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Which MBA scholarships in the USA can I apply for as an Indian woman or LGBTQ+ applicant?

02 Nov 2026 · Answered by Hardika Gautam · 2 min read
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Indian women can apply for the Forte Fellowship and Indian LGBTQ+ applicants for the Reaching Out MBA Fellowship, both through participating schools. The Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowships may suit only Indians aged 30 or under who meet New American rules. Amounts vary, so check each official page.

Hardika Gautam
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Two fellowships are clearly open to Indian applicants who fit their profile: the Forte Fellowship for women and the Reaching Out MBA Fellowship for LGBTQ+ applicants, both through participating schools. Eligibility depends on your nationality, residence, gender, work background and chosen school.

Fellowships Open to Indian Applicants

ScholarshipEligibilityCoverage
Forte FellowshipIndian or international women applying to an MBA at a participating schoolFunding and leadership opportunities; the amount depends on the school
Reaching Out MBA (ROMBA) FellowshipIndian or international LGBTQ+ applicants applying through a participating schoolFunding plus LGBTQ+ leadership and professional networks; the amount varies
Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowships for New AmericansIndian students aged 30 or under who meet the New American requirements; Indian citizenship alone is not enoughUp to USD 90,000 (approx INR 85.59 L) over two years for eligible graduate study, subject to programme rules

Awards That Do Not Open to Indian Citizens Alone

  • Prospanica Scholarships are strictly for U.S. citizens, permanent residents and DACA students, with awards varying by funding cycle and category.
  • The Consortium Fellowship needs U.S. citizenship, permanent residency or DACA status, so Indian citizenship alone does not meet its eligibility rules. Funding comes through participating schools and is not guaranteed.

My Advice

Start with Forte and ROMBA, because they are the clearest fit, and check whether your target schools participate. Read the official fellowship pages for current criteria before you spend time on an application.

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