Scholarships for MS in USA for Indian Students 2025-26

How can Indian students afford an MS in the USA when costs are so high? Annual expenses often exceed $43,000 (around ₹38 lakh), and over two years, the total can reach nearly ₹77 lakh. For most families, securing scholarships for MS in USA is essential to make this goal achievable.

Scholarship opportunities are highly competitive. Only about 12.5% of students receive any form of financial aid, and full-ride awards covering both tuition and living expenses are extremely rare. 

 A detailed overview of available scholarships, including university- and department-specific funding, application timelines, and a checklist of requirements, can help students plan effectively and make informed decisions.

Top 10 Scholarships to Study in USA for Indian Students 

Securing scholarships to study in the USA is a pivotal opportunity for Indian students pursuing higher education abroad. A number of prestigious scholarships are available to support promising students in pursuing their academic ambitions in American institutions. 

Given below are a few scholarships to study in the USA for Indian students

1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program

Fulbright Foreign Student Program, renowned as one of the premier government-funded scholarships for international students, presents an unparalleled opportunity for graduate students to pursue advanced studies in the United States. For individuals across diverse academic disciplines, Fulbright scholarships empower recipients with the resources and support necessary to excel in their chosen fields, excluding medicine.

Eligibility:

• A bachelor’s degree is equivalent to a U.S. degree
  
• Minimum 3 years of professional work experience
  
• Admission to a U.S. university in the U.S.
  
• Proficiency in English (TOEFL/IELTS if required)
  

Awards Offered:

• Full tuition coverage
  
• Monthly stipend for living expenses
  
• Health insurance coverage
  
• Round-trip airfare to and from the U.S.
  

Benefits:

• Comprehensive financial support allows focus on academics
  
• Opportunity to engage in cultural exchange programs
  
• Access to the Fulbright alumni network and professional mentorship
  
• Supports intellectual and professional growth across diverse disciplines (excluding medicine)

Application Deadline: May 31, 2025 

Tip: Begin preparations early, including securing letters of recommendation and standardized test scores. Check the USIEF website for India-specific deadlines and country-specific requirements.

2. Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship

The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship supports Indian students pursuing full-time MS, MPhil, or Doctoral programs at top institutions in the USA, UK, or Europe.

• Eligibility
  
  • An Indian citizen with a passport, residing in India
    
  • Born on or after Jan 1, 1995
    
  • Graduates from recognized Indian universities; final-year students are eligible
    
  • For foreign undergraduate degrees: 2+ years residency/work/study in India
    
  • Admission to a full-time postgraduate program
    
  • Not for students already holding postgraduate degrees abroad
    
• Academic Requirements
  
  • Social Sciences, Humanities, Law, Fine Arts, Architecture: ≥65% marks / CGPA 6.8/10 / GPA 2.6/4
    
  • Mathematics, Sciences, Environment: ≥70% marks / CGPA 7.2/10 / GPA 2.8/4
    
• Awards Offered
  
  • Up to USD 100,000 (₹8,876,000)  covering tuition, living expenses, travel, and health allowance
    
• Benefits
  
  • Comprehensive financial support
    
  • Opportunity to study at top institutions
    
  • Access to a strong alumni and professional network.

Application Deadline: March 31, 2025 

Tip: Prepare strong recommendations and a compelling study plan. 

3. Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship

The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship helps students from developing countries who cannot afford a Master’s degree in the USA. The funding is divided into two parts: half is a grant, which does not need to be repaid, and the other half is a low-interest loan. Students need a guarantor, such as a parent, for the loan, which is repayable starting five years after graduation. The scholarship covers tuition and living expenses, based on the student’s needs. This support provides an opportunity to study in the USA with favorable financial terms and comprehensive assistance.

Eligibility:

• Must be enrolled in a graduate program (Master’s) in the USA
  
• Resident of an eligible country (India included)
  
• Preferably under 30 years old
  
• Must have a guarantor for the loan component
  
• Must live in a country where Aga Khan Education Services (AKES), Aga Khan Foundation (AKF), or Aga Khan Education Board (AKEB) operates
  

Awards Offered:

• Financial assistance covering tuition fees and living expenses
  
• Half of the support is a grant (non-repayable)
  
• Half is a loan with a small annual fee
  
• Loan repayment starts five years after completing studies
  

Benefits:

• Enables students from developing countries to pursue higher education in the USA
  
• Recognition of academic excellence
  
• Access to international education and professional opportunities
  
• Favorable loan terms with a grace period
  
• Promotes academic growth and international cooperation

Application Deadline: March 31, 2026 

Note: Start preparing early by securing a reliable guarantor and gathering all required documents. Carefully check your country’s eligibility list on the official Aga Khan Foundation website before applying, as only certain countries qualify.

