India is one of the fastest-growing educational hubs, attracting students from all over the world. With its top-ranked universities, diverse academic programs, and affordable education, India has become a preferred choice for students looking to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral studies.
However, financing education can be challenging for many students. To make higher education accessible and affordable, the Indian government, universities, and private organizations offer various scholarships that cover tuition fees, living expenses, and research grants.
In this guide, we explore the best scholarships in India, eligibility criteria, the application process, and expert tips to secure funding for your studies.
Why Apply for Scholarships to Study in India?
✔ Reduce Financial Burden: Scholarships help cover tuition fees, accommodation, and other academic expenses.
✔ Government & University-Based Scholarships Available: Various scholarships are funded by the Indian government, universities, and external organizations.
✔ Opportunity to Study at Prestigious Institutions: Scholarships open doors to top universities like IITs, IIMs, AIIMS, and NITs.
✔ Encouragement for Meritorious and Economically Backward Students: Many scholarships aim to support talented students from low-income backgrounds.
✔ Post-Study Work Opportunities: Some scholarships also provide internship and job placement assistance after graduation.
💡 Pro Tip: Scholarships make higher education in India affordable and allow students to focus on their academic and professional growth.
Types of Scholarships in India for Students
Scholarships in India are broadly categorized into three types:
Government-Funded Scholarships in India
✔ These scholarships are funded by the Indian government to help both Indian and international students.
📌 Top Government Scholarships in India
| Scholarship Name | Degree Level | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship (NMMS) | UG | Tuition, stipend |
| Central Sector Scholarship Scheme (CSSS) | UG, PG | INR 10,000 - 20,000 per year |
| INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) | UG (Science) | INR 80,000 per year |
| Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY) | UG, PG | Monthly stipend, tuition |
| Maulana Azad National Fellowship (MANF) | PhD | Full tuition, research grants |
| Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme (PMSS) | UG, PG | INR 36,000 per year |
💡 Pro Tip: Government scholarships support students from economically weaker sections and provide full or partial financial assistance.
University-Specific Scholarships in India
✔ Many Indian universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships for both Indian and international students.
📌 Best University-Based Scholarships in India
| University | Scholarship Name | Degree Level | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| IITs (Indian Institutes of Technology) | Merit-Cum-Means Scholarships | UG, PG | Tuition waiver, stipend |
| IIMs (Indian Institutes of Management) | IIM Scholarships for Meritorious Students | PG (MBA) | Partial to full tuition waiver |
| AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences) | AIIMS Fellowship | UG, PG | Full tuition, living stipend |
| Delhi University (DU) | DU Merit Scholarships | UG, PG | INR 5,000 - 50,000 per year |
| Banaras Hindu University (BHU) | BHU Scholarships for International Students | UG, PG | Tuition fee waiver |
| Manipal University | Freeship & Merit Scholarships | UG, PG | Full tuition, hostel fee |
💡 Why It Matters? University scholarships provide direct financial aid to students and often include research and internship opportunities.
Private & External Organization Scholarships
✔ Many private foundations and NGOs provide scholarships based on merit, financial need, and specific fields of study.
📌 Top External Scholarships for Studying in India
| Scholarship Name | Provider | Degree Level | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tata Scholarship | Tata Trusts | UG, PG | Partial to full tuition waiver |
| Aditya Birla Scholarship | Aditya Birla Group | UG (IITs, IIMs, Law) | INR 1,80,000 per year |
| Reliance Foundation Scholarship | Reliance Foundation | UG, PG | Full tuition, living stipend |
| ONGC Scholarship | ONGC Foundation | UG, PG | INR 48,000 per year |
| HDFC Educational Crisis Scholarship | HDFC Bank | UG, PG | INR 75,000 per year |
💡 Pro Tip: Private scholarships often provide additional benefits such as mentorship, internships, and networking opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria for Scholarships in India
📌 General Requirements for Most Scholarships in India:
✔ Academic Excellence: A strong GPA (minimum 3.0 or 75%) improves chances.
✔ Income Certificate (For Need-Based Scholarships): Some scholarships require proof of family income below INR 6,00,000 per annum.
✔ Statement of Purpose (SOP): A well-written essay explaining why you deserve the scholarship.
✔ Letters of Recommendation (LORs): From professors, employers, or academic mentors.
✔ Entrance Exam Scores (If Applicable): Some scholarships require JEE, NEET, CAT, or other entrance exam scores.
💡 Each scholarship has specific eligibility criteria, so always check before applying.
How to Apply for Scholarships to Study in India?
✔ Step 1: Research and shortlist scholarships that match your profile.
✔ Step 2: Check eligibility criteria and prepare required documents.
✔ Step 3: Submit applications online via the official scholarship portals.
✔ Step 4: Write a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining your goals, achievements, and need for financial support.
✔ Step 5: Submit all necessary documents before the deadline.
✔ Step 6: If shortlisted, attend an interview (for selected scholarships like Tata & Aditya Birla).
💡 Pro Tip: Apply for multiple scholarships to increase your chances of securing funding.
Cost of Studying in India Without a Scholarship
📌 Average Tuition Fees for International Students in India
| Degree Level | Annual Tuition Fees (INR) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate (UG) | ₹50,000 - ₹3,00,000 |
| Master’s Degree (PG) | ₹75,000 - ₹5,00,000 |
| MBA (Top Business Schools) | ₹5,00,000 - ₹20,00,000 |
📌 Living Expenses in India for Students
| Expense | Monthly Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | ₹8,000 - ₹25,000 |
| Food & Groceries | ₹4,000 - ₹10,000 |
| Transport | ₹1,000 - ₹3,000 |
💡 Total Cost (Including Tuition & Living): ₹2-10 Lakhs per year.
Conclusion
Studying in India with a scholarship makes education affordable and accessible. By applying for the right scholarships, students can reduce tuition costs and secure financial aid.
