Scholarships for Indian students in the USA are more accessible than ever, as the country continues to be a top destination for higher education. According to the Open Doors Report, 331,602 Indian students were enrolled in US institutions in 2024, marking a 23% increase. This upward trend is expected to continue, solidifying the USA as a preferred study destination.
While the academic allure of US universities is undeniable, the associated costs can be a barrier. That’s where scholarships come in, helping bridge the financial gap and making higher education in the USA more affordable. In this blog, we’ll highlight top scholarships, their benefits, eligibility criteria, and tips to enhance your chances of securing one.
Different Types of Scholarships for Indian Students in the USA
There are various scholarship types available to students aspiring to study in the USA. Understanding these scholarships will help you broaden your application pool and improve your chances of securing funding.
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University-Specific Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded by universities themselves, often based on merit or other criteria.
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Government-Funded Scholarships: These are supported by the Indian government to assist students in pursuing education abroad.
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Country-Based Scholarships: Tailored for students from specific countries like India.
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Need-Based Scholarships: Designed for students demonstrating financial need.
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Private Organization-Funded Scholarships: Offered by foundations, NGOs, or corporations supporting global education.
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Sports Scholarships: Awarded to students excelling in sports, often in conjunction with collegiate athletics.
Prominent Scholarships for Indian Students in the USA
TATA Scholarship for Cornell UniversityThe TATA Scholarship offers a significant financial boost to academically excellent Indian students admitted to Cornell University. This prestigious scholarship, funded by the Tata Education and Development Trust, is designed to ease the financial burden of pursuing an undergraduate degree at one of the Ivy League universities.
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Coverage: Covers a substantial portion of tuition fees for up to four years.
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Eligibility: Open to students admitted to Cornell’s undergraduate programs.
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Deadline: Follows Cornell’s regular admission deadlines.
National Overseas ScholarshipsFor those looking to pursue postgraduate degrees, the National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) is an excellent option. It assists students from underprivileged backgrounds to pursue Masters and Ph.D. programs at accredited US universities.
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Coverage: Comprehensive coverage, including tuition, living expenses, travel, and more.
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Eligibility: Open to SC/ST/DNT students, with specific criteria like income and age restrictions.
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Deadline: Applications for 2026 are expected soon.
University-Specific Scholarships in the USA
Many US universities offer their own scholarships based on various criteria such as academic excellence, leadership, or early applications. Some notable scholarships include:
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University of Connecticut
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Graduate Scholarships: $3,600 - $4,500
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Global Leader Award: $5,000
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Global Excellence Award: Up to $15,000
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Arizona State University
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NAMU Scholarship: $16,000 per year for Bachelors
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Merit-Based Scholarships: $5,000 - $10,000 for Masters
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University of Vermont
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Presidential Scholarship: Up to $25,000 per year
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Trustees Scholarship: Up to $14,000 per year
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These scholarships can significantly reduce the cost of studying abroad and are often awarded based on merit.
How to Boost Your Chances of Getting a Scholarship in the USA
Securing a scholarship in the USA isn’t just about grades. While academic excellence is important, scholarship committees also consider your overall profile and how well you align with their values. Here are a few ways to improve your chances:
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Start Early: Research scholarships well in advance and be aware of deadlines.
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Maintain Strong Academics: Good grades can help you stand out for merit-based scholarships.
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Craft an Effective SOP: Your Statement of Purpose should clearly outline why you want to study in the USA and how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals.
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Get Strong Recommendation Letters: Recommendations from mentors or professors who know you well can strengthen your application.
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Engage in Extracurricular Activities: Leadership and community involvement can make a big impact on your scholarship application.
How Career Brick Can Help You Secure Scholarships
Applying for scholarships in the USA can be overwhelming, but with the right guidance, it becomes much easier. At Career Brick, our team of experts can assist you in finding the best scholarships for your profile, helping you navigate the application process, and preparing your documents, including your SOP and recommendation letters.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I apply for scholarships in the USA?
Research and apply through official university websites, government portals, or private organizations. Be sure to prepare the necessary documents and meet all deadlines.
2. What expenses do scholarships cover?
While some scholarships cover full tuition, many cover a substantial portion of tuition and living expenses. Always check the details for each scholarship.
3. How can I increase my chances of receiving a scholarship?
Start early, maintain good grades, craft a compelling SOP, and actively participate in extracurricular activities.
4. Do I need to have an admission offer before applying for a scholarship?
It depends on the scholarship. Some require admission to the university, while others can be applied for before you receive your offer.
5. Can I apply for multiple scholarships?
Yes, applying for multiple scholarships is encouraged. Just ensure you meet the eligibility requirements for each one.
6. How can Career Brick assist with scholarships?
We offer comprehensive guidance on scholarship applications, helping you identify the best opportunities and supporting you with all necessary documentation.