4. AAUW International Fellowship

The AAUW International Fellowship supports non-U.S. citizen women pursuing full-time graduate or postdoctoral studies in the USA. 

Eligibility:

• Non-U.S. citizen women
  
• A bachelor’s degree is equivalent to a U.S. undergraduate degree
  
• Planning to pursue a master’s, first professional, doctoral, or postdoctoral degree in the USA
  
• Must demonstrate English proficiency
  
• Intend to return to the home country after completing studies
  
• Must be admitted to a recognized U.S. institution
  

Awards Offered:

• Master’s / first professional degree: $20,000 (≈₹16.5 lakh)
  
• Doctoral degree: $25,000 (≈₹20.6 lakh)
  
• Postdoctoral studies: $50,000 (≈₹41.2 lakh)
  
• Covers tuition and living expenses
  

Benefits:

• Supports women worldwide to study in the USA
  
• Provides financial coverage for tuition, living, and research-related expenses
  
• Encourages returning to the home country to contribute positively to communities
  
• Promotes leadership, education, and empowerment for women.

Application Deadline: October 7, 2025 

Tip: Start early by securing strong recommendation letters and ensuring English proficiency scores are ready. Review the AAUW website carefully for country-specific requirements and deadlines to maximize your chances.

5. Global Study Awards

The Global Study Awards, launched by the British Council in 2015, support students pursuing postgraduate studies abroad, including in the USA. The scholarship can cover tuition fees and living costs for up to 52 weeks, depending on the tuition amount. It encourages global mobility and intercultural understanding for international students.

Eligibility:

• Acceptance letter from a U.S. university
  
• Valid IELTS Test Report Form (TRF)
  
• Valid International Student Identity Card (ISIC) or International Youth Travel Card (IYTC)
  

Awards Offered:

• Up to $12,000 (≈₹10 lakh)
  
• Covers tuition fees and living expenses
  

Benefits:

• Financial support for postgraduate studies abroad
  
• Encourages international exposure and cultural exchange.

Application Deadline: October 16, 2025 

Tip: Ensure your IELTS TRF is issued after 1 June 2017 and that your ISIC or IYTC is valid at the time of application. Check the official British Council website for specific deadlines and application procedures.

6. Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation

The Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Scholarship, established in 2002, supports academically outstanding Indian students under 30 years old who wish to pursue postgraduate studies abroad, including in the USA. The foundation provides an interest-free loan to cover tuition and living expenses and offers mentoring and networking opportunities to support academic and professional growth.

Eligibility:

• Indian nationals under 30 years old
  
• Graduates from accredited Indian universities
  
• Planning postgraduate studies abroad, including in the USA
  

Awards Offered:

• Interest-free loan up to ₹20 lakh (≈$24,000) covering tuition and living expenses
  

Benefits:

• Flexible repayment terms
  
• Mentoring and networking opportunities
  
• Support for academic and professional development.

Application Deadline: March 17, 2025

Tip: Start early by gathering academic transcripts and proof of admission. Highlight leadership and academic achievements in your application. Always check the official website for the latest deadlines and updates to application requirements.

7. East-West Center Graduate Degree Fellowship

The East-West Center Graduate Degree Fellowship supports Indian students and other Asia-Pacific candidates pursuing graduate degrees, including MS programs in the USA. It focuses on leadership development, intercultural understanding, and regional collaboration, making it ideal for students aiming for a global career in research or policy.

• Eligibility
  
  • Citizens of Asia-Pacific countries, including India
    
  • Admission to an eligible graduate program
    
  • Leadership potential
    
• Awards Offered
  
  • Full tuition
    
  • Monthly stipend
    
  • Health insurance and travel allowance
    
• Benefits
  
  • Financial support for MS students
    
  • Leadership and research opportunities.

Application Deadline: December 1, 2025 

Tip: Highlight leadership experiences, cross-cultural engagement, and research goals. Start preparing transcripts and recommendation letters well in advance. 

8. MPOWER Financing Udaan India Scholarship

The MPOWER Financing Udaan India Scholarship targets Indian students pursuing STEM-focused MS programs in the USA. It aims to reduce financial barriers for high-performing students in fields critical to innovation and technology.

• Eligibility
  
  • Indian citizens
    
  • Admission to an eligible STEM MS program in the USA
    
• Awards Offered
  
  • Partial tuition up to $5,000 (≈₹4.1 lakh)
    
• Benefits
  
  • No U.S. cosigner required
    
  • Supports STEM MS students financially
    

Application Deadline: July 31, 2025 

Tip: Highlight academic achievements, STEM research, and leadership potential in your application. Apply early and ensure all test scores and transcripts are ready. 

