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The US is home to some of the world's most prestigious universities and colleges, offering top-notch education and research opportunities in a wide range of fields. For Indian students seeking to pursue higher education in the US, the cost of tuition and living expenses can be quite high.
However, there are several scholarship opportunities available to Indian students that can help alleviate the financial burden of studying in the US.
In this guide, we provide an overview of the different types of US scholarships available to Indian students. With the right scholarship, you can make your dream of studying in the US a reality.
Top US scholarships for Indian students
US scholarships for Indian students range from merit-based scholarships to need-based scholarships, and scholarships based on specific areas of study or research. These scholarships can cover tuition, accommodation, textbooks, and living expenses, providing Indian students with a chance to study in the US without incurring significant debts.
Apart from financial support, scholarships also provide Indian students with exposure to a diverse range of cultures, a chance to interact with scholars from different parts of the world, and access to world-class facilities and resources. In this way, scholarships not only help Indian students achieve their academic goals but also contribute to their personal and professional growth.
There are a variety of scholarships available for Indian students to study in the United States. Here are the top US scholarships for Indian students that may be of interest:
1. Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships
The Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship is a program offered by the United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF) in partnership with the U.S. government. It is designed to provide outstanding Indian students with the opportunity to pursue graduate-level education, conduct research, or teach in the United States.
The program offers three types of fellowships:
- Student fellowships: For Indian students who have completed a four-year undergraduate degree and are interested in pursuing a master's or doctoral degree in the United States.
- Scholar fellowships: For Indian scholars, researchers, and professionals who wish to conduct research, lecture, or teach in the United States.
- Professional development programs: Short-term opportunities for Indian professionals in various fields to enhance their skills and knowledge in the United States.
2. Tata Scholarship
The Tata Scholarship is a program offered by Cornell University in collaboration with the Tata Education and Development Trust. The scholarship provides financial assistance to Indian students who have been accepted to Cornell University and demonstrate financial need.
The Tata Scholarship covers the full cost of tuition, fees, room, and board for four years of undergraduate study at Cornell University. In addition, recipients of the scholarship receive an allowance for books and personal expenses, as well as funding for travel to and from India.
The Tata Scholarship is highly competitive, and recipients are selected based on their academic achievement, leadership potential, and financial need, ensuring that only the most deserving students receive this prestigious award.
Also read: Score the best scholarships for Indian students in UK
3. Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship
The Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship is a prestigious fellowship awarded to Indian students who wish to pursue a master's degree at Stanford University. The fellowship is named after the late Dhirubhai Ambani, the founder of Reliance Industries, and is jointly funded by Reliance Industries Limited and Stanford Graduate School of Business.
The fellowship provides financial support for the tuition and living expenses of Indian students who are admitted to the MBA program at Stanford Graduate School of Business. The fellowship covers the full cost of tuition and fees for the two-year MBA program, along with a stipend for living expenses, living expenses, health insurance, and other expenses.
Recipients of the fellowship become part of a vibrant community of Indian students and alumni at Stanford Graduate School of Business and have access to a range of resources and opportunities to support their academic and professional development.
Also read: Top SAT scholarships for international students
4. Mahindra Scholarship
The Mahindra Scholarships are awarded to outstanding Indian students who wish to pursue a master's degree at Harvard University. The scholarships provide financial support for the tuition and living expenses of Indian students who are admitted to any of Harvard's graduate schools.
The scholarships cover the full cost of tuition and fees for the two-year master's program, along with a stipend for living expenses. The scholarships also provide opportunities for professional development and networking with other Indian students and alumni.
In addition to the financial support provided by the scholarships, recipients also benefit from the resources and networks available at Harvard University, including access to world-class faculty, research opportunities, and a global community of scholars and professionals
5. Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship
The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship is a non-degree scholarship program that is offered to mid-career professionals who wish to enhance their leadership skills and professional experience in the US. It is funded by the US Department of State and administered by the Institute of International Education (IIE).
The fellowship covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel expenses for one academic year. The program provides opportunities for professional development through coursework, practical training, and networking.
The Humphrey Fellowship is open to professionals from a wide range of fields, including public policy, administration, and law; urban and regional planning; natural resources, environmental policy, and climate change; agricultural and rural development; economics and finance; education; journalism and communications; and public health.
Also read: How to get a 100% scholarship to study abroad?
6. American-India Foundation (AIF) Fellowship
The American-India Foundation (AIF) Fellowship is a prestigious fellowship program that provides young professionals from India with an opportunity to work with leading non-profit organizations in the US. It is funded by the American-India Foundation which aims to catalyze social and economic change in India by investing in education, livelihoods, and public health initiatives.
The fellowship provides a stipend to cover living expenses, health insurance, and travel costs to and from India and the US. Fellows also have access to a professional development fund, which can be used to attend conferences or other professional development opportunities in the US.
The AIF Fellowship is particularly focused on supporting students who are interested in pursuing careers in fields such as public policy, social entrepreneurship, and development. It aims to develop a new generation of leaders who are committed to creating positive social change in India and strengthening the partnership between the US and India.
Also read: 5 top US scholarships for international students to consider
7. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship is a highly competitive scholarship program that provides funding for postgraduate studies to outstanding Indian students.
The scholarship is awarded on a merit basis, taking into consideration the applicant's academic record, work experience, leadership potential, and commitment to improving the quality of life in their communities.
The scholarship covers tuition, living expenses, and travel costs for students pursuing master's and PhD degrees in any field of study at select universities around the world, including in the United States.
8. Harvard South Asia Institute (SAI) Scholarship
The Harvard South Asia Institute (SAI) Scholarship is a scholarship program that provides funding for Indian students who wish to pursue undergraduate or graduate studies at Harvard University.
The candidates are evaluated based on their academic record, research potential, and leadership potential. The program supports students from all fields of study and provides opportunities for cultural exchange and leadership development.
US scholarships for Indian students provide a fantastic opportunity for Indian students to pursue their academic goals in the US without incurring significant financial burdens. Therefore, Indian students should make use of the available resources and research thoroughly to identify and apply for scholarships that match their academic and career aspirations, enabling them to achieve their goals and contribute positively to their communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular scholarships available to Indian students who wish to study in the US?
Some popular US scholarships for Indian students are Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships, Tata Scholarship, Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship, Mahindra Scholarship, Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship, and American-India Foundation (AIF) Fellowship
How do I apply for US scholarships for Indian students?
The application process for each scholarship varies but typically involves submitting an application form, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and an essay or personal statement. Some scholarships may also require an interview or additional documentation.
