Studying abroad has become an important step towards better career opportunities and personal growth. While international education can be expensive, the Government of India offers several prestigious scholarships and support schemes that help deserving students turn this dream into reality. Here is an updated guide to the key government-backed scholarships for Indian students planning to study abroad in 2027-28.
- National Overseas Scholarship (NOS): Run by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, this scholarship supports students from Scheduled Castes, Denotified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes, Landless Agricultural Labourers and Traditional Artisan families for master’s and PhD study abroad. It offers 125 awards a year, with 30% reserved for women. The scholarship covers tuition fees, an annual maintenance allowance, airfare, visa fees, medical insurance and a contingency allowance. Applicants must be 35 years or younger, have a family income of up to ₹8 lakh a year, have at least 60% marks in their qualifying exam and hold an unconditional offer from a university ranked in the top 500 of the QS World University Rankings. For the 2027-28 academic year, applications are expected to open around April 2027, following the timeline of the previous cycle (when the first round ran from April to June 2026). Applications are made online only through the official NOS portal (nosmsje.gov.in). A separate National Overseas Scholarship is also offered to Scheduled Tribe students by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
- Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships: Offered through the United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF), these fellowships support master’s study in the United States. They usually cover tuition and fees, living costs, round-trip economy airfare and health insurance. Candidates need a bachelor’s degree equivalent to a US four-year degree with at least 55% marks, at least three years of relevant full-time work experience and a commitment to return to India after the course. Note that Fulbright-Nehru applications close more than a year before the course starts: the round for 2027-28 study closed in mid-2026, and applications for 2028-29 are expected to open around February 2027 and close around May 2027. Students should start preparing early.
- Fulbright-Kalam Climate Fellowships: Designed for Indian PhD students working in climate and environmental sciences, these fellowships fund a research stay of several months at a US institution. Benefits generally include a monthly living allowance, round-trip economy airfare, a professional development allowance and health insurance. Candidates should be registered in a PhD programme in India, have some research experience and should not be close to completing their PhD. Applications are usually due in the middle of the year.
- Agatha Harrison Memorial Fellowship: Offered by the Ministry of Education, this fellowship provides one place each year at St Antony’s College, University of Oxford. It is aimed at young Indian academics, generally below 40 years of age, who hold a PhD and have teaching experience, with research interests in economics, political science or modern Indian history. The fellowship includes a stipend, travel support and other benefits. Check the Ministry of Education website for the current year’s notification and deadline.
Other Support From the Government
Besides scholarships, the government also supports students in other ways:
- Education loan interest subsidy: Schemes such as the Dr. Ambedkar Central Sector Scheme provide interest subsidy on education loans for overseas study for eligible OBC and EBC students. Check the latest guidelines for current eligibility.
- Foreign university campuses in India: Under UGC regulations, foreign universities can now set up campuses in India. Universities such as the University of Southampton have already opened campuses, offering an international degree at a lower cost.
- Student safety and welfare: The Ministry of External Affairs and Indian missions abroad provide support to Indian students, and students are encouraged to register with the Indian embassy in their study country.
How to Apply Successfully
Applying for these scholarships requires careful planning and attention to detail. Successful candidates usually show strong academic performance, clear research interests or career goals, and a sincere commitment to contributing to India’s development after their return. Common documents include academic transcripts, income certificates, caste certificates where applicable, admission letters, research proposals and strong letters of recommendation.
Government scholarships offer much more than financial support. They bring prestige, valuable networks and access to world-class education systems. To improve your chances, read each scheme’s requirements carefully, maintain good academic performance and prepare strong application documents. Getting help from experienced study abroad counsellors, especially for personal statements and research proposals, can make a real difference. Start early, pay attention to the details and clearly define your goals.
Conclusion
The application process may seem complex, but thousands of Indian students have used these scholarships to fulfil their dream of studying abroad. With good preparation and the right guidance, you can join them on the path to a world-class education. If you would like advice on your scholarship application or study abroad plans for 2027-28, speak to one of our qualified counsellors today. We are here to be your guide to international education success.
– The Author is Mr. Ajay Thiara , Founder & Managing Director of 360 College Review