Government scholarships for Indian students going abroad

Guide to Indian Government Scholarships for Studying Abroad After 12th Grade

Table of Contents for this study abroad blog

Imagine standing at the edge of a vast ocean, with waves of opportunity crashing around you. Each wave represents a dream waiting to be realized. For many Indian students, the dream of studying abroad is like this ocean—exciting yet scary.

The financial side can often pull you back, especially if you’re a student from the middle class staring at the insane tuition and living costs of the US or UK. But, the truth is, studying abroad doesn’t have to be just a dream.

In recent years, more Indian students have gone overseas for education, with a 68% increase in 2022. But, this increase brings challenges, like the rising costs in countries like the USA, UK, and Canada.

Can I Study Abroad After 12th?

Studying abroad opens a world of opportunities, especially if you’re just out of class 12, high school. The Indian Government provides scholarships for these students – but these are relatively unknown (of course no country would want you to leave)  They cover tuition or living costs. 

  • International schools have top-notch facilities, faculty and a wide range of programs.
  • These programs are designed to prepare you for the global job market.
  •  It’s not just about getting a degree. You can build International connections that will be a lifelong asset. 

Join us as we explore how we can get you abroad without breaking the bank 😉 

You’ll learn about the eligibility and how to apply. Let’s start your study abroad journey with confidence!

Key Takeaways

  • The surge of 68% in Indian students studying abroad reflects growing opportunities.
  • Government scholarships play a crucial role in making education accessible.
  • Various scholarships are offered at regional levels across India, targeted at specific demographics.
  • Understanding eligibility and application processes can substantially improve your chances of receiving a scholarship.
  • A wide array of study destinations opens up unique educational experiences.
Ornate University setting, dream college for Indian student studying abroad

Can I get Scholarships as an Indian Student?

Scholarships are more than just money for many students – they help turn dreams into reality. For Indian students after 12th grade, they make studying abroad easier. They cover tuition, living costs, and travel, easing the financial hurdle so you can focus on your studies and dreams instead!

Do note, that you can only avail of scholarships after a University has accepted you.

  • The Shiksha Sahyog Scholarship gives a 50% preference to female students. The India Fellow Social Leadership Program also supports future leaders with INR 16,000 a month.

These scholarships make education more accessible. They help students from different backgrounds achieve their dreams. 

However, there are so many of them that it gets hard to distinguish genuine scams from scams. That’s where communities come in, join the AFBF community today to learn from the actual experiences of students Abroad, and gain insights together with awesome peers!

And it’s only getting better for Indian students – consider the following :

Over 20% of international students in top destinations like the USA, UK, and Canada hail from India.

Remember, scholarships are more than just money. They open doors to your dreams. Don’t let money stop you.

Student community in the USA all collaborating to make everyone's journey studying abroad easier

Types of Scholarships Offered by the Indian Government

The Indian government has many scholarships for students wanting to study abroad. These scholarships fit different academic goals and qualifications – and it’s helpful to think about them as serving very different purposes

  • Government-funded scholarships are the main type. These scholarships cover tuition, living costs, and travel, making them a great choice for studying abroad.
  • Externally funded Scholarships come from private groups and foundations. These scholarships have their own rules but offer a lot of financial help. 
  • University-Specific Scholarships are another option. Many universities abroad give scholarships to international students, including those from India. For example, the Reach Oxford scholarship gives you a full ride! 

One might also consider Health Insurance packages under Government-sponsored scholarships – But it’s a whole different story in the USA.

To learn more, check out this blog on Health Insurance! We’ll go into all the depth you’ll ever need

Learning about scholarships can make finding funding easier. Think about which type fits your goals best.

Let’s dive into further detail about these scholarship opportunities!

Government Funded Scholarships

Government-funded scholarships are a big help for Indian students wanting to study abroad. They make it easier for students to afford quality education worldwide. These scholarships help students who deserve it, making their dreams come true.

For 2023-24, 125 new scholarships might be given out, if the budget allows. Of these, 115 are for Scheduled Castes, 6 for Denotified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Tribes, and 4 for Landless Agricultural Laborers and Traditional Artisans.

Also, 30% of the scholarships are for women. To apply, you need at least 60% in your class 12th board exams and be under 35 years old by April 1st in the selection year. Your family’s income must also be less than Rs. 8 lakh a year.

Every year, the same number of scholarships are given out, with a slight increase in recent years. For 2023-24, the budget for NOS is Rs. 50 Crore. Last year, Rs. 75.44 crore was spent, showing the growing importance of these scholarships.

