What are the top MBA scholarships available in the USA for Indian students, and how can I apply?

Question

Prateeksha Manral · Accepted Answer

Here are some of the top MBA scholarships available in the USA for Indian students that you should consider applying to:
1. Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (Stanford University): 
This prestigious program provides funding for up to three years of study at Stanford. It selects around 100 students across all graduate disciplines. You can submit your application through the Knight-Hennessy Scholars portal. 
2. Chicago Booth Scholarships:
The University of Chicago offers merit-based scholarships, including the Chicago Booth Fellowship, covering up to full tuition. No separate application is required this one; students are automatically considered based on their admissions application.
3. Drexel LeBow JEDI Scholarship:
Drexel University&rsquo;s LeBow College of Business offers scholarships focused on diversity, social justice, and equity. International students are automatically considered if they apply to their MBA or MS programs.
4. William R. Berkley Scholarship Program (NYU Stern):
Aimed at NYU college seniors planning to pursue an MBA, this scholarship offers up to $10,000 and covers part of the tuition fees. Application is through the admissions process at NYU Stern.
5. Stanford BOLD Fellows Fund:
This scholarship, worth $15,000 per year, is for students admitted to Stanford&rsquo;s MBA program who can demonstrate financial need and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
These scholarships focus on supporting students with strong academic potential, leadership qualities, and a commitment to social issues. For most of them, no separate application is necessary, as eligibility is determined through the MBA admissions process itself.

Khushi Shukla · Answer

Several top universities offer scholarships to Indian Students pursuing MBA in USA. Some notable mentions include:
1. Harvard Business School Scholarships:
Harvard offers need-based financial aid and several fellowships aimed at diverse student groups, such as the RISE Fellowship for those committed to serving communities of color, and the John C. Phelan Forward Fellowship for students from economically challenging backgrounds. You don't need to apply for these scholarships separately. You will automatically be considered upon admission. 
2. MIT Sloan School of Management:
MIT Sloan provides several merit-based fellowships like the Legatum Fellowship for students aiming to start businesses in low-income countries, and the Lemann Educational Fellowship for those committed to education reforms. Again, these scholarships are usually considered during the admission process without the need for a separate application​.
3. Kellogg School of Management:
At Kellogg, scholarships like the Diversity Scholarship and Donald P. Jacobs International Scholarships are available. These are awarded to students showing remarkable achievements and a commitment to diversity. Scholarship considerations are automatic upon admission application.
4. Stanford Graduate School of Business:
Stanford provides scholarships focusing on leadership and diversity, with eligibility criteria typically including strong academic performance and leadership potential. As with others, the application for scholarships is generally part of the admission process​.
Besides these university-specific ones, there is also a 'National Overseas Scholarship' that supports low-income Indian students pursuing higher education abroad. Eligibility includes economic criteria and academic performance, and requires a seperate application form​.
Mind that for most top business schools in the USA, scholarships for MBA programs are considered during the admissions process. 
You typically won't need to fill out a separate application for merit-based scholarships, but for need-based aid, additional documentation might be required. Good luck!

Ruchika C · Answer

There are numerous scholarships available in the USA for Indian students pursuing MBA programs. Here are some of the top options:
Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships
- Offers up to $75,000 for a maximum of two years of study.
Eligibility: Indian citizens with at least three years of professional work experience.
How to apply: Apply through the United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF) website. The application typically opens in February each year.
Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship Program
- Covers up to $210,000 in tuition and associated fees for the two-year Stanford MBA Program.
Eligibility: Indian citizens with 2-5 years of full-time work experience.
How to apply: Apply through the Stanford Graduate School of Business website. Deadline is usually in April.
Harvard Business School Horace W. Goldsmith Fellowship
- $10,000 per year for two years.
Eligibility: Candidates with a strong commitment to careers in the nonprofit sector.
How to apply: Apply for admission to Harvard Business School and indicate your interest in the fellowship on your application.
The Tata Scholarship at Cornell University
- Covers full tuition and fees for the entire duration of the program.
Eligibility: Indian citizens who have completed their schooling in India.
How to apply: Apply for admission to Cornell University and complete the financial aid application.
Rotary Foundation Global Grants
- Minimum of $30,000 for graduate-level studies.
Eligibility: Must be sponsored by a local Rotary club and district.
How to apply: Contact your local Rotary club to discuss sponsorship and apply through the Rotary Foundation website.
General Tips for applying to the MBA scholarships:

Research: Identify scholarships that align with your academic profile, career goals, and financial needs.
Meet Eligibility Criteria: Ensure you meet the specific eligibility requirements for each scholarship, including academic qualifications, test scores, and essays.
Prepare Application Materials: Gather all necessary documents, such as transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and essays.
Submit Applications: Follow the application deadlines and procedures for each scholarship.
Interview: If shortlisted, be prepared for interviews to assess your suitability for the scholarship.

Remember to start your scholarship applications early, as many have competitive deadlines. Good luck!"