Undergraduate Scholarship for Indian Students (2026): Eligibility, Amount, How to Apply & Last Date
Indian students can secure up to INR 2,00,000 for their full undergraduate program through scholarships like the Reliance Foundation’s 2026 scheme, which offers 5,000 awards. Eligibility typically requires a minimum of 60% in Class 12 and an annual family income below INR 15 Lakhs.
Reliance Foundation & PM-USP Scholarships 2025-2026
The Reliance Foundation is offering 5,000 scholarships for Indian students for the 2025-2026 academic year, aiming to support meritorious first-year students pursuing any subject stream. This significant award helps alleviate financial burdens,
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Reliance Foundation Undergraduate Scholarships |
| Provider | Reliance Foundation |
| Scholarship Type | Merit & Means |
| Eligible Students | 1st-year undergraduate students across all streams |
| Minimum Marks Required | 60% in Class 12 |
| Income Limit | Below INR 15 Lakhs (preference for < INR 2.5 Lakhs) |
| Award Amount | Up to INR 2,00,000 for the full UG program |
| Mode of Application | Online (Buddy4Study Portal) |
| Academic Session | 2025–26 |
| Aptitude Test | Compulsory for all applicants |
| Application Start Date | September 15, 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | October 7, 2025 |
This overview table highlights key aspects of the Reliance Foundation undergraduate scholarship for Indian students, including eligibility, financial support, and important application dates. It emphasizes the merit-cum-means basis and the mandatory aptitude test for all applicants.
International Study Abroad Opportunities for Indian Students 2026
Indian students seeking to study abroad have numerous opportunities, with over 7.7 lakh students pursuing higher education overseas in 2024. This section details various fully funded and partially funded scholarships available, covering eligibility, benefits,
| Scholarship Name | Coverage | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| MEXT Scholarship (Japan) | Full tuition fees + JPY 117,000/month stipend (INR 70K) + round-trip airfare + preparatory education support | Indian students with strong academics applying for undergraduate programs in Japan |
| Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) | Full tuition fees + KRW 1,000,000/month stipend (INR 64K) + airfare + medical insurance + Korean language training | Students with excellent academic records applying for undergraduate programs in South Korea |
| Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (Canada) | Full tuition fees + books + residence support + incidental expenses for 4 years | High-achieving international students nominated by their school for the University of Toronto |
| Reach Oxford Scholarship (UK) | Full tuition fees (3 to 4 years of course length) + living cost support + one return airfare every year | Students from low-income countries applying for undergraduate programs at Oxford |
| Yale University Need-Based Financial Aid (USA) | Covers 100% of demonstrated financial need, including tuition, housing, and meals + families earning below USD 100,000 (INR 85 Lakh) may receive full funding, while many families below USD 200,000 (INR 1.7 Cr) can receive tuition support. | Students admitted to Yale University with strong financial need |
| Cornell Tata Scholarship (USA) | Full tuition fee coverage for the complete undergraduate degree at Cornell University + One round-trip airline ticket between India and the USA per year | Indian students admitted to Cornell University with demonstrated financial need |
| Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship (Hungary) | Full tuition fees + HUF 43,700/month stipend (INR 13K) + accommodation support + health insurance | International students applying for undergraduate programs in Hungary |
| UCL Global Undergraduate Scholarship (UK) | Full tuition fee waiver + maintenance support for selected students | International students from lower-income backgrounds admitted to UCL |
| DSU Regional Scholarship (Italy) | Tuition fee waiver + free accommodation/meals + contribution to cover extra expenses (sporting activities, books, etc.) | Students applying to eligible Italian public universities with financial need |
| Chinese Government Scholarship (China) | Full tuition fees + free accommodation + CNY 2,500/month stipend (INR 35K) + medical insurance | International students applying for undergraduate programs in China |
This table showcases a diverse range of fully funded undergraduate scholarship opportunities for Indian students across various countries, detailing comprehensive coverage and specific eligibility criteria.
Applying for Scholarships: A Step-by-Step Guide 2026
This guide provides a comprehensive step-by-step process for applying for scholarships, detailing each stage from registration to receiving the award. It aims to simplify the application journey for prospective students,
- Step 1: Register, create profile, verify contact, complete education/income details, access resources, click ‘Apply Now’.
- Step 2: Provide personal details (name, contact, DOB, Aadhar, disability) and family background (parents’ details, income).
- Step 3: Add academic history (10th, 12th, graduation, percentage/CGPA) and describe state/national/international awards.
- Step 4: Upload high-quality documents with all fields visible, specifically for merit-based scholarships.
- Step 5: Fill addresses, read declaration, confirm agreement, preview application, then submit for confirmation.
- Step 6: Monitor email/mobile, respond to interviews, upload attested documents, provide bank info for award.
Following these steps meticulously is crucial for a successful application. Additionally, several key tips can further enhance your submission.
