Did you know? IELTS is accepted by more than 12,500 organisations in 140+ countries worldwide, including Australia, USA, Canada, UK and Ireland.
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With such popularity, many institutions and organisations offer IELTS exam scholarships based on academic merit and other criteria. IELTS scholarships are provided to students who may need more financial means to support their studies abroad. It is important to note that winning an IELTS scholarship takes effort!
It’s important to improve your English skills in all four areas tested by the IELTS: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. While a strong IELTS score is crucial, it’s not the only factor considered.
In this article, you will learn about available IELTS scholarships for Indian students 2025, how much IELTS score is required for scholarship, and some tips to help make your application process easier.
Dive in for more details.
What is an IELTS Scholarship?
An IELTS scholarship is a financial award given to students who perform well on the IELTS exam and plan to study abroad. Various organisations offer these scholarships, including universities, testing agencies, and government bodies, to help students cover tuition fees, living expenses, or exam costs.
Does IELTS Provide Scholarships?
If you’re wondering, “Can I get scholarship through IELTS?”, the answer is yes! While IELTS itself does not directly provide scholarships, it partners with organisations like the British Council and IDP Education to offer awards and financial assistance.
Here’s a breakdown of who typically gets an IELTS scholarship:
- High IELTS Scorers: Depending on the program, most scholarships require a minimum IELTS score, often ranging from 6.5 to 7.5. A higher score significantly increases your chances of winning.
- Financially Needy Students: Some scholarships prioritise students who demonstrate financial hardship, making studying abroad more accessible.
- Students Meeting Specific Criteria: Certain scholarships might target students from particular countries pursuing specific courses or aiming to study at designated universities.
- Academic solid Background: While only sometimes required, an excellent academic record can strengthen your application and showcase your overall potential.
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What is an IELTS Fee Waiver for Indian students?
An IELTS fee waiver is a program that refunds the cost of taking the IELTS exam either partially or fully, typically for students from economically weaker backgrounds. These waivers help students take the IELTS exam without worrying about the IELTS exam fees.
Read More:
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What are the Types of IELTS Scholarships for Indian Students?
The number of Indian students taking the IELTS exam has increased by 15% in recent years. IELTS is needed by almost all countries that teach English language courses.
Indian students have access to various IELTS scholarship opportunities tailored to different needs and academic goals. Below are some of the major types of IELTS scholarships available for Indian students 2025.
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IELTS Exam Fee Scholarships
Several organisations provide IELTS exam fee scholarships to help students cover the test cost. Some popular ones include:
| IELTS Scholarship | Offered By | IELTS Scholarship Amount |
|---|---|---|
| British Council IELTS Awards | British Council | £10,000 (INR 11L) |
| IDP IELTS Prize | IDP Education | £5,000 (INR 5.3L) |
| IELTS Australia Scholarship | IDP Education Australia | $15,000 (INR 12L) |
| IDP Education Excellence Scholarship | IDP Education | $20,000 (INR 16L) |
| IELTS Fee Waiver Scholarship | Scholarship Council Canada | IELTS Fees Amount |
1. British Council IELTS Awards
The British Council offers an annual award program to celebrate outstanding achievement in the IELTS test. You walk away with two prizes: a certificate recognising your accomplishment and a generous sum of INR 11L. This money can be used to improve your English skills or even to help you pursue further education.
British Council IELTS Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- You should be a citizen of a country outside the UK.
- You should have scored 6.5 or higher in each IELTS test component.
- You should have a valid offer of admission from a recognised UK university.
- You need to show financial hardship and an absolute dedication to your education.
2. IDP IELTS Prize
IDP Education offers the IDP IELTS Prize each year to international students who score high on the IELTS exam. The prize is a one-time payment of up to INR 5.3L. You can also get extra money to cover flights, housing, school supplies, and other living expenses.
You can use this scholarship for almost any kind of program, whether a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, a language course, or professional certification.
IDP IELTS Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- You should have scored at least 7.5 or higher in each IELTS test component.
- You should not be a citizen of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK or the US.
- You should be planning to study at a higher education institution.
