Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students

For many Indian students, the dream of studying abroad can feel out of reach due to high costs. However, fully funded scholarships for Indian students are making this dream a reality for thousands each year. In the 2023/2024 academic year, the United States hosted 331,602 international students from India, marking a 23% increase from the previous year. Similarly, the number of Indian students studying abroad surged by 35% in 2023 compared to 2022, reaching an estimated 1.5 million. 

These scholarships play a crucial role in enabling such international education by covering expenses from tuition to living costs. Ready to take the leap? Let’s explore the top fully funded scholarships for Indian students in 2025 that can turn your global education dreams into reality.

Looking for ways to study abroad without financial stress? Explore a wide range of scholarships for Indian students that cover tuition fees, living expenses, and more.

Types of Fully Funded Scholarships Abroad For Indian Students

Indian students looking to pursue higher education abroad have several fully funded scholarships for Indian students that can cover not just tuition, but also living expenses, travel, and other associated costs. These scholarships can be classified into several categories based on the funding source, the awarding body, and the eligibility criteria. 

Here are the main types of fully funded scholarships for Indian students:

1. Government-Funded Scholarships

Governments of various countries offer fully funded scholarships to attract talented international students, including those from India. These scholarships typically cover all expenses, including tuition fees, accommodation, and travel costs. They are often awarded to students pursuing graduate, post-graduate, or research programs. 

Some well-known government-funded scholarships include:

• Chevening Scholarship (UK)
• Fulbright Scholarship (USA)
• Australia Awards (Australia)

Also Read: Dreaming of Studying Abroad? Here’s How Indian Government Scholarships Can Help

2. University-Specific Scholarships

Many top universities around the world offer fully funded scholarships to outstanding international students. These scholarships are typically competitive, targeting the best talent from across the globe. Some university-specific scholarships provide complete financial support, including tuition fees, accommodation, and stipends for living costs. A few notable university-specific scholarships include:

• Rhodes Scholarship (Oxford University)
• Clarendon Scholarship (University of Oxford)
• Tata Scholarship (Cornell University)

3. Organization and NGO-Funded Scholarships

In addition to government and university scholarships, many non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and private organizations also offer fully funded scholarships for Indian students. These scholarships are often field-specific or targeted at underrepresented groups. 

They can provide complete financial coverage, making them a great option for students who might not be eligible for government-funded scholarships. Some notable scholarships include:

• Gates Cambridge Scholarship (UK)
• Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship (USA)

Also Read: Study Abroad Scholarships to Help You Fulfill Your Dreams

Types of Fully Funded Scholarships Abroad For Indian Students

Indian students aspiring to study abroad have access to a range of fully funded scholarships for Indian students, offering comprehensive financial support that covers everything from tuition fees to living costs and travel expenses. These scholarships make it possible for students to pursue their academic dreams at some of the world’s top universities without worrying about the financial burden. 

Below, we highlight some of the most sought-after fully funded scholarships for Indian students in popular study destinations around the world.

Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in the UK

The UK is a popular destination for Indian students seeking higher education. Several fully funded scholarships in the UK are available to cover the full cost of education, making it easier for students to study at top UK universities. 

These fully funded scholarships for Indian students provide financial support for tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs, ensuring that deserving students can pursue their academic dreams without financial constraints.

1. Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)

The Commonwealth Scholarship, funded by the UK government, supports Indian students from low-income backgrounds to pursue postgraduate studies at UK universities. It covers tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.

Details	Description
Coverage	Full tuition, airfare, living allowance
Duration	Typically 1-2 years (Master’s or PhD programs)
Benefits	Full funding for tuition, travel, and living expenses

Eligibility Criteria for Commonwealth Scholarships

The eligibility for the Commonwealth Scholarships is detailed and can vary depending on the specific program, but generally includes:

• Academic Requirements: Strong academic record in previous studies, often with a minimum GPA requirement.
• Financial Need: Applicants must come from low-income backgrounds, as the scholarship is intended to support those who would otherwise not be able to afford international education.
• Age: Most scholarships target early-career professionals, so applicants typically should be under a certain age (e.g., under 35 for master’s programs).
• Nationality: Applicants must be citizens of Commonwealth countries, including India.

