Studying abroad in 2026 is a dream for thousands of students around the world—but the cost of tuition, living expenses, travel, and insurance often creates financial barriers. Thankfully, there are several prestigious scholarships for study abroad that can make international education achievable. This guide covers the top 10 scholarship programs, highlighting key benefits, eligibility, and how they support students planning to study abroad in 2026.
Whether you’re aiming for a Master’s, PhD, research fellowship, or cultural exchange program, this comprehensive scholarship guide will help you plan your funding strategy wisely.
Top Scholarships for Study Abroad in 2026
1. National Overseas Scholarship Scheme (India)
- Aim: Financial support for students from marginalised groups (SC/ST/OBC, DNTs, artisans) for higher studies abroad.
- Courses Covered: Master’s & PhD.
- Benefits:
- Tuition fee coverage
- Annual maintenance allowance
- Visa, medical insurance, contingency allowance
- Air travel support
- Eligibility: Indian national with category certificate, good academic record, income criteria.
- Ideal For: Students needing full financial coverage.
2. Fulbright‑Nehru Master’s Fellowships
- Awarded By: United States‑India Educational Foundation.
- Focus: Master’s studies in the USA with an emphasis on academic excellence and cultural exchange.
- Benefits:
- Tuition & living expenses
- Round‑trip airfare
- J‑1 visa support
- Health/accident coverage
- Eligibility: Strong academics, relevant professional experience, leadership qualities.
- Ideal For: Postgraduate students aiming for US universities.
3. J N Tata Endowment Loan Scholarship
- Type: Loan scholarship for postgraduate research abroad.
- Benefits:
- Loan up to ₹10 lakh
- Partial travel grant
- Gift awards for select candidates
- Eligibility: Indian nationals with strong academic record and foreign admission.
- Ideal For: Students needing flexible financial support without full scholarship dependency.
4. Agatha Harrison Memorial Fellowship
- Purpose: Support advanced research scholars in specific humanities fields.
- Focus Areas: History, Economics, Political Science.
- Benefits:
- Monthly stipend
- Travel allowances
- College lunch & administrative support
- Eligibility: PhD scholars with teaching experience.
- Ideal For: Research‑focused international scholars.
5. Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP)
- Overview: International scholarship network for citizens of Commonwealth countries.
- Coverage: Tuition, living costs, travel support (varies by country nomination).
- Eligibility: Commonwealth citizenship; strong academic record.
- Ideal For: Students from Commonwealth countries targeting UK and other Commonwealth universities.
6. Ambedkar Foundation Scholarship Scheme
- Aim: Support advanced overseas studies for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
- Benefits: Financial aid for overseas tuition & living expenses.
- Eligibility: Varies by course category and financial need.
- Ideal For: Students with a social justice background.
7. Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Scholarship
- Type: Merit‑based loan scholarship.
- Benefits:
- Interest‑free loan for overseas Master’s or research
- Flexible repayment terms after studies
- Eligibility: Excellent academic record, admitted to reputable institution abroad.
- Ideal For: Students requiring partial financial support without harsh repayment terms.
8. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme
- Focus: Support postgraduate studies.
- Benefits:
- 50% grant + 50% loan model
- Tuition and living cost support based on need
- Eligibility: Demonstrated financial need and strong academic credentials.
- Ideal For: Students from developing countries.
9. Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship
- Type: Merit‑based scholarship for top global universities.
- Benefits: Tuition, living expenses, travel.
- Eligibility: Admission to prestigious programs in US/UK/Europe.
- Ideal For: High‑achieving students in arts, humanities, business, and sciences.
10. Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Scholarships
- Purpose: Cultural and academic exchange scholarships.
- Focus: Undergraduate to PhD level support across countries.
- Benefits:
- Tuition, monthly stipend
- Airfare grants
- Eligibility: Merit‑based with admission confirmation.
- Ideal For: Students seeking cultural exchange scholarships.
Who Should Apply?
Students aiming to study abroad in 2026 should consider these scholarships for study abroad based on:
- Financial need
- Academic excellence
- Country of study preference
- Research vs coursework focus
Unlike generic lists online, this guide includes a mix of government, foundation, and international scholarships that top SERPs often miss.
Important Factors You Must Know
- Eligibility varies widely — check age, income, academic score, experience, and admission requirements for each scholarship.
- Some scholarships require returning to India post‑study for a defined period.
- Leadership, community engagement, and a compelling statement of purpose strengthen your application.
- Deadlines typically fall between January and April each year — start early.
- You can apply to multiple scholarships if criteria are met.
Scholarship Application Tips
- Plan early and shortlist scholarships suited to your profile.
- Ensure all documents, recommendation letters, and SOPs are complete.
- Focus on both merit-based and need-based scholarships to maximize chances.
- Maintain good academic records and leadership portfolios.
Why Choose Brainerroverseas
BrainerrsOverseas, A trusted study abroad consultants in Delhi, dedicated to helping international students secure the best scholarships for study abroad in 2026. With years of experience and personalized guidance, we assist you in identifying suitable scholarship opportunities, preparing strong applications, and navigating complex admission processes. Our expert team ensures you maximize your chances of success, making your dream of studying abroad both affordable and achievable. Partner with BrainerrsOverseas for reliable, transparent, and end-to-end support on your global education journey.
FAQs
What are Scholarships for Study Abroad?
Financial awards to support international education costs including tuition, living, travel, and insurance.
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Who can apply for National Overseas Scholarship?
SC/ST students with low family income and admission to foreign universities.
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Is Fulbright‑Nehru only for US studies?
Yes, mainly for Master’s programs in the United States.
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Do Tata Endowment Scholarships need repayment?
They are loans, so they must be repaid after studies.
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Are ICCR scholarships fully funded?
Yes, they include tuition, stipend, and airfare for select programs.
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What does a Commonwealth Scholarship cover?
Usually tuition, monthly stipend, and travel allowances.
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Can students apply to more than one scholarship?
Yes, if they meet eligibility for each.
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Do these scholarships for study abroad require admission first?
Most require a confirmed offer from a foreign university.
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Are GRE/IELTS needed for these scholarships?
Often yes, but varies by program country.
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Are PhD students eligible?
Yes, several scholarships support PhD research.
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Can international students outside India apply?
Some scholarships like Commonwealth and Aga Khan are open internationally.
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What is the age limit for Fulbright?
Varies, but typically no strict upper age if eligibility is met.
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Is there an application fee?
Most scholarships are free to apply.
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When do scholarships for study abroad applications open?
Typically between Jan–April for the 2026 intake.
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Does BrainerrsOverseas assist with applications?
Yes — we guide students step‑by‑step through applications, essays, and interviews.