How do I get a scholarship in India to study abroad? 

Updated on Feb 11, 2026

Edvoy can guide you on scholarships, but we don't provide them directly.  
And just a heads-up, scholarships typically won't cover your living expenses.

Studying abroad can feel financially overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure whether scholarships are actually available for Indian students. The truth is, scholarships are available, but getting one takes early planning, the right information, and realistic expectations.

Here’s how scholarships work, what you can actually expect, and how to improve your chances of studying abroad affordably.

Can Indian students really get scholarships to study abroad?

Yes, you can get a scholarship in India to study abroad but they are competitive and limited. Scholarships are offered by governments, universities and private organisations and most are awarded based on academic merit, financial need or a combination of both.

It’s important to understand early on that most scholarships help reduce tuition fees but they usually do not cover full living expenses. Knowing this helps you plan your finances more confidently and avoid last minute surprises.

If you want a detailed breakdown of options, you can explore our guide on how to get scholarship to study abroad scholarship for Indian students.

Types of scholarships available for Indian students

Understanding the different scholarship types helps you apply strategically instead of randomly.

Government scholarships

These are funded by the Indian government or foreign governments and are often merit-based or need-based. They usually have strict eligibility rules and deadlines.

You can explore verified options in our guide on Indian government scholarships for studying abroad.

University scholarships

Many universities abroad automatically consider you for scholarships when you apply for admission. These are often based on your academic profile and course choice.

Scholarships in countries like the USA and UK are particularly competitive, which is why your academic consistency matters.

International and private scholarships

Private organisations and global foundations also offer funding for Indian students, especially for specialised courses and research programmes.

We’ve listed trusted options in International scholarships for Indian students.

What eligibility criteria should you check first?

Before applying, always review eligibility carefully. Missing even one requirement can lead to rejection.

Most scholarships assess:

  • Your academic performance
  • Course and university selection
  • English language proficiency
  • Financial background
  • Quality of your statement of purpose and references

Some scholarships are designed for specific academic levels, such as research degrees. If you’re planning advanced studies, explore PhD abroad with scholarships for Indian students.

Step by step: how you can apply for a scholarship

Following a clear process helps you stay organised and avoid rushed applications.

  1. Shortlist scholarships early
    Start at least 10 12 months before your intake. Early planning increases your chances significantly.
  2. Match scholarships with your profile
    Apply only where you genuinely meet the criteria. This improves success rates and saves time.
  3. Prepare strong documents
    Most applications require academic transcripts, reference letters and a compelling statement of purpose that explains your goals clearly.
  4. Apply before deadlines
    Late applications are usually rejected automatically, regardless of your profile strength.
  5. Prepare for follow-ups
    Some scholarships include interviews or additional documentation requests.

Can you get a 100% scholarship to study abroad?

Fully funded scholarships do exist but they are rare and extremely competitive. These usually cover tuition and sometimes basic living costs and they are awarded to students with outstanding academic or research profiles.

If this is your goal, it’s important to be realistic and prepared. You can learn more in our guide on 100% scholarship to study abroad.

What do scholarships usually cover?

Most scholarships typically cover:

  • Partial or full tuition fees
  • Sometimes accommodation or travel grants

They usually do not cover:

  • Daily living expenses
  • Personal costs
  • Visa and health insurance fees

Understanding this early helps you plan additional funding options and reduces financial stress later.

Common mistakes you should avoid

Many students miss out on scholarships due to avoidable errors.

  • Applying without checking eligibility properly
  • Submitting generic statements of purpose
  • Missing deadlines
  • Assuming scholarships will cover all costs
  • Applying too late in the admission cycle

How Edvoy helps you with scholarships

We don’t provide scholarships directly but we guide you through:

  • Choosing universities that offer strong scholarship opportunities
  • Understanding which scholarships match your profile
  • Planning realistic budgets for studying abroad
  • Preparing stronger applications with clarity and confidence

Our goal is to help you make informed decisions, not false promises.

Do Indian students get any scholarships to study abroad?

Yes, Indian students do receive scholarships every year but competition is high. Applying early and choosing scholarships aligned with your academic profile improves your chances significantly.

Are scholarships available for average students?

Yes, not all scholarships require top grades. Some focus on financial need, background or overall potential, which is why profile-based matching is important.

Can I get a scholarship after graduation?

Yes, scholarships are available for postgraduate courses, including master’s and research programmes. Planning early after graduation gives you access to more options and deadlines.

Read more:

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