You have aced your 12th board exams and dream of studying at a top university abroad. However, lack of funds and overseas support are holding you back. Besides high tuition fees, the cost of living abroad causes thousands of students each year to abandon their ambition of pursuing quality higher education. On the other hand, many students make it possible through various scholarships to study abroad for Indian students after 12th grade. Scholarships ease the financial pressure many Indian families face. They cover full or partial tuition fees, health or travel insurance, and even accommodation.
This guide lists some of the top scholarship programs across the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Europe. You will get details of eligibility criteria, application timelines, and official links to apply in 2026 – 27.
Why Consider Scholarships After 12th?
For the majority of Indian families, higher studies abroad come at the cost of financial sacrifice or an educational loan application. A recent report shows that 33% of students depend on education loans, while another 28% choose the scholarship option [Source: The Economic Times]. This means the rest of the students either depend on self-funding or parental support.
An abroad scholarship for Indian students after 12th grade helps and supports talented students from diverse backgrounds and cultures. The Indian government provides this financial aid through portals like the Ministry of Education. Additionally, overseas public and private universities also support meritorious Indian students, such as the one awarded by Campus France. Most of them waive about 25% to 100% of tuition fees, and some even incorporate travel and living costs. Many overseas universities provide such scholarships under their cultural programs to give global exposure to deserving students.
Types of Scholarships to Study Abroad for Indian Students after 12th
Before applying for a scholarship, you need to learn whether the scholarship is via the government, the university, or private funding. Additionally, always evaluate their eligibility requirements to see which are suitable for you. The various types of scholarships are:
- Government-Funded Scholarships:
These include aid by the Indian government (Indian Council for Cultural Relations or Ministry of Education) or foreign governments. They aim to promote international relations and cultural exchange.
- University-Specific Scholarships:
Many overseas universities have their own funding for outstanding applicants. These are open to high-achieving Indian students entering undergraduate programs and can include full or partial tuition support.
- Private/Corporate Scholarships:
Private organisations, corporations, NGOs, and philanthropists support bright Indian students by sponsoring their foreign education through these scholarships. For example, Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation.
- Country-Funded Scholarships:
Supported by a nation’s education ministers to promote cultural diversity. Some of the examples of country-funded scholarships are Australia Awards, Chevening (UK), and Erasmus+ (Europe).
- Organisation-Specific Scholarships:
These are awarded by foundations and trusts to support students. For example, the Tata Scholarship for Indian Students at Cornell University.
Within these categories, scholarships are usually divided into fully funded and merit-based options. Fully funded ones take care of everything, such as tuition, living, travel, and even insurance. However, merit-based awards focus mainly on tuition waivers or performance-linked aid.
The table below compares the fully-funded scholarships with merit-based scholarships:
| Feature | Fully Funded Scholarships | Merit-Based Scholarships |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | – Tuition Fee – Living expenses – Travel – Health insurance | Part of the tuition fee is waived. |
| Eligibility | – Academic records (90%+ in 12th) – Extracurriculars – Financial need | – Good academic performance (75 to 85%+) – Test scores like SAT, Duolingo, and IELTS |
| Competition | High due to the comprehensive financial coverage. | Moderately high, but available across various universities and programs. |
| Examples | Fulbright-Nehru, Commonwealth, Inlaks Scholarships | University-specific scholarships, SAT or ACT merit awards |
| Best For | Students with an all-round profile and financial need. | Students with a good academic record and high scores on tests like the SAT. |
| Deadlines | Usually, early deadlines for the comprehensive assessment of applicants | Final submission dates close later, mostly coinciding with the university’s own admission deadlines |
| Application Tips | – Begin your preparation at least a year in advance. – Highlight academic consistency (90%+ in Class 12), leadership, and community involvement. – Include proof of financial need, such as family income certificates or ITR copies. – Invest time in your SOP and recommendation letters, they carry significant weight in selection. | – Focus on maintaining strong academics (75-90%+) and achieving competitive test scores (SAT/ACT/IELTS). – Customise your application essays to reflect the values of the program. For example, innovation for STEM or creativity for the Arts. – Check if your target university requires a separate merit scholarship application or if you’re automatically considered with your admission form. |
Top Scholarships to Study Abroad for Indian Students After 12th by Country
The right scholarships to study abroad for Indian students after 12th depend on where you plan to study. Each country has a mix of government, university, and private scholarships for undergraduates. Here’s a country-wise look at some of the best options for 2026–27, along with eligibility, timelines, and official links.
