Whether you are planning to study in the US, UK, Europe, Australia, or Asia, this article is designed to help you make informed decisions and find the right scholarship to support your education.
International Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in UK
The UK offers a wide range of scholarships for Indian students pursuing higher studies. These scholarships help cover tuition, living expenses, and travel, making higher education in the UK more affordable and accessible.
International Scholarship for Indian Students to study in UK – General Overview
| Scholarship Name | Provided By | Level | Deadline [Tentative] |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chevening Scholarship | UK Government | Master’s | October 2025 |
| GREAT Scholarships | British Council | Master’s | June 2026*
(Varies as per different universities) |
| Rhodes Scholarship | Rhodes Trust | Master’s | 23rd July 2025 |
| Gates Cambridge Scholarship | Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation | Master’s/PhD | December 2025 |
| Commonwealth Split-site Phd Scholarships | Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) | Master’s | December 2025 |
| Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships | Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) | Master’s | December 2025 |
| Commonwealth Shared Scholarships | Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) | Master’s | December 2025 |
| Commonwealth Professional Fellowships | Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) | Master’s | December 2025 |
Chevening Scholarship 2026-27
The Chevening Scholarship is one of the UK’s most prestigious and competitive international scholarship programmes. Funded by the UK Government, it aims to develop global leaders by offering outstanding students from around the world the chance to pursue a one-year master’s degree at any UK university. Chevening places strong emphasis on leadership potential, academic excellence, and a commitment to creating positive change in the scholar’s home country. With a focus on building lasting relationships and international collaboration, the programme opens doors to a global network of professionals and change-makers.
- Full payment of tuition fees
- Economy class travel to and from your home country via an approved route
- Arrival allowance to cover initial costs after landing in the UK
- Visa application fee (entry clearance) covered
- Departure allowance at the end of your course
- Contribution of up to £75 for mandatory TB testing (if applicable)
- Travel top-up allowance for domestic travel in the UK
- Monthly personal living allowance (stipend) for accommodation and daily expenses
- Higher stipend for students studying in London
- Lower stipend for those studying outside London
Eligibility Criteria
- Indian citizen with an undergraduate degree
- Minimum 2 years of full-time work experience (can include internships/volunteer work)
- Strong academic background
- Must return to India for at least 2 years after the course ends
To know complete details and fill the application form of the Chevening Scholarship, click here
GREAT Scholarships 2026-27
The GREAT Scholarship is a wonderful chance for ambitious students from around the world to study in the UK and experience its rich academic and cultural environment. It’s designed to support talented individuals who want to deepen their expertise and broaden their horizons at some of the UK’s top universities. Beyond financial support, the scholarship connects you with a vibrant community and resources that help you thrive both academically and personally. If you’re looking to take your studies to the next level while immersing yourself in new experiences, the GREAT Scholarship could be just what you need.
Benefits: Up to £10,000 towards tuition fees
- Indian citizen with an offer from a participating UK university.
- Meets the academic and English language requirements.
- Strong interest in the chosen subject and a compelling personal statement.
To know more details and fill the application form of GREAT Scholarship, click here
Rhodes Scholarship 2026
The Rhodes Scholarship is one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious awards, offering brilliant students the chance to study at Oxford University. It’s more than just academics—it looks for people who show leadership, strong character, and a genuine desire to make a difference. Being a Rhodes Scholar means joining a global family of changemakers and gaining access to an incredible network and world-class education. If you’re ready to challenge yourself and grow both personally and professionally, this could be the perfect opportunity.
Benefits
- The full tuition and college fees at the University of Oxford are covered.
- An annual living stipend of £19,800 (approximately £1,650 per month) is provided to cover living expenses, including accommodation.
- The application fee for the University of Oxford is included.
- The student visa fee and International Health Surcharge (IHS) are covered.
- Economy-class airfare to and from the UK is provided at the beginning and end of the program.
Eligibility Criteria
- Indian citizens aged between 18 and 23 years
- A first class honours undergraduate degree or equivalent
To know complete details and fill the application form of Rhodes Scholarship, click here
Gates Cambridge Scholarship
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship opens the door to the University of Cambridge for outstanding students worldwide. It’s not just about academic excellence—it’s about leadership, vision, and a commitment to improving the world. Scholars become part of a vibrant international community, where ideas and cultures come together. If you want to push your boundaries and contribute to positive change, this scholarship offers the support and resources to help you thrive.
Benefits:
- Full University Composition Fee is covered.
- A maintenance allowance of £21,000 per year for a single student (pro-rata for shorter courses). PhD scholars receive it for up to 4 years.
- One economy-class airfare to the UK at the start and one at the end of the course.
