Studying abroad is no longer a dream reserved for the elite. With the support of Indian government scholarships for studying abroad, meritorious students from all backgrounds can now unlock global opportunities. These scholarships not only fund tuition fees but also help cover travel expenses, living costs, and sometimes even research allowances. Whether you aim to pursue a master’s, Ph.D., or a research fellowship, this detailed guide explores the top Indian government scholarships for international education in 2025 — and how to secure one.
Why Government Scholarships Matter in 2025
The cost of studying abroad has surged in recent years due to inflation, currency fluctuations, and rising university fees. In such a scenario, government scholarships play a critical role in levelling the playing field. Unlike private scholarships, government funding is more transparent, equitable, and reliable.
Moreover, Indian government scholarships for studying abroad are not limited to academic excellence alone. They also emphasize social inclusion, providing access to students from Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, minorities, and economically weaker sections. As a result, these initiatives help promote equal educational opportunities. By investing in international education, the government also boosts India’s soft power and global academic footprint.
Complete List of Indian Government Scholarships for Studying Abroad
Here are some of the most prominent scholarships offered by or in association with the Indian government in 2025:
National Overseas Scholarship (NOS)
This flagship initiative by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment aims to uplift students from Scheduled Castes, landless laborers, and other marginalized groups.
- Covers tuition, travel, maintenance, visa, and contingency allowance
- Offers up to 100 scholarships annually
- Requires admission into top 500 globally ranked universities
- Family income must be below ₹8 lakhs per annum
JN Tata Endowment for Higher Education
Although technically a loan scholarship, this endowment aligns closely with national educational policies and serves thousands of deserving students.
- Offers up to ₹10 lakhs in the form of a repayable loan at 0% interest
- Includes travel grants and gift scholarships for outstanding applicants
- Requires strong academic background and admission in a reputed global university
Commonwealth Scholarship
Jointly administered with the UK government, this program supports Indian students pursuing higher studies in the UK.
- Fully funded: tuition, airfare, and living stipend
- Offered for Master’s and Ph.D. programs in STEM, development, agriculture, and more
- Application routed through the Ministry of Education
Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship
This Indo-U.S. collaboration is a benchmark for academic excellence and cross-cultural exchange.
- Provides full financial support, including J-1 visa sponsorship
- Available for Master’s, doctoral research, and postdoctoral programs
- Highly competitive and leadership-focused
Agatha Harrison Memorial Fellowship
This post-doctoral opportunity enables one Indian scholar annually to study at Oxford University.
- Open for history, economics, or political science
- Requires a Ph.D. and teaching experience
- Includes a substantial stipend and accommodation
Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarship (Govt-assisted)
While it’s not purely government-funded, it works in close partnership with Indian educational missions.
- Covers full tuition and living expenses for top-tier universities in the U.S., UK, and Europe
- Highly competitive, favoring creativity and non-traditional research fields
Comparison Table of Indian Government Scholarships for Studying Abroad
| Scholarship Name | Target Group | Coverage | Key Requirements |
| National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) | SCs, landless laborers, and marginalized groups | Tuition, travel, maintenance, visa, contingency allowance | Admission in top 500 global universities, family income < ₹8 lakhs, up to 100 scholarships annually |
| JN Tata Endowment for Higher Education | All meritorious Indian students (loan-based) | Up to ₹10 lakhs (0% interest loan), travel grants, gift scholarships | Strong academic record, admission in reputed global university |
| Commonwealth Scholarship | Indian students pursuing higher studies in the UK | Fully funded: tuition, airfare, and living stipend | Master’s or Ph.D. in STEM, development, or agriculture; application via Ministry of Education |
| Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship | Academically excellent and leadership-oriented students | Full financial support including J-1 visa sponsorship | Master’s, doctoral, or postdoctoral; competitive selection process |
| Agatha Harrison Memorial Fellowship | Indian post-doctoral scholars | Substantial stipend, accommodation | Study at Oxford; Ph.D. and teaching experience; field must be history, economics, or political science |
| Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarship (Govt-assisted) | Students applying to top U.S., UK, or European universities | Full tuition and living expenses | Creative or non-traditional fields preferred; highly competitive |
What These Scholarships Typically Cover
Most Indian government scholarships for studying abroad are comprehensive. Depending on the scheme, they may cover:
- Tuition fees (partial or full)
- Economy class airfare (one-way or round-trip)
- Monthly living stipend
- Visa and health insurance fees
- Contingency allowance for books, research, and conferences
Additionally, some scholarships offer perks like language training or dependent benefits. Therefore, always read the fine print on official portals before applying.
How to Qualify: Eligibility Requirements
While each scholarship has its own criteria, most share some common ground:
- Must be an Indian citizen
- Valid admission letter from a recognized international university
- Minimum academic score (often 60%–70% in previous degree)
- Age limit usually under 35–40 years
- Proof of income (for need-based scholarships)
- Valid passport and academic transcripts
In many cases, you may also need a Statement of Purpose (SOP), Language Proficiency Scores (IELTS/TOEFL), and Letters of Recommendation.
How to Apply for Indian Government Scholarships for Studying Abroad
Most applications begin online. Here’s a general guide:
- Choose the right scholarship: Understand the goal, requirements, and funding limit
- Check deadlines: They vary from February to November, depending on the scheme
- Prepare documents: SOP, resume, financial proofs, offer letter, academic records
- Apply through official portals like scholarships.gov.in or usief.org.in
- Track and respond: Stay updated on interview calls, document verification, or corrections
Pro Tip: Always apply for multiple scholarships to improve your odds.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Incomplete applications: Even a missing document can disqualify you
- Generic SOPs: Customize for each scholarship’s goals and themes
- Late submissions: Portals often close automatically at midnight
- Overestimating eligibility: Don’t apply blindly; match your profile to the requirements
- Ignoring interview prep: Some programs have rigorous verbal evaluations
By avoiding these pitfalls, you can significantly improve your success rate.
Pro Tips to Make Your Application Stand Out
- Start early: Give yourself 6–9 months to plan and perfect your application
- Craft a unique story: Explain your purpose for studying abroad and its impact on your community
- Use data and achievements: Quantify your success with ranks, GPAs, or awards
- Practice mock interviews: Especially for Fulbright or NOS applicants
- Seek mentorship: From past scholars, professors, or educational consultants
In fact, including strong references from your academic or professional mentors can add credibility.
Conclusion: Build Your Future, Funded by India
Securing Indian government scholarships for studying abroad isn’t just about reducing your financial burden—it’s about unlocking global exposure, quality education, and a life-changing experience. With strategic planning, strong applications, and the right resources, your dream university is well within reach.
Ultimately, the government of India is investing in its youth—make sure you seize the opportunity.
FAQs on Indian Government Scholarships
Q1. Which is the best Indian government scholarship for studying abroad in 2025?
The National Overseas Scholarship, Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship, and Commonwealth Scholarship are among the top choices due to their wide coverage and reputation.
Q2. Can middle-class students apply for these scholarships?
Absolutely. Many schemes are designed for students from families earning under ₹8 lakh annually, including middle-class applicants.
Q3. Do I need admission before applying for a scholarship?
Yes. Most scholarships require a confirmed admission offer from a top-ranked foreign university.
Q4. Is IELTS or TOEFL mandatory?
For English-speaking countries, proof of English proficiency is often required by both universities and scholarship authorities.
Q5. Can I apply for more than one scholarship?
Yes. However, most programs prohibit receiving funding from multiple government sources simultaneously. So, apply smartly and read guidelines carefully.