Scholarships in the USA for Indian Students After 12th
Studying in the USA can be expensive, but a wide range of scholarships for international students helps make it more affordable. These scholarships, offered by universities, government programs, and private organisations, reward academic excellence, leadership, and financial need.
1. Tata Scholarship (Cornell University)
It is one of the most popular scholarships in the USA for Indian Students. It serves as a fully funded scholarship for Indian students in undergraduate programs at Cornell University. Here are the other details:
- Eligibility: Indian citizenship, admission to an undergraduate program at Cornell, and financial need.
- Average Value: Waives 100% of the tuition fee for up to four years.
- Deadline: By early January.
- Apply: Official Cornell University Tata Scholarship Website
2. American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship
This is a merit-based scholarship available for international students who want to study at the American University.
- Eligibility: International student dedicated to social change and plans to return to their home country. Applicants must have a GPA of above 3.8/4.0.
- Average Award: Full tuition waiver.
- Deadline: By December 15.
- Apply: American University Scholarship
3. #YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship
A campaign involving many US universities to support international students.
- Eligibility: International student applying to a participating university. Requires a scholarship application, including an essay or video.
- Average Award: 50% off tuition.
- Deadline: Varies by university.
- Learn More: Official #YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship Page
Scholarships in the UK for Indian Students After 12th
The UK offers a variety of scholarships for international students to support their education and living costs. These awards recognise academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need, making studying in the UK more accessible and affordable.
1. Reach Oxford Scholarship (University of Oxford)
One of the top scholarships in the UK for Indian students for undergraduate studies.
- Eligibility: Students from low-income countries who must have an offer from UG studies at Oxford University.
- Average Award: Covers course fees, a grant for living costs, and one return flight per year.
- Deadline: October 15th, 2025
- Apply: Reach Oxford Scholarship page
2. UCL Global Undergraduate Scholarship
This scholarship supports the academic aspirations of international students who come from low-income backgrounds.
- Eligibility: Applicants must provide low household income proof and must have an offer for a UG course at University College London (UCL).
- Average Award: Full tuition fee waiver and maintenance allowance.
- Deadline: Applications close in April.
- Apply: UCL scholarship page
3. University of Bristol Think Big Undergraduate Scholarships
The University of Bristol welcomes international applicants by offering them financial aid through this scholarship.
- Eligibility: Must be an overseas student who has applied for an undergraduate course at the University of Bristol.
- Average Award: £6,500 and £13,000 per year (~₹7,68,596 and ~₹15,37,192)
- Deadline: February 24th, 2026.
- Apply: Official Think Big Undergraduate Awards Page
Scholarships in Canada for Indian Students After 12th
Canada offers numerous scholarships for international students to help cover tuition and living expenses. These scholarships reward academic achievement, community involvement, and leadership, making Canada a top choice for affordable, high-quality education.
1. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
This is one of the most prestigious fully funded scholarships for Indian students to study abroad. This scholarship in Canada for Indian students features:
- Eligibility: An international student nominated by their school to show academic achievement and leadership.
- Average Award: Tuition fee, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four years.
- Deadline: 7 November 2025
- Apply: University of Toronto Pearson Scholarship Page
2. University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship
Recognises the accomplishments of international students in their undergraduate studies.
- Eligibility: A minimum GPA of 3.20 and be enrolled full-time.
- Average Award: $60,000 or ₹5,321,001 over four years ($15,000 or ₹13,30,672 per year).
- Deadline: March 1st for the fall intake.
- Apply Here: University of Calgary Awards Page
3. York University International Entrance Scholarship
This international scholarship program awards meritorious international students through many types of financial aid.
- Eligibility: An international applicant with an excellent track record of academics who must be enrolled in an undergraduate course.
