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U.S. scholarships for Indian students

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The United States has long been a premier destination for Indian students seeking world-class education, cutting-edge research opportunities and diverse cultural experiences. However, the cost of postgraduate studies in the U.S. can be a major barrier for many Indian students. Tuition fees alone can range from US$20,000 to US$50,000 per year. When factoring in living expenses, health insurance and other costs, the total annual expenses can run higher than US$70,000. Fortunately, U.S. scholarships for Indian students can help to cover the cost, enabling many promising individuals to achieve their dreams of studying at U.S. universities.

The importance of securing international scholarships

For Indian students considering a postgraduate degree in the U.S., obtaining an education scholarship is crucial for several reasons.

  • Financial assistance: U.S. scholarships for Indian students help reduce the burden of high tuition fees, accommodations and other living expenses. For many students, receiving financial aid is the deciding factor in whether they can afford to study in the U.S. Without scholarships, students may need to take on loans or rely on family savings, making education less accessible.
  • Networking opportunities: Many scholarships provide access to exclusive networks, mentorship programs and professional development opportunities. These connections can be invaluable for getting internships and job placements in a student’s chosen field. Networking through scholarship programs can also help students build lifelong relationships with peers and industry leaders.
  • Resume boosters: A scholarship award is a mark of excellence that can set students apart in a tight job market. Employers recognize scholarships as a testament to a candidate’s dedication, academic abilities and leadership potential. Having a scholarship on a resume signals that a student has been recognized for their hard work and potential, making them more competitive for job opportunities.
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Types of U.S. scholarships for Indian students

Understanding the various kinds of U.S. scholarships for Indian students can help students to identify the best possibilities.

  • Merit-based scholarships: These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, leadership qualities or exceptional talents. Universities, private organizations and foundations offer merit-based scholarships to attract top-performing students. Some examples include the Fulbright Program and merit scholarships at various universities.
  • Need-based scholarships: These scholarships are designed for students who demonstrate financial need and may not have the resources to afford a U.S. education. Universities, nonprofits and private organizations look at family income, personal finances and other factors when awarding need-based scholarships.
  • Government-funded scholarships: These scholarships are sponsored by governments to promote international education and cultural exchange. Programs like the Fulbright-Nehru Scholarship, funded by the U.S. and Indian governments, provide financial support for students pursuing master’s or doctoral studies in various fields.
  • Private scholarships: Corporations, nonprofits and foundations offer private scholarships to support education and foster global talent. These scholarships can be based on merit, need or specific criteria such as field of study or gender. Examples include the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship and the MPOWER Udaan India STEM Scholarship.

How to find U.S. scholarships for Indian students

There are multiple resources for identifying U.S. scholarships for Indian students and learning how to apply for scholarships to study abroad.

  • University financial aid offices: Most U.S. universities have dedicated financial aid offices that provide information about available scholarships, application deadlines and eligibility criteria. Students should reach out to these offices early to explore opportunities.
  • Online scholarship databases: Websites like Scholarships.com, Fastweb and IEFA offer extensive lists of scholarships for international students. These platforms allow students to filter scholarships based on eligibility criteria, making it easier to find relevant options.
  • Government portals: The United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF) offers comprehensive information on scholarships and fellowships for Indian students. Checking official government websites can provide credible and up-to-date funding opportunities.
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MPOWER Financing: International scholarships, loans and more  

MPOWER is a mission-driven organization dedicated to removing financial barriers for talented students and making higher education accessible to individuals from all over the world through student loans and scholarships.

One of MPOWER’s key offerings is the Udaan India Scholarship, which supports Indian students pursuing master’s degrees in STEM fields in the U.S. or Canada. The scholarship provides financial assistance up to US$5,000 for selected students. Students do not need to have an MPOWER student loan to apply. To qualify, applicants must:

  • Be an Indian citizen
  • Be admitted to or enrolled in a STEM graduate program at a U.S. or Canadian MPOWER-eligible university
  • Be permitted to legally study in the U.S. or Canada

Additional offerings from MPOWER include:

  • International student loans: No-cosigner student loans up to US$100,000 are designed specifically for international students and offer competitive, fixed interest rates with no prepayment penalties.
  • Visa support: To support students as they navigate complex visa processes, MPOWER provides services to assist with visa applications and preparation for visa interviews.
  • Career services: MPOWER’s job search and resume tools help students prepare for employment opportunities after graduation.

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FAQs

What are the eligibility criteria for U.S. scholarships for Indian students? 

Eligibility varies by scholarship but typically includes academic excellence, financial need, leadership experience or degrees in specific fields of study.

When should I start applying for scholarships? 

It’s best to begin at least a year in advance to make sure you meet application deadlines and have time to gather necessary documents like recommendation letters and essays.

Can I apply for multiple scholarships at once? 

Yes! Applying for multiple scholarships maximizes your chances of receiving financial aid. However, be sure you meet all eligibility criteria.

Are there international postgraduate scholarships available for Indian students?

Yes. There are a number of doctoral and master’s scholarships for international students that Indian students may apply for. Websites like eduPASS.org, Fastweb.com and InternationalStudent.com are great resources for research.

Is work experience required for scholarship applications? 

Certain scholarships for master’s degrees may require relevant work experience, particularly those focused on leadership or professional development. But there are also plenty of scholarships that don’t require previous work experience.

Where can I find information on scholarships for a master’s abroad? 

University websites and online scholarship databases are the best sources for detailed information on scholarships for a master’s abroad.


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