Scholarships For Indian Students To Study Abroad After 12th

Studying abroad after Class 12 has become a top aspiration for many Indian students. It opens doors to global exposure, advanced education systems, and better career opportunities. However, one of the biggest concerns for families is the cost: from tuition fees to living expenses.

The good news? Hundreds of scholarships are available that can make this dream a reality. Whether you’re looking for full funding or partial financial aid, the right scholarship can ease your financial burden significantly.

Let’s break down what scholarships are available, how to apply, and what parents should know before starting this journey.

Types of Scholarships Available for Indian Students

Understanding the different types of scholarships can help you find the best match for your child’s academic goals and financial needs:

1. Government-Funded Scholarships

These are offered either by the Indian government or foreign governments to support bright students studying abroad. They’re highly competitive but offer excellent coverage and credibility.

• Fulbright-Nehru Undergraduate Scholarship (USA)
  
  
• National Overseas Scholarship (India)
  
  
• Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)
  
  

Good for families looking for: Comprehensive support, trusted programs, and reputable funding sources.

2. University-Specific Scholarships

Many top universities abroad offer their own financial aid packages to attract talented international students. These may be automatic (based on grades) or require a separate application.

• Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto, Canada)
• UCL Global Undergraduate Scholarship (UK)
• NYU Abu Dhabi Scholarships (UAE)

Good for families who: Know which university they’re applying to and want to reduce tuition and living costs directly.

3. Private and NGO-Funded Scholarships

These are offered by trusts, foundations, or corporate CSR programs. They vary in coverage but are often tailored for Indian students or specific fields like STEM, arts, or business.

• Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship
• Tata Trusts Study Abroad Scholarship
• KC Mahindra Scholarships for Postgraduate Studies Abroad
  
  

Good for families who: Need financial support beyond what universities offer, especially for niche subjects or postgraduate plans.

4. Merit-Based vs. Need-Based Scholarships

Understanding how scholarships are awarded helps families apply more strategically:

• Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded based on academic excellence, test scores (e.g., SAT, IELTS), leadership, or extracurricular achievements. These are ideal for high-performing students.
  
  
• Need-Based Scholarships: Given to students based on the family's financial situation. Requires income proof and sometimes tax documents. Academic competence is still expected, but the primary criterion is financial need.
  
  

Tip: Some scholarships use both criteria: strong academics plus demonstrated need.
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Fully Funded vs. Partial Scholarships

• Fully Funded Scholarships: Cover everything: tuition fees, living expenses, travel, health insurance, and even study materials. These are rare and very competitive but life-changing.
  
  
• Partial Scholarships: Cover one or more components (like tuition or living), leaving families to cover the remaining costs. These are more common and still very helpful in reducing overall expenses.
  
  

Smart strategy: Apply for a mix of both fully funded and partial scholarships to maximise your chances and affordability.

Want to find out which scholarships you can apply for? Book a free counselling session today.

Top Scholarships to Study Abroad After 12th

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You’ll be able to shortlist universities with confidence when you know which scholarships align with your child’s profile and country preferences.

‍How to Apply for Scholarships After Class 12

A step-by-step plan can help you avoid delays and increase your child’s chances of success:

1. Start Early
   
   
   • Begin researching scholarships in Class 11 or early Class 12.
     
   • Some scholarships close before university applications are due.
     
     
2. Check Eligibility Criteria Carefully
   
   
   • Academic scores (usually 85%+ in Class 12)
     
   • Family income (for need-based)
     
   • Language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL)
     
     
3. Prepare Key Documents
   
   
   • Academic transcripts and Class 10/12 certificates
     
   • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
     
   • Letters of Recommendation (LORs) from teachers
     
   • Financial documents (for need-based aid)
     
     
4. Plan for Standardised Tests
   
   • Many top scholarships require SAT, ACT, IELTS or TOEFL scores
     
   • Schedule tests well in advance and prepare accordingly
     
     
5. Organise and Submit Applications
   
   
   • Follow official websites only
     
   • Submit complete, error-free applications
     
   • Keep digital and printed copies of everything
     
     
6. Track Deadlines and Results
   
   
   • Use a spreadsheet to manage deadlines, requirements, and responses
     
     
7. Apply for Multiple Scholarships
   
   
   • Increase your child’s chances by applying to at least 4–6 scholarships
     
     

Frequently Asked Questions

Do scholarships cover all expenses?

Some scholarships do, these are called fully funded scholarships, and they cover tuition, living expenses, travel, and even insurance. Others are partial, covering only tuition or a portion of total costs.

How can I get a 100% scholarship?

To win a full scholarship and study abroad for free, students usually need:

• Top academic scores
  
• Strong extracurricular profile
  
• High performance in standardized tests
  
• A compelling SOP and LORs
  
  

Which countries offer 100% scholarship?

Countries like Germany, Canada, UK, USA, Australia, and some in the EU offer full scholarships for Indian students through government, university, or private bodies.

Can I get a 50% scholarship?

Yes. Many universities offer partial scholarships covering 25–75% of tuition. These are more common and accessible with good grades and a strong application.

Get Personalized Help from Study Abroad Experts

Navigating applications, scholarship deadlines, and SOP writing can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Flylane offers counselling sessions that help Indian students and families map out their university pathway and career goals, without the need to relocate. You’ll get clarity on which scholarships match your child’s academic profile, and guidance on how to apply successfully.

Looking for more help? Talk to our study abroad consultants to explore your scholarship options