3. IELTS Australia Scholarship
The IELTS Australia Scholarship is a financial lifesaver for international students who want to study and research in Australia. It offers a generous award of INR 12L to cover your tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs.
The scholarship is open to undergraduate and postgraduate students and students in exchange programs in Australia. You can renew it yearly, depending on how well you do in your studies.
Australia IELTS Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- You should not be a citizen of Australia.
- You should have scored 6.5 or higher in each IELTS test component.
- You should have a valid offer of admission from an Australian education institution.
- You should show financial need and a great dedication to your studies.
4. IDP Education Excellence Scholarship
The IDP Education Excellence Scholarship can help you big time! Administered by IDP Education, this scholarship can be used to cover a variety of expenses. On top of tuition fees, housing, and textbooks, it can help you prepare for the IELTS exam by paying for study materials like books and online courses.
IDP IELTS Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- You should have scored 7.0 or higher in each IELTS test component.
- You should not be a citizen of countries like Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and the US.
- You should have a valid offer of admission from a recognised educational institution.
- You should have an excellent academic record.
- You need to show a strong commitment towards your education.
5. IELTS Fee Waiver Scholarship
Many brilliant students have the potential to excel on the IELTS exam, but financial limitations can hold them back. The IELTS Fee Waiver Scholarship removes that barrier. It is a lifesaver for talented students who might not be able to afford the IELTS test fee. This scholarship offers a full refund of the exam cost within 45 days of taking the test.
IELTS Fee Waiver Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- Your family income should be lower than 250%
- You should not be above 32 years of age.
- You should have a minimum GPA of 3.0 in your bachelor
- You should have scored at least 75% in your high school
- You should be taking the IELTS test for the very first time.
Please Note: Most of these scholarships are seasonal in nature, they are not available all the time, so it is recommended that you check the websites of the institutions that offer them.
IELTS 8 Band & 9 Band Scholarships
Achieving a high band score in IELTS is often a prerequisite for studying in many international universities. There are many IELTS 8 band scholarships and IELTS 9 band scholarships available for Indian students, as given below.
| IELTS Scholarship | Offered By | IELTS Scholarship Amount |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic Excellence Scholarship | British Council & IDP Education Australia | £2,000 (INR 2.1L) |
| Gates Cambridge Scholarship | Gates Foundation | Full tuition fees and living expenses + airfare |
1. IELTS Academic Excellence Scholarship
The IELTS Academic Excellence Scholarship is a fantastic British Council and IDP Education Australia award. It rewards international students who score great on the IELTS test.
IELTS Academic Excellence Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- You should have scored 7.0 or higher in each component of the IELTS test.
- You should have a valid offer of admission from an institution in a country where English is the primary instruction language.
- You should be an excellent academic student.
- You need to make a strong commitment to your education.
2. Gates Cambridge Scholarship
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is a competitive award for international students wishing to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Cambridge. The scholarship covers the full tuition fees and offers a network of accomplished scholars.
Gates Cambridge Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- You should be a citizen of a country outside the UK.
- You should demonstrate outstanding intellectual ability and leadership potential.
- You need to demonstrate commitment to improving the lives of others.
- You should have scored 7.5 or higher in each IELTS test component.
IELTS Scholarship for Undergraduate Students
Undergraduate students with high IELTS scores can apply for several scholarships, such as:
| IELTS Scholarship | Offered By | IELTS Scholarship Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Chevening Scholarship | UK Government | Full tuition and living expenses |
| Commonwealth Scholarship | UK Government | Full or partial funding |
| Great Scholarship | UK Government | Up to £10,000(INR 11L) |
1. Chevening Scholarships
Chevening Scholarships, funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), provide financial support to students who wish to pursue a one-year master’s degree in the UK. It covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel to and from the UK.
Chevening Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- You should be a citizen of India or Chevening-eligible country.
- You should have at least 2 years (equivalent to 2,800 hours) of work experience.
- You should have a strong academic record and exceptional leadership potential.
- You should demonstrate commitment to return to your home country for at least 2 years after your studies.