9. MPOWER Women in STEM Scholarship

The MPOWER Women in STEM Scholarship empowers international women pursuing STEM degrees in the USA and Canada, including Master of Science (MS) programs. It aims to reduce financial barriers and promote gender diversity in STEM fields.

Eligibility:

• Female applicants, at least 18 years old
  
• Accepted or enrolled full-time in a STEM degree program (MS or Ph.D.) at an MPOWER-eligible institution in the USA or Canada
  
• For study in the USA: Valid student visa, DACA status, or permanent resident (Green Card)
  
• STEM disciplines, including Engineering, Computer Science, Biology, Mathematics, Healthcare, and more
  

Awards Offered:

• Grand Prize: $6,000 (₹5,32,560)
  
• First Runner-Up: $2,000 (₹1,77,520)
  
• Second Runner-Up: $1,000 (₹88,760)
  Scholarship amount is paid directly to the educational institution.
  

Benefits:

• Financial support for tuition and living expenses
  
• Recognition for women leaders in STEM
  
• Encourages global mobility and academic excellence
  

Application Deadline: June 30, 2026

Tip: Prepare a 200–500-word essay on your vision for STEM leadership, secure proof of enrollment and academic transcripts, and verify visa or residency status before applying.

10.  Generation Google Scholarship for Women in Computer Science (APAC)

The Generation Google Scholarship supports female students pursuing computer science and related degrees in the Asia Pacific region. It provides financial assistance and recognition to help students excel in technology and become future leaders in their field.

Eligibility Criteria

• Female students
  
• Currently enrolled as a full-time second- or third-year undergraduate student at an accredited university in the Asia Pacific region for 2024–2025
  
• Pursuing Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a closely related technical field
  
• Strong academic record
  
• Demonstrated leadership and commitment to improving the representation of underrepresented groups in technology
  
• Demonstrated financial need
  
• Children of Google employees are not eligible
  

Awards Offered

• $2,500 USD (≈₹2,07,000) for the 2025–2026 academic year
  
• Financial support for academic excellence and leadership development in technology
  

Benefits

• Enables students to focus on academic and technical growth
  
• Recognizes leadership, innovation, and inclusion efforts
  
• Provides networking opportunities with peers and Google mentors.

Application Deadline: August 14, 2025

Tip: Prepare all documents (resume, transcripts, and recommendation letters) in advance to ensure a smooth submission.

University-Specific MS Scholarships in USA for Indian Students

Many US universities offer scholarships specifically for Indian students pursuing Master of Science (MS) programs. These scholarships aim to attract talent from India and support their academic journey. Each university has its own criteria and availability for these scholarships. 

Some well-known universities offering such scholarships include:

1. University of Oregon – Sushil Jajodia Indian Student Scholarship

The University of Oregon recognizes outstanding Indian students through the Sushil Jajodia Indian Student Scholarship. This award supports tuition and academic expenses for students demonstrating strong academic performance.

• Eligibility: Indian nationals with strong academic records
  
• Awards Offered: ~$3,000 (₹2.5L) per year
  
• Benefits: Financial support for tuition and other academic costs.

Application Deadline: April 30, 2026

Tip: Highlight academic excellence and community involvement

2. New York University Wagner Scholarship

NYU Wagner provides scholarships to international students, including the Dean’s Scholarship  (full tuition) and the Public Service Scholarship (partial/full tuition). These awards emphasize leadership and public service commitment.

• Eligibility: International students admitted to MS programs
  
• Awards Offered: Full or partial tuition coverage
  
• Benefits: Financial support and recognition of leadership/public service.

Application Deadline: March 15, 2026

Tip: Showcase leadership, community engagement, and public service contributions

3. Michigan State University- Merit-Based Scholarships

MSU offers merit-based scholarships for international students, rewarding academic excellence and high standardized test scores. Indian applicants benefit from substantial financial support while pursuing MS programs.

• Eligibility: International students with strong GPA and test scores
  
• Awards Offered: $13,000–$18,000 (₹11.5–16L) per year
  
• Benefits: Tuition and living support for up to eight semesters.

Application Deadline: January 31, 2026

Tip: Emphasize academic achievements and a strong SOP

4. Illinois State University – International Tuition Awards

Illinois State University offers partial tuition awards to meritorious international postgraduate students, supporting their academic journey.

• Eligibility: International postgraduate students with a high GPA
  
• Awards Offered: ~$3,500 (₹3L) per semester
  
• Benefits: Partial tuition support

Application Deadline: February 15, 2026

Tip: Submit complete documentation and maintain strong academics

5. East Tennessee State University – International Students Academic Merit Scholarship

ETSU provides merit-based scholarships to international students, rewarding academic excellence and commitment to graduate studies.

• Eligibility: International students, including Indian applicants, with strong academic performance
  
• Awards Offered: Up to ~$8,000 (₹7L) per academic year
  
• Benefits: Tuition support and recognition of achievement.

