How to Get a Scholarship to Study Abroad?

Did you know that more than 1.5 million Indian students are currently studying abroad? By 2024, the number of Indian students pursuing education in foreign countries has jumped by 20% from the previous year. This growing trend shows just how attractive international education has become. It’s not hard to see why! Studying abroad offers the chance to explore new cultures, gain a world-class education, and access opportunities that were once out of reach. Scholarships are also making it easier for you to turn your dreams into reality, opening doors to prestigious universities around the globe. In this blog, we will explore how to get a scholarship to study abroad so that you can turn your dreams of studying abroad into reality.

Types of Scholarships Available

When applying for scholarships, it’s essential to understand the different types available. Scholarships vary widely, with options based on academic merit, financial need, geographic location, specific fields of study, and other unique factors. By identifying which scholarships match your strengths and background, you can tailor your applications more effectively and improve your chances of securing funding to study abroad. Here are the different types of scholarships: 

• Merit-Based Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded based on a student’s academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, or leadership qualities. They recognize excellence and provide support to high-performing students. 
• Need-Based Scholarships: These are designed to support students who demonstrate financial need. They help those who might not otherwise have the resources to pursue higher education. 
• Country-Specific Scholarships: Certain scholarships are targeted at students from particular countries, either to study domestically or to encourage international students to study abroad. 
• University-Specific Scholarships: These scholarships are offered directly by universities to attract top talent and support students within their institutions. They may be based on merit, financial need, or specific fields of study. 
• Subject-Specific Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to students pursuing particular fields of study, such as STEM, arts, or social sciences. They encourage students to focus on areas that may be in high demand. 
• Scholarships for Minorities and Underrepresented Groups: These scholarships aim to increase diversity and provide opportunities to students from minority backgrounds or underrepresented communities, supporting them in achieving their academic and professional goals.

Indian Government Scholarships to Study Abroad

The Indian government offers several scholarships to help you achieve your educational goals overseas. Here are some of the most popular Indian government scholarships for studying abroad in 2024:

Name of the Scholarship	Type of the Scholarship	Duration	Expenses Covered	Eligibility Criteria
National Overseas Scholarship	Need-based	3-4 years	An annual maintenance allowance of $15,400. Additional allowances cover tuition fees, medical insurance, visa fees, living costs, airfare, and the cost of books	60% in exams, under 35 years, family income meets government criteria
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree	Merit-based	1 – 2 years	An allowance of 1,100 – 1,200 EUR per month. Additional benefits include tuition fees, insurance, library access, and additional expenses	Graduation degree or equivalent
Agatha Harrison Memorial Fellowship	Merit-based	1 year but can be extended to 2nd year based on performance	Free air passage. Additionally, approximately 30,000 EUR is given as a stipend	60%+ up to PhD, aged 30-40, with 3 years teaching experience
Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships	Merit-based	6 – 9 months	Monthly stipend, J-1 visa support, accident and sickness coverage, and a round-trip economy class air travel allowance	PhD candidate at an Indian institute
Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships	Merit-based & Need-based	1 – 2 years	J-1 visa support, travel allowance, living costs, tuition fees, and accident and sickness coverage	Bachelor’s degree (55%) with 3 years of professional experience

How to Prepare for Scholarship Applications?

Securing a scholarship can greatly reduce the financial burden of higher education, but it is a competitive process. Effective preparation is essential to make your application stand out. By meeting eligibility criteria and gathering the necessary documentation, you can improve your chances of success. Here are key factors to consider when preparing your scholarship application.

1. Check Eligibility Criteria

Before applying for any scholarship, it’s important to ensure that you meet all of the eligibility criteria set by the awarding organization. These criteria vary widely depending on the type of scholarship, so be sure to review the requirements carefully. Focusing on these specific areas will help streamline your application process and improve your chances of qualifying. 

In this section, we’ll break down the key eligibility aspects you need to consider:

• Academic Requirements: Most scholarships, especially merit-based ones, have academic benchmarks such as GPA thresholds, standardized test scores, or other academic achievements. Make sure you understand what academic records are required and work towards meeting or exceeding them. 
• Language Proficiency: For international scholarships, proficiency in a particular language (typically English) is often required. Many scholarships require applicants to submit standardized test scores like TOEFL or IELTS to prove their language competency. Preparing for and achieving a strong score is a vital part of the application. 
• Extracurricular Activities and Leadership: Scholarships often look for well-rounded individuals who have contributed outside of the classroom. Demonstrating involvement in extracurricular activities, community service, or leadership positions can make your application more appealing. 
• Financial Need: If you’re applying for a need-based scholarship, demonstrating financial need will be critical. This often involves providing detailed financial documentation, such as proof of household income, tax returns, or other related financial statements to show your eligibility. 
• Citizenship and Residency Requirements: Some scholarships are available only to citizens or residents of specific countries. Be sure to check that your nationality or residency status matches the criteria of the scholarship you’re applying for. International students should carefully check the eligibility rules for studying abroad.

