Broaden your mind and explore the vast opportunities awaiting you abroad in the field of academics. Engage in enriched educational environments and boost your career opportunities by securing a spot at one of the most sought-after international study destinations. 

To support your advanced education and help your academic dreams come true, discover the best scholarships for Indian students. Obtain the financial support and feel the economic relief that a scholarship in India to study abroad can only provide. 

Discover what is beyond the horizon for Indian students, and learn how the various scholarships and emerging destinations, like Azerbaijan, may fit your academic goals. 

Types of Overseas Scholarships

There’s four main types you should know about before you consider studying abroad in Azerbaijan or other countries. Government programs like Fulbright-Nehru or Commonwealth cover everything - tuition, living costs, flights, the whole deal. University grants usually provide partial funding but still help a ton. Private foundations like Inlaks or K. C. Mahindra hand out serious money, sometimes up to ₹10 lakhs.

Merit-based ones want strong grades and test scores. Need-based actually look at your financial situation. Azerbaijan’s government program is one of the best scholarships for Indians 2025 - 800 AZN monthly plus full tuition, way less competition than the US or UK. India’s National Overseas program specifically backs SC/ST students. Most deadlines hit between August and April, so start early.

Smart Application Moves

Stick to what admission committees care about. Here are examples of several moves that actually work:

• Build strong transcripts and grades;
• Write a genuine Statement of Purpose;
• Get solid recommendation letters;
• Take IELTS or TOEFL seriously;
• Apply to 5-7 grants minimum;
• Track deadlines on your phone;
• Read fine print - some can’t combine; 
• Keep copies of everything.

Also, start early - apply 6-12 months before you want to start. Get test scores ready (IELTS, TOEFL, GRE). Write genuine essays. Get recommendation letters from teachers who know you. Keep grades clean - valid passport required.

Top Scholarships available

Here’s what actually pays out. It’s real money, not just “prestige” on paper. These cover tuition, living costs, or both:

Scholarship	Country	Amount	Competition	Priority
Fulbright-Nehru	USA	Covers all	Very high	Leadership
K.C. Mahindra	Miltiple	₹10 lakhs	High	Merit
National Overseas	USA/UK	₹12 lakhs	Medium	SC/ST
Commonwealth	UK	Full coverage	Very high	Research
Inlaks Foundation	USA/UK	USD 100K	High	Postgrad
Azerbaijan Gov	Azerbaijan	800 AZN/mo	Low	Open
Erasmus Mundus	Europe	Full	High	Multi-cultural

Prepare transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and a motivation letter early; many programs open in Aug–Oct for the following academic year.

Can Indian Students Study in Azerbaijan on Grants?

Yeah, totally. The Azerbaijan Government Scholarship covers tuition, flights, 800 AZN per month (about $470), insurance, and a visa. Fully funded. Niyo - gives $2,000 to Indians pursuing Master’s or Bachelor’s degrees anywhere, including Azerbaijan. Aga Khan Foundation covers postgraduate studies here. So yes, real money for Indians wanting Azerbaijan.

Expert Take

Application success rates correlate inversely with program popularity. Scholarships abroad in India show acceptance rates from 2-15% for established programs versus 25-40% for emerging destinations. Comparable academic accreditation and lower living costs create better ROI for funded students.

1. The Azerbaijan Government Scholarship for International Students (Azerbaijan)

The Azerbaijan Government Scholarship offers a full scholarship to international students, including Indian students, wanting to pursue undergraduate, master's, or PhD studies. This comprehensive abroad scholarship for Indian students covers tuition fees, accommodations, health insurance, study materials, visa & registration costs, a monthly stipend of 800 AZN, and a two-way flight ticket (once per year). Enabling students to study in a unique destination without a heavy financial burden. 

This scholarship covers a vast array of programs, including general residency and medicine. 

Read also: Ultimate Azerbaijan Itinerary for 7 Days: Explore Baku and Beyond

Application Requirements:

• An updated resume or CV. 
• A valid copy of your passport.
• A letter of motivation.
• A successful English proficiency test score. Undergraduate programs require a minimum of IELTS 5 (TOEFL 40). Meanwhile, postgraduate programs require a minimum of IELTS 5.5 (TOEFL 50). 
• An official copy of your transcripts (GPA of 70% or higher).
• A medical certificate of good health (with negative results for HIV/AIDS & all types of hepatitis).
• All documents must be translated into English and certified by a notary, or Russian documents are only certified and notarized but not translated into English. 