The funds go directly to universities or students, making the process smooth. Other such nation-wide schemes include:

  • In the UK, the Great Scholarships give money for postgraduate courses. Winners can get up to USD 10,000 for tuition, living costs, and travel. This makes studying abroad less stressful about money.

Externally Funded Scholarships

If you’re an Indian student dreaming of studying abroad, don’t just look at government support. There are many scholarships from outside that can help. These scholarships can be a big help with your study abroad costs. Let’s check out some top choices for you.

  • TATA Scholarships:
    These scholarships help Indian students abroad. They cover things like tuition and living costs based on your financial situation.
  • Rotary Foundation Scholarships:
    They offer many educational chances for students at different levels. You can study in places like the USA and the UK.
  • Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships:
    This program is very prestigious. It pays for tuition, living costs, health insurance, and travel for master’s or doctoral studies in the USA.
  • S.N. Bose Scholarship:
    Great for those interested in research, this scholarship funds a 10-12 week internship for Indian students at American universities.

University Specific Scholarships

Many international universities offer special scholarships for Indian students. These scholarships can help make studying abroad less expensive. Let’s look at some top options.

  • Cornell University Tata Scholarship
    It gives a lot of financial help to Indian students at Cornell. It covers tuition and living costs. This makes it a great choice for students wanting to study at a top Ivy League school.
  • Chevening Scholarships
    These are given by the UK government. They go to students from all over the world who want to do a one-year postgraduate degree. The scholarship includes tuition, living costs, and travel money. It’s a full package for those who qualify.
  • There are many chances to get university-specific scholarships to help with your studies, known as merit-based scholarships. These scholarships are very important. They help a lot, especially when added to Indian government scholarships for students wanting to study abroad.

Keep an eye out for these scholarships as you plan for your education. Look at as many options as you can.

Eligibility Criteria for Indian Government Scholarships

Understanding the eligibility criteria for government scholarships is key to studying abroad. For Post-12th scholarships for studying overseas, there are several important conditions. These conditions can affect your chances.

  • MOST importantly, if you’re applying for the National Overseas Scholarship (NOS), you must get an unconditional offer letter from a top 500-ranked foreign university, as per QS rankings. So you only get the scholarship AFTER you’re given admission.
  • You must be an Indian citizen living in India when you apply. Your grades matter a lot; you usually need at least 60% in your last exam. If you’re going for a Master’s, you’ll need a Bachelor’s degree. For a Ph.D., you’ll need a Master’s degree.
  • Knowing English well is also crucial. You might need to take IELTS or TOEFL to show your English skills. Get to know these tests better with our free guide on IELTS and TOEFL!
  • There’s an age limit, too; you can’t be over 35 by April 1 of the selection year. Your family’s income also matters; it should not be more than Rs. 8.00 lakh a year. This includes everyone in your family like your parents, siblings, spouse, and kids under 18.

Getting ready for these eligibility criteria for government scholarships in India is a big step towards studying abroad. If you think you qualify, join our free study abroad community, Abroad For Better Future. Connect with other Indian students who are also chasing their global education dreams.

Application Process for Government Scholarships

Learning how to apply for scholarships to study abroad is the first step towards your dream. Getting funding is key to making your dream come true. The process is easy if you know what to do and have all your documents ready.

Preparing Your Scholarship Application

Get your research done! 

Begin by finding scholarships that match your study interests. Learn what each scholarship needs. A strong application shows off your achievements and goals – which gives foreign Universities the green light to fund you as they believe in a more “holistic” approach. 

Essential Documents Required

Make sure you have all that you need for scholarships and education loans. You’ll usually need:

  • Academic transcripts showing your grades and education history. (classes 9-12)
  • Letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors who know you well.
  • A statement of purpose that explains your goals and why you should get the scholarship.
  • Proof of English skills through test scores, if needed.

Having these documents ready makes applying easier and boosts your chances of getting the scholarship. Being well-prepared helps you stand out among many applicants.

Extra Scholarships for Studying Abroad by the Indian Government After 12th

Here are some extra Government of India schemes for studying Abroad, because we care for you 😉

  • The Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarships offer up to USD 100,000 for tuition in specific subjects like math, science, and humanities. These scholarships are very generous and support students in the USA.
  • The Fulbright-Kalam Climate Fellowship focuses on climate change research and studies. It provides stipends, and health benefits, and covers visa fees for doctoral and research projects.
  • The Lady Meherbai D Tata Education Trust helps women with scholarships for social science and public health degrees. These scholarships are important for empowering women through education.
  • For students wanting to study in Australia, the Indian Global Leaders Scholarship offers up to AUD 20,000 for Business, Economics, or Law at Queensland universities.

