: Pursuing education abroad is an aspiration cherished by numerous Indian students. It is driven by the desire to broaden the horizons, gain international exposure, and acquire a world-class education. The trend of Indian students going for study abroad is once again witnessing significant growth after a hiatus during the Covid pandemic.
According to statistics released recently by the Education Ministry, it has indicated a surge in the count of Indian students pursuing higher studies abroad, reaching 750,365, compared to 4,44,553 students in 2021. The Ministry of External Affairs says, there are approximately 1.3 million Indian students studying abroad in various courses for the year 2022.
While the number of students is increasing, the high cost of education abroad poses a big challenge for many students; and in most of the cases, it becomes a deciding factor also.
While the high tuition fee is one concern area, the living cost is what brings shock to many students who look for an affordable option. For example, the average tuition fee for UG programme in USA and Canada is Rs 40 lakh and Rs 19 lakh respectively. However, the approximate living cost for a four-year course in the two countries is around Rs 48 lakh and Rs 40 lakh respectively.
Given the overall high cost of education for study abroad options, it is advisable for students to explore scholarship opportunities while planning their oversees education dreams. Here are some of the prestigious scholarship opportunities that Indian students must explore to pursue their education overseas.
1. JN Tata Endowment Loan Scholarship
The JN Tata Endowment Loan Scholarship programme is available to Indian students who are willing to pursue their higher studies overseas. It is based only on individual merit, irrespective of caste, creed, religion or any other factor. Candidates are supported wherever they wish to study provided they meet the merit criteria.
Scholarship Award – The loan scholarship amount ranges between Rs1,00,000 and Rs10,00,000 over the period of study.
2. K. C. Mahindra Scholarships for Post-Graduate Studies Abroad
Since 1956, K. C. Mahindra Education Trust has granted interest-free loan scholarships to deserving students to pursue their post-graduate studies overseas in various fields.
The scholarship award carries a maximum of Rs10 lakh per scholar, awarded to the top three K.C. Mahindra Fellows and a maximum of Rs .5 lakh per scholar, awarded to remaining successful applicants.
3. Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships Programme
The Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowship programme is administered by the United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF). It provides funding for Indian students to pursue a Master’s degree in the United States. This program fosters academic excellence and cultural exchange between the United States of America and India.
Scholarship Award – J-1 visa support, round-trip economy class air travel from fellow’s home city to the host institution in the U.S., funding for tuition and fees, living and related costs, and accident and sickness coverage per U.S. Government guidelines.
4. Narotam Sekhsaria Scholarship Programme
The NSF Scholarship Programme is designed for students with academic excellence pursuing postgraduate studies at prestigious institutions in India or abroad. It is entirely a merit-based scholarship programme, awarded to a select few, who meet the high standards defined by the Foundation.
5. Erasmus Mundus Scholarships Programme
The Erasmus Mundus programme is an outcome of the collaboration between European universities offering joint master’s and Ph.D. programs. Indian students stand to benefit from Erasmus Mundus scholarship programme that covers tuition fees, travel expenses, and provides a monthly stipend.
6. Chevening Scholarships Programme
The Chevening Scholarship programme is funded by the UK government. It is available to outstanding individuals worldwide, including Indian students. These scholarships support one-year Master’s programs in the United Kingdom. It covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs. The Chevening Scholarship programme aims to develop global leaders by providing educational opportunities.
7. Adelaide Scholarships International (ASI) Programme
The University of Adelaide offers Adelaide Scholarships International (ASI) to attract high quality overseas postgraduate students to areas of research strength in the University of Adelaide to support its research effort. It covers tuition fees, health insurance, and a living allowance.
8. New Zealand Excellence Awards
In a bid to attract talented students to New Zealand, the government offers the New Zealand Excellence Awards. Indian students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies stand to gain from this initiative. The scholarship programme covers tuition fees, living costs, and an establishment allowance.
The NZEA 2023-24 awards feature an overall package of NZ$ 320,000 offering eligible Indian students an opportunity to study at world-class New Zealand universities.
9. Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarships Programme
The Japanese Government offers scholarships to Indian students at various academic levels. It is meant for research students, undergraduate students, and offers specialized training to college students promoting understanding and friendly relations between Japan and other countries. It offers ¥143,000 JPY (Japanese Yen) per month to ￥242,000 per month depending on the selection of courses including exemption of tuition fee and travel allowance.
10. Australia Awards Scholarship Programme
The Australian government offers Australia Awards Scholarships to Indian students at various levels, including Master’s and Ph.D. programmes. These scholarships cover tuition fees, travel expenses, and provide a living allowance.
A multitude of scholarship programmes provides Indian students with the opportunity to fulfil their dreams of pursuing their studies overseas. These programmes not only alleviate financial constraints but also foster international collaboration and cultural understanding. Aspiring students should thoroughly research and explore these available opportunities to turn their overseas education dreams into a reality.