- Visa application costs and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) are fully covered.
Discretionary Funding
- Academic development allowance of £500–£2,000 to attend conferences or courses
- Dependent children allowance: up to £11,604 for one child and £16,548 for two or more (partner not covered)
- Maintenance allowance may continue during approved fieldwork for PhD students
- Maternity or paternity leave: up to 6 months’ intermission with continued maintenance support.
- Hardship funding available for unforeseen financial difficulties.
NOTE: Discretionary funding is not guaranteed and is awarded only after a separate application and approval process.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must have applied for a PhD (full-time or part-time), MLitt (full-time), or a one-year full-time postgraduate course at Cambridge (excluding MBA/PGCE)
- Excellent academic track record
- Demonstrated leadership and a commitment to social impact
- Applicants should not be currently studying at Cambridge at the time of application
To know more details and fill the application form of Gates Cambridge Scholarship, click here
Commonwealth Split-site Phd Scholarships
The Commonwealth Split-site Scholarship lets you do part of your doctoral research in the UK while staying enrolled at your home university. It encourages collaboration and helps you build international networks while contributing to important research back home. This scholarship is perfect if you want to gain new perspectives and resources without interrupting your studies.
Benefits
- The cost of an approved airfare to and from the UK is covered
- Full tuition fees are paid directly to the university
- A monthly stipend is provided: £1,378 per month, or £1,690 if studying at a university in the London metropolitan area
- A warm clothing allowance is included, where applicable
- A study travel grant is available to support academic-related travel within or outside the UK.
- Scholars who are widowed, divorced, or single parents may receive a child allowance of £590 per month for the first child, and £146 per month for the second and third child (under 16), if they live with the scholar in the UK
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be registered for a PhD at a university by September 2026
- A formal institutional or departmental link should exist between the home university and the proposed UK university; both supervisors must support this with statements
- Should be available to begin academic studies in the UK in September 2026
- By September 2026, must hold at least an upper second-class undergraduate degree (2:1), or a lower second-class degree with a relevant postgraduate qualification
- Must demonstrate financial need and inability to afford UK study without the scholarship
To know complete details and fill the application form of Commonwealth Scholarship, click here
Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships
The Commonwealth Masters Scholarship offers a fantastic opportunity for talented students from eligible countries to pursue a master’s degree in the UK. It’s designed to help you gain advanced knowledge and skills that can make a real difference back home. Beyond the classroom, this scholarship connects you with a diverse community of future leaders who share your passion for positive change. If you’re ready to grow academically and personally while making an impact, this could be the perfect fit.
Benefits
- The cost of an economy airfare from the scholar’s home country to the UK and return is covered.
- Full tuition fees are funded
- A monthly living allowance is provided as 1452 pounds per month or 1781 pounds for those studying in the London area
- A warm clothing allowance is included, if applicable
- A study travel grant is available to support academic-related travel within the UK or overseas
- Scholars who are widowed, divorced, or single parents can receive a child allowance of £622 per month for the first child and £154 per month for the second and third child under the age of 16, provided the children live with them in the UK
Eligibility Criteria
- By September 2026, should hold at least an upper second-class undergraduate degree (2:1), or a lower second-class degree with a relevant postgraduate qualification
- If applying for a second Master’s degree, a valid academic justification is required
- Must demonstrate financial need and inability to study in the UK without the scholarship
- All supporting documents must be submitted in the required format
To know complete details and fill the application form of Commonwealth Scholarship, click here
Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship helps bright students from developing Commonwealth countries study a master’s course in the UK. It’s a unique partnership between UK universities and the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, aimed at supporting those who might not otherwise afford to study abroad. This scholarship not only covers your costs but also opens doors to new ideas, cultures, and networks. If you want to build your future and contribute to your community, this opportunity is worth considering.
Benefits
- The cost of airfare from the home country to the UK and return at the end of the award is covered.
- Tuition fees are fully covered
- A monthly living allowance is provided as £1,378 per month, or £1,690 for those studying in the London area
- A warm clothing allowance is included, if applicable
- A thesis grant is available to help with the cost of preparing a thesis or dissertation, if required
- A study travel grant is provided for study-related travel within the UK or abroad
- A contribution is made toward the cost of a tuberculosis test, if it is required for a visa
- If the scholar is widowed, divorced, or a single parent, a child allowance is provided: £590 per month for the first child, and £146 per month for the second and third child under 16, if the children live at the same UK address.
