Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students 2026 (UG, PG & PhD) – Apply Now

Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students 2026 are creating life-changing opportunities for students who want to pursue Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and PhD programs abroad without financial burden. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, insurance, and sometimes research grants.

If you are planning to study in the USA, UK, Germany, Australia, or Canada in 2026, this guide covers the most prestigious fully funded scholarships, eligibility criteria, deadlines, and official application links.

Studying abroad can cost between ₹15–50 lakhs per year. With fully funded scholarships, Indian students can eliminate financial barriers and access world-class education.

Top Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students 2026

Below are the most prestigious government-funded and internationally recognized scholarships available for Indian students.

1. Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship (USA)

Level: Master’s & PhDFunding Covers:

• Full tuition fees

• Monthly living stipend

• Round-trip airfare

• Health insurance

• J-1 visa support

The Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship is one of the most competitive Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students 2026 for study in the United States.

Official Website:https://www.usief.org.in/Fulbright-Nehru-Fellowships.aspx

2. Chevening Scholarship (United Kingdom)

Level: One-year Master’s DegreeFunding Covers:

• Full tuition fees

• Monthly stipend

• Travel costs

• Visa application fees

• Arrival allowance

• 
  

Chevening is awarded to future leaders and professionals with strong academic and leadership backgrounds.

Official Website:https://www.chevening.org

3. DAAD Scholarship (Germany)

Level: Master’s & PhDFunding Covers:

• Monthly stipend

• Travel allowance

• Health insurance

• Research grants

• Tuition-free education in public universities

Germany remains one of the most affordable and high-quality education destinations for Indian students.

Official Website:https://www.daad.de/en/

4. Australia Awards Scholarships (Australia)

Level: Undergraduate & PostgraduateFunding Covers:

• Full tuition fees

• Living expenses

• Establishment allowance

• Airfare

• Health insurance

This is one of the few Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students 2026 that also supports undergraduate programs.

Official Website:https://www.australiaawardsindia.org

5. Commonwealth Scholarship (UK)

Level: Master’s & PhDFunding Covers:

• Full tuition fees

• Living allowance

• Airfare

• Thesis grant (for PhD)

Commonwealth Scholarships are available to students from Commonwealth countries including India.

Official Website:https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk

6. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Canada)

Level: PhDFunding Covers:

• CAD 50,000 per year for 3 years

• 
  

Vanier is highly prestigious and awarded based on academic excellence, research potential, and leadership.

Official Website:https://vanier.gc.ca

Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students 2026 – Eligibility Criteria

Although requirements vary by program, most fully funded scholarships require:

• Strong academic performance (minimum 60–75% or equivalent CGPA)

• English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)

• Statement of Purpose (SOP)

• Letters of Recommendation

• Work or research experience (for PG/PhD)

• Leadership or community involvement

Early preparation significantly increases selection chances.

Application Timeline for 2026 Intake

Most Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students 2026 open applications between August 2025 and May 2026.

General timeline:

• August – November 2025: UK scholarships (Chevening, Commonwealth)

• October – December 2025: DAAD deadlines

• February – May 2026: Fulbright & Australia Awards

Always verify exact deadlines from official scholarship websites.

How to Increase Your Chances of Selection

1. Write a compelling Statement of Purpose tailored to each scholarship.

2. Demonstrate leadership experience.

3. Gain relevant research or work experience.

4. Prepare early for IELTS/TOEFL.

5. Apply before the deadline.

6. Choose recommenders strategically.

Competition is intense. Proper preparation can significantly improve your chances.

Why You Should Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships in 2026

Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students 2026 offer:

• Global exposure

• Zero financial stress

• Networking opportunities

• International career prospects

• Research funding opportunities

These scholarships are investments in your future career and leadership journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students 2026?

They are international scholarship programs that cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and insurance for Indian students pursuing UG, PG, or PhD abroad.

Do fully funded scholarships cover living expenses?

Yes. Most government-funded scholarships such as Fulbright, Chevening, and DAAD provide monthly stipends.

Can undergraduate students apply?

Yes. Programs like Australia Awards Scholarships support undergraduate degrees.

Is IELTS mandatory for fully funded scholarships?

Most scholarships require proof of English proficiency unless exempted by the host university.

Which country offers the most fully funded scholarships for Indian students?

The USA, UK, Germany, Australia, and Canada offer the highest number of government-funded scholarship opportunities.