- Read Instructions: Student/parent/legal guardian must read instructions carefully before registration.
- Ensure Accuracy: Fill details carefully and check properly before submission, as editing is not allowed.
- Avoid False Information: Any wrong or false information may lead to application rejection.
- Password Security: Keep your password confidential; avoid sharing it to protect account security.
- Password Reset: Utilize the ‘forgot password’ option if you forget your password.
Adhering to these application tips can prevent common errors and secure your account. Specific scholarships also have designated application portals.
- INSPIRE Scholarship (SHE): Applications accepted online through the INSPIRE portal.
- Ishan Uday Scholarship: Applications submitted online via the National Scholarship Portal.
- AICTE Pragati Scholarship for Girls: Applications must be submitted through the National Scholarship Portal.
- Reliance Foundation Scholarship: Follows a formal selection process detailed on its official website.
Fully Funded vs. Partial Scholarships for Indians 2026
Securing a scholarship can significantly reduce the financial burden of overseas education, with options ranging from fully funded programs covering all expenses to partial scholarships offering specific cost reductions. Understanding the key differences between these
| Feature | Fully Funded Scholarships | Partial Scholarships |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | 100% of expenses | Partial cost coverage |
| Tuition Fees | Fully covered | Partially covered |
| Living Expenses | Monthly stipend included | Usually not included |
| Travel Costs | Covered (airfare) | Rarely covered |
| Duration | Entire course duration | Limited or one-time |
| Financial Burden | Minimal to none | Moderate to high |
This table highlights that fully funded scholarships offer comprehensive financial support, covering all major expenses for the entire course duration, whereas partial scholarships provide more limited assistance, often focusing on specific costs like tuition.
UK & France Study Opportunities for Indian Students 2026
Indian students seeking higher education opportunities in the UK and France have access to numerous scholarship programs. These initiatives provide crucial financial support, making study abroad a tangible reality for meritorious candidates across various
- French Scholarships: Over 500 scholarships annually for Indian undergraduate students by French Embassy and institutions.
- Charpak Scholarship: Funding available for Bachelor’s Degree Programmes in France.
- Emile-Boutmy Scholarship: Sciences Po offers 3000€ to 13000€ tuition grant for Bachelor’s.
- UK Scholarship Availability: UK universities offer fully/partially paid scholarships for international undergraduates.
- UK Application Timeline: Start scholarship application 8-12 months before preferred intake.
- Oxford Brookes Scholarship: £2,000 for new full-time international undergraduate students.
Additional UK undergraduate scholarship options exist. The University of Brighton offers international scholarships up to £3,500. The Katherine Gamboa Scholarship at UWE supports Graphic Design students with specific household income. Other notable awards include The Kingsbury Scholarship and Worcester’s Academic Achievement Scholarship.
| University | Scholarships | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Leeds and Beckett University | Undergraduate Scholarship | £ 1,000 |
| University of East Anglia | Actuarial Science Scholarship | UG – £ 6,000 |
| Lancaster University | Global Scholarship for all UG courses | £ 5,000 |
| Kingston University London | UG Scholarship | Up to £ 3,000 GBP |
| University of Leicester | UG Scholarship | Up to £ 2,500 / Year |
This table highlights a range of specific undergraduate scholarship amounts available at various UK universities for international students, demonstrating diverse financial support options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there specific scholarships for students from particular Indian states or regions under this program?
While the primary scholarship is national, some affiliated trusts or corporate sponsors might offer additional grants with domicile requirements for specific Indian states. It’s advisable to check the detailed guidelines for any regional sub-categories or special provisions.
Can I apply for this scholarship if I am planning to pursue a diploma course or vocational training after 12th grade?
This scholarship is generally targeted towards undergraduate degree programs (e.g., B.A., B.Sc., B.E., M.B.B.S.) at recognized universities and colleges. Diploma or vocational courses may not be eligible unless explicitly stated in the program’s detailed terms and conditions.
What kind of academic performance is typically expected to be competitive for this scholarship?
Applicants usually need to demonstrate strong academic merit, often requiring a minimum of 75-85% marks in their 10th and 12th standard examinations. Exceptional performance in competitive exams like JEE, NEET, or state-level entrance tests can also significantly strengthen an application.
If I receive this scholarship, will it cover my entire tuition fee and living expenses for the duration of my degree?
The scholarship amount varies but typically covers a significant portion of tuition fees, ranging from INR 50,000 to INR 2,00,000 per annum. It may also provide a stipend for books or living expenses, but rarely covers 100% of all costs, making it a substantial aid rather than a full ride.
What happens if I need to defer my admission or change my course after being awarded the scholarship?
Any changes to your admission or course must be promptly communicated to the scholarship committee for approval. Deferrals or course changes might lead to a review of your scholarship status, and continued eligibility is not guaranteed without prior consent.
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