If you need help navigating the application process, you can sign up for Internshala’s study abroad program to get expert guidance.

2. Get Experience & Gather Documentation

Once you’ve checked the eligibility criteria, it’s time to focus on strengthening your profile and assembling the necessary documentation. A strong application is built on a combination of academic achievements, relevant experience, and well-prepared supporting materials. If you’re exploring how to get a scholarship abroad, here are the key areas to focus on to make your application stand out.

• Build a Strong Academic Profile: Your academic record is one of the most important components of your scholarship application. Dedicate time to achieving strong grades, excelling in key subjects, and showcasing a commitment to learning. Participating in honors programs, advanced courses, or academic competitions can further enhance your profile. 
• Gain Relevant Experience and Skills: Scholarship committees appreciate applicants who have developed real-world experience and relevant skills. This might include internships, volunteer work, leadership positions, or specialized projects in your field of interest. Such experiences not only bolster your resume but also demonstrate your commitment and initiative. 
• Collect Letters of Recommendation: A strong letter of recommendation from a teacher, mentor, or employer can significantly strengthen your scholarship application. Choose individuals who know you well and can speak for your academic abilities, work ethic, and character. Make sure to give your recommenders enough time to write thoughtful and detailed letters. 
• Prepare a Standout Personal Statement: A personal statement allows you to share your story, goals, and motivations with the scholarship committee. Focus on what makes you unique and how receiving the scholarship will help you achieve your academic and career objectives. Be clear, authentic, and compelling in your writing.
• Craft a Compelling CV/Resume: Your CV or resume format should clearly highlight your academic achievements, work experience, extracurricular activities, and any awards or honors you’ve received. Tailor it to emphasize your strengths and experiences relevant to the scholarship, keeping it concise and well-organized.
• Prepare for Interviews: Some scholarships require interviews as part of the selection process. Practice answering common interview questions and articulating your goals, experiences, and qualifications with confidence. Being well-prepared can help you stand out in the final stages of the scholarship selection process.

3. Apply for Scholarships

Now that you’ve built a strong academic profile, gathered relevant experience, and collected the necessary documentation, the next step is to start applying for scholarships. A well-organized approach will help you manage multiple applications and improve your chances of securing financial support for your education. Here are the steps to guide you through the scholarship application process.

• Find the Right Scholarships: The first step is to identify scholarships that align with your background, field of study, and financial needs. Use online scholarship databases, university websites, and local organizations to search for opportunities. Apply to a mix of high-value scholarships and smaller, less competitive ones to maximize your chances of success. 
• Create a Scholarship Application Calendar: Managing deadlines is crucial to avoid missing out on opportunities. Create a calendar that lists application deadlines, document submission dates, and interview schedules. This will help you stay on top of multiple applications and ensure you don’t miss any key dates. 
• Gather Required Documents: Make sure you have all the required documents ready well in advance of the application deadlines. These documents typically include transcripts, letters of recommendation, financial statements, test scores, and proof of eligibility. Having everything organized will make the application process smoother. 
• Write and Submit  Essays: Many scholarship applications require essays that allow you to showcase your personality, goals, and why you deserve the scholarship. Be sure to tailor each essay to the specific scholarship criteria, highlighting your qualifications and passion. Proofread your essays carefully to ensure they are free from errors before submitting them. 
• Complete your Application Forms: Fill out the application forms thoroughly and accurately. Double-check for any errors or missing information, as incomplete applications may be rejected. Pay close attention to the specific instructions and requirements for each scholarship. 

Conclusion

Securing a scholarship to study abroad requires careful planning, thorough research, and persistence. However, knowing how to get a scholarship to study abroad can significantly ease this journey. By carefully preparing your application and meeting eligibility criteria, you can enhance your chances of securing the financial support needed for international education. Remember, the journey may be challenging, but the rewards of studying abroad are immense, so apply for multiple scholarships to increase your chances of success. 

Now that you know how to pursue a scholarship, the next step is to explore the opportunities that await you. Discover which destinations offer the best programs by checking out our guide on the best countries to study abroad.

FAQs