There are multiple scholarships for studying abroad by the Indian government. The scholarships are given to academically bright and financially challenged students. Any student seeking the help in order to complete their education, Indian government scholarship is the best solution. However, there is a limitation to the study abroad scholarship.
The list of scholarships are mostly post graduation and higher level study-focused. So, a student seeking scholarship to study abroad after 12 has less possibility to get any official financial help.
What Students Should Know Before Searching For An Overseas Scholarship ?
Before applying for study abroad scholarships after 12th, students should understand that scholarships are competitive and require early planning and preparation. Knowing eligibility, deadlines, and required documents helps avoid last-minute mistakes and increase selection chances.
- Check academic and eligibility criteria carefully for each scholarship
- Maintain strong academic scores and extracurricular profile
- Prepare key documents: SOP, LORs, transcripts, certificates
- Track application deadlines and apply early
- Research country-specific and university-specific scholarships
- Avoid relying on a single scholarship, apply to multiple options
Central government scholarships vs state government scholarships
Central and state government scholarships differ mainly in scope, funding authority, and eligibility coverage. National Scholarship Portal (NSP) manages most central schemes, while state governments run their own programs for local students.
Below are the key difference between the central scholarships and state scholarship:
Central Government Scholarships:
- Offered by ministries under the Government of India
- Accessible nationwide through National Scholarship Portal
- Merit-based, need-based, or category-based
- Covers wider institutions, including national-level colleges
State Government Scholarships:
- Managed by individual state authorities
- Eligibility often requires domicile of that state
- Focus on local students and state institutions
- May have different benefits and application portals
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Top Indian Government Scholarships for Studying Abroad
The Indian government offers multiple scholarships for studying abroad. Here are major scholarships for studying abroad by Indian government with key benefits and eligibility:
National Overseas Scholarship
- For SC/ST/OBC/EWS students pursuing Master’s/PhD
- Covers tuition, living expenses, travel
- Ideal for students with strong academics and financial need
Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships
- Offered by United States-India Educational Foundation
- Covers tuition, airfare, living costs in USA
- Best for leadership-driven students with work experience
Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan
- Funded by Commonwealth Scholarship Commission
- For Master’s/PhD in UK universities
- Covers full tuition, travel, stipend
Raman Charpak Fellowship
- India–France joint program for research internships
- Covers monthly stipend, visa, travel support
- Ideal for students in engineering/science fields
Dr. Ambedkar Central Sector Scheme of Interest Subsidy
- Interest subsidy on education loans for abroad studies
- For EWS category students
- Reduces financial burden during moratorium period
Agatha Harrison Memorial Fellowship
- Offered via Ministry of Education
- For study at Oxford University
- Covers full expenses for one year
- It is mostly for masters and research work
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Scholarships for Studying Abroad by Indian Government After 12th
Direct scholarships for studying abroad by Indian government after 12th are limited. Most schemes focus on postgraduate or research-level studies. However, Class 12 students can still explore indirect support options like interest subsidies, merit-based schemes, and international collaborations.
Planning early, building a strong profile, and combining multiple funding sources is key for undergraduate study abroad.
Which Students Can Apply Right After Class 12
- Students with high academic scores (75%+) and strong extracurriculars
- Those applying to recognized foreign universities
- Candidates from EWS/SC/ST/OBC categories (for specific schemes)
- Students with clear career goals and SOP readiness
Government-Backed Routes For Undergraduate Study Abroad
- Ministry of Education schemes (limited UG-level support)
- Interest subsidy schemes like Dr. Ambedkar Central Sector Scheme
- Country partnerships (India–France, UK, etc.) with partial funding
- State government scholarships for meritorious students
- Education loans with government-backed benefits
What To Do If No Direct Government Scholarship Is Available
- Apply for university-specific scholarships abroad
- Combine private scholarships + education loans
- Build a strong SOP, profile, and achievements portfolio
- Apply early to maximize funding chances
- Explore assistantships or part-time work options abroad with study
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Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students to Get Scholarship
To get a scholarship abroad, you need to meet multiple parameters, they are given below:
Academic eligibility
For most overseas scholarship criteria, students must have strong academic performance, typically 60–75%+ in previous qualifications. Competitive scholarships may require higher scores, academic consistency, and achievements like Olympiads, research work, or extracurricular excellence. A well-prepared SOP and LORs also support academic eligibility.
Income and category-based eligibility
Many eligibility for Indian government scholarships abroad schemes are need-based. Students from EWS, SC, ST, and OBC categories often receive preference. Annual family income limits (usually ₹6–₹8 lakh) apply in several schemes. Valid income and category certificates are required during application.
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Admission and country requirements
Students must secure admission in a recognized foreign university before applying for most scholarships. Each country may have specific requirements such as course eligibility, visa rules, and academic qualifications aligned with their education system.
Language test and age criteria
Applicants may need IELTS/TOEFL scores depending on the country and course. Some scholarships also have age limits (usually 18–35 years). Meeting minimum language proficiency and age criteria is essential for eligibility.
Documents Required for Scholarship Application
Knowing of scholarship application documents is highly important. It keeps you organized and prepared documents before form filling.
Identity and income documents
- Aadhaar card / Passport (ID proof)
- Income certificate (issued by competent authority)
- Caste/category certificate (if applicable)
- Domicile certificate
- Bank account details linked with National Scholarship Portal
Academic and admission documents
- Class 10th & 12th mark sheets and certificates
- Graduation transcripts (if applicable)
- Entrance exam scores (NEET/SAT/GRE, etc.)
- Offer letter/admission proof from foreign university
- Fee structure or admission confirmation letter
Get Study Abroad Scholarships and Admission Help with EOCL India
Indeed, scholarships for studying abroad by the Indian govt after 12th is a great support to students. It is especially beneficial to the students looking for a quality education but can’t afford due to high fees.
Furthermore, if one is seeking quality MBBS abroad options after 12th, MBBS abroad is the best choice. It is affordable, high-tech education, global recognized degree and more. EOCL India, assists to get NMC approved college. For more information feel free to contact us today.
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FAQs Scholarships for Studying by Indian Govt After 12th
Is there any Indian government scholarship for studying abroad after 12th?
Yes, there are multiple central and state government scholarships for studying abroad after 12th.
Which official portal should I use to apply for these scholarships?
Most of the government sponsor scholarships can be filled from the National Scholarships Portal (NSP).
Do Indian government scholarships cover airfare and living costs?
Not all, but several Indian government scholarships cover airfare and living costs.
Can I apply for more than one scholarship at the same time?
Yes, you can apply for more than one scholarship at the same time.
Are there scholarships for SC, ST, OBC, or minority students to study abroad?
Yes, the central government and various state govt provide scholarships for SC, ST, OBC and minority students to study abroad.
Do I need IELTS or TOEFL to get a government scholarship abroad?
Yes, most government scholarships abroad require IELTS or TOEFL qualification.
