Scholarships for Studying Abroad by Indian Government 2026: UG Courses Abroad, Eligibility, Benefits & How to Apply
- Rajesh Kulkarni
- 11 hours ago
- 4 min read
Studying UG courses abroad is a dream for many Indian students, but the cost of international education can be a major challenge. To bridge this gap, the Indian Government offers several scholarships and financial assistance schemes that support meritorious and deserving students pursuing undergraduate education overseas. In 2026, these scholarships play a crucial role in making UG courses abroad more accessible, especially for students from economically weaker and underrepresented backgrounds.
This detailed guide focuses on scholarships for studying abroad by the Indian government for UG courses abroad. It explains available schemes, eligibility criteria, benefits, application process, timelines, and how these scholarships can help Indian students pursue undergraduate studies abroad in 2026. The content is fully updated, SEO-optimized, and written in a clear, human-style format.
Why Indian Government Scholarships Matter for UG Courses Abroad
Pursuing UG courses abroad involves expenses such as tuition fees, living costs, travel, insurance, and academic materials. Indian government scholarships aim to reduce this financial burden and promote global education among Indian students.
Key Objectives of These Scholarships
Support students from economically weaker sections
Promote higher education and global exposure
Encourage social inclusion and equal opportunities
Help students pursue UG courses abroad in reputed universities
Reduce dependency on high-interest education loans
With rising international education costs in 2026, government-funded scholarships have become more relevant than ever.
Can Indian Students Get Government Scholarships for UG Courses Abroad?
Yes, Indian students can receive government scholarships for UG courses abroad, but most schemes are merit-based, category-based, or income-linked. Unlike private scholarships, government schemes often have strict eligibility criteria and limited seats, making early preparation essential.
These scholarships may cover:
Tuition fees (full or partial)
Living expenses
Travel allowance
Books and study materials
Major Indian Government Scholarships for UG Courses Abroad (2026)
Below are the most important Indian government-funded or supported scholarship schemes relevant for students planning UG courses abroad.
1. Central Sector Scheme of Scholarships (CSSS)
Although primarily for studies in India, selected top-performing students can use this support alongside foreign university funding or partial international programs.
Details | Information |
Eligibility | Top 20 percentile students from CBSE/State Boards |
Family Income | Below INR 8 lakh per year |
Benefit | INR 10,000–20,000 per year |
Level | Undergraduate |
2. National Overseas Scholarship (NOS)
The National Overseas Scholarship is one of the most important schemes supporting international education. While traditionally focused on postgraduate studies, in special cases and pilot initiatives, UG-level students from eligible categories may receive support.
Details | Information |
Eligible Categories | SC, ST, Landless Agricultural Labourers |
Family Income | Below INR 8 lakh per year |
Coverage | Tuition fees, living cost, airfare |
Countries | USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Europe |
This scheme is particularly relevant for students planning UG courses abroad from reserved and disadvantaged backgrounds.
3. Dr. Ambedkar Scheme of Interest Subsidy on Education Loans
This scheme indirectly supports UG courses abroad by reducing the interest burden on education loans.
Details | Information |
Eligible Students | OBC and EBC category |
Level | Undergraduate & higher |
Benefit | Full interest subsidy during moratorium |
Applicable For | Studies abroad |
This makes international UG education more affordable over the long term.
4. State Government Scholarships for UG Courses Abroad
Several Indian state governments offer overseas education scholarships that can be used for UG courses abroad.
State | Scholarship Scheme |
Maharashtra | Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj Scholarship |
Telangana | Ambedkar Overseas Vidya Nidhi |
Andhra Pradesh | Jagananna Overseas Education Scheme |
Tamil Nadu | Overseas Scholarship for SC/ST |
Karnataka | Overseas Scholarship Scheme |
These schemes often cover tuition fees up to a fixed limit and provide living allowances.
Eligibility Criteria for Indian Government Scholarships (UG Abroad)
Although criteria vary by scheme, common eligibility conditions include:
Academic Requirements
Strong academic record in Class 10 and 12
Admission offer from a recognized foreign university
Enrollment in full-time UG courses abroad
Financial Criteria
Annual family income usually below INR 6–8 lakh
Income certificate issued by competent authority
Other Conditions
Indian citizenship mandatory
Category certificates (if applicable)
Age limits as per scheme guidelines
How to Apply for Indian Government Scholarships for UG Courses Abroad
Most government scholarships follow an online application process.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Secure admission to a foreign university for UG courses abroad
Check eligibility for central or state government schemes
Register on the official scholarship portal
Upload academic, income, and category documents
Submit application before the deadline
Attend interviews or verification if required
Applications are highly competitive, so timely submission is critical.
Documents Required for Scholarship Applications
Students typically need the following documents:
Class 10 and 12 mark sheets
Admission letter from foreign university
Income certificate
Caste/category certificate (if applicable)
Aadhaar card and passport
Bank account details
How Much Do UG Courses Abroad Cost Without Scholarships?
Understanding the cost helps evaluate the importance of scholarships.
Country | Average Annual Cost (USD) |
Canada | 25,000 – 45,000 |
USA | 35,000 – 60,000 |
UK | 28,000 – 50,000 |
Australia | 30,000 – 55,000 |
Germany | 10,000 – 15,000 |
Government scholarships can significantly reduce this burden.
Tips to Improve Chances of Getting Government Scholarships
Maintain strong academic performance
Apply early and track deadlines carefully
Keep documents updated and verified
Combine government support with university scholarships
Seek guidance from official portals or education counselors
FAQs – UG Courses Abroad & Indian Government Scholarships
Q1. Can Indian government scholarships be used for UG courses abroad in 2026?Yes, selected central and state government scholarships can be used for UG courses abroad, especially for students from eligible categories and income groups.
Q2. Are government scholarships enough to cover full UG education abroad?
In most cases, government scholarships partially cover costs, but when combined with university aid or loans, they significantly reduce expenses for UG courses abroad.
Q3. Which states offer the best scholarships for UG courses abroad?States like Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu offer strong overseas education schemes.
Final Thoughts
For Indian students planning UG courses abroad in 2026, government scholarships act as a powerful support system. While competition is high and eligibility criteria are strict, proper planning and early applications can make international undergraduate education financially achievable.
Call to Action (CTA)
Planning UG courses abroad with government scholarship support?
👉 Check National Scholarship Portal:
👉 Explore state overseas scholarship schemes:
👉 Compare UG study destinations abroad: https://www.studyinternational.com/
If you need personalized help for UG courses abroad, scholarship shortlisting, or 2026 admission planning, feel free to ask.
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