Eligibility Criteria
- They should be ready to begin academic studies in the UK by September 2026
- By September 2026, they must hold a first degree with at least upper second-class honours, or a lower second-class degree along with a relevant postgraduate qualification, usually a Master’s
- They should not have spent more than one academic year studying or working in a high-income country
- The applicant must genuinely need financial support to study in the UK
- All required documents must be submitted in the correct format
To know complete details and fill the application form of Commonwealth Scholarship, click here
Commonwealth Professional Fellowships
The Commonwealth Professional Fellowship gives mid-career professionals a chance to boost their skills through placements in UK organisations. It’s aimed at those who want to grow as leaders and bring fresh ideas back to their workplaces. Beyond skill-building, it’s about creating lasting connections and opportunities for future collaboration. If you’re ready to take your career to the next level and make a bigger impact, this fellowship is worth exploring.
Benefits
- The cost of return airfare from the Fellow’s home country to the UK is covered
- The standard visa application fee will be reimbursed
- A monthly living allowance is provided. It is £2104 per month or £2612 for those at organisations based in the London metropolitan area
- An arrival allowance of up to £1830.20 is provided, which includes support for warm clothing
- Fellows who declare a disability are eligible for a full assessment of needs and may receive additional financial support
- Host organisations may receive up to £2000 per Fellow to support short courses, conferences, or travel within the UK if it is part of the programme
Eligibility Criteria
- A minimum of five years of full-time relevant work experience is required by the start of the fellowship. Part-time experience is considered if equivalent, voluntary work does not count
- Applicants must be currently employed and intend to return to the same organisation after completing the fellowship
- Two references must be provided, including one from the current employer. Applications without references by the deadline will not be considered
- Those who have undertaken a Commonwealth Professional Fellowship within the last five years are not eligible
- The fellowship is not for academic research or study. Academics can apply only if the programme focuses on academic management and not research
- Applicants must be available to begin the fellowship on the specified start date
Note: In addition to the general eligibility criteria, prospective fellows must ensure they meet any specific requirements set by the individual host organisation.
To know complete details and fill the application form of Commonwealth Scholarship, click here
International Scholarships for Indian Students in 2026-27 to Study in USA
Studying in the USA has always been a dream for many students around the world, thanks to its world-class universities and diverse opportunities. But the cost can often feel overwhelming. That’s where international scholarships come in — they open doors to top programs and help make your American education more affordable. For the 2026-27 academic year, there are plenty of scholarships designed to support talented students like you. Whether you’re aiming for undergraduate, graduate, or research programs, these scholarships can provide crucial financial help and valuable experiences to kickstart your journey in the USA.
International Scholarship to study in the USA – General Overview
| Scholarship Name | Provided By | Level | Deadline [Tentative] |
| The Inlaks Scholarship 2026 | Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation | Master’s/PhD | March 2026 |
| The Inlaks-King’s India Institute Studentship | Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation & King’s College London | PhD Research | August 31, 2025 |
The Inlaks Scholarship 2026
The Inlaks Scholarship 2026 offers a unique opportunity for Indian students to pursue postgraduate, doctoral, or professional degree programs at leading universities in the USA. Designed to support talented individuals, this scholarship aims to cover key expenses such as tuition fees, living costs, one-way travel, and health insurance. It helps remove financial barriers so scholars can focus fully on their academic and professional growth.
Benefits: The value depends on the course and covers tuition fees, living expenses, one-way travel, and health allowance, up to USD 100,000.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be an Indian passport holder residing in India at the time of application
- Born on or after 1st January 1996 (for 2026 applications)
- Applicants should possess a degree from a recognized Indian university (final-year students awaiting results can apply)
- If the undergraduate degree is from abroad, must have lived, worked, or studied in India for at least 2 years after graduation
Minimum academic requirements:
- Social Sciences, Humanities, Law, Fine Arts, Architecture: 65% or CGPA 6.8/10 or GPA 2.6/4.
- Mathematics, Sciences, Environment: 70% or CGPA 7.2/10 or GPA 3/4.
Deadline: March 2026 (expected)
To know more details and fill the application form of Inlaks Scholarship, click here
The Inlaks-King’s India Institute Studentship
The Inlaks-King’s India Institute Studentship offers a valuable opportunity for PhD students registered in India to conduct a focused three-month research visit at King’s College London. This fellowship is designed to support academic exchange and deepen research collaboration between Indian scholars and one of the UK’s leading universities. It provides a platform to enhance research skills, expand academic networks, and gain international exposure.
Benefits
- Travel allowance: Up to USD 1,000 (reimbursable)
- Monthly maintenance: Up to USD 2,220
- Research materials: Up to USD 500 (reimbursable)
- Health allowance: Up to USD 500 (reimbursable)
- Arrival grant: GBP 1,000 (provided by King’s College London)
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant must be an Indian passport holder residing in India.