- Average Award: Ranges from $80,000 to $140,000 over four years (~₹70,92,563 to ~₹1,24,11,985 over four years)
- Deadline: By mid-November
- Apply: York University International Scholarships Page
Scholarships in Australia for Indian Students After 12th
Australia provides a wide range of scholarships for international students to support tuition, living expenses, and research opportunities. These scholarships recognise academic excellence and help students pursue world-class education in Australia affordably.
1. Australia Awards Scholarships
These scholarships in Australia for Indian students are managed by the Australian government.
- Eligibility: Indian citizens with a strong academic record, development-focused goals
- Average Award: Full tuition fee waiver
- Deadline: April 2026
- Apply: Australia Awards Website
2. Sydney Scholars India Scholarship Program
This scholarship is for Indian applicants who want to study in UG programs.
- Eligibility: An Indian citizen and resident who has received an unconditional offer for UG coursework.
- Average award: Up to AUD 40,000 (or ₹23,09,188)
- Deadline: Late May
- Apply: Sydney Scholars India Scholarship Program page
3. Monash International Merit Scholarship
This financial aid is offered to any international applicant who has enrolled in the undergraduate course and is an academic achiever.
- Eligibility: International students with an unconditional offer to study a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate degree at a Monash University campus in Australia.
- Average award: AUD 15,000 per annum ( or ₹8,65,945 per annum)
- Deadline: Aligns with the admission application.
- Apply: Monash International Merit Scholarship Page
Scholarships in Europe (Germany, Ireland) for Indian Students After 12th
Europe, especially Germany and Ireland, offers generous scholarships for Indian students after 12th to study undergraduate programs. These scholarships make quality education in top European universities accessible by covering tuition fees and living expenses.
1. DAAD Scholarships
One of the most famous scholarships in Germany for Indian students, awarded to meritorious applicants.
- Eligibility: Academic excellence and German language proficiency.
- Average Award: a monthly stipend (€850 – €1,200 / ₹87,204 – ₹1,23,112), health insurance, and travel allowance.
- Deadline: Varies with Program
- Apply: DAAD Official Portal
2. Irish Government Scholarship
This scholarship in Ireland for Indian students is a publicly funded aid to support students from diverse backgrounds.
- Eligibility: High-achieving students from India or any non-EU/non-EEA country.
- Average Award: Full tuition fee waiver and a stipend of €10,000 or ₹10,25,930.
- Deadline: late March
- Apply: Official Irish Government Scholarship Page
3. University College Dublin Global Excellence Scholarship (Ireland)
A merit-based award for outstanding international students.
- Eligibility: Must have an offer to study an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate program.
- Award: 50% or 100% tuition fee reduction.
- Deadline: Varies by intake.
- Learn More: UCD Global Scholarships
Scholarships for Studying Abroad by the Indian Government after 12th
The government of India supports students from marginalised backgrounds and talented students to help them study abroad. Here are some of the scholarships for studying abroad by the indian government after 12th:
1. National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) Scheme
- Who Can Apply: Students from Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs). Also includes those with family income below ₹8,00,000 per annum.
- Coverage: Annual maintenance allowance of $15,400 (₹13,66,095), tuition fees, visa fees, and allowances for medical insurance and travel
- Deadline: Two application rounds, one closes around March-end, and the other by September.
- Apply: National Overseas Scholarship Portal
2. Ministry of Human Resource Development MHRD, now the Ministry of Education Scholarship Programs
- Who Can Apply: Students who have scored above the 80th percentile in their Class 12 board and have an annual family income below ₹4,50,000.
- Coverage: ₹12,000 per year
- Deadline: Closes by October end.
- Apply: National Scholarship Portal
3. AICTE Pragati and Saksham Scholarships (for STEM Students)
- Who Can Apply: Pragati scholarships for meritorious female students and Saksham for specially-abled students interested in pursuing a degree in STEM. The total family income must be less than ₹8,00,000 per annum.
- Coverage: ₹50,000 per year for every year of study.
- Deadline: October 31st
- Apply: AICTE Fellowship Portal
Note: You can check the official websites of the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment for any new schemes.