- You should have scored 6.5 or higher in each IELTS test component.
2. Commonwealth Scholarships
The Commonwealth Scholarships are funded by the UK Department for International Development (DFID). It is designed to support talented individuals from Commonwealth countries, including India, who wish to pursue a master’s or PhD in the UK. These scholarships aim to foster academic excellence and global development.
Commonwealth Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- You should be a citizen or permanent resident of a Commonwealth country
- You should have an undergraduate honours degree of at least upper second class (2:1)
- You must be unable to afford to study in the UK without a scholarship
- You should have scored 6.5 or higher in each IELTS test component.
3. Great Scholarships
The GREAT Scholarships program is a joint initiative by the UK government’s GREAT Britain campaign and 26 participating UK universities. It offers financial aid to Indian students pursuing postgraduate studies in the UK.
Great Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- You should be a citizen of India.
- You should have an offer from a participating UK university.
- You should have a strong academic background and commitment to your studies.
- You should have scored 6.5 or higher in each IELTS test component.
How to Apply for IELTS Fee Waiver Scholarship?
IELTS scholarships can help you significantly reduce the financial barriers of studying abroad. They can help cover tuition fees, accommodation, and even IELTS preparation courses.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how you can apply for an IELTS Scholarship for Indian Students 2025
1. Research
Scouting out IELTS scholarships is your first move! Start by exploring the official IELTS website and scholarship platforms for IELTS-specific and general scholarships for international students. This increases your chances of finding the perfect fit.
2. Check eligibility
Found a scholarship that suits you? Great! Before applying, make sure you meet eligibility criteria including IELTS score requirements, nationality criteria and course requirements. Only use the time to apply if you meet all the requirements!
3. Gather Documents Required for IELTS Scholarships
Scholarship applications often require a number of documents to prove you’re a great fit. Here’s what you might need to gather:
- IELTS test score sheet.
- A personal statement where you tell scholarship-giving bodies about yourself and your study goals.
- Letters of recommendation from teachers or professors who can vouch for your skills.
- Transcripts from your previous schools showing your academic record.
- Proof of financial need, which shows you need the scholarship money.
- Admission letter from a recognised university.
Please Note: Some scholarships might ask for other specific documents, so be sure to check what they require.
4. Submit Application
After collecting all the necessary documents, it’s application time!
Most scholarships let you apply online these days. You’ll usually need to fill out the online application form, providing accurate personal and academic details. Be sure to follow their instructions carefully and submit everything on time.
5. Interview Preparation
Some scholarships might ask you to interview to pick the final winners.
Be prepared to answer questions about your grades, what drives you to study this subject, and your goals after graduation. This is your chance to shine and show scholarship-giving bodies why you deserve the scholarship!
6. Wait for the Result
Once you submit your application, there’s nothing to do but wait!
Depending on the scholarship provider, it can take weeks or even months to hear back. The competition for these scholarships can be challenging, with many applicants contending for each award.
To increase your chances, ensure your application is well-prepared and shows off your skills and accomplishments. Remember, you’ve got this!
Tips for Successful IELTS Scholarship Applications
When you dream of living abroad, finances often play a crucial role. If you lack financial support, that dream remains a dream. However, as you have learned in this article, various IELTS scholarships are available to ease your financial burden.
You just need to make sure that you are eligible and that your application is top-notch. Many applications are rejected due to basic grammar errors or missing documents in the application.
Here are a few tips to help you ace your application.
1. Polish Your Application
Treat your application like a first impression. Ensure all documents, especially your statement, are free of typos and grammatical errors. A well-organised and easy-to-read application shows professionalism and attention to detail.
2. Become the Perfect Match
Don’t just tell the scholarship committee you want to study abroad; show them how your goals perfectly align with the scholarship’s purpose. Research the scholarship provider’s mission and highlight how your academic aspirations and desired career path connect with their vision. This demonstrates a genuine interest and strengthens you as a candidate.
3. Improve Your Score
Consider retaking the test if your IELTS score falls below the scholarship’s minimum requirement. Every point counts!
