Studying abroad holds a universal appeal for students, particularly in sought-after destinations like the USA, the UK, and Canada. A strategic approach to alleviating financial constraints is securing scholarships post-12th grade, opening doors to world-class education.
Read More: How to Get a Scholarship to Study Abroad
Navigating Global Education
International institutes not only offer cross-disciplinary studies but also boast world-class facilities. Joining these institutions gives Indian students global exposure and access to superior education. Remarkably, over 20% of international students in the USA, the UK, and Canada are Indian.
Types of Scholarships
Scholarships form a diverse landscape strategically designed to alleviate financial burdens for students aspiring to study abroad. This comprehensive guide breaks down scholarships into three primary categories, each crucial in facilitating educational pursuits for Indian students in the USA, the UK, and Canada.
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Talk to an ExpertGovernment-Funded Scholarships
Government-funded scholarships are initiatives supported by the Indian government that aim to provide significant financial support to Indian students pursuing education in renowned international destinations. A few of the examples are listed below:
Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships: A prestigious scholarship enabling Indian students to pursue master's or doctoral degrees in the USA. It covers tuition fees, living expenses, health insurance, and travel allowances.
SN Bose Scholarship: Facilitating science and technology research at select American universities, this scholarship includes stipends, airfare, and health insurance.
Eligibility Criteria
- Indian citizenship.
- Specific academic qualifications, such as a bachelor's degree for Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships.
Application Process
- Online application through designated portals.
- Submission of essential documents, including a statement of purpose and standardized test scores.
Externally-Funded Scholarships
Externally-funded scholarships are sponsored by private organizations, offering additional financial assistance to Indian students pursuing education abroad. A few of the notable options in brief are explained below:
Tata Scholarships: Provided by the Tata Group, these scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel allowances, and other course-related costs. Criteria often include financial need, academic merit, and leadership potential.
Rotary Foundation Scholarships: Extended by the Rotary Foundation, these scholarships cover a range of study levels, including undergraduate, graduate, vocational training, and research studies.
Eligibility Criteria
- Varied, based on specific scholarship programs.
- Emphasis on financial need, academic merit, and leadership potential.
Application Process
- Announcements made on official websites.
- Online submission of applications with supporting documents, including a statement of purpose and standardized test scores.
University-Specific Scholarships
Institutions in the USA, the UK, and Canada directly offer university-specific scholarships. These scholarships underscore the importance of a tailored approach, aligning with each university's specific ethos and offerings. Some of the prominent examples are:
MIT Scholarships: Massachusetts Institute of Technology provides need-based financial aid to international students, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and other course-related costs.
Gates Cambridge Scholarships: A prestigious international scholarship funding graduate study and research at the University of Cambridge in the UK.
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships: Offered by the University of Toronto in Canada, this scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, and other educational costs throughout the undergraduate program.
Eligibility Criteria
- Specific to each university and scholarship.
- They are often based on academic merit, financial need, and a commitment to contributing to the university community.
Application Process
- Standard application procedures for admission to the respective universities.
- Additional application steps for specific scholarship consideration, including research proposals and letters of recommendation.
Similar Topic: Best Scholarships for International Students in the USA
Government-Funded Scholarships
Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships (USA)
This scholarship beckons Indian students pursuing master's or doctoral degrees in the USA, covering tuition fees, living expenses, health insurance, and travel allowances.
Eligibility
- Indian citizenship
- Bachelor's degree from a recognized Indian university
- Standardized test scores (e.g., IELTS minimum band of 6.0)
Application Process
- Online application via the USIEF website
- Submit essential documents, including a statement of purpose and a university offer letter.
SN Bose Scholarship (USA)
This scholarship facilitates science and technology research at select American universities, including stipends, airfare, and health insurance.
Eligibility
- Indian citizenship
- Minimum 60% overall academic record
Application Process
- Submission via the official scholarship portal
- Document submission, including a statement of purpose and standardized test scores.
Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)
The Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP) sponsors Indian students pursuing master's and doctoral degrees in the UK.
Eligibility
- Indian citizenship
- Bachelor's degree for Master's program; Master's degree for Ph.D. program
Application Process
- Online application via the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission's portal
- Submission of academic transcripts, certificates, references, and research proposals.
Chevening Scholarship (UK)
Funded by the UK government, the Chevening Scholarship supports outstanding Indian individuals in pursuing Master's programs.
Eligibility
- Indian citizenship
- Bachelor's degree and a minimum of two years of work experience
Application Process
- Online application through the Chevening Scholarship portal
- Submission of essential documents, including a statement of purpose and standardized test scores.
Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Programme (Canada)
In collaboration with the Canadian government, the CCSP enables Indian students to pursue master's and doctoral degrees in Canada.
