Supporting Education in India: Scholarships and Funding Initiatives for NRIs

For Indians, studying abroad has always been a lucrative idea that everyone has aspired to but only a few could achieve. While studying abroad is an amazing opportunity for anyone, most people don’t go for it because of the excessive expenses. If you aspire to travel abroad and get a degree that will open doors for multiple avenues for you, then you might do it without worrying about expenses.?

According to CNBC TV 18, India and China are the biggest sources of international students all over the world. As per research conducted by the British Council, around 40% of MNCs look for employees who have an international education. That is why getting an international education is now crucial for anyone. Apart from that, there are some other benefits of studying abroad, like:

• Multicultural education and proficiency
• Exposure
• Networking opportunities
• Diverse course options
• Lifetime experience

So, if you are someone who wants to pursue a degree abroad, then you are at the right place. You don’t have to worry about the expenses, as there are some great government scholarships and funding options available for students studying abroad.?

Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Scholarship

This is one of the most well-known merit and need-based scholarships for Indian students who want to study abroad. With this scholarship, students with outstanding performance can get a chance to finish their Master’s degree at selected colleges and universities in the US. The students should complete US equivalent bachelor’s degree and must have at least three years of working experience. Also, students must have leadership qualities, as the scholarship aims to aid future leaders of the country. Along with the funding for education, you can get the cost of living and other expenses, tuition fees, and J-1 Visa support.

National Overseas Scholarship

This scholarship was launched by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. The aim is to promote social and economic development and justice. The beneficiary of this scholarship is from a low-income group in society, especially those who belong to the scheduled caste, scheduled tribe, and other backward classes. Agricultural labourers with no land, and artisans of local art and traditions are also included in this scholarship. This is given to pursue a Master’s degree, Ph.D., or post-doctoral degree abroad. In fact, there is a 30% seat reserved for women aspirants too.?

The JN Tata Endowment - Higher Education of Indians

This is a one-time loan scholarship for Indian students who want to do full-time postgraduate, Ph.D., post-doctoral, and research fellowships. Even though this scholarship does not cover the whole expense of education, those with outstanding performance can obtain a partial travel grant of 50,000. The loan amount can range from 1,00,000 to 10,00,000. An online test and interview will determine whether the applicant is eligible for the scholarship or not. This test will not be subject-specific. Rather, it is based on thinking skill assessment.?

Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree

Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees are master's-level study programmes for which the EU provides financing to grant scholarships to Indian students. An international collaboration of higher education institutions (HEIs) designs and delivers an EMJM study programme. An EMJM consists of at least three HEIs from three different countries (at least two of which must be EU member states). As a result, students have the opportunity to study in at least two European nations. The scholarship covers tuition, air travel, insurance premiums, and living expenses, although the amount varies depending on the country and course chosen.

There are many other scholarships available for students who aspire to obtain degrees from international schools and universities. So, if you want to travel abroad with a dream of achieving big, don’t stop yourself because of financial constraints. Expand your horizons and find out what scholarships will suit your case. Apply soon, prepare, and spread your wings.?