Top Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in USA

Types of USA Scholarships for Indian Students

While you plan to apply for one of the USA scholarships for Indian students, it is important for you to understand the major types. These scholarships are categorised into:

Merit-Based Scholarships

• Financial aid offered to students who are academically proficient or who showcase exceptional talent in other fields, including sports or leadership.
• These scholarships for Indian students are generally offered by universities and private foundations.
• Students aiming to secure a merit-based scholarship must score strongly on the SAT, ACT, GRE, and GMAT.

 Need-Based Scholarships

• These are the scholarships for Indian students who cannot afford the cost of studying in the USA.
• Students have to demonstrate the financial need and the decision to fund the education completely based on the family’s financial situation.
• These scholarships are generally offered by US universities, the government or non-profit programs. 

Other Types

• Some colleges and universities offer financial support to highly qualified applicants
• Students also have a chance to secure a scholarship from the US government or from their home government.
• Subject-specific scholarships are also available for students, often in STEM fields. 

Also Read - Scholarship for Abroad Studies

Top USA Scholarships for Indian Students

After getting familiar with the type of scholarships, you might wonder about the top scholarships for Indian students in USA. Here is the detailed list of selected scholarships that stand out as the top option for students. 

1. Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships

A prestigious scholarship programme specifically designed to support Indian students pursuing a master's program in the USA. The scholarship supports deserving candidates with strong academics, leadership qualities and a pledge to bring positive impact to the community.

2. Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program

Next in the list of scholarships for Indian students is the Knight-Hennessey Scholars program at Stanford University, designed to offer students full funding for graduate study. The program aims to support students with leadership and innovation.

3. Yale University Scholarships

Yale University offers various need-based scholarships for Indian Students in USA. These scholarships help students by covering 100% of the demonstrated financial needs. The scholarships offered by Yale University aim to support students in pursuing UG and PG studies without relying on loans.

4. Tata Scholarship for Cornell University

The Tata Scholarship at Cornell is no doubt one of the most popular fully funded scholarships for Indian students in USA. It extends support to Indian undergraduate students showcasing exceptional quality. All the major expenses, including tuition, living and other costs, are covered to enable students to focus on their academic and extracurricular activities.

5. Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship

Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship is yet another one of the highly preferred USA scholarships for Indian students. It offers full funding for students pursuing graduate studies at top universities. The funding covers tuition, living expenses and one-way travel.

6. American Association of University Women (AAUW) International Fellowships

AAUW international fellowships are specifically designed to support women pursuing full-time graduate or doctoral studies in the USA. The program extends support by providing funding for tuition, living expenses and any costs related to research.

7. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme

The Aga Khan scholarship programme is among the most popular need-based scholarships for Indian Students to study in USA. This program extends support to students planning for graduate studies. It helps to cover tuition and living expenses by offering a 50% grant and a 50% loan.

8. Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowships

Supporting students for more than 15 years, the Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowships are considered the most competitive scholarships for Indian students to study in USA. The program supports aspiring students who dream of studying an MBA at Stanford Business School. It extends funding to cover tuition and living expenses for a two-year full-time MBA program.

9. Clark University Global Scholars Program

Ending the list of top scholarships for Indian students in USA with the Clark University Scholar Program, a highly reputable scholarship program extending support for competent undergraduate students showcasing leadership potential and a commitment towards making a global impact.

Note: You can use our scholarship finder tool, an AI-based algorithm that simplifies searching for your preferred scholarship with the help of various filters. 

How to Apply for USA Scholarships?

Planning to study in USA with scholarship requires thorough research. Considering the strong competition among applicants, you need to follow the correct approach that will increase your chances of winning a scholarship.

Here are the key steps one must follow while applying for a scholarship in the USA. 

Step 1. Research Available Scholarships

• The process starts with exploring a range of scholarships that align with your field of study, education level and other eligibility conditions.
• Given the range of scholarships, make sure to research multiple options that will eventually increase your chances of securing a scholarship.  
• You must start this process one year before you plan to start studying in the USA.

Step 2. Check Eligibility Criteria

• Before you apply for the scholarship, it is vital to understand the eligibility criteria specified by the provider.
• Each scholarship has its own requirements and conditions; make sure you meet the eligibility criteria before you proceed to apply. 

Step 3. Prepare Required Documents

• Gather all the documents required for the scholarship application process.
• This generally includes academic transcripts, recommendation letters, a personal statement and any additional documents.  

Step 4. Apply Early

• Begin your application process well in advance to make sure you don't miss out on any important steps.
• It will also help you avoid last-minute problems and ensure a timely submission of the application. 

Step 5. Write a Strong Personal Statement

• A compelling personal statement is a significantly important part of your application.
• While writing your personal statement, make sure to highlight your achievements, personal motivations, and why you deserve the particular scholarship.

Step 6. Submit the Application

• Once you are done with all the steps, double-check the entire form before applying to avoid any errors.

Step 7. Wait for Results

• After submitting, await the decision and prepare for any potential interview 

Also Read: Scholarship for MBA in USA

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for USA Scholarship

Considering a range of scholarships, deadlines, varying requirements and strong competition, even a minor mistake can cost you an opportunity. Here are the common mistakes that you must avoid while applying for a scholarship.

• Starting Your Scholarship Search Too Late: Given the high competition, searching for scholarships at the last minute is one of the biggest mistakes one can make. Scholarships with potential funding often have early deadlines, which means you have to start planning well in advance.
• Missing Deadlines: The range of available scholarships for Indian Students to study in USA comes with strict deadlines, meaning missing a deadline is simply losing an opportunity. Prepare and submit your application a few days in advance of the deadline to avoid last-minute hassle.
• Submitting Incomplete Applications: With multiple requirements, missing out on even one document can lead to rejection. Make sure to double-check all the submitted documents with the list of required ones, and if possible, get your application reviewed by a mentor.
• Writing A Generic Scholarship Essay: Since a scholarship essay plays a crucial role in your application, you must make the most out of it. The scholarship committee assesses the genuine passion and motivation of the applicant to verify whether they are the right fit or not. 

Also Read: Scholarship for MS in USA 

Wrapping Up

Summing up, the range of available scholarships for Indian students turns the aspiration of studying in the USA into an achievable reality. The best part about these scholarships is that they are designed to support deserving students. Whether you excel academically, display leadership qualities, or require financial support, there is a scholarship available for you to extend support and make your USA education possible. Still confused about the application process? Connect with our study abroad consultants today and apply for the perfect scholarship that aligns with your goals and profile.

FAQs

1. What GPA is required to get a USA scholarship?

The GPA required to secure a US scholarship varies widely. However, many scholarships generally require a GPA of 3.0 or higher for general eligibility, while competitive scholarships may need a 3.5 GPA or above.

2. What documents are needed for USA scholarship applications?

• Documents required for US scholarship applications are
• Completed Application Form
• Academic Transcripts
• Letters of Recommendation
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae
• Standardised Test Scores
• Statement of Purpose

3. Which universities in the USA offer scholarships to Indian students?

Several universities in the US offer scholarships to Indian students. Some of the most prominent include:

• Cornell University
• Stanford University
• Oxford University
• Yale University
• Michigan State University

4. Are there MBA scholarships in the USA for Indian students?

Yes, there are scholarships available for Indian students planning to pursue an MBA in the USA. This includes merit-based and need-based scholarships offered directly by the universities.

5. Is there any age limit for USA scholarships?

No, generally, there is no age limit for the majority of the USA scholarships, and individuals can win a scholarship after meeting the requirements.