Introduction
For thousands of ambitious learners each year, the dream of studying abroad represents independence, global exposure, and the confidence to build a career without borders.
Yet, one question continues to hold many students back:
“Can I afford it?”
The encouraging reality is that study abroad scholarships for Indian students are more accessible today than ever before. Governments, universities, and global organizations are actively investing in international talent, especially from India, recognizing the country’s growing presence in technology, business, healthcare, and research.
In 2026, scholarships are no longer rare exceptions. They are part of a smart strategy for students who prepare early and apply thoughtfully.
Below is a detailed look at some of the most important study abroad scholarships for Indian students, including funding amounts, eligibility, and official sources.
1. Chevening Scholarship (United Kingdom)
Official Website:
https://www.chevening.org
The Chevening Scholarship is one of the world’s most prestigious fully funded scholarships for one-year master’s programs in the UK.
What the Scholarship Covers
According to official Chevening information, the scholarship provides:
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly stipend
- Travel costs
- Visa and living allowances (Leverage Edu)
Estimated Value
Most scholars receive funding equivalent to approximately:
₹30–32 lakh per year (depending on university and living costs).
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country such as India (Chevening)
- Hold an undergraduate degree qualifying for a UK master’s program (Hindustan Times)
- Have around 2 years of work experience (approx. 2,800 hours) (Hindustan Times)
- Commit to returning to their home country after the scholarship (GyanDhan)
Leadership potential and a clear career vision are strongly emphasized in the selection process. (Study UK)
2. Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowship (United States)
Official Website:
https://www.usief.org.in
The Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship is among the most respected scholarships available to Indian students pursuing graduate study in the United States.
What the Scholarship Covers
Benefits typically include:
- Tuition support
- Monthly stipend
- Airfare
- Health insurance and allowances (Welcome to)
Estimated Value
Funding varies by university but typically ranges between:
₹35–50 lakh total funding
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be an Indian citizen residing in India (upGrad)
- Hold a bachelor’s degree with at least 55% marks (IndiaBioscience)
- Have at least 3 years of full-time work experience (IndiaBioscience)
- Demonstrate leadership and community engagement (theworldgrad.com)
- Show English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE) (theworldgrad.com)
3. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
Official Website:
https://www.daad.de
Germany remains one of the most affordable study destinations globally, and DAAD scholarships significantly reduce living expenses.
What the Scholarship Covers
Typical DAAD funding includes:
- Monthly stipend
- Health insurance
- Travel allowance
Estimated Funding
- Around €934 per month (~₹80,000–₹90,000) for master’s students (varies by program).
Germany’s low or no tuition fees further reduce total costs, making it one of the highest ROI destinations.
Eligibility Requirements
Although criteria vary by program, most DAAD scholarships require:
- A recognized bachelor’s degree
- Academic merit
- Relevant work or research experience
- Motivation aligned with academic goals
4. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship (France)
Official Website:
https://www.campusfrance.org
France offers the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship to attract international students to leading universities, including institutions in Paris.
What the Scholarship Covers
- Monthly allowance
- Travel support
- Insurance
Estimated Funding
- Approximately €1,181 per month (~₹1.05 lakh/month) for master’s programs.
Eligibility Requirements
Typical requirements include:
- Admission to a French institution
- Strong academic performance
- Nomination by the university
This scholarship is highly competitive and limited in number.
5. SINGA Scholarship (Singapore)
Official Website:
https://www.a-star.edu.sg
Singapore’s SINGA Scholarship supports international students pursuing PhD programs in science and engineering.
What the Scholarship Covers
- Full tuition
- Monthly stipend
- Airfare
Estimated Funding
- SGD 2,200–2,700 per month
(Approximately ₹1.3–1.6 lakh/month)
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants typically must:
- Have strong academic results
- Demonstrate research potential
- Be proficient in English
6. Australia Awards Scholarships (Australia)
Official Website:
https://www.dfat.gov.au
These scholarships are funded by the Australian Government.
What the Scholarship Covers
- Tuition fees
- Living allowance
- Travel costs
Estimated Funding
Typically ranges between:
₹16–25 lakh per year
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants generally must:
- Be a citizen of an eligible country
- Meet academic and English language requirements
- Demonstrate leadership and development impact
7. Dubai University-Specific Scholarships for Indian Students (2026)
Unlike many Western destinations, most study abroad scholarships for Indian students in Dubai are offered directly by universities and are largely merit-based tuition waivers. Students are often automatically considered after admission.
Here are some of the most relevant options:
1. University of Birmingham Dubai – Merit / Chancellor’s Scholarships
Official page:
https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/dubai/study/fees/scholarships
Funding
- Typically 20–40% tuition waiver
- Approx. ₹4–10 lakh per year
Eligibility
- Strong academic performance
- Admission to a full-time program
- Meeting English language requirements
2. Heriot-Watt University Dubai – Academic Merit Scholarships
Official page:
https://www.hw.ac.uk/dubai/study/fees-and-funding/scholarships-and-discounts
Funding
- 20–50% tuition reduction
- Approx. ₹3–8 lakh per year
Eligibility
- Good academic scores
- Admission to undergraduate or postgraduate programs
- Maintaining required academic performance
3. Middlesex University Dubai – International Study Grant & Merit Scholarships
Official page:
https://www.mdx.ac.ae/scholarships-and-grants
Funding
- Grants and tuition reductions up to 50%
- Approx. ₹1–6 lakh per year
Eligibility
- Offer of admission
- Meeting academic entry requirements
4. University of Dubai – Merit Scholarship
Official page:
https://ud.ac.ae/scholarships-and-discounts
Funding
- Up to 50% tuition waiver
- Approx. ₹4–9 lakh per year
Eligibility
- High academic performance
- Admission to a degree program
5. University of Wollongong in Dubai – Academic Merit Scholarships
Official page:
https://www.uowdubai.ac.ae/join-uowd/scholarships
Funding
- 15–50% tuition waiver
- Approx. ₹3–8 lakh per year
Eligibility
- Strong academic scores
- Meeting admission criteria
Key Insight:
Most study abroad scholarships for Indian students in Dubai are awarded based on academic merit and early application, making timing and profile strength important factors in securing funding.
Comparison Table: Study Abroad Scholarships for Indian Students
| Country | Scholarship | Estimated Funding (INR) | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| UK | Chevening | ₹30–32 lakh | Fully funded |
| USA | Fulbright-Nehru | ₹35–50 lakh | Fully funded |
| Germany | DAAD | ₹80k–90k/month | Fully funded |
| France | Eiffel | ₹1 lakh/month | Fully funded |
| Singapore | SINGA | ₹1.3–1.6 lakh/month | Fully funded |
| Australia | Australia Awards | ₹16–25 lakh/year | Fully funded |
| Dubai | University scholarships | ₹2–10 lakh/year | Partial |
A Fresh Perspective: How Indian Students Are Planning Differently
One of the most encouraging changes in recent years is how students approach global education.
Today, successful applicants:
- Research scholarships before selecting universities
- Build profiles through internships and volunteering
- Start applications earlier than ever before
Scholarships are no longer an afterthought—they are part of the strategy.
Conclusion
The landscape of global education is evolving rapidly, and so are the opportunities available. Today, study abroad scholarships for Indian students are not limited to a small group of top scorers, they are accessible to those who prepare early, plan wisely, and apply strategically.
At BNPS International, we help students:
- Identify the right scholarships
- Shortlist universities aligned with career goals
- Build strong applications
- Navigate admissions and visa processes confidently
Studying abroad is not just about reaching another country, but rather about reaching your full potential.
And, so, the journey should first begin with the right guidance.