Age Requirements

• Undergraduate: 24 years old or younger.
• Graduate and Residency: 29 years old or younger.
• Doctoral: 39 years old or younger. 

Applications are due and must be submitted to the embassy or Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan by April 1st. (Link to information) 

Indian citizens must get an e-visa to visit Azerbaijan, including a Study Visa. If you don't have such one, apply for an Azerbaijan visa with us.

2. Chevening Scholarships (UK)

The highly esteemed Chevening scholarship is awarded to ambitious students who want to use their passion, creativity, and innovative thinking to find solutions to problems in their home countries. Indian students who aspire to be leaders in their field and are looking to obtain a one-year master's diploma should apply. 

The Chevening scholarship is a full-ride scholarship covering round-trip flight tickets, accommodations, tuition, and course fees. Applicants are selected based on their academic success, networking ability, professionalism, English proficiency, and long-term plans. 

Application Requirements: 

• A commitment to return to your home country after graduation for a minimum of two years. 
• Has completed two years of applicable work experience or a total of 2,800 hours worked. 
• Holds a qualifying undergraduate degree. 
• Has applied to at least 3 UK University courses and has been accepted to at least one program. 
• Two professional or personal references (not family or friends). 
• Demonstrates strong proficiency in the English language throughout the application process. 

Application deadline: Early November, with a typical deadline of November 5th. (Link to Information)

3. Australia Awards Scholarships (Australia)

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Australia created the Australia Awards Scholarship to provide individuals from their partner countries opportunities to drive change and development in their own countries. This scholarship allows students to pursue full-time undergraduate or postgraduate study at an approved Australian university or technical institute. 

Covering a range of studies from engineering to public health at elite higher education institutions, including Central Queensland University and The University of New England. This prestigious scholarship covers the full cost of tuition, accommodations, textbooks and study materials, round trip airfare, an Introductory Academic Program (IAP) course, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and pre-course English (PCE) fees (if necessary). 

Students can apply online via the Online Australia Scholarships Information System or by mail. 

The partner countries selected for this scholarship may change each application year, so review the current requirements before starting your application. (Please note India is not included right now, see link). 

Applications open on February 1st and close on April 30th of the same year. 

4. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree Scholarships (European Union)

Indian students can obtain a diverse education with the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree Scholarship. This scholarship allows students to pursue higher education studies at a minimum of 3 institutions in a minimum of 3 European countries. 

Providing students with a broad background and educational landscape for their extended periods of study, research, traineeship, thesis preparation, and/or defense preparation. A joint degree or multi-degree can be obtained during the 1 to 2-year academic coverage period. This allows students to graduate with global expertise and networking connections in their field across varied cultures, educational systems, and environments. 

This program's full-ride scholarship covers the cost of tuition, travel, visa application, and a living allowance.  

Application Requirements: 

• Have a bachelor's degree or be in the last year of your bachelor's degree studies. 
• Has graduated from your degree program before starting your master's program.
• Can demonstrate a bachelor’s equivalent level of learning (if no official bachelor's degree has been obtained).

The application must be submitted to the institution running the chosen program the student has selected. Applications open in October and close in January for courses starting in the fall of the following academic year. (Link to information)

5. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)

Indian students who are interested in learning more about the German language and culture may be interested in the DAAD Scholarships. This academic exchange service supports international students in pursuing graduate, doctoral, and post-doc studies, primarily in Germany. 

However, undergraduate studies, research programs, studies conducted at universities, and non-university research intuitions and internships are also accepted. Students who are subject to human rights issues and may be denied a higher education may also be eligible. 

This scholarship primarily targets students interested in scientific research, medicine, and global development. Students awarded the scholarship will be given a monthly allowance ranging from an average of € 934 for undergraduate/master's studies to € 1,300 for doctoral/PhD students, a one-time travel allowance, and health insurance. 

Some students may be eligible for additional benefits, such as a research allowance, family benefits, or language courses. As the DAAD Scholarship has 11 different categories, each with its eligibility criteria, it is best for participants to review the requirements here. 

Applications open in June, with a closing date of November 4th of the same year. (Link to information)

6. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships (Switzerland)

This highly regarded scholarship is eligible for students from 180 different countries, promoting a global exchange and partnership with Switzerland. 

Indian students are encouraged to apply, especially if they have a strong interest in research or the arts. As Switzerland offers a world-class education and access to the top institutions and services, this scholarship is competitive, so students must present strong academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a letter of motivation, and a research plan (for PhD students only). 

