Studying abroad can open new avenues for Indian students but can be costly if you do not plan properly. To tackle the financial barriers in your way, we compiled a list of fully funded scholarships for Indian students to study abroad!

Scholarship Options for Indian Students Abroad

Chevening Scholarships

The UK government offers Chevening Scholarships to brilliant students worldwide, including prospects from India. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, airfare, and grants for essential costs. You can apply if you want to pursue a master’s degree at any UK university. To be eligible, you must be:- 

• A citizen of India
• Have at least two years of work experience
• Hold a bachelor’s degree
• Commit to returning to India for at least two years after completing the scholarship

For the Chevening scholarship, you should focus on showcasing your leadership skills and professional achievements. You should also highlight your future plans, emphasizing how studying in the UK will help you contribute to India’s development. 

Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships 

If you wish to study in the United States, then the Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship is one of the most sought-after fully funded scholarships for Indian students to study abroad. The scholarship covers 100% of tuition fees and supports master’s programs in fields like public administration, economics, environmental studies, and more. It takes care of your tuition and living expenses,  health insurance, and airfare. To be eligible, you must be:- 

• A citizen of India 
• Have at least three years of paid working experience
• Hold a four-year undergraduate degree or equivalent

To qualify for this scholarship, you must show your commitment to societal change and explain how your chosen program aligns with your career goals. Obtaining a strong letter of recommendation from your employer would be crucial too. 

DAAD Scholarships

 The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers a variety of scholarships for Indian students to pursue master’s and doctoral studies in Germany. These scholarships are among the best fully funded scholarships for Indian students to study abroad. The award provides monthly stipends, health insurance, and travel allowances. To be eligible, you must have:-

• A strong academic record
• Meet the language requirements (English or German, depending on the program)
• Relevant work experience for certain program

To score a DAAD scholarship you must have a strong academic record with 85% in your previous degree. You should also highlight your academic achievements and your interest in German culture and education as well as demonstrate proficiency in either German or English. 

Commonwealth Scholarships 

The UK government offers Commonwealth Scholarships to students from Commonwealth countries, including India. These fully funded scholarships cover tuition, travel, and living expenses for master’s and Ph.D. programs. To be eligible, you must:- 

• Be a citizen or a permanent resident of a Commonwealth country
• Hold a bachelor’s degree with a minimum grade requirement 
• Demonstrate financial need and academic excellence

To score a Commonwealth scholarship you must write an engaging personal statement that reflects your goals and how they align with the objectives of the scholarship. Be sure to highlight how your research or studies will benefit your home country.

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships 

This scholarship sustains doctoral students in Canada and is open to international students, including those from India. If you wish to apply, then your Canadian university, which must have a Vanier CGS quota, must nominate you as a doctoral degree student. The award provides funding for up to three years and covers tuition, research, and living expenses. To be eligible, you must:-

• Have excellent academic achievements
• Demonstrate leadership skills
• Pursue research in areas like health, natural sciences, or social sciences

You must work with your prospective supervisor to strengthen your application. Show significant research potential in your chosen field and focus on its quality. 

Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships 

If you are looking to pursue master’s and doctoral degrees at top universities in North America, Europe, and the UK, then the Inlaks Shivdasani scholarship can be your golden ticket. The scholarship will cover both the tuition and living expenses of the award recipients. To be eligible, you must be/have:-

• • An Indian citizen 

• Born on or after 1st January 1995, for the 2025 applications 

• Hold a degree from a recognized university in India. If you are in the final year of graduation and awaiting results, you are eligible to apply
• Hold an admission offer for the target institution and course at the time of the application

A tip to get the Inlak Shivdasani scholarship is to have a stellar academic record. You must also prepare for a rigorous interview process.

Rhodes Scholarship 

An award by the University of Oxford, the Rhodes Scholarship is one of the most prestigious in the world. It covers your full tuition fees as well as offering a monthly stipend for your living expenses and complete airfare. To be eligible, you must be/have:-

• Indian citizens or people of Indian origin
• 18–24 years old
• Completed your undergraduate degree

You need to apply through the Rhodes Trust website and appear for an interview if you make the shortlist. To be eligible you must have a strong academic record, leadership skills, and a passion for making a positive impact on society. 

Concluding Remarks

Studying overseas can be a life-changing experience. While the costs can be hefty, fully funded scholarships for Indian students to study abroad like the ones we run through above provide a pathway to achieve your academic dreams without financial stress. Each scholarship has its own unique eligibility criteria and application processes, so it’s essential for you to plan ahead, focus on showcasing your achievements, and align your goals with the objectives of the scholarship.