Eligibility Criteria and Matching Scholarships to Student Profiles
If you are wondering, “Can I get scholarship to study abroad after 12th?” The answer depends on whether you fulfil all the eligibility criteria. Your academic background, interests, and financial situation also determine which financial aids suit you the best. Let us discuss such eligibility scenarios in detail:
- All-Rounders: Some scholarship providers want students who have strong academic credentials along with leadership qualities. For this, you must be active in your school’s student body, hobby clubs, sports, and other activities.
- Students with Financial Need: Many need-based grants and scholarships provide fully funded scholarships for Indian students after 12th. These require proof of your family’s annual income. For example, the Reliance Foundation Undergraduate Scholarships are for students with household income under ₹15 lakh.
- STEM Students: Choose a department-specific scholarship at universities with science, maths, or engineering programs. Many tech corporations and research institutes also fund scholarships for meritorious students interested in STEM opportunities.
- Arts and Humanities Students: If you are proficient in the arts, music, or design, many scholarships require your portfolio or audition in addition to grades. The Lata Mangeshkar Dance & Music Scholarship Scheme, for example, is for students who want to pursue Indian culture.
- For Athletes: If you are a talented sportsperson in school, you may be eligible for an athletic scholarship. For example, in the US, the NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) gives entry to athletes.
Application Process for Scholarships to Study Abroad for Indian Students after 12th
If you want to know how to get a scholarship to study abroad after 12th from India, start by researching and shortlisting to plan your application ahead. From here, understand the application requirements and process. Ideal timeline should be:
- 18-24 Months Before:
- Research scholarships and universities
- Begin test preparation (SAT/ACT/IELTS/TOEFL)
- Build an extracurricular portfolio
- 12-15 Months Before:
- Take the SAT/ACT/IELTS/TOEFL tests
- Request recommendation letters from teachers
- Draft Statement of Purpose (SOP) and scholarship essays
- 9-12 Months Before:
- Submit scholarship applications
- Apply to universities at the same time
- Complete financial documentation
- 6-9 Months Before:
- Follow up on application status
- Prepare for scholarship interviews
- Apply for a student visa once the scholarship is confirmed
- 3-6 Months Before:
- Accept the scholarship offer
- Complete visa formalities
- Arrange accommodation
Tip: Always confirm test dates, deadlines, and document requirements on the official scholarship or university websites.
Step-by-Step Application Process for Scholarships to Study Abroad for Indian Students after 12th
Step 1: Research and Shortlist
- Begin your research in 11th grade itself to shortlist which university or country you want to target.
Step 2: Prepare for Standardised Tests
- Check the schedule and prepare for tests like the IELTS, TOEFL, SAT, or ACT.
Step 3: Note Down Every Detail Early
- Create a list of 8-10 universities and the scholarships they offer. Make a note of their deadlines, eligibility, and required documents.
Step 4: Collect All Documents
You will need:
- Academic transcripts from Class 10 and 12
- Proof of English proficiency via IELTS/TOEFL/Duolingo scores
- Test scores such as the SAT or ACT
- A valid passport
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs) from your teachers
- A Statement of Purpose (SOP) or application essays
Step 5: Write Personal Essays
- Your SOP and essays help you communicate your potential and prove why you deserve more than your competitors. So, tailor them according to the specific university and scholarship, highlighting your strengths and achievements.
Step 6: Submit and Follow Up
- Apply a week before the final submission date. After submission, keep checking your email and the application portal for additional information or an interview.
Document Required for Scholarships to Study Abroad for Indian Students after 12th
- Academic transcripts (Class 10 and 12 marksheets with attested copies)
- Transfer certificate and character certificate
- Test score reports (official scores of IELTS/TOEFL/SAT/ACT)
- Valid passport
- Passport-sized photographs
- Proof of extracurricular achievements (certificates, awards, medals)
- Portfolio for arts or design students or projects for STEM students
- Income certificate and bank statements for need-based applications
- Caste certificate, if applying for Indian government scholarships for SC/ST/OBC/EWS
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid While Applying for Scholarships to Study Abroad for Indian Students after 12th
While preparing your scholarship application, you should be extra careful to avoid any mistakes. Even a small error or typo can lead to your application’s disqualification. Other mistakes and helpful tips are discussed below:
- Missed deadlines: Plan your research and application ahead of the deadline. This is important as even a one-day delay may result in rejection.