- The applicant must be born on or after 1st January 1990.
- The applicant must hold a confirmed PhD registration for at least two years but for not more than three years.
- The applicant must have a first-class Bachelor’s and Master’s degree.
- The applicant’s research must be in the subjects related to Humanities and Social Sciences.
- The applicant must have proof of positive communication from the experts that they wish to engage with.
Deadline: August 31, 2025
To know more details and fill the application form of Inlaks-King’s India Institute Studentship, click here
International Scholarships 2026-27 to Study in Canada for Indians
Canada is famous for its top-notch education and friendly, welcoming vibe for students from around the world. Every year, Canadian universities, government agencies, and international organisations offer a range of scholarships and fellowships to help Indian students make their dream of studying in Canada a reality. Whether you’re aiming for an undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral programme, there are plenty of options that can help cover tuition, living expenses, research costs, and other essentials. It’s a great place to grow both academically and personally!
International Scholarship to study in Canada for Indian Students – General Overview
| Scholarship Name | Provided By | Level | Deadline [Tentative] |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Lester B Pearson International Student Scholarships | University of Toronto | Undergraduate | October 10, 2025 |
The Lester B Pearson International Student Scholarships
The Lester B Pearson International Student Scholarships recognize outstanding international students who show great promise. It’s a fantastic opportunity to study in Canada without worrying about the financial burden. This scholarship is highly competitive and aims to attract talented students who can contribute both academically and in their communities. If you’re looking to pursue an undergraduate degree in a vibrant and diverse environment, this could be the perfect fit. Many past recipients have gone on to achieve great success and make a positive impact worldwide.
Benefits: Covers tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four years.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be an international student (non-Canadian) requiring a study permit.
- Currently in the final year of school (2025–26) or graduated after June 2025.
- Starting studies at the University of Toronto in September 2026.
- Must be nominated by the applicant’s school.
Deadline: October 10, 2025 (expected)
To know more details and fill the application form of Lester B Pearson International Student Scholarships, click here
International Scholarships for Indian Students in 2026-27 to Study in Japan
Japan offers a variety of scholarships for Indian students planning to pursue higher studies. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living costs, and travel, making education in Japan more accessible and affordable. With strong academic support and globally ranked universities, Japan provides an excellent environment for international learners.
International Scholarship to study in Japan for Indians – General Overview
| Scholarship Name | Provided By | Level | Deadline [Tentative] |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honjo International Scholarship | Honjo International Scholarship Foundation | Master’s/PhD | October 2025 |
Honjo International Scholarship
The Honjo International Scholarship is designed to support talented international students who want to pursue graduate studies in Japan. It encourages academic exchange and helps build strong global connections by supporting both master’s and doctoral students at Japanese universities. If you’re aiming to advance your education in a vibrant and culturally rich environment, this scholarship offers a great opportunity to make that happen. It’s a chance to grow academically while experiencing Japan’s unique blend of tradition and innovation.
Benefits: Up to JPY 230,000 per month, along with travel expenses for attending international conferences.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must not hold Japanese citizenship.
- Must be enrolled or planning to enrol in a graduate course (master’s or PhD) in Japan starting April 2025.
- Professional graduate school students are generally ineligible unless they submit a research plan.
- Course duration must be longer than 12 months.
Age limit:
PhD applicants – must be under 35 years of age at beginning of the course
Master’s applicants – must be under 30 years of age at the time of course commencement
- Must show a strong commitment to contributing to their home country
- Must be willing to participate in foundation events and alumni activities
- Must be able to have basic Japanese conversations (interviews are in Japanese)
Deadline: October, 2025 (expected)
To know more details and fill the application form of the Honjo International Scholarship, click here
Other Major International Scholarships for Indian Students
Apart from country-specific opportunities, several global organisations and foundations offer international scholarships that are open to Indian students regardless of their study destination. These programmes support higher studies across a wide range of disciplines.
General Overview
| Scholarship Name | Provider | Level | Deadline [Tentative] |
| Narotam Sekhsaria Scholarships Programme | Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation | Postgraduate | March 2026 |
| KC Mahindra Scholarship for Post Graduate Studies Abroad | KC Mahindar Education Trust | Postgraduate | March 2026 |
| Joint Japan / World Bank Graduate Scholarship | World Bank and Japanese Government | Master’s | February 2026 [window 1]
May 2026 [window 2] |
| ADB–Japan Scholarship Programme | Asian Development Bank & Japan | Postgraduate | (Varies as per different universities) |
Narotam Sekhsaria Scholarships Programme
A merit-based scholarship offered by the Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation for Indian students pursuing postgraduate studies abroad, including in Canada. It provides an interest-free loan of up to ₹20 lakh, with partial grant options for select candidates.