Tips for Securing Scholarships

Getting a scholarship can feel like climbing a mountain. It looks tough, but with the right advice, you can make it to the top. Do your homework to find all the scholarships you can apply for. 

Plus, by being accepted by the University abroad, you’ve already completed half of the task!

  • Make each application stand out by showing how it fits with your goals and achievements. A generic application might miss the mark.
  • Write a strong personal statement. It should show your love for your field and explain why you’re the best fit. Let your passion really show!
  • Ask for recommendations from people who know your strengths well. Their support adds weight to your application.
  • Keep everything in order as you go. Track deadlines and documents, making sure you don’t miss a thing.

Using these tips can really up your chances of getting a scholarship. Remember, never give up, and every application is a step closer to your dreams. So start today!

In Conclusion: How to get Government Scholarships to go Abroad as an Indian?

Scholarships for studying abroad by the Indian government after 12th grade open doors for students wanting to grow their education. These scholarships help ease the cost of studying abroad. There are many types, like merit-based and need-based, so there’s something for every student.

But, finding the right scholarship takes effort. Start by looking into options early and make sure you qualify. Be thorough with your application. Remember, the competition is tough, but the benefits are huge. The right scholarship can cover everything from tuition to living costs and travel.

If you’re serious about studying abroad, think about joining Abroad For Better Future. It’s a place to meet people who share your goals. You can learn a lot and get advice to help you get a scholarship. Your dream of studying abroad is closer than you think!

AFBF helps in: Indian students collaborating in a study abroad community, exploring options for study abroad after 12th and building connections.
Click here and fill the form to join us! It takes less than 3 minutes 🙂

FAQ

What scholarships are available through the Indian government for studying abroad after 12th grade?

The Indian government offers scholarships like the Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships and Commonwealth Scholarships. These scholarships help students pay for higher education abroad after high school.

How can I apply for scholarships to study abroad?

First, research the scholarships you’re interested in. Make sure you meet the requirements. Then, gather your documents and write a strong application that shows your achievements and goals.

Are there specific scholarships for Indian students pursuing higher education in foreign universities?

Yes! Many universities abroad have scholarships just for Indian students. For example, Cornell University offers the Tata Scholarship, and Chevening Scholarships are for outstanding Indian students.

What are the eligibility criteria for government scholarships for Indian students?

To be eligible, you must be an Indian citizen living in India when you apply. You need to have a certain academic level and show you’re good at English with tests like IELTS or TOEFL.

What types of funding can scholarships cover for Indian students studying abroad?

Scholarships can pay for tuition, living costs, travel, and even loans. This helps students get quality education without worrying about money.

How does the Dr. Ambedkar Scheme of Interest Subsidy work?

The Dr. Ambedkar Scheme helps students from low-income backgrounds by giving them interest subsidies on loans for studying abroad. This makes going to school abroad more affordable for them.

What should I include in my scholarship application?

Include your academic records, letters of recommendation, a strong personal statement, and any other documents the scholarship requires. This will help you stand out.

Are there any external funding bodies that support Indian students studying abroad?

Yes, groups like the TATA and Rotary Foundation offer scholarships to Indian students. These scholarships provide more ways to get financial help for studying abroad.

How can scholarships improve students’ accessibility to higher education?

Scholarships make studying abroad less expensive. This lets students from different backgrounds get quality education. It also helps them grow personally and professionally.

What strategies can I employ to increase my chances of securing a scholarship?

To get a scholarship, do your homework on the available options. Customize your applications to show off your achievements. Write a story that shows your passion for your field.

Abroad For Better Future is an amazing study abroad community for Indians.

We don’t ask MONEY for the information we provide. We aim to help other Indian students in fulfilling their study abroad dreams by providing the right info. If you are a prospective Indian student, you can join our cohorts (WhatsApp groups, it’s FREE) to get access to:

Fill up this form and we will let you know if you are abroad. And if you know anyone interested but confused about how to go abroad, kindly refer us. We would really appreciate your support.

In case you are in doubt about Can You Beat the High Cost of AP Exams?

Feel free to read this: Guide to Indian Government Scholarships for Studying Abroad After 12th Grade

Hope your study abroad dreams get fulfilled and you stay connected with family for Indian students

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