India is rapidly becoming a global education hub, attracting thousands of international students each year. With world-class universities, diverse cultures, and affordable tuition, it’s an appealing destination for students from Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and beyond. One of the biggest attractions is the wide range of scholarships for international students in India, many of which are fully or partially funded.
Before listing the scholarships, here are some reasons why international students prefer to study in India:
Let's now discuss the best study in India scholarships offered in 2025.
The Study in India Scholarship is a flagship program of the Indian Ministry of Education. The program is designed to entice talented students from eligible countries to pursue higher studies at some of India's premier universities.
What It Offers:
100% of tuition fee and other academic expenses
At over 100 top Indian institutions
For UG, PG, and PhD programs
Who Can Apply:
Application Process:
It is one of the most completely funded scholarships in India and is best suited for academically talented foreign students.
ICCR Scholarship is one of the most well-known Indian government scholarships for foreigners. It is designed to enhance international relations through cultural and academic exchange.
What It Includes:
Popular Schemes:
Eligible Applicants:
Application Process:
Online application through the A2A ICCR Portal
Interview and selection by Indian missions abroad
This is among the most inclusive scholarships available for foreign students in India.
The government of India offers special education scholarships in India under the Ministry of Education (previously MHRD) for neighboring countries' students, such as Afghanistan, Nepal, and Bhutan.
What It Includes:
Branches:
Engineering, Management, Arts, Science, Commerce, Social Sciences
Eligibility:
These scholarships for international students India help maintain diplomatic and educational ties with neighboring nations.
India has bilateral scholarship agreements with SAARC nations (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) and Mekong-Ganga countries (like Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, and Thailand).
What It Offers:
Available Courses:
UG, PG, and PhD programs in Indian universities
These are great international student scholarships in India if you’re from any of the eligible countries.
There are various scholarships offered by TATA Trusts to international students in India, particularly those belonging to disadvantaged sections of society or particular countries.
Benefits:
Though mainly Indian students are considered, some trusts also partner with foreign governments to provide education scholarships in India for foreign nationals, particularly from African and Asian countries.
Nalanda University, which has international heritage status, provides scholarships for international students India pursuing postgraduate courses.
Courses Eligible:
MA in Historical Studies, Buddhist Studies, Ecology & Environment Studies
What It Covers:
Tuition fee waiver (partial or full)
Merit-based financial assistance
It's a great choice for those seeking masters in India on scholarships.
IITs (Indian Institutes of Technology) of many places have their own scholarships for masters in India as well as foreign PhD-level students.
Benefits:
Fee concession or exemption
Research or TA/RA stipends
Subsidy on hostel and mess
Who Can Apply:
Foreign students who apply under the direct admission process or exchange schemes
IITs are internationally ranked and perfect for science, engineering, and research students.
AIU Scholarship Scheme is offered to foreign students enrolled at member universities of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).
Features:
Supports basic living costs and tuition
Made available for PG and UG courses
Such scholarship schemes India focus on encouraging internationalization and enlisting international talent.
This government scheme provides training and short-term study scholarships to foreign students in India, mostly from developing nations.
Advantages:
Training fee
Boarding and accommodation
Airfare
While not for full-time education, this is perfect for professional education or skill development.
Numerous best private universities in India provide scholarships to bring in international students:
Examples:
Amity University International Scholarship
Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) Scholarships
Ashoka University Need-Based Aid
O.P. Jindal Global University International Scholarships
These can be merit-based or need-based and are usually partial but can cover a substantial portion of the fees.
If you're looking for the best scholarships to study in India, don't miss these private options.
You can apply for scholarship
Most international student scholarships offered in India follow the same requirements:
Foreign nationality (not Indian)
Correct academic records (typically 60%+)
English proficiency
Admission offer from an Indian university (for some scholarships)
Valid student visa and passport
Documents You May Need
Passport copy
Academic transcripts
Passport photographs
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Recommendation Letters
University admission letter (if available)
Proof of income (for need-based aid)
India is unlocking its doors to international talent, and through scholarships for foreign students India, education here has never been easier. Be it engineering at an IIT, business at a premier private college, or humanities at Nalanda—there is money for you to pursue studies.
From totally funded scholarships in India to special aid for master's students, these programs are ready to be discovered. With sound research, planning, and timely submission, you too can achieve your dream of studying in India without monetary tension.
So wait no more. Start looking into these scholarship schemes in India, prepare your documents, and take the initial step to your international learning experience.