Utilise additional study materials, practice tests, and online resources to maximise your score on the next attempt. Remember, a higher score significantly increases your chances of winning the scholarship.
Looking for study material to ace the IELTS test? Leap’s tailored IELTS courses can help. They are designed and taught by India’s top IELTS trainers via live classes online.
At LeapScholar, we specialise in connecting students like you with scholarships that can ease your financial burden.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Does IELTS provide scholarships?
A. Yes, IELTS offers scholarships to support students aiming to study abroad. These scholarships are often awarded based on academic excellence and financial need. For instance, the British Council IELTS Scholarship provides financial aid to Indian students with a minimum IELTS score of 6.5, intending to pursue postgraduate studies overseas.
Q. How much is the IELTS scholarship amount in 2025?
A. The amount varies from scholarship to scholarship; for instance, the IDP Education Excellence Scholarship can provide INR 16L, whereas the IELTS Academic Excellence Scholarship delivers INR 2.1L, the IDP IELTS Prize provides INR 5.3L, the IELTS Australia Scholarship provides INR 12L, the British Council IELTS Award provides INR 11L, and the IELTS Fee Waiver Scholarship will only offer a refund of the IELTS exam fee.
Q. How can I get an IELTS fee waiver in India?
A. In India, IELTS fee waivers are available for candidates from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Eligibility criteria include a family income below INR 20,564, first-time IELTS test-takers, age below 32 years, and a minimum high school percentage of 75% or a bachelor’s degree GPA of 3.0. Eligible candidates can apply for a fee waiver through the official IDP website.
Q. What is the minimum IELTS score for scholarships?
A. The minimum IELTS score required for scholarships varies by program. Generally, a minimum overall band score of 6.5 is required, but higher scores, such as 7.0 or 7.5, can enhance eligibility for more prestigious scholarships.
Q. Can I get a scholarship through IELTS for undergraduate programs?
A. Yes, scholarships are available for undergraduate programs based on IELTS scores. Many universities and institutions offer scholarships to international students with high IELTS scores, aiming to improve their English language skills. These scholarships may cover tuition fees, IELTS preparation courses, or provide English language support during academic programs.
Q. What are the eligibility criteria for the IELTS fee waiver?
A. Eligibility criteria for the IELTS fee waiver include:
-Family income is lower than INR 20,564.
-First-time IELTS test-taker.
-Age below 32 years.
-High school percentage of at least 75% or a bachelor’s degree GPA of 3.0.
Candidates meeting these criteria can apply for a fee waiver through the official IDP website.
Q. How do I apply for an IELTS exam scholarship?
A. To apply for an IELTS exam scholarship:
-Research available scholarships and their eligibility criteria.
-Ensure you meet the academic and IELTS score requirements.
-Gather necessary documents, such as academic transcripts, IELTS scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
-Submit the application through the scholarship provider’s official website before the deadline.
Q. Are there scholarships for 8 band or 9 band IELTS scores?
A. Yes, achieving an IELTS band score of 8 or 9 can significantly enhance your eligibility for various scholarships. Many scholarship programs require a minimum score of 6.5 or 7.0, so higher scores can make your application more competitive.
Q. How much scholarship can I get from IELTS?
A. The scholarship amount you can get from IELTS varies depending on the organisation or university offering it. Typically, IELTS scholarships range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, covering tuition fees or other educational expenses. Some institutions offer partial funding, while others provide full scholarships based on your IELTS score and academic performance. It’s best to check with specific universities or scholarship providers for exact details.
Q. What documents are required for IELTS scholarships?
A. Commonly required documents for IELTS scholarship applications include:
-IELTS Test Report Form (TRF).
-Academic transcripts.
-Letters of recommendation.
-Personal statement or essay.
-Proof of financial need (if applicable).
-Admission offer or acceptance letter from the chosen university.
Q. Which universities accept IELTS scholarship recipients?
A. Many universities worldwide accept students who have received IELTS scholarships. For example, the GREAT Scholarship India program includes institutions like the University College London and the University of Bath. It’s essential to check with individual universities regarding their participation in specific scholarship programs.
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