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Key Scholarship Schemes Offered by Central and State Governments to Study Abroad in 2025

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Key Scholarship Schemes Offered by Central and State Governments to Study Abroad in 2025

Studying abroad offers an exceptional opportunity to gain a global perspective, access world-class education, and enhance career prospects. However, the cost of education abroad can be a barrier for many students. Fortunately, both the Central Government and various State Governments of India provide several scholarships to make international education more affordable. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other essential costs, ensuring that meritorious students don’t miss out on studying at prestigious global institutions.

In this blog, we’ll explore the top scholarship schemes for Indian students who wish to study abroad in 2025, with details on eligibility, benefits, and how to apply.

1. National Overseas Scholarship (NOS)

Eligibility:

  • Indian nationals belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC) are eligible.
  • Applicants must have a valid admission offer from a recognized institution abroad for Masters or PhD programs.

Benefits:

  • Provides a substantial financial aid package, covering tuition fees, airfare, living expenses, and other allowances.
  • Scholarships for up to 200 students per year.

How to Apply:

  • Applications are typically invited in March every year.
  • The application process is carried out online through the official Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment website.

2. Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships

Eligibility:

  • Indian citizens with a strong academic background and professional experience in fields like education, social work, public policy, science, and technology are eligible.
  • The program is open to students, professionals, and scholars at various levels, including Masters, Ph.D., and post-doctoral.

Benefits:

  • Covers full tuition, airfare, living expenses, and a monthly stipend.
  • The program promotes cross-cultural exchange and offers an opportunity to work in the U.S. in collaboration with American institutions.

How to Apply:

  • Applicants can apply through the United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF).
  • Application deadlines typically fall in May.

3. Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP)

Eligibility:

  • Indian students with a first-class degree and an offer from a recognized university in a Commonwealth country are eligible.
  • The program covers Master’s and Ph.D. programs across various fields of study.

Benefits:

  • Full tuition fees.
  • Airfare, living expenses, and other allowances.
  • Opportunity to study in over 50 countries, including the UK, Australia, and Canada.

How to Apply:

  • The application process is managed by the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD).
  • Applicants must submit their applications through the official Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) website.

4. Dr. Ambedkar Foundation Scholarships

Eligibility:

  • Indian nationals from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC).
  • The applicant must have secured admission to Master’s or Ph.D. programs at an overseas university.

Benefits:

  • Financial assistance for tuition fees, airfare, and living expenses.
  • The scholarship supports up to 100 students annually.

How to Apply:

  • Students can apply online through the Dr. Ambedkar Foundation website. The application process is typically open in March-April.

5. Indian Government’s Scholarship Scheme for Studying Abroad (Under the MHRD)

Eligibility:

  • Indian students who wish to pursue postgraduate or doctoral studies at recognized international universities in fields such as engineering, medicine, business, law, and more.

Benefits:

  • The scholarship covers tuition fees, travel expenses, and living allowances.
  • This scheme is primarily focused on research-oriented students.

How to Apply:

  • Applications are typically invited in May-June.
  • Interested candidates must apply through the MHRD Scholarship Portal.

6. National Talent Search Examination (NTSE) – Overseas Scholarship

Eligibility:

  • Class 12 students who have cleared the NTSE exam and are interested in pursuing undergraduate studies at foreign institutions.

Benefits:

  • Covers tuition fees, travel expenses, and living allowances for undergraduate programs.
  • This scholarship supports meritorious students pursuing studies in engineering, medicine, and other professional fields.

How to Apply:

  • The NTSE exam is conducted annually, and students must apply online through the official NCERT website.

7. State Government Scholarships for Studying Abroad

Several Indian state governments also offer scholarships for students who want to study abroad. Below are some of the most popular ones:

Maharashtra State Government Scholarships

  • Eligibility: Maharashtra residents pursuing higher education abroad.
  • Benefits: Provides financial support for tuition fees, travel, and living costs.
  • How to Apply: Applications can be submitted via the official Maharashtra State Government website.

Karnataka State Government Scholarships

  • Eligibility: Karnataka residents with a strong academic record.
  • Benefits: Full tuition, travel expenses, and stipends for post-graduate and doctoral studies.
  • How to Apply: Applications are processed online through the Karnataka Government website.

West Bengal State Government Scholarships

  • Eligibility: Students from West Bengal with confirmed admission at a foreign university.
  • Benefits: Scholarships cover living expenses and tuition fees.
  • How to Apply: Apply through the West Bengal State Government Scholarship Portal.

8. Tata Scholarship for Cornell University

Eligibility:

  • Indian students who have demonstrated strong academic achievements.
  • Students must have been admitted to Cornell University for undergraduate programs.

Benefits:

  • Covers full tuition fees, living expenses, and travel.

How to Apply:

  • Interested students must apply through the Cornell University Scholarship Portal.

How Turning Point Studies Consultants Can Assist You

At Turning Point Studies Consultants, we help Indian students find and apply for the best scholarships for studying abroad. 

We ensure that you don't miss out on the financial support that could make your dreams of studying abroad a reality. Let Turning Point Studies Consultants guide you through the scholarship and visa process to ensure a seamless journey toward your international education.

Conclusion

Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience, and with the wide range of scholarships offered by the Central and State Governments in India, the opportunity is more accessible than ever. Whether you’re pursuing a Master’s, Ph.D., or undergraduate studies, these scholarships can significantly reduce your financial burden and allow you to focus on your academic success.

With the help of Turning Point Studies Consultants, you can navigate the complex process of scholarship applications, visa procedures, and university admissions, making your dream of studying abroad a reality