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Many Indian students dream of studying abroad, but the biggest hurdle they face is financing their education. Studying in countries like the USA, UK, Canada, or Australia can be expensive. However, scholarships can significantly reduce this financial burden. In this comprehensive guide by Shiksha Overseas, we’ll walk you through how to get a scholarship for studying abroad, step by step.

What is a Scholarship?

A scholarship is free financial aid provided to students to help pay for their studies. Unlike loans, scholarships do not need to be repaid, making them a valuable resource for students aiming to study abroad.

Scholarships can cover:

• Tuition fees
• Living expenses
• Travel costs
• Books and materials

Types of Scholarships for Indian Students

There are various types of scholarships available for Indian students looking to study abroad. Here’s a breakdown of the most common ones:

Top Scholarships for Indian Students to Study Abroad

Here are some of the most popular and well-recognized scholarships for Indian students:

1. Chevening Scholarship (UK)

• For Master’s degrees in the UK
• Covers full tuition, travel, and living costs

1. Fulbright-Nehru Scholarship (USA)
   • For Master’s and PhD students
   • Covers tuition, airfare, and living expenses
2. DAAD Scholarship (Germany)
   • For studying in Germany
   • Primarily for Master’s and PhD students
3. Erasmus+ (Europe)
   • For studying in European countries
   • Covers tuition and living expenses
4. Commonwealth Scholarship (UK)
   • For students from Commonwealth countries like India
   • Available for Master’s and PhD courses
5. Government of India Scholarships
   • National Overseas Scholarship
   • AICTE Pragati & Saksham Scholarships (for girls and disabled students)

How to Apply for Scholarships – Step by Step

Applying for a scholarship can be a long process, but if you follow the right steps, you’ll maximize your chances. Here’s how to apply for scholarships to study abroad:

1. Start Early
   • Begin your search at least one year before your course starts to avoid last-minute stress.
2. Choose the Right Scholarship
   • Match your marks, subject of interest, and preferred country with the scholarships available.
3. Check Eligibility Criteria
   • Thoroughly read eligibility requirements, including age, income, academic qualifications, and required documents.
4. Write a Strong SOP (Statement of Purpose)
   • Your SOP should explain why you want to study abroad and your future goals. Make it personal and compelling.
5. Get Good Letters of Recommendation
   • Ask professors or employers who know you well to provide strong letters of recommendation.
6. Submit All Documents on Time
   • Documents may include:
     • Mark sheets
     • Passport
     • English proficiency test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
     • Income certificate
     • Resume/CV
7. Prepare for Interviews
   • Some scholarships require an interview. Practice common questions to feel confident.

Extra Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship

1. Maintain High Grades
   • Good academic performance increases your chances of receiving scholarships.
2. Engage in Extracurricular Activities
   • Active participation in clubs, sports, or volunteering shows well-roundedness.
3. Volunteer Work
   • Many organizations value students who contribute to society. It looks impressive on your application.
4. Improve Your English Skills
   • Higher IELTS or TOEFL scores may increase your chances for scholarships, as they demonstrate proficiency in the language.

How Shiksha Overseas Can Help You

At Shiksha Overseas, we specialize in guiding students like you to:

• Find the best scholarships for studying abroad
• Apply for scholarships on time
• Write impactful SOPs and essays
• Prepare for scholarship interviews