Application Deadline: March 1, 2026

Tip: Apply early and maintain high grades

6. University of Oregon – Watumull Scholarship Fund (Department-Specific)

This fund supports Indian students of East Indian descent and supplements other university scholarships.

• Eligibility: Indian students of East Indian descent
  
• Awards Offered: Varies annually
  
• Benefits: Additional financial support

Application Deadline: April 30, 2026

Tip: Contact the financial aid office for specific application procedures

7. Michigan State University – Departmental Scholarships

Many MSU departments, such as Engineering and Business, offer scholarships for admitted MS students.

• Eligibility: Admitted MS students; varies by department
  
• Awards Offered: Varies by department
  
• Benefits: Partial or full tuition support, depending on department
  

Tip: Reach out to departments for deadlines and requirements. Demonstrate how your academic background and research interests align with the department’s focus.

Important Notes for Indian Students Applying

• Highlight India-related projects, internships, or community initiatives where relevant.
  
• Some awards are lesser-known or require internal recommendations; early contact with faculty or departmental scholarship coordinators is crucial.
  
• Keep all transcripts, SOPs, and test scores ready and strictly follow official guidelines and deadlines for each scholarship.

Month-wise Scholarship Application Timeline for Indian Students

To maximize your chances of securing scholarships, Indian students need to plan applications well in advance. Here is a month-wise breakdown of key tasks, including SOP/LOR preparation, GRE/TOEFL schedules, application windows, interviews, and result dates.

Start early and follow a structured approach to avoid missing deadlines. Keep all transcripts, SOPs, LORs, and test scores ready. Tailor applications to highlight academic achievements, research potential, and India-specific experiences, especially for department-specific or lesser-known scholarships. Always verify deadlines and requirements from official scholarship and university websites.

How to get Scholarships for MS in USA

Securing a scholarship for an MS in the USA as an Indian student is competitive but achievable with a strategic approach.  Here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. Follow Eligibility Guidelines: Carefully review criteria for each scholarship, including nationality, age, work experience, and academic achievements. Missing small requirements can disqualify you.
   
2. Explore University and Departmental Funds: Many departments offer merit-based or need-based grants. Check your intended program for specific funding opportunities.
   
3. Maintain Academic Excellence: Strong undergraduate grades, relevant coursework, and a solid GPA are critical. Participate in projects or activities that highlight leadership and initiative.
   
4. Prepare Thoroughly: Achieve competitive scores in GRE, TOEFL, or IELTS exams. Research scholarships and deadlines well in advance.
   
5. Apply Strategically: Align your applications to scholarships where you meet or exceed academic thresholds. Some require separate applications or internal recommendations.
   
6. Provide Accurate and Complete Information: Ensure all forms, transcripts, and documents are correct and submitted before deadlines.
   
7. Strengthen Your Profile: Leadership roles, research publications, internships, volunteer work, and extracurricular achievements can differentiate you from other applicants.
   
8. Craft a Compelling Essay: Highlight your academic strengths, achievements, future goals, and how the scholarship will help you contribute to your field and community.
   

Tip: Combine multiple funding sources when possible. University grants, assistantships, research funding, and external scholarships can together cover a significant portion of your expenses.

Requirements for Scholarships for MS in USA

Here is the list of requirements that will help you secure a scholarship for MS in the US:

Indian students must meet certain academic, test, and financial requirements to qualify for scholarships:

• Acceptance Letter: Admission from a recognized US university.
  
• Undergraduate Degree: Bachelor’s from a recognized Indian university, typically 7.5–9.0 CGPA or first-class marks.
  
• Standardized Tests: GRE (310+) and TOEFL/IELTS/PTE (TOEFL 100+, IELTS 7+, PTE 65+).
  
• Work Experience: 0–2 years of relevant internships or research experience can strengthen applications.
  
• Leadership & Extracurriculars: Indian-specific projects, volunteering, or research initiatives are highly valued.
  
• Financial Documentation: Bank statements or affidavits are required for need-based awards.
  
• SOP / Motivation Letter: Should reflect academic achievements, career goals, and potential impact in India.

Summing Up

Scholarships for MS in USA for Indian students can significantly reduce tuition and living expenses. To take action, start by shortlisting scholarships that match your profile and noting their deadlines. Check eligibility carefully and prepare your academic transcripts, GRE/TOEFL scores, and SOPs in advance. Strengthen your profile with leadership roles, research, and relevant internships. Apply strategically by combining multiple scholarships, assistantships, or research funding, and track all submissions to stay on schedule. These steps will help you increase your chances of securing a scholarship. 

To get expert guidance and personalized support throughout your scholarship journey, Indian students can connect with the LeapScholar today and take the next step toward securing an MS scholarship in the USA.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)