2. Chevening Scholarship (UK)

The Chevening Scholarship, a UK government initiative, provides funding for international students to pursue a one-year master’s program at a UK university. It is aimed at fostering leadership and global cooperation.

Details	Description
Coverage	Full tuition, living expenses, travel costs
Duration	1 year (Master’s programs)
Benefits	Full tuition coverage, living expenses, airfare

Eligibility Criteria for Chevening Scholarship

The Chevening Scholarship has specific eligibility criteria for applicants:

• Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have at least a 2:1 (upper second class) honours degree or equivalent.
• Work Experience: A minimum of two years of work experience is required.
• Leadership Potential: Chevening looks for students with leadership qualities, demonstrated through extracurricular activities, professional experience, or community involvement.
• Commitment to Return: Applicants must intend to return to their home country for at least two years after their studies.

3. Felix Scholarship (UK)

The Felix Scholarship is an initiative to help financially disadvantaged Indian students pursue postgraduate education at the University of Oxford. It covers full tuition fees, travel expenses, and living costs.

Details	Description
Coverage	Full tuition, living expenses, travel costs
Duration	Typically 1-2 years (Master’s or PhD programs)
Benefits	Full funding, including tuition, living expenses, and travel

Eligibility Criteria for Felix Scholarship

The Felix Scholarship is aimed at Indian students facing financial challenges:

• Academic Excellence: Applicants should have strong academic performance, generally in the top 10% of their class.
• Financial Need: The scholarship is targeted at students from disadvantaged financial backgrounds.
• University Admission: Applicants must have received an offer of admission from the University of Oxford for a relevant postgraduate program.
• Nationality: Indian students are the primary target group for this scholarship.

4. Rhodes Scholarship (UK)

The Rhodes Scholarship is one of the most prestigious international fellowships. It supports exceptional students from various countries, including India, to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford. The scholarship is awarded based on academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to global service.

Details	Description
Coverage	Full tuition, living stipend, airfare, travel costs
Duration	2-3 years (depending on the program)
Benefits	Full funding for the entire program duration

Eligibility Criteria for Rhodes Scholarship

• Academic Excellence: Outstanding academic record, typically with a 1st class degree or equivalent.
• Leadership and Service: Demonstrated leadership and commitment to public service.
• Age: Applicants must be aged between 18 and 24.
• Nationality: Applicants must be from eligible countries (including India).

5. British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM (UK)

The British Council offers scholarships for Indian women to pursue postgraduate degrees in STEM fields at UK universities. This program is designed to empower women in underrepresented sectors of STEM and help them develop leadership skills.

Details	Description
Coverage	Full tuition, living expenses, travel allowance
Duration	1 year (Master’s program)
Benefits	Full tuition coverage, living expenses, travel costs

Eligibility Criteria for British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM

• Gender: Must be a female applicant.
• Field of Study: Must be pursuing a STEM program.
• Academic Excellence: Strong academic background in a STEM-related field.
• Work Experience: Relevant work or research experience in STEM.
• Nationality: Indian citizens.

6. GREAT Scholarship (UK)

The GREAT Scholarship is an initiative by the UK government, in collaboration with UK universities, to support international students, including those from India, to study in the UK. It aims to attract high-caliber students and provide funding for various postgraduate courses.

Details	Description
Coverage	Full tuition fees, travel allowance
Duration	1 year (Master’s program)
Benefits	Full tuition coverage, travel expenses

Eligibility Criteria for GREAT Scholarship

• Academic Requirements: A good academic record and prior qualifications.
• Nationality: Indian students are eligible to apply.
• Field of Study: Open to a range of postgraduate programs across various fields.