Eligibility
- Indian citizenship
- Bachelor's degree for Master's program; Master's degree for Ph.D. program
Application Process
- Apply through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission's online portal
- Submission of academic transcripts, certificates, references, and research proposals.
Externally-Funded Scholarships
TATA Scholarships for Indian Students
Provided by the Tata Group, these scholarships support Indian students studying overseas and in India, covering tuition fees, living expenses, travel allowances, and other course-related costs.
Eligibility
- Varied criteria based on specific Tata scholarship programs
- Emphasis on financial need, academic merit, and leadership potential
Application Process
- Announcement of procedures and deadlines on the Tata Group's official website
- Online submission of application with essential documents.
Rotary Foundation Scholarships
The Rotary Foundation extends scholarships covering tuition, living expenses, accommodation, travel allowance, and other program-related costs for Indian students.
Eligibility
- Strong academic performance and leadership qualities
- Citizenship in countries with Rotary Clubs
Application Process
- Initial contact with local Rotary Clubs
- Submission of documents, including a statement of purpose and standardized test scores.
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation
Supporting Indian students pursuing undergraduate and graduate studies in the USA, the UK, and Canada, the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation covers tuition fees, living expenses, and one-way travel allowances.
Eligibility
- Indian citizenship
- Good academic record and a university offer letter
Application Process
- Online application via the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation portal
- Submission of essential documents, including a statement of purpose and recommendation letter.
- University-Specific Scholarships: Tailored Opportunities for Indian Scholars
MIT Scholarships for International Students (USA)
MIT offers need-based financial aid to Indian students for undergraduate education, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and other course-related costs.
Eligibility
- Indian students applying for undergraduate programs
- Financial aid based on the family's financial resources
Application Process
- Standard application procedure for undergraduate admission at MIT
- An additional application for financial aid post-admission.
Gates Cambridge Scholarship (UK)
A prestigious international scholarship, the Gates Cambridge Scholarship funds graduate study and research at the University of Cambridge for Indian students.
Eligibility
- Strong academic record and a university offer letter
- Application for a full-time graduate degree
Application Process
- Application by deadlines for admission to a full-time postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge
- Separate the Gates Cambridge Scholarship application with research proposals and letters of recommendation.
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto, Canada)
The University of Toronto offers the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship for deserving international applicants pursuing undergraduate programs, including those from India.
Eligibility
- International students, including Indian students
- Good academic record and a university offer letter
Application Process
- Nomination by the secondary school before the school's deadline
- Application submission to the University of Toronto by the deadline for admission.
Conclusion
Scholarships are indispensable tools for aspirants seeking to study abroad, offering merit-based financial aid. Beyond the highlighted opportunities, additional scholarships, such as The Rhodes Scholarship, Narotam Sekhsaria Scholarship, Felix Scholarship, Orange Tulip Scholarship, Tu Delft Holland Scholarship, and UCL Scholarships, beckon those eager to explore further. For a more in-depth understanding of scholarships, delve into our category-specific blog.
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FAQs
Which is the most economical country for higher education for Indian students?
Germany, Taiwan, Mexico, and France are considered economically viable. Denmark, Belgium, and Austria are also budget-friendly options for undergraduate courses.
What are the benefits of studying abroad after the 12th class?
Studying abroad enhances confidence, expands networks, exposes students to diverse learning styles, and provides opportunities for travel and exploration.
Where can I find information about scholarships after the 12th grade?
Explore various educational platforms online and reach out to college and university administrations. Blogs also serve as valuable resources.
What are the best scholarships for Indian students after the 12th grade?
Noteworthy scholarships include Fulbright-Nehru, Commonwealth, Inlaks, and several university-specific scholarships.
What are the essential eligibility criteria for scholarships after the 12th grade?
Criteria typically include academic excellence, leadership potential, extracurricular activities, and, in some cases, standardized test scores.
Do scholarships cover all expenses, including accommodation and travel?
Coverage varies; some scholarships may cover school fees, living expenses, accommodation, and travel, while others have specific conditions.
Can scholarships be used for online or distance learning programs?
Some scholarships support online or distance education, but eligibility criteria and program format should be verified.
Do scholarships consider extracurricular achievements alongside academics?
Some scholarships value extracurricular activities, talents, sports achievements, or creative endeavors.
Can I apply for scholarships if I pursue non-traditional courses or degrees?
Scholars exist for various subjects and non-professional courses, such as fine arts, design, culinary arts, and music.
Can I apply for scholarships after a gap year post-12th grade?
Having a gap year does not necessarily hinder scholarship applications. Reflection on gap year experiences can enhance the application.
Can scholarships cover expenses like health insurance or study materials beyond tuition fees?
Some scholarships may cover additional expenses, including health insurance, study materials, and travel. Reviewing terms and conditions is crucial for clarity.
