How to Get a Scholarship to Study Abroad After 12th? 

After completing 12th, many students dream of studying abroad and getting a chance to experience a different culture, get global exposure, and acquire a world-class education. However, the financial burden is one of the big hurdles for students coming from diverse backgrounds. Especially if students choose to prefer the top study abroad destinations including the USA, the UK, Canada, Australia, and more. This is where scholarships come into play.

If you’re looking to get a scholarship to study abroad after 12th, you’re not alone. Every year thousands of students apply for different scholarships to be able to realize their study abroad dreams. The good thing about it is that there are many scholarships for Indian students as well as international students. In this blog, we will explore how you can get scholarship after 12th to study abroad, the types of scholarships available, and practical steps to boost your chances of getting one.

 

Why study abroad after 12th?

Studying abroad after 12th offers numerous benefits. According to a recent survey, nearly 1.1 million Indian students studied abroad in 2020, with the number expected to grow significantly in the coming years. Many students prefer to study abroad to:

• Gain international exposure and build a global network
• Experience diverse cultures and develop a broader perspective
• Access top-tier education and state-of-the-art facilities
• Increase employability with a degree from a prestigious university

However, international education often comes with hefty tuition fees and living expenses. Scholarships can ease the financial burden, making it easier for students to achieve their goals without worrying about finances.

 

Study Abroad Scholarship Programs To Apply

 

Types of scholarships to study abroad after 12th

There are several types of scholarships available for students wishing to study abroad after 12th. These scholarships can be classified into:

1. Merit-Based Scholarships

Merit-based scholarships are awarded to students based on their academic performance. If you have excelled in your studies and have a high GPA or achieved exceptional marks in your 12th exams, you might be eligible for merit-based scholarships. Many universities and colleges offer these scholarships as a way to attract top students.

2. Need-Based Scholarships

Need-based scholarships are designed for students who need financial assistance to pursue their education abroad. These scholarships are often awarded based on your family’s financial situation. If your household income is low and you can demonstrate financial need, you may be eligible for these types of scholarships.

3. Country-Specific Scholarships

Many countries offer scholarships to students from specific countries, including India. These scholarships are often provided by the government or universities to promote international students’ enrollment. Examples of these scholarships include:

• Australia Awards Scholarship
• Commonwealth Scholarship for the UK
• Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship for the USA
• The Great Wall Program for China

4. University-Specific Scholarships

Many universities provide their own scholarships to attract international students. These scholarships may be based on academic performance, extracurricular activities, or specific talents. For example, top universities in the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia offer partial or full-tuition scholarships to students applying directly to their institution.

5. Government Scholarships

Several governments offer scholarships to Indian students wishing to study abroad. These scholarships are often competitive and require a detailed application process. Some of the prominent government-funded scholarships include:

• The Chevening Scholarship (UK)
• The Erasmus Mundus Program (Europe)
• The DAAD Scholarship (Germany)
• The Fulbright Scholarship (USA)

6. Sports and Cultural Scholarships

If you excel in sports or have special talents in arts, music, or culture, you may be eligible for sports or cultural scholarships. These scholarships are provided by universities, governments, or private organizations to support students pursuing higher education while contributing to sports or cultural events.

 

How to Apply for Scholarship to Study Abroad

 

How to get scholarship to study abroad after 12th

Getting a scholarship to study abroad after 12th can seem like a challenging task, but with the right approach and preparation, it can be a very achievable goal. Here are some practical steps you can follow to improve your chances of securing a scholarship:

1. Research Thoroughly

Before you start applying for scholarships, it’s essential to do thorough research. Many scholarships are available for students wishing to study abroad, but each one has its own eligibility criteria and application process. Start by researching scholarships offered by:

• Universities (check their scholarship opportunities)
• Government websites (for country-specific or need-based scholarships)
• Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and private organizations
• Scholarship search engines (such as ScholarshipPortal, Chegg, and Unigo)

2. Meet Eligibility Criteria

Each scholarship has specific eligibility criteria, such as academic performance, financial need, or extracurricular achievements. Before applying, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements. For example, some scholarships may require you to have a certain GPA, while others may require you to have specific extracurricular activities listed on your resume.