7. Gates Cambridge Scholarship (UK)

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship offers full funding for international students, including Indians, to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Cambridge. It is aimed at individuals who demonstrate exceptional intellectual ability and leadership potential.

Details	Description
Coverage	Full tuition, living expenses, travel expenses
Duration	Typically 1-3 years (depending on the program)
Benefits	Full funding, including tuition, living, and travel

Eligibility Criteria for Gates Cambridge Scholarship

• Academic Excellence: Excellent academic qualifications.
• Leadership Potential: Strong leadership skills or potential.
• Nationality: Open to students from any country, including India.

8. Clarendon Scholarship (UK)

The Clarendon Scholarship, offered by the University of Oxford, is aimed at academically outstanding students from across the world. It provides full funding for graduate study at Oxford University, covering all fees and living expenses.

Details	Description
Coverage	Full tuition, living stipend, travel costs
Duration	1-3 years (Master’s/PhD programs)
Benefits	Full funding for tuition, living, and travel expenses

Eligibility Criteria for Clarendon Scholarship

• Academic Excellence: Exceptional academic records.
• Field of Study: Open to students in various fields.
• Nationality: International students, including Indians.

9. Global Study Award

The Global Study Award, supported by the Studyportals and ISIC, provides funding for international students to pursue higher education abroad. The award is available for students from India and other countries to study in various locations globally.

Details	Description
Coverage	Full tuition, living expenses, travel allowance
Duration	1 year (for the first year of study)
Benefits	Up to €10,000 for tuition, living, and travel expenses

Eligibility Criteria for Global Study Award

• Academic Excellence: High academic achievement and a strong record.
• Nationality: Open to international students, including those from India.
• Field of Study: Open to all fields of study.

10. Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarship

The Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarship supports Indian students pursuing postgraduate studies or professional development in the UK. The scholarship aims to develop long-term cultural, educational, and professional ties between the UK and India.

Details	Description
Coverage	Full tuition, living expenses, travel costs
Duration	1 year (Postgraduate programs or professional development)
Benefits	Full funding, including tuition and travel allowance

Eligibility Criteria for Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarship

• Academic Qualifications: Relevant academic background for the course.
• Age: Applicants should be between 25 and 38 years of age.
• Nationality: Indian citizens.

Also Read: Free Education in UK for Indian Students

Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students in the USA

Indian students aspiring to study in the United States have access to numerous fully funded scholarships in the USA that cover tuition, living expenses, travel, and more. These fully funded scholarships for Indian students provide financial support to help them pursue higher education at some of the most prestigious universities in the world. 

Below are some of the top scholarships available for Indian students looking to study in the USA.

Fulbright Scholarships (USA)

The Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship is one of the most sought-after scholarships for Indian students looking to pursue a Master’s or research program in the USA. It is fully funded by the United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF) and covers tuition, airfare, living expenses, and health insurance.

Details	Description
Coverage	Tuition, living stipend, airfare, health insurance
Duration	1-2 years (Master’s or research programs)
Benefits	Full funding for tuition, travel, and living expenses

Eligibility Criteria for Fulbright Scholarships

• Nationality: Must be an Indian citizen.
• Academic Qualifications: Strong academic record with at least 55% in a Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s applicants).
• Work Experience: At least three years of work experience in the relevant field.
• Leadership Potential: Evidence of leadership skills in professional and community work.

Cornell University Tata Scholarship (USA)

The Cornell University Tata Scholarship provides this scholarship to Indian students admitted to Cornell University for undergraduate studies. It ensures that talented Indian students can access world-class education without financial barriers.

Details	Description
Coverage	Full tuition fees
Duration	4 years (Undergraduate programs)
Benefits	Covers entire tuition for undergraduate education

Eligibility Criteria for Tata Scholarship

• Nationality: Must be an Indian citizen.
• Admission: Must secure admission to an undergraduate program at Cornell University.
• Financial Need: Must demonstrate financial need.

Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarship (USA & UK)

The Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarship supports young Indian students pursuing Master’s degrees in top American, European, and UK institutions. It covers tuition, living expenses, and one-way travel costs.

Details	Description
Coverage	Tuition, living allowance, travel expenses
Duration	1-2 years (Master’s program)
Benefits	Full funding for tuition, travel, and living expenses

Eligibility Criteria for Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarship

• Nationality: Must be an Indian citizen.
• Academic Excellence: First-class degree from an Indian university.
• Age Limit: Must be under 30 years of age.
• Admission: Must have secured admission to a top-ranked US or UK university.

Global Scholar Award (USA & Worldwide)

This scholarship is provided by Education First (EF) to support international students, including Indians, who wish to pursue higher education abroad. It aims to encourage academic excellence and global leadership.

Details	Description
Coverage	Tuition fees, travel expenses, living costs
Duration	Varies by program
Benefits	Financial support for tuition and related costs

Eligibility Criteria for Global Scholar Award

• Nationality: Open to students from all countries, including India.
• Academic Performance: High academic achievement is required.
• Leadership & Extracurriculars: Strong leadership experience and community involvement.

AAUW International Fellowship (USA)

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) offers this fully funded scholarship to female students from around the world, including India, who wish to pursue Master’s, Ph.D., or postdoctoral studies in the USA.

Details	Description
Coverage	Tuition, living stipend, travel expenses
Duration	1-5 years (Master’s, Ph.D., Postdoctoral)
Benefits	Full funding, including tuition, living, and travel

Eligibility Criteria for AAUW International Fellowship

• Gender: Open only to female applicants.
• Nationality: Must be a non-U.S. citizen (Indian students are eligible).
• Academic Excellence: Must have an outstanding academic record.
• Field of Study: Open to all disciplines.

Also Read: Top 10 Scholarships for International Students to Study in the USA for Free

Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students in Canada

Canada offers various fully funded scholarships in Canada to help Indian students pursue higher education without financial burdens. These fully funded scholarships for Indian students cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel, and other academic costs, making it easier to study at top Canadian universities. 

Below are some of the most prestigious scholarships available for Indian students in Canada.

York University International Undergraduate Leadership Scholarship

York University provides this fully funded undergraduate scholarship to international students, including Indian applicants, who have demonstrated outstanding leadership skills and academic excellence.

Details	Description
Coverage	Tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs
Duration	4 years (Undergraduate program)
Benefits	Full tuition funding for undergraduate studies

Eligibility Criteria for York University Scholarship

• Nationality: Open to international students, including Indian applicants.
• Academic Excellence: Must have an outstanding academic record.
• Leadership Skills: Strong leadership experience in community service, arts, or athletics.
• Admission: Must secure admission to an undergraduate program at York University.

Merit Scholarship Program – Québec Government

The Québec government offers fully funded scholarships for international students, including Indians, to support Master’s, Ph.D., and postdoctoral studies in Québec-based universities. The program aims to attract top talent and researchers.

Details	Description
Coverage	Tuition fees, monthly stipend, research funds
Duration	1-3 years (Master’s, Ph.D., or postdoctoral)
Benefits	Full financial support for tuition and research

Eligibility Criteria for Québec Merit Scholarship

• Nationality: Open to all international students, including Indian citizens.
• Field of Study: Priority is given to STEM, health sciences, and social sciences.
• Academic Excellence: Must have an outstanding academic record.
• Research Potential: For Ph.D. and postdoctoral applicants, research proposals are evaluated.

Also Read: Scholarships in Canada for Indian Students

Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students in Australia

Australia offers several fully funded scholarships in Australia for Indian students looking to pursue higher education and research. These fully funded scholarships for Indian students cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel allowances, and research costs, enabling them to study at top Australian universities without financial stress. 

Below are two major fully funded scholarships available for Indian students in Australia.