Tip: If the deadline is 31 March, set reminders for 15 March to complete your documents and 25 March for a final review. Try to submit your application at least a week before.
- Not Tailoring Your Application: If you submit a common application for different scholarships, it will not create an impact on the recruiter.
Tip: For example, when applying for a STEM-specific scholarship, your essay should mention and highlight experiences in science clubs, tech projects, or relevant activities.
- Lack of Proofreading: Do not submit your essay and application without proofreading to correct the typos and grammar mistakes.
Tip: After you finish writing, read your essay out loud to correct any awkward phrasing. To improve it further, ask a teacher, counsellor, or parent to review it.
- Weak Extracurriculars: Many students fail to prove their competency due to a lack of extracurricular participation in school.
Tip: Try to show a consistent history of participation in sports and literary activities over the years of schooling. Avoid too many recent additions, as they may seem inauthentic.
How to Increase Your Chances of an Abroad Scholarship for Indian Students After 12th?
With a race among students to study abroad, securing a scholarship has become more competitive than ever before. To increase your chances of getting selected, you need a strong academic background along with extra application support in the form of:
- An impressive Statement of Purpose (SOP) or LOR that shows your leadership qualities and community impact.
- A strong history of participation in extracurricular activities, volunteer roles, and even school leadership.
- STEM students can show regular participation in science projects or olympiads. Students applying for art colleges can showcase their creative portfolios to show their skill sets.
- Others can show participation in the Model United Nations (MUN), entrepreneurship projects, and financial literacy activities.
- Take the help of professional test prep services to score high on tests like SATS or IELTS or refine your SOP essays.
How Can Leap Scholar Help You with Abroad Scholarships?
Other than having a strong academic background and documents to support your academic potential, you need a platform like LeapScholar to find your dream scholarship. Our dedicated services and team of expert counsellors give you personalised academic guidance. For each application step, we aim to help you, whether it is shortlisting universities or writing impactful SOPs or essays. We take pride in assisting over 25,000 students in securing a seat at their dream college.
So, why wait for opportunities to knock? Book a session with an expert from Leap Scholar to get dedicated support for scholarships to study abroad for Indian students after 12th.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
Can I apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously?
Yes, it is absolutely okay to apply for multiple scholarships that suit your eligibility at the same time. This is a smart strategy that can improve your chances of getting selected and securing admission abroad. However, read the terms of each scholarship, as some may impose limits on the application.
-
Which country is best for Indian students to study abroad for free?
Germany is one of the popular choices for Indian students who want a financial waiver for foreign education. Here, many public universities charge zero tuition fees for undergraduate programs, regardless of your nationality. For example, DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) is one of the most sought-after scholarships among students. Other countries like Norway and Finland also offer tuition-free education at public universities.
-
What if I don’t meet all the eligibility criteria for a scholarship?
We advise you to apply for scholarships where you meet 100% of the eligibility criteria. This is because scholarship committees receive hundreds or even thousands of applications. They end up filtering out those who do not meet all the criteria from the start. Hence, you must utilise your time and effort on applications that suit 100% with your profile.
-
Is 20 lakhs enough to study abroad?
The adequate amount to support your student life overseas depends on your chosen destination, university, and duration of the program. You can survive easily on 20 lakhs if you are pursuing a short-term degree in an affordable European country. On the other hand, if you are studying in the USA, UK, or Australia for a full-time degree, 20 lakhs may not suffice.
-
Do private scholarships need repayment later on?
No, scholarships are like free financial aid to support the ambitions of deserving students. That is why, whether it is a private trust’s scholarship or from a private university, it should not be treated like a loan. To continue receiving it, you must consistently fulfil your scholarship’s conditions.
Have Questions? Get Guidance to reach your Dream University
Connect with India's finest counsellors and biggest study abroad community.
Get Guidance