3. Prepare a Strong Application

Your scholarship application is your opportunity to stand out. Make sure you take the time to prepare a strong application by focusing on the following:

• Personal Statement: Write a compelling personal statement that clearly explains why you want to study abroad, how it aligns with your career goals, and why you deserve the scholarship.
• Recommendation Letters: Ask teachers or mentors who know you well to write recommendation letters. These should highlight your academic achievements, leadership skills, and commitment to your goals.
• Academic Transcripts: Ensure that your academic transcripts are up to date and meet the scholarship requirements.
• Extracurricular Activities: Include any volunteer work, leadership roles, or involvement in sports or clubs. Scholarships often look for well-rounded individuals.

4. Apply Early

Deadlines for scholarship applications vary, so it’s important to start the process early. Many scholarships have early deadlines, and applying well in advance will give you time to complete all the required documents and avoid last-minute stress.

5. Stay Organized

Scholarship applications can be time-consuming, so staying organized is key. Keep a checklist of scholarships you want to apply for, along with their deadlines, required documents, and any other specific instructions.

 

Scholarships for MBA Abroad

 

6. Leverage Online Scholarship Portals

There are several websites and portals where you can search for scholarships tailored to Indian students wishing to study abroad. Some popular scholarship search engines include:

• Scholarships.com
• Chegg Scholarships
• Fastweb
• ScholarshipPortal

These platforms allow you to filter scholarships based on your field of study, destination country, and eligibility, making your search more efficient.

7. Prepare for Interviews

Some scholarships require an interview as part of the selection process. If you are shortlisted for an interview, prepare thoroughly by practicing common interview questions, researching the scholarship organization, and preparing to talk about your future goals and aspirations.

8. Look for Free Scholarships

Many universities offer free scholarships or scholarships for study abroad after 12th that don’t require repayment. While some scholarships may cover full tuition fees, others may cover living expenses or travel costs. Look for programs that provide maximum benefits to help reduce your financial burden.

9. Use Scholarship Databases

Use comprehensive scholarship databases to find opportunities that match your profile. Some scholarships are less known and only found through databases, so taking advantage of these tools can increase your chances.

10. Don’t Give Up

The competition for scholarships is fierce, and you may face rejection. However, don’t get discouraged. Keep applying for multiple scholarships and improve your application based on feedback. The more scholarships you apply for, the better your chances of winning one.

 

Scholarships for Studying Abroad After 12th

 

Popular scholarships for Indian students to study abroad after 12th

Here are some of the top scholarships that can help you fund your studies abroad:

1. The Chevening Scholarship (UK)
   This is one of the most prestigious scholarships for Indian students wishing to pursue postgraduate study in the UK. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
2. The Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship (USA)
   This scholarship offers full funding for students who wish to pursue a Master’s degree in the USA. It covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
3. Erasmus Mundus Scholarship (Europe)
   The Erasmus Mundus program provides scholarships for students to study in various European countries. It is designed for students pursuing joint Master’s programs across different European universities.
4. Australia Awards Scholarship (Australia)
   This scholarship is for students from India who wish to study in Australia. It covers full tuition fees, living costs, and travel expenses.
5. DAAD Scholarship (Germany)
   The DAAD Scholarship offers financial assistance for students pursuing higher education in Germany. It covers tuition fees and provides a monthly allowance for living expenses.

 

Commonwealth Scholarship

 

Conclusion

How to get a scholarship to study abroad after 12th is a common question for many aspiring students, and the good news is that there are plenty of opportunities available. With the right preparation, research, and a well-organized approach, you can secure a scholarship that will help make your dreams of studying abroad come true.

By focusing on scholarships that match your profile, staying organized, and applying early, you can improve your chances of success. Whether you’re applying for merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, or those specifically designed for international students, there’s no shortage of funding opportunities.

At MSM Unify overseas education consultant, we’re committed to helping students navigate the journey of studying abroad. From finding the best scholarships to matching you with the right universities, we provide the resources and support you need to make informed decisions. Remember, securing a scholarship is not just about reducing costs—it’s about gaining access to a world-class education, building your career, and achieving your aspirations.