Studying abroad, particularly in the USA, can be expensive due to the influx of international students seeking education at top-tier institutions. Scholarships are crucial in alleviating the financial strain of high tuition fees and living costs. For Indian students, there are numerous scholarship opportunities available at US universities.
On average, Indian students can expect to spend around USD 45,000 (approximately 36 lakh INR) annually, covering tuition, fees, accommodation, and other expenses. The most common financial aids include scholarships, fellowships, and loans. Scholarships can either fully or partially cover educational costs depending on the study level, chosen course, and the university.
Indian students aspiring to study in the United States have access to various scholarships that can ease their financial burden. These scholarships fall into three main categories:
The US government offers a limited number of scholarships specifically for international students, including some tailored for Indian nationals. Prominent programs include the Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Programme and the Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships, which support academic and professional growth.
Numerous private organisations and foundations provide financial aid to Indian students pursuing education in the US. Notable examples are the AAUW International Fellowships and the International Student Financial Aid (ISFA), which aim to support deserving students in achieving their academic goals.
Many top-tier universities in the United States offer scholarships based on various criteria. Indian students can benefit from these opportunities at institutions like the University of Minnesota, which provides fellowships, and the University of New Haven, known for its scholarship programs.
By exploring these scholarship options, Indian students can find financial support to help them realise their dream of studying in the United States.
The Tata Education and Development Trust offers this scholarship to Indian students enrolling in undergraduate programs at Cornell University. With an annual fund of $25 million, it supports up to 20 students each year.
Eligibility, Benefits & Application:
Application Period: October and November.
Award Announcement: December.
Eligibility: Must be an Indian resident and have completed secondary school in India. Admission to an undergraduate program at Cornell University and eligibility for a need-based scholarship are required.
Benefits: Varies annually until graduation, with architecture students receiving funding for up to 8 semesters. Primarily awarded to students in architecture, arts & planning, and engineering.
As one of the largest privately funded scholarship programs, Rotary International offers three types of scholarships: Academic Year Ambassadorial Scholarship, Multi-Year Ambassadorial Scholarship, and Cultural Ambassadorial Scholarship.
Eligibility, Benefits & Application:
Eligibility: Citizens from countries with Rotary Clubs, must have completed at least 2 years of college or equivalent. Open to people with disabilities.
Application Process: Applications are submitted through local Rotary clubs.
This fellowship supports students pursuing master's or doctoral degrees, covering tuition fees, monthly expenses, and living costs, particularly for minority students or those with limited English proficiency.
Eligibility, Benefits & Application:
Requirements: Enrolment in LTE language training and a strong academic record.
Benefits: Monthly stipend for living expenses and tuition fees.
Eligibility: Exclusively for Indian citizens.
This fellowship supports international students pursuing master's or doctoral programs in the USA. It covers tuition, living expenses, and medical costs for up to one year.
Eligibility, Benefits & Application:
Requirements: Bachelor's degree from an accredited Indian college or university with at least 55% marks, 3 years of work experience, no prior degree from a US university, and involvement in community service.
Application: Open to graduates and freshers.
Offered by Abbey Road Inc., this summer scholarship supports high school students aged 14 to 18 who excel in extracurricular activities.
Eligibility, Benefits & Application:
Scholarship Amount: $20,000 per year.
Eligibility: Must be an Indian citizen, have completed high school, and gained admission to an undergraduate program. Must also be eligible for a need-based scholarship.
This fellowship is for women pursuing research, graduate, or postgraduate studies in the USA, with support available for up to 5 years.
Eligibility, Benefits & Application:
Eligibility: Must be under 30 years old, an Indian citizen, and have an excellent academic record.
Benefits: Vary based on the duration and type of course.
Funded by Reliance Industries, this fellowship supports Indian students pursuing an MBA at Stanford University, with a condition to return to India post-studies.
Eligibility, Benefits & Application:
Eligibility: Must apply for an MBA at Stanford University, have strong academic records, and lack financial support.
Benefits: Covers 80% of tuition and course fees, with a total scholarship amounting to $150,000.
To study in the USA with a scholarship, you must apply for it separately. Here are the documents you typically need for a scholarship application:
Letter of recommendation
Letter of motivation
Financial statements/proof of low income (for income-based scholarships)
Acceptance letter from the university
Proof of any notable achievements
Good academic record in your 12th standard (higher scores preferred)
Participation in extracurricular activities and volunteering experiences (adds significant advantage)
Universities seek candidates who demonstrate potential to contribute positively to their community.
Steps to Apply for a Scholarship:
Research and identify various scholarships.
Review the eligibility criteria for each scholarship.
Arrange all necessary documents.
Carefully prepare your application.
Submit your application.
Follow up with the university to check your application status.
By following these steps and preparing diligently, you can increase your chances of securing a scholarship to study in the USA.
Three types of scholarships are available for Indian students namely Government, Non-government and university scholarships.
To find scholarships in the USA specifically for Indian students, start by exploring dedicated scholarship portals such as Scholarship.com, and College Board. Additionally, check the websites of U.S. universities you are interested in, as many offer scholarships for international students. Organisations like the Fulbright Program, Tata Scholarship for Cornell University, and Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation also provide scholarships for Indian students. Remember to check the eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each scholarship.
Candidates must submit the following documents: a copy of their passport or ID, academic transcripts, a Statement of Purpose (SOP), two or three Letters of Recommendation (LORs), a Curriculum Vitae (CV), an essay, standardised test scores, parents' financial information with tax returns, medical information, and portfolios.
To secure a scholarship, begin by researching and identifying various scholarship opportunities and thoroughly reviewing the eligibility criteria for each. Arrange the necessary documents, including transcripts, recommendation letters, and personal statements. Carefully prepare your application, ensuring all information is accurate and compelling. Submit your application before the deadline, and follow up with the university to check your application status.
Indian students aspiring to study in the USA can explore various prestigious scholarships, such as the Tata Scholarship for Cornell University, which supports undergraduate studies. The Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholarships offer funding for academic and cultural exchange. The Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program is designed for mid-career professionals to enhance leadership skills. The Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships provide opportunities for research, study, and teaching. The International Education Financial Aid offers a database of scholarships and grants. The AAUW International Fellowships support women pursuing full-time graduate or postdoctoral study. Lastly, the Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship provides financial support for Indian students admitted to Stanford's MBA program.
Indian students seeking scholarships to study in the USA have a variety of options available to them, including merit-based, need-based, and specific scholarships offered by universities, private organisations, and government bodies. These scholarships can cover partial to full tuition fees, living expenses, and other educational costs. By leveraging these opportunities, Indian students can alleviate the financial burden of studying abroad and focus on achieving their academic and career goals.
In conclusion, securing a scholarship can significantly enhance the feasibility and affordability of pursuing higher education in the USA for Indian students. It is crucial for students to thoroughly research and apply for relevant scholarships, adhere to application deadlines, and prepare compelling applications to increase their chances of success. By doing so, they can access world-class education and opportunities in the United States without financial constraints.
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