Students can expect to receive a monthly allowance of CHF 1’920.  

Application Requirements: 

• Has achieved a bachelor’s degree or equivalent before 31 July 2025.
• Was born on 31 December 1989. 
• Only applicable to Arts Scholarship: Does not currently hold a master's degree. 
• Only applicable to PhD and Research Studies: Demonstrates potential for future academic cooperation and conducts professionally under supervision. Shows the motivation, expertise, and ability to conduct research academically. 

Scholarship applications typically open in early August and close in November. Each country is subject to a different deadline period, so applicants should refer to the current application schedule. (Link to info)

7. MEXT Scholarships (Japan)

Since 1954, the Japanese government has offered international students the opportunity to obtain a fully funded scholarship for undergraduate to doctorate studies. 

This scholarship targets exceptional students to cultivate future leaders around the world, predominantly in Asian nations. Over 83,000 students from 160 countries, including India, have been accepted. 

Various fields of study are applicable, from marine science and engineering to natural history. Indian students looking to broaden their horizons and gain a better understanding of Japanese culture would be smart to consider Japan for their higher education. 

There are two ways to apply for the MEXT scholarship: either via the Japanese embassy or through your university's recommendation. Keep in mind that your university may not be eligible to recommend students or may have a limited quota on the number of students they can recommend. 

Students who are granted the scholarship will be awarded, depending on the program, anywhere from ¥143,000 to￥242,000 per month, and round trip airfare. 

Application Requirements: 

• Research and teacher training students only: You must be under 35 years old and a college graduate. Teachers also require 5 years of experience teaching in an official educational institution.
• Undergraduate, college of technology, & specialized training students only: You must be between the ages of 17 to 25, and completed at least 12 years of school education (eg. high school). 
• Japanese studies students only: You must be at least 18 to 30 years old and attending an undergraduate program outside Japan, with a major in Japanese or Japanese culture. 
• Young Leader Program students only: You must be under 40 years old, a university graduate, and have work experience in the field. 

Application deadlines vary by country and institution. Typically, embassy recommendations open in the spring, while university recommendations open in the early fall. (Link for info)

8. Singapore International Graduate Award (Singapore)

If you desire to conduct STEM PHD research at a world-class institution, then graduate studies at one of Singapore's scientific institutions may be right for you. Indian students looking to study graduate biomedical science, information technology, or engineering may be eligible for a full-ride scholarship. 

The Singapore International Graduate Award provides support for 4 years of PhD studies, including coverage of tuition fees, a monthly allowance of S$2,700, a one-time airfare allowance of S$1,500, and a move-in allowance of S$1,000. Students who have previously studied in Singapore or are Singapore residents or permanent residents are not eligible to apply. 

Application Requirements: 

• Has two good academic letters of recommendation. 
• Has exceptional written and spoken English language skills. 
• Hold a bachelor's or master's degree certificate from an official academic institution. 
• Holds a valid passport and provides a passport-sized photo (electronic format: .jpeg or .png)

Applications open in August and close in December. All applications must be submitted online, as hard-copy mail-in applications will not be accepted.

Read also: 14 Cheapest International Trips from India: Explore the World on a Budget

9. Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships (USA)

Applicants who have undeniable leadership qualities and are highly motivated are best suited to apply for the Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships. This fellowship was created to support Indian students wanting to pursue higher education in economics, environmental science, international legal studies, public health, and more. Indian students wishing to be leaders in their community can obtain the skills they require at a prestigious American institution and then return home highly qualified and ready to contribute. 

This grant provides master's scholarships for Indian students that cover tuition & accommodation costs, J-1 visa support, round-trip airfare, and health insurance. Students looking to apply must submit an online application. Make sure to follow the FNMaster's Applicant Instructions, as failure to do so will result in a rejected application. 

Application Requirements: 

• Holds a university bachelor's degree from a recognized Indian institution. (55% minimum)
• Has 3 years of full-time relevant work experience in the fields. 
• Can demonstrate leadership and community service experience. 
• Does not hold a U.S. degree and is not enrolled in a U.S. degree program. 

The application deadline is May 15th. Applicants will be informed of the result as soon as August. (Link to info)

10. New Zealand International Scholarships (New Zealand)

Attend one of the top 1% of universities in the world by completing your studies in New Zealand. The New Zealand government is offering Indian students the opportunity to immerse themselves in Kiwi culture and obtain an education from an elite university. Whether you are pursuing undergraduate studies or your PHD, the New Zealand government is offering 5 different scholarships that can make your academic dreams come true. 

