List of Scholarships Available for Indians to Study in the USA

Studying in the United States is a dream for many Indian students, but the financial cost often becomes a significant barrier. Thankfully, numerous scholarships are available to help students achieve their academic ambitions. Whether merit-based, need-based, or designed for specific fields of study, scholarships can reduce the financial burden and make studying in the USA more affordable.

In this blog, we'll explore some of the most prominent scholarships available for Indian students to study in the USA.

1. Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships

The Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships are among the most prestigious scholarships for Indian students. These fellowships are specifically designed for outstanding students who wish to pursue a master's degree in fields such as public administration, economics, environmental studies, international relations, and more.

  • Eligibility: Indian citizens with at least three years of professional work experience and a demonstrated commitment to social causes.
  • Coverage: Full tuition, living expenses, travel costs, and health insurance.
  • Application Process: Requires an essay, recommendations, and evidence of professional experience.
2. Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships

The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation offers scholarships to young Indian students with exceptional talent and promise. These scholarships are available for students pursuing full-time degrees in arts, architecture, fine arts, and film.

  • Eligibility: Indian students under the age of 30 with an exceptional academic record.
  • Coverage: Tuition fees, living expenses, one-way airfare, and health insurance.
  • Application Process: Includes a detailed proposal, recommendations, and an interview.
3. The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program

The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program is designed for mid-career professionals from developing countries, including India. This non-degree fellowship provides opportunities for professional development through selected courses and practical work experiences.

  • Eligibility: Professionals in fields such as human rights, public health, law, and education.
  • Coverage: Full tuition, living expenses, travel, and health insurance.
  • Application Process: Requires a nomination by the Indian Embassy and selection based on merit.
4. Tata Scholarship for Cornell University

The Tata Education and Development Trust offers scholarships for Indian students specifically applying to Cornell University for undergraduate programs. This scholarship ensures that deserving students can pursue their education regardless of their financial situation.

  • Eligibility: Indian citizens applying for undergraduate programs at Cornell University.
  • Coverage: Full tuition and related academic costs.
  • Application Process: Applicants must demonstrate financial need and meet academic qualifications.
5. Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship

This scholarship is specifically for Indian students aiming to pursue an MBA at Stanford Graduate School of Business. Funded by the Reliance Group, the Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship aims to support Indian nationals with leadership potential and a commitment to improving their communities.

  • Eligibility: Indian citizens with an interest in pursuing an MBA at Stanford.
  • Coverage: Up to 80% of tuition and associated fees.
  • Application Process: Candidates must submit an essay, a résumé, and meet the financial need criteria.
6. Rotary Foundation Global Scholarship Grants

The Rotary Foundation offers global scholarships to support students pursuing graduate-level coursework or research in fields related to its six focus areas, including peace, disease prevention, water sanitation, and maternal health.

  • Eligibility: Students must be pursuing a graduate degree in an area that aligns with Rotary's mission.
  • Coverage: Tuition, travel, room, board, and other necessary expenses.
  • Application Process: Applicants are sponsored by a local Rotary club in their home country.
7. Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Scholarships

This scholarship is offered by the Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation for Indian students pursuing postgraduate studies abroad. It’s a merit-based loan scholarship for students who have consistently performed well academically.

  • Eligibility: Indian students seeking postgraduate degrees in various fields.
  • Coverage: A loan of up to INR 20 lakh (approximately $25,000) with no interest.
  • Application Process: Includes academic transcripts, references, and an interview.
8. American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship

The Emerging Global Leader Scholarship at American University is aimed at high-achieving international students, including Indians, who demonstrate leadership potential, volunteerism, and a desire to improve their home communities.

  • Eligibility: Students applying for undergraduate programs at American University.
  • Coverage: Full tuition and board.
  • Application Process: Applicants must demonstrate leadership and community involvement in addition to strong academic performance.
9. AAUW International Fellowships

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) offers international fellowships to women from around the world, including Indian students, who are pursuing graduate or postgraduate studies in the USA.

  • Eligibility: Women pursuing full-time graduate or postgraduate studies.
  • Coverage: Ranges from $18,000 to $30,000 depending on the program.
  • Application Process: Applicants must submit academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a clear statement of intent.
10. The India Trust Fellowship at Columbia Business School

The India Trust Fellowship is specifically designed for Indian students who wish to pursue an MBA at Columbia Business School. It is a highly competitive scholarship that provides financial support to deserving Indian candidates.

  • Eligibility: Indian citizens with demonstrated financial need.
  • Coverage: A significant portion of tuition costs.
  • Application Process: Based on academic merit and financial need.

Conclusion:

Pursuing higher education in the USA can open up incredible opportunities, and these scholarships are a stepping stone for Indian students to achieve their academic and career goals. Each of these scholarships has its own eligibility criteria, application process, and benefits, so it's essential to research and apply to the ones that best align with your aspirations.

With careful planning and preparation, financial barriers need not stand in the way of your dreams of studying in the USA. Whether you're pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral studies, these scholarships can provide the financial assistance needed to succeed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.1. What are the eligibility criteria for most scholarships to study in the USA?

Answer: Eligibility criteria vary depending on the scholarship. Generally, they are based on academic merit, financial need, leadership potential, and, in some cases, professional experience. For scholarships like the Fulbright-Nehru and Inlaks, professional experience and community involvement are important, while others like the Tata Scholarship focus on financial need and academic excellence.

Q.2. How can I improve my chances of getting a scholarship for studying in the USA?

Answer: To improve your chances, focus on maintaining a strong academic record, gaining leadership experience, and engaging in community or social service. Writing compelling personal essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and meeting all application deadlines are also crucial.

Q.3. Do these scholarships cover all expenses like tuition, living costs, and travel?

Answer: Most scholarships offer comprehensive coverage, including tuition, living expenses, travel, and health insurance. For example, the Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship and Tata Scholarship cover nearly all expenses. However, some scholarships, like the Narotam Sekhsaria Scholarship, provide a loan, which covers only part of the total cost.

Q.4. When should I start applying for scholarships to study in the USA?

Answer: It's best to start your research and application process at least 12 to 18 months before your intended program start date. Most scholarship deadlines are several months before the academic year begins, so early preparation is key.

Q.5. Are there specific scholarships for certain fields of study or universities?

Answer: Yes, many scholarships are tailored to specific fields or universities. For example, the Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship is for Indian students pursuing an MBA at Stanford, while the Tata Scholarship is for students applying to Cornell University. Scholarships like the AAUW Fellowships focus on women pursuing graduate or postgraduate studies.