Benefits: The selected candidate will be awarded repayable interest-free financial assistance to pursue advanced studies at esteemed institutions, along with mentorship support.
Eligibility Criteria
- Indian nationals under the age of 30
- Must have a consistently strong academic record
- Applying or admitted to a top-ranking university abroad for a postgraduate course (any field)
- Final-year students or graduates from recognised Indian institutions are eligible
Deadline: March 2026 (expected)
To know more details and fill the application form of Narotam Sekhsaria Scholarships Programme, click here
KC Mahindra Scholarship for Post Graduate Studies Abroad 2026
The KC Mahindra Scholarship supports Indian students who dream of pursuing higher education abroad. Offered by the KC Mahindra Education Trust, this scholarship provides up to ₹10 lakh to deserving and needy students. It aims to ease the financial burden and make studying overseas more accessible. If you’re planning to take your education to the next level internationally, this scholarship could be a valuable resource on your journey.
Benefits: Up to INR 10 lakh
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be an Indian citizen.
- Should have a consistently strong academic record.
- Must have secured admission or have applied to a recognised foreign university for a postgraduate programme (any discipline).
- Final-year students awaiting admission results are also eligible to apply.
Deadline: March 2026 (expected)
To know more details and fill the application form of KC Mahindra Scholarship for Post Graduate Studies Abroad, click here
Joint Japan / World Bank Graduate Scholarship (JJ/WBGSP)
The Joint Japan / World Bank Graduate Scholarship is a prestigious program funded by the Government of Japan and the World Bank. It’s designed to support students from developing countries, including India, who want to pursue master’s degrees focused on development topics. The scholarship offers opportunities to study at select universities around the world, including in Japan, helping scholars gain the skills needed to contribute to their home countries’ growth and progress.
Benefits: The scholarship provides full tuition, a monthly stipend, round-trip airfare, a travel allowance, and health insurance.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must have at least a bachelor’s degree.
- Must have at least three years of work experience in development-related fields.
- Must have been admitted to a supported master’s program.
- Committed to returning to home country after studies
Deadline:
January-February 2026 [first window]
March-May 2026 [second window]
To know more details and fill the application form of The Joint Japan / World Bank Graduate Scholarship, click here
ADB–Japan Scholarship Programme
The ADB–Japan Scholarship Programme is a great opportunity for students from developing countries, including India, to advance their education. Funded by the Asian Development Bank and the Government of Japan, it supports postgraduate studies in important fields such as economics, environment, and development. This scholarship aims to build skilled professionals who can contribute to sustainable growth in their home countries. Many students have benefited from this program to gain valuable international experience and knowledge.
Benefits: Full tuition fee, monthly living allowance, travel expenses, and health insurance.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must have a bachelor’s degree with superior academic performance.
- Must have at least two years of full-time professional work experience.
- Age limit: Under 35 years (in most cases).
- Applicants must have gained admission to an approved master’s course at a Designated Institution.
- Applicants must return to India for at least 2 years after the course ends.
Deadline: Varies as per different universities
To know more details and fill the application form of ADB–Japan Scholarship Programme, click here
FAQs
Who can apply for the international scholarships for Indian students in 2026-27?
Indian students who meet academic, financial, and course-specific eligibility criteria can apply. Scholarships are available for undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD programs, with some focused on particular institutions or study fields.
Do these scholarships cover all expenses?
Some are fully funded—covering tuition, travel, living costs, and health insurance. Others are partially funded. Check the specific coverage mentioned in the scholarship’s official guidelines.
Do I need admission before applying for a scholarship?
Yes, most scholarships require you to have secured admission to an eligible course. However, a few may allow pre-admission applications—always read the official scholarship instructions carefully.
Can students from any academic background apply for international scholarships?
Yes, many scholarships are open to students from all fields, though some are restricted to specific disciplines like engineering, medicine, public policy, or humanities.
What documents do I need to apply for the international scholarships listed in this article?
Typical documents include academic transcripts, degree certificates, passport, admission proof, statement of purpose, recommendation letters, and sometimes income certificates or language test scores (IELTS/TOEFL).
Is IELTS or TOEFL required for these scholarships?
Yes, most scholarships for countries like the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia require IELTS or TOEFL. Some universities may waive this if you studied in English-medium institutions.
Can I apply for more than one scholarship at the same time?
Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships. However, some programs restrict recipients from holding more than one scholarship simultaneously. Check each scheme’s terms before applying.