Scholarships To Study In USA For Indian Students: Types, Eligibility Criteria, Top Scholarships With Application Deadline

Scholarships To Study In USA For Indian Students: Types, Eligibility Criteria, Top Scholarships With Application Deadline

Introduction

In this blog, we will guide you on securing scholarships to study at prestigious universities in the USA, which is one of the top study destinations for international students. While the USA offers excellent higher education opportunities, it can be a financial challenge for Indian students. Therefore, we will provide you with valuable insights on how to obtain scholarships that can support your educational journey in the USA.

Scholarship to study in the USA: Eligibility criteria

The eligibility criteria for scholarships to study in the USA vary depending on the scholarship provider and the specific program.

Citizenship and residency

  • Most scholarships are open to international students. However, some scholarships are specifically for students from certain countries or regions.
  • You may also be eligible for scholarships if you are a US citizen or permanent resident, but are currently studying abroad.

Academic achievement

  • You will need to have a strong academic record to be eligible for most scholarships. This typically means having a high GPA and standardized test scores (SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT)

English language proficiency

  • You will need to demonstrate your English language proficiency by taking an English proficiency test, such as the TOEFL or IELTS. The required score will vary depending on the scholarship and the program you are applying to.

Financial need

  • Some scholarships are only available to students who demonstrate financial need. This means that you will need to provide documentation of your family’s income and assets.

Other requirements

  • Some scholarships may have additional requirements, such as a minimum GPA, a certain number of years of study experience, or a specific field of study.
Scholarship to study in USA Introduction min

Types of scholarships to study in the USA

There are many types of scholarships available to international students who want to study in the USA. Here are two of the most popular:

Merit-based scholarships

Merit-based scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic achievement, leadership potential, or other exceptional qualities. These scholarships are typically very competitive, but they can also be very generous. Some examples of merit-based scholarships include the Fulbright Scholarship, the Rhodes Scholarship, and the Gates Millennium Scholarship.

Need-based scholarships

Need-based scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate financial need. These scholarships can help students cover the cost of tuition, fees, and other expenses. Some examples of need-based scholarships include the Pell Grant, the Stafford Loan, and the Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG).

Government funded scholarships to study in the USA

While the US government offers various scholarship programs, some are restricted to specific countries or exchange programs. Here are 3 top scholarship options with significant US government funding to consider:

1. Fulbright U.S. Student Program:

Funded directly by the US Department of State, the Fulbright Program is widely regarded as the most prestigious scholarship for international students seeking graduate study (Master’s level) in the USA. It fosters cultural exchange and mutual understanding between the US and participating countries (over 140).

Key features:

  • Level: Master’s degree
  • Funding: Full tuition fees, living expenses, health insurance, travel, and visa fees.
  • Eligibility: Highly competitive; open to recent graduates with strong academic records, leadership potential, and a demonstrated interest in cultural exchange.

2. Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program:

Funded by the US Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, the Gilman Scholarship supports undergraduate students from the US to participate in credit-bearing study abroad programs worldwide, including the USA (for international students on exchange programs with US partners).

Key features:

  • Level: Undergraduate (semester or academic year abroad programs)
  • Funding: Up to $5,000 for study abroad programs, including those in the USA (awarded to international students on exchange).
  • Eligibility: Open to US federal Pell Grant recipients demonstrating academic achievement, financial need, and a strong proposal for overseas study. (For international students, eligibility depends on the specific exchange program agreement with their home university).

3. Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program:

Another Department of State program, the Hubert Humphrey Fellowship focuses on professional development for mid-career professionals from partner countries. It provides non-degree training programs that combine academic coursework, professional experience, and leadership development workshops.

Key features:

  • Level: Non-degree professional development
  • Funding: Full tuition and living expenses, accident and sickness insurance, travel costs, and professional development allowance.
  • Eligibility: Highly competitive; open to experienced professionals from designated countries with a strong record of public service and a commitment to returning home to contribute to their communities.

5 Best scholarships to study in the USA

Scholarship name

Scholarship amount

Benefits

Deadline in 2024

Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships

$15,000 – $60,000

Full tuition and living expenses

April 15, 2024

Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships

$10,000 – $20,000

Full tuition, living expenses, and travel allowance

March 31, 2024

Tata Scholarships Program

$30,000 – $40,000

Full tuition

December 31, 2023

India Global Leaders Scholarships Program

$20,000 – $30,000

Full tuition and travel allowance

January 31, 2024

Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowships

$100,000

Full tuition and living expenses

January 5, 2024

KC Mahindra Scholarship

$20,000 – $30,000

Full tuition, living expenses, and travel allowance

March 15, 2024

8 Best universities offering scholarships in the USA

Here’s a list of top universities in the USA that offer scholarships for Indian students:

University name

Scholarship name

Eligibility criteria

Arizona State University (ASU)

ASU International Student Scholarship

Open to Indian students with a strong academic record and demonstrated leadership potential

Boston University

Boston University Global Scholarship

Open to international students, including Indian students, with a strong academic record

Brown University

Brown University International Student Scholarships

Open to international students, including Indian students, who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and financial need

Columbia University

Columbia University International Student Scholarships

Open to international students, including Indian students, who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and financial need

Cornell University

Tata Scholarships for Cornell University

Open to Indian students with a strong academic record and demonstrated leadership potential

Duke University

Duke University International Student Scholarships

Open to international students, including Indian students, with a strong academic record and financial need

Harvard University

Harvard College Scholarships for International Students

Open to international students, including Indian students, who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and financial need

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

MIT International Student Scholarships

Open to international students, including Indian students, with a strong academic record and demonstrated leadership potential

Scholarship to study in the USA: Step-by-step registration process

Here is a step-by-step registration process for scholarships to study in the USA:

Step by step registration process

1. Research scholarships

2. Check eligibility criteria

3. Gather the required documents

4. Submit your application

5. Wait for a decision

6. Accept your scholarship

Scholarship to study in the USA: Documents required

The specific documents required for a scholarship to study in the USA will vary depending on the scholarship provider and the specific program. Here are some of the most common documents required for scholarships to study in the USA:

  • Application form: This is typically a form that you will need to fill out online or by mail. 
  • Transcripts: Transcripts should be sealed and sent directly to the scholarship provider.
  • Standardized test scores: If required by the scholarship, you will need to submit your scores from standardized tests such as the SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT.
  • English language proficiency test scores: If required by the scholarship, you will need to submit your scores from an English language proficiency test such as the TOEFL or IELTS.
  • Letters of recommendation: You will need to submit letters of recommendation from two or three teachers, professors, or mentors. 
  • Statement of purpose: You will need to write a statement of purpose in which you explain why you are interested in the scholarship and why you are a good candidate for the program.
  • Resume or CV: You will need to submit a resume or CV that outlines your educational background, work experience, and any other relevant information.
  • Financial aid forms: If you are applying for need-based scholarships, you will need to submit financial aid forms that document your family’s income and assets.

Application deadlines for scholarship to study in the USA

  • Early decision: Some prestigious scholarships like the Fulbright Program may have early decision deadlines (often around October-November) for the following academic year.
  • Regular decision: Most scholarships have regular decision deadlines, typically falling between January and April for Fall semester enrollment.
  • Rolling deadlines: A few scholarships may have rolling deadlines, meaning applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis until funds are depleted.

Tips to get scholarships to study in the USA

Here are some tips:

  • Start early: Don’t wait until the last minute to research and apply for scholarships. Begin your search well in advance (ideally a year before your desired enrollment) to allow ample time for research, application preparation, and meeting deadlines.
  • Set calendar reminders: Use a calendar or reminder system to track deadlines for various scholarships you’re interested in.
  • Contact ccholarship providers: If you have any questions about deadlines or eligibility, don’t hesitate to contact the scholarship program directly.

By following these tips and starting your research early, you’ll be better positioned to meet deadlines and increase your chances of securing scholarship funding for your studies in the USA.

Unlocking Affordable Study Abroad Opportunities with MSM Unify! Don’t let finances hold you back from achieving your dreams. At MSM Unify, Overseas education consultancy we believe in recognizing your merit. While some scholarships may be highly competitive, there are definitely options out there that you qualify for!

Let us help you navigate the complex landscape of scholarship applications while we assist you with university selection, course planning, and the entire application process. With MSM Unify, you’ll have a dedicated counselor by your side, providing personalized guidance throughout your study abroad journey.

Scholarships To Study In USA For Indian Students: Types, Eligibility Criteria, Top Scholarships With Application Deadline

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FAQs

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How to get a scholarship to study in the USA?

To get a scholarship to study in the USA, it is important to conduct thorough research on available scholarships, both from educational institutions and external organizations. Start by checking the official websites of universities and colleges for scholarship opportunities.

Yes, it is possible to get a 100% scholarship to study in the USA. Many universities and organizations offer full scholarships to international students based on their academic performance, leadership skills, and other criteria.
Yes, Indian students are eligible for scholarships in the USA. There are various scholarships available for international students, including those from India. These scholarships can be merit-based, need-based, or specific to certain fields of study.

To increase your chances of getting a full scholarship, it is important to have a strong academic background, excellent test scores, and a compelling application. Additionally, researching and applying for scholarships specifically designed for international students can also be beneficial.

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