From NZD 1,000 to full tuition coverage, applicants should apply for the Indian scholarship to study abroad that best fits their interests and program. Depending on the program, some foreign study scholarships for Indian students include a living allowance, as well as health and travel insurance. 

Application Requirements: 

• An exceptional academic transcript. 
• A demonstrated financial need. 
• Proof of community involvement and leadership potential. 

The application deadline is typically a few months before the start of the academic year. Deadlines vary by scholarship. (Link to Info)

Conclusion

The world is your oyster! Travel aboard and obtain an education without the financial burden by applying to one of the international scholarships listed above. As the world becomes more connected, an international education has become more desirable. Broaden your horizons, learn a new language, discover an exotic new culture, and learn how you can improve your future career prospects. 

We are here to help you obtain a visa to Azerbaijan. So, if you’ve decided to study in this country, you can easily obtain an Azerbaijan e-visa with us.

Top Overseas Scholarships for Indian Students (2025 Guide)

Scholarship	Country / Region	Level(s)	What It Covers	Key Eligibility	Typical Deadline	Info
Azerbaijan Government Scholarship	🇦🇿 Azerbaijan	UG / Master’s / PhD	Tuition, housing, health insurance, materials, visa & registration fees, 800 AZN/month stipend, round-trip flight (1/yr)	GPA ≥ 70%, IELTS 5–5.5 (or TOEFL 40–50), medical certificate (HIV/hepatitis negative), age caps (UG ≤24, PG ≤29, PhD ≤39)	By Apr 1 (via Embassy/MFA)	Details
Chevening Scholarships	🇬🇧 United Kingdom	Master’s (1-year)	Tuition & fees, living stipend, flights, visa	UG degree, 2 yrs work experience (≈2,800 hrs), 3 UK program applications, return to India for 2 years	Early Nov (e.g., Nov 5)	Details
Australia Awards	🇦🇺 Australia	UG / PG	Tuition, living, books, flights, OSHC, IAP, PCE (if needed)	Partner-country eligibility varies; India currently not included (check yearly list)	Feb 1 – Apr 30	Details
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master	🇪🇺 European Union (multi-country)	Master’s (1–2 yrs)	Tuition, travel, visa, monthly allowance	Bachelor’s (or final-year), or equivalent learning level; apply to the EM consortium	Oct – Jan	Details
DAAD Scholarships	🇩🇪 Germany	Master’s / PhD (+ select UG, research, internships)	Monthly stipend (~€934 Master’s / €1,300 PhD), travel, health; extras possible (research, family, language)	Program-specific criteria; strong academics; research focus common	Opens Jun; closes Nov 4	Details
Swiss Government Excellence	🇨🇭 Switzerland	Research / PhD / Arts	Monthly stipend (CHF 1,920), other benefits per track	Born ≤ 31 Dec 1989; bachelor’s before 31 Jul 2025; track-specific (arts, PhD, research)	Aug – Nov (varies by country)	Details
MEXT	🇯🇵 Japan	UG / College of Tech / Specialized / Master’s / PhD / Teacher training / YLP	Allowance (~¥143k–¥242k/mo), round-trip airfare, tuition	Age & education vary by track (e.g., UG 17–25, teacher <35 + 5 yrs exp)	Embassy: Spring; University: Early Fall	Details
Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)	🇸🇬 Singapore	PhD (STEM)	Tuition, S$2,700/mo stipend, airfare (S$1,500), settling-in (S$1,000)	Strong English, 2 recommendations, bachelor’s/master’s; not for PRs/residents	Aug – Dec	Details
Fulbright-Nehru Master’s	🇺🇸 United States	Master’s	Tuition & living, J-1 visa support, airfare, health insurance	Indian UG degree (≥55%), 3 yrs work exp, leadership & community work, no US degree/enrolment	May 15	Details
New Zealand International Scholarships	🇳🇿 New Zealand	UG / Master’s / PhD (varies by scheme)	From NZD 1,000 to full tuition; some include living + health + travel	Strong academics, financial need, leadership/community proof	Varies; typically months before intake	Details
Notes: Deadlines and benefits may change annually—always confirm on the official page before applying. For Azerbaijan, Indian citizens typically require an e-visa (including study visa). You can apply online and receive it by email. Quick tip: Prepare transcripts, test scores, LORs, and a motivation letter early; many programs open in Aug–Oct for the following academic year.