between the United States and India. The common goal is to tackle the issue of climate change.

The Lady Meherbai D Tata Education Trust Scholarship 2025

The unique point of the Lady Meherbai D Tata Education Trust Scholarship is that it is specifically for Indian women. This gives them an incredible opportunity to pursue their higher education at a recognised international university. 

If you are thinking of applying for this scholarship, then read some facts about it. 

• This scholarship is applicable to master’s-level programs in countries such as Europe, the United Kingdom, and the United States. 
• You should have a minimum of 2 years of work experience in your field of interest. 
• Additionally, one of the most important documents to receive the benefits of this government scholarship is proof of current finances. 

National Overseas Scholarship Scheme 

Provided by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, the National Overseas Scholarship is one of the best Indian government scholarships for studying abroad for Indian students from economically backwards classes. 

• You can apply for this scholarship if you want to pursue Master’s or Ph.D. level programs in Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States. 
• This scheme covers a wide range of expenses, including travel and medical insurance. 
• Please note that you need to score a minimum of 55% or an equivalent CGPA in your undergraduate program for a Master’s course abroad. 

Key Takeaways 

Choose your scholarship based on your requirements, qualifications, and eligibility criteria. If you want any information on different scholarships, then check out their official websites.

• Additionally, several educational institutions guide students with the government scholarship and visa application processes. 
• For higher education and research scholarships, you can consider the JN Tata Endowment-Higher Education of Indians and the Fulbright-Kalam Climate Fellowship.

These Indian government scholarships for studying abroad can help you fulfil your study abroad dreams. Remember, you are one step closer to realising your goals once your scholarship is approved. Just keep your aspirations high, and you will be able to make the most of this financial support for your studies!

If you need any more information on applying for scholarships or studying abroad, Click here to contact us 

Liked this blog? Read next: Exploring the 8 best MBA scholarships for Indian students.

FAQs 

Question 1- Does the Indian government give scholarships for studying abroad?
Answer– Yes, the Indian government offers various scholarships for Indian students aiming to study abroad, covering a wide range of academic fields and levels.

Question 2- How can I get a 100% scholarship to study abroad?
Answer- To get a 100% scholarship to study abroad, apply for fully funded programs like the Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowship. Meeting eligibility criteria and showing academic excellence can help you secure this comprehensive funding for your education overseas.

Question 3- Are there specific government scholarships for sc students to study abroad?
Answer- Yes, there are scholarships designated explicitly for SC students to study abroad, providing financial assistance for higher education opportunities.

Question 4- Are there scholarships for studying abroad by the Indian government after 12th grade?
Answer- Yes, some government scholarships, such as the JN Tata Endowment Scholarship, cater to students who have completed their 12th grade and wish to pursue higher education abroad.

WRITTEN BY

Aastha

Sr. Content Writer

Aastha Arya is a Senior Content Writer at iSchoolConnect who writes about topics covering study abroad trends, exclusive news updates and prolific college courses. She has a 4-year of experience in this field and also likes to keep tabs on recent events, visa policy changes, and many other concerns that affect international students.

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