What are the best scholarships for Indian students to study in the USA?

If you're looking to study in the U.S. but are concerned about the costs, you’re not alone. Many international students face the same challenge when it comes to tuition, living expenses, and additional fees.

The positive news is that there are scholarships available that can make studying in the U.S. more affordable, or even fully funded. Here are some top scholarship opportunities to consider:

Government Scholarships:  Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships

• Ideal for Master’s and PhD programs
• Fully covers tuition, living expenses, airfare, and health insurance
• Requires a strong academic record

Hubert Humphrey Fellowship

• 10-month non-degree program for professionals
• Comprehensive coverage, including professional development and English language support if needed

University & Foundation Scholarships
Tata Scholarship at Cornell

• Available for undergraduate students
• Need-based with full coverage, supported by the Tata Education Trust

Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship

• Designed for MBA students at Stanford Business School
• Covers up to 80% of tuition and expenses
• Five recipients chosen annually, with a commitment to work in India after graduation

Inlaks Scholarship

• For postgraduate and doctoral programs
• Provides up to INR 83.31 lakhs for tuition, living costs, insurance, and travel

Merit-Based Scholarships
AAUW International Fellowships

• Specifically for women in graduate or postgraduate studies
• Awards range from $20,000 to $50,000
• Prioritizes candidates with a focus on research

Aga Khan Foundation

• 50% grant, 50% loan arrangement
• Requires at least one year of work experience
• Merit-based selection process

#YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship

-Minimum 50% tuition coverage
-Focused on promoting intercultural exchange
-Requires an essay or video submission

Tips for a Successful Application

-Begin your search 12-18 months before your intended enrollment.
-Apply to a mix of well-known and smaller scholarships.
-Edit your applications to highlight your unique strengths.
-Showcase your academic and extracurricular achievements.

Scholarships can be highly competitive, but with thorough research, early planning, and a strong application, you can enhance your chances. Don’t forget to leverage support from university financial aid offices, which often assist international students. For personalized guidance, feel free to DM or look up MIM-Essay on Google.

You can also book a free strategy call with our study abroad consultants to discuss your options.

Start early, stay organized, and put in your best effort, i would suggest.