John Allwright Fellowship

The John Allwright Fellowship (JAF) is a fully funded scholarship provided by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR). It supports students from developing countries, including India, to pursue a Master’s or Ph.D. in agricultural research at Australian universities.

Details	Description
Coverage	Tuition fees, living allowance, travel costs, and health insurance
Duration	2 years (Master’s) / 3-4 years (Ph.D.)
Benefits	Full financial support for agricultural research programs

Eligibility Criteria for John Allwright Fellowship

• Nationality: Open to citizens of partner countries, including India.
• Academic Requirement: Must have an undergraduate degree in agriculture, environment, or related fields.
• Employment: Applicants must be employees of ACIAR partner institutions in India.
• Research Focus: Must contribute to agricultural development and sustainability.

Australian Government RTP Scholarship

The Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship, funded by the Australian Government, is one of the most prestigious fully funded scholarships. It provides financial support to Indian students pursuing Master’s (by research) or Ph.D. programs in Australia.

Details	Description
Coverage	Full tuition fees, stipend, and research expenses
Duration	Up to 2 years (Master’s) / Up to 3-4 years (Ph.D.)
Benefits	Covers research costs, living allowance, and health insurance

Also Read: Scholarship for Indian Students in Australia: Requirements, Benefits & Eligibility

Eligibility Criteria for Australian Government RTP Scholarship

• Nationality: Open to international students, including Indian applicants.
• Academic Requirement: Must have an excellent academic record.
• Field of Study: Open to all disciplines, with a focus on research-based programs.
• University Admission: Must secure admission to an RTP-participating university in Australia.

Also Read: Is It Possible to Study in Australia for Free? Here’s How

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships

Securing a fully funded scholarship for Indian students requires thorough preparation and a well-structured approach. Whether you're aiming for government-funded or university-specific grants, understanding the scholarship application process is crucial. 

From researching eligibility criteria to submitting a compelling application, follow these essential steps to maximize your chances of obtaining a fully funded scholarship for your studies abroad.

1. Research and Identify Suitable Scholarships

• Explore scholarships based on eligibility, field of study, and destination.
• Visit official scholarship portals, university websites, and government funding pages for accurate details.

2. Check Eligibility Criteria

• Ensure you meet academic requirements, financial need criteria, and other conditions set by the scholarship provider.
• Some scholarships prioritize merit, leadership skills, research potential, or underprivileged backgrounds.

3. Gather Necessary Documents

Most scholarships require:

• Academic transcripts & certificates
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining career goals and scholarship need
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs) from professors or employers
• Resume/CV highlighting academic and extracurricular achievements
• Language proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, etc., if applicable)
• Financial documents (for need-based scholarships)

4. Complete and Submit the Application

• Fill out the application form carefully, ensuring all details are accurate.
• Upload all required documents before the deadline.
• Some scholarships may require additional essays or research proposals.

5. Prepare for the Interview (if applicable)

• Many scholarships involve an interview round to assess your motivation and future aspirations.
• Practice answering questions about your academic journey, career goals, and how the scholarship will benefit you.

6. Follow Up and Await Results

• Monitor your email and scholarship portal for updates.
• Be prepared for additional verification, document submissions, or virtual interviews if required.

7. Accept the Scholarship and Complete Formalities

• If selected, complete acceptance procedures, sign agreements, and apply for a student visa.
• Arrange travel, accommodation, and other essentials for your study abroad journey.

Conclusion

Pursuing higher education abroad can be expensive, but fully funded scholarships for Indian students make it achievable by covering tuition, living expenses, and more. With numerous scholarships available in the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and other countries, students can focus on academic and professional growth without financial stress.

To maximize your chances, start early, research thoroughly, and apply strategically. upGrad Study Abroad Scholarships provide expert guidance and resources to help you navigate scholarship opportunities and gain admission to top global universities.

Ready to take the next step? Learn with upGrad and unlock global education opportunities today!