How to Get a Scholarship to Study Abroad – Every Type Explained for Indian Students
Studying abroad is one of the biggest decisions of your life. But for most Indian students, one question comes before everything else — “Can I afford it?”
The good news is that getting a scholarship to study abroad for Indian students is more achievable than most people think.
Scholarships exist at every level. Government scholarships, university scholarships, merit-based awards, and country-specific grants are all available — if you know where to look and how to apply.
At Edbrowse Study Abroad, Calicut, we help students from Kerala find and apply for the right scholarships every year. This guide breaks down every type of scholarship available so you can make an informed decision
What Is a Study Abroad Scholarship?
A scholarship is financial support given to students to help cover the cost of studying abroad. Depending on the scholarship, it may cover full or partial tuition fees, living expenses, flight tickets, health insurance, or a combination of all of these.
Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, course selection, or a combination of all three. For Indian students, finding the right scholarship to study abroad can significantly reduce the financial burden of international education.
Types of Scholarships Available for International Students
a) Government Scholarships
Government scholarships are funded directly by foreign governments. These are the most prestigious scholarships available — and also the most competitive.
Examples include the Chevening Scholarship in the UK, DAAD Scholarships in Germany, Australia Awards, and the Government of Ireland Scholarships. These typically cover full tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, return flights from India, and health insurance.
These scholarships are highly selective. They look for students with strong academic records, leadership qualities, and a clear career vision. If you have an exceptional profile, a government scholarship to study abroad for Indian students is absolutely worth applying for.
b) University Scholarships
University scholarships are the most common way Indian students receive financial support abroad. These are offered directly by universities — sometimes automatically at the time of admission.
Common types include automatic tuition fee discounts, merit-based scholarships, international student grants, and early application rewards. Scholarship amounts typically range from €2,000 to €10,000, or a 10% to 50% reduction in tuition fees.
Many universities in the UK, Ireland, and Australia automatically consider you for a scholarship when you apply. You don’t even need to submit a separate application — your academic scores do the work.
This is why choosing the right university matters. At Edbrowse, we guide students toward universities that offer the best scholarship to study abroad for Indian students based on their individual profile.
c) Country-Specific and Regional Scholarships
Some universities and governments offer scholarships specifically designed for students from certain countries or regions — such as Indian student scholarships at Irish universities, Asian student grants at UK universities, or South Asian merit awards at Australian institutions.
These scholarships are often overlooked because they require specific research. Our counsellors at Edbrowse, Malaparamb stay updated on these opportunities so our students never miss them.
d) Research and PhD Scholarships
If you are planning to pursue a Master’s by Research or a PhD, there are dedicated funding options available — especially in Germany, Canada, and Australia. These typically include a full tuition waiver, monthly stipend, and research funding.
Germany in particular is well known for fully funded research positions. Many PhD students in Germany pay little to no tuition fees while receiving a monthly income to support their studies.
Country-Wise Scholarship Breakdown
a) United Kingdom
The UK offers some of the most well-known scholarship to study abroad options for Indian students. Both government-funded and university-level scholarships are available.
Common scholarships include Chevening Scholarships, Commonwealth Scholarships, university merit scholarships, and automatic tuition discounts at admission. Average scholarship amounts range from £2,000 to £10,000.
One major advantage of applying to UK universities is that many institutions automatically consider international students for scholarships during the admission process. A strong academic profile can go a long way.
b) Ireland
Ireland has grown rapidly as a study destination for Indian students. Scholarship opportunities are increasing, post-study work options are strong, and Irish universities are welcoming more international students than ever.
Common scholarships include the Government of Ireland Scholarships, university merit scholarships, and Indian student-specific scholarships at select universities. Average scholarship amounts range from €2,000 to €5,000.
Ireland is particularly popular among students looking for English-medium education in Europe with strong post-study work rights.
c) Australia
Australian universities are known for attaching scholarship offers directly to admission letters. If your academic scores are strong, there is a good chance you will receive a partial scholarship to study abroad automatically — making Australia one of the most accessible destinations for Indian students.
Common scholarship types include academic excellence scholarships, international student scholarships, and regional campus scholarships — universities outside major cities often offer larger discounts. Average scholarship amounts range from 10% to 30% tuition fee reduction.
Australia also offers the Australia Awards — a prestigious, fully funded government scholarship for students from developing countries including India.
d) Germany
Germany is in a category of its own. Most public universities in Germany already charge very low tuition fees — or no tuition fees at all. This means even without a scholarship, studying in Germany is significantly more affordable than the UK, Australia, or Ireland.
Common scholarships include DAAD Scholarships, Deutschlandstipendium, and research grants and funded PhD positions. Even without a scholarship, Germany remains one of the most cost-effective ways to study abroad for Indian students.
e) Moldova
Moldova is gaining attention as an affordable alternative for Indian students, particularly in fields like medicine. Tuition fees and living costs are considerably lower than in Western Europe.
Scholarship availability includes tuition discounts at select universities, merit-based fee reductions, and government-supported admission programs. While fully funded scholarships are limited, the low cost of education itself makes Moldova a practical option for budget-conscious students.
f) Albania
Albania is an emerging study destination offering quality education at one of the lowest costs in Europe. It is increasingly being considered by Indian students exploring European options beyond traditional destinations.
Scholarship availability includes merit-based scholarships, partial tuition fee waivers, and bilateral government support programs in some cases. Albania is best suited for students who prioritise affordability and are open to exploring newer destinations in Europe.
The Reality of Study Abroad Scholarships — What No One Tells You
Most students receive partial scholarships, not fully funded ones. Fully funded scholarships like Chevening or DAAD are extremely competitive. The majority of Indian students who study abroad receive partial scholarships — typically a tuition reduction of 10% to 50%.
Your scholarship to study abroad depends on your academic scores, the course and university you choose, how early you apply, and your overall profile including your SOP, references, and achievements.
Applying early significantly increases your chances. Many universities offer higher scholarships to students who apply in the first round. Waiting until the last minute can cost you thousands of euros or pounds.
Some scholarships are automatic while others require a separate application. University merit scholarships are often automatic. Government scholarships like Chevening require a dedicated application process with essays, interviews, and references.
A scholarship combined with an education loan can make studying abroad fully manageable for Indian students. You don’t need a full scholarship to make it work. A partial scholarship combined with the right education loan can bring your costs down to a very practical level.
How Edbrowse Helps You Find the Right Scholarship
At Edbrowse Study Abroad, we don’t just hand you a list of scholarships. We work with you personally to evaluate your academic profile, identify the best scholarship to study abroad for Indian students based on your scores and goals, guide you through application deadlines, help you write your SOP and scholarship essays, and connect you with the right education loan options if needed.
We are based in Malaparamb, Calicut — and we offer free counselling to all students
Ready to Find Your Scholarship?
You don’t have to figure this out alone. Students from across Kerala have already taken the first step by visiting our office in Malaparamb.
Come meet us at Edbrowse Study Abroad — and let’s find the right scholarship to study abroad for you.
Free counselling available. No obligation. Just honest guidance.
