There are various kinds of overseas scholarships available for every kind of student, and some strategic planning and in-depth research can help you land the best of them. Scholarships for studying abroad are majorly categorised as:

Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded to students with outstanding academic achievements, these scholarships recognize excellence in coursework, research, or other academic pursuits.

Destination-Specific Scholarships: Some scholarships focus on particular study destinations, encouraging students to explore specific countries or regions to enrich their academic experience.

Program-Specific Scholarships: Allocated for participation in specific study abroad programs, these scholarships might be offered by institutions or organizations affiliated with particular programs.

Internship and Research Scholarships: Aimed at students pursuing internships or research projects abroad, these scholarships support practical learning experiences beyond traditional coursework.

Government-Funded Scholarships: Many governments offer scholarships to international students as part of their diplomatic or educational outreach initiatives, fostering global collaboration.

Need-Based Scholarships: Geared towards students facing financial constraints, these scholarships provide assistance to those who can demonstrate a genuine need for financial support.

Subject-Specific Scholarships: Tailored for students pursuing studies in specific fields, these scholarships support disciplines where there might be a shortage of skilled professionals or a particular emphasis on development.

Cultural Exchange Scholarships: Designed to promote cross-cultural understanding, these scholarships often require students to engage actively with the local community during their study abroad experience.

Minority or Underrepresented Groups Scholarships: Focused on promoting diversity, these scholarships target minority or underrepresented groups to encourage inclusivity in study abroad programs.

Organization-Specific Scholarships: Various organizations, foundations, and NGOs provide scholarships to students based on their missions, whether it be promoting environmental sustainability, human rights, or other specific causes.

Yes, many Study Abroad Scholarships require applicants to clear specific exams. Commonly mandated exams include:

Language Proficiency Tests: Scholarships often necessitate proof of proficiency in the language of instruction. Widely accepted exams include TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System).

Standardized Admission Tests: Some scholarships may require scores from standardized tests like the SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test), ACT (American College Testing), GRE (Graduate Record Examination), or GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) depending on the level of study.

Subject-Specific Tests: Certain scholarships, especially in specialized fields, may demand scores from subject-specific exams such as the GRE Subject Tests or other relevant assessments related to the chosen academic discipline.

Qualifying Examinations: Some scholarships may have their own qualifying exams or interviews to assess applicants' suitability for the program.

Stipends and Allowances: In addition to direct expense coverage, some scholarships provide stipends or allowances to support students with additional costs, such as research materials, conference attendance, or extracurricular activities.

Study Abroad Scholarships can cover either partial or entire education expenses, and the extent of coverage varies based on the scholarship. Here's a concise breakdown:

Partial Coverage: Some scholarships provide partial funding, which may include tuition fees, living expenses, or specific costs like books and travel. The scholarship amount is a percentage of the overall expenses, and students often need to supplement with other funding sources.

Full Coverage: Certain scholarships offer comprehensive coverage, encompassing tuition, accommodation, meals, travel, and other associated costs. These scholarships aim to alleviate the financial burden entirely, allowing students to focus on their studies without worrying about substantial expenses.

Criteria for Coverage: The criteria for coverage depend on the scholarship's objectives and the financial circumstances of the applicant. Merit-based scholarships may cover a higher percentage for academically outstanding students, while need-based scholarships prioritize financial need and may offer full or substantial coverage based on the applicant's situation.

Duration of Coverage: Scholarships may cover expenses for the entire duration of the program, a specific number of semesters, or on a yearly basis. The terms of coverage are outlined in the scholarship guidelines.

The Indian government offers various study abroad scholarships to support Indian students pursuing education overseas. Key programs include:

Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP): Administered by the Ministry of Education, this program provides opportunities for Indian students to pursue postgraduate studies in Commonwealth countries.

JN Tata Endowment for Higher Education Abroad: This scholarship assists Indian students pursuing higher education abroad, offering financial aid and travel assistance.

GSSP (General Scholarship Scheme Program): Offered by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), the GSSP provides scholarships to foreign students, including those from developing countries, to study in India.

Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship: This need-based scholarship supports postgraduate studies for outstanding students from developing countries, including India.

Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme for Central Armed Police Forces and Assam Rifles: Children of personnel in these forces can apply for scholarships to pursue professional degree courses abroad.

MEA Scholarships (Ministry of External Affairs): Undergraduates, postgraduates, and research scholars can apply for financial aid under this scheme, covering tuition fees and other expenses.

Inlaks Scholarship: Aimed at postgraduate and research students, the Inlaks Scholarship supports studies at top global universities, covering tuition and living expenses.

Dr. Manmohan Singh Scholarships: Administered by St. John's College, University of Cambridge, these scholarships support outstanding Indian students for doctoral studies at Cambridge.

ICCR Scholarships (Indian Council for Cultural Relations): ICCR offers scholarships for undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in various fields, promoting cultural exchange and academic collaboration.

Saksham Scholarship: Administered by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), Saksham provides financial aid to differently-abled students for pursuing technical education abroad.