Studying abroad is a lifelong dream for many Indian students. The exposure to world-class education, international networks, and career opportunities makes it a golden chance. But the reality is, overseas education comes with high tuition fees, living costs, and travel expenses. This is where Indian government scholarships for studying abroad step in as a lifeline for deserving students.
The Indian government has introduced several scholarship schemes and fellowships that not only cover tuition fees but also provide allowances for living expenses, airfare, and research costs. Whether you are applying for undergraduate programs, postgraduate degrees, or doctoral research, these scholarships ensure that financial constraints don’t hold you back.
In this blog, we’ll cover the most important Indian government scholarships for studying abroad 2025, their eligibility criteria, benefits, and how to apply.
Why Apply for Indian Government Scholarships?
For many, the question is simple: “does Indian government give scholarships for studying abroad?” The answer is yes — and plenty of them. These scholarships are created to:
- Encourage higher education in leading global institutions
- Support underprivileged students who cannot afford foreign education
- Promote cultural exchange and strengthen India’s global academic presence
- Motivate academic excellence by funding bright and meritorious students
Whether you’re planning for undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral studies, there is a government scholarship for Indian students to study abroad that can match your needs.
Top Indian Government Scholarships for Studying Abroad 2025
Here are some of the most popular scholarships every Indian student should know about:
1. National Overseas Scholarship (NOS)
One of the most recognized government scholarships to study abroad for Indian students, this scheme is designed for students belonging to SC, ST, and minority categories. It covers tuition fees, visa fees, airfare, and living expenses.
2. Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Scholarships
ICCR supports international academic exchanges and provides scholarships at the undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD levels. This program also includes Indian government scholarships for studying abroad undergraduate students.
3. Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships
A prestigious program jointly funded by India and the U.S., this fellowship is highly competitive. It is ideal for students searching how to get scholarship from Indian government to study abroad for advanced courses in the United States.
4. Agatha Harrison Memorial Fellowship
Offered for research at Oxford University, this fellowship is fully funded and provides accommodation, allowances, and university fees.
5. JN Tata Endowment Loan Scholarships
Although loan-based, it supports meritorious students with partial financial assistance. It’s considered when exploring scholarship for Indian students to study abroad by Indian government initiatives.
Scholarships After 12th for Indian Students
Many young aspirants ask, “are there scholarships for studying abroad by Indian government after 12th?” The answer is yes. Some scholarships allow students to pursue undergraduate courses abroad.
For example:
- ICCR Scholarships – Offers undergraduate seats in foreign universities.
- State-Sponsored Schemes – Certain states in India also provide scholarships for studying abroad by Indian government after 12th, especially for merit-based students.
These programs are particularly beneficial for students planning to apply directly after school.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for most Indian government scholarships for studying abroad, students must fulfill the following requirements:
- Be an Indian citizen with a valid passport.
- Maintained strong academic performance in previous studies.
- Meet income-based criteria for need-based scholarships.
- Fall within the age limit specified for each scheme.
- Secure admission in a recognized international university.
If you are exploring how to get scholarship to study abroad for Indian students, the first step is checking whether your academic background matches the eligibility criteria of the chosen program.
Application Process
One of the most common questions students have is: “how to get government scholarship to study abroad?” The process may vary, but the general steps are:
- Research & Choose – Identify scholarships that match your academic and financial background.
- Register Online – Apply through official portals like NOS, ICCR, or other government websites.
- Submit Documents – Upload transcripts, proof of income, Statement of Purpose (SOP), recommendation letters, and passport copies.
- Application Review – Shortlisted candidates may have to attend interviews.
- Scholarship Grant – Selected students receive funding before their departure.
For students asking how to get scholarship from Indian government to study abroad, the golden rule is: apply early and keep all documents ready in advance.
Tips to Increase Scholarship Success
Getting selected for government scholarship for Indian students to study abroad is competitive. Here’s how you can improve your chances:
- Maintain an excellent academic record.
- Work on a well-written SOP that reflects your passion and goals.
- Collect strong recommendation letters from professors or mentors.
- Keep track of deadlines for 2025 applications.
- Apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously.
If you are a school-leaver, look specifically for scholarships for studying abroad by Indian government after 12th and Indian government scholarships for studying abroad undergraduate schemes to secure financial support early.
FAQs
Q1. Does Indian government give scholarships for studying abroad?
Yes, schemes like NOS, ICCR, and Fulbright-Nehru provide support.
Q2. How to get scholarship to study abroad for Indian students?
By applying online through official portals, submitting required documents, and fulfilling eligibility criteria.
Q3. Which government scholarship is best for Indian students to study abroad?
The National Overseas Scholarship and ICCR scholarships are among the most popular options.
Q4. Are there scholarships after 12th?
Yes, several programs provide scholarships for studying abroad by Indian government after 12th to help undergraduates.
Q5. How to get scholarship from Indian government to study abroad in 2025?
Research current schemes, apply early, and ensure you meet the eligibility conditions.
Conclusion
Education abroad is no longer a distant dream for Indian students. With Indian government scholarships for studying abroad, financial barriers can be overcome, giving access to the best global universities. Whether you are applying for postgraduate programs or looking at Indian government scholarships for studying abroad undergraduate, there are ample opportunities in 2025.
