Scholarships and Loan Schemes for Students to Study Abroad

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the pursuit of higher education knows no bounds. However, for many Indian students from marginalised communities, the dream of studying abroad often remains vague due to financial constraints. Recognising this challenge and promoting foreign education, the Indian Government offers a plethora of scholarships specifically for students belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and Economically Backward Classes (EBC). Thus, bridging the financial and academic gap for deserving students. and giving them the scope to study in a foreign country and gain specialised qualifications.

If you are from one of these categories and you plan to study abroad soon, then this article is for you. In this comprehensive article, we will take you through some of the leading and popular scholarship choices. Thus, equipping aspirants like you with the required knowledge to commence on your academic journey abroad. So, without any further ado, let’s get started.

Popular Scholarship Options for Indian Students Belonging to Caste Categories

1. National Overseas Scholarship for SC (Scheduled Castes)

The National Overseas Scholarship for SC is an impressive government initiative aimed at providing financial assistance to meritorious students from SC backgrounds to pursue higher studies abroad. The national overseas scholarship for scheduled caste students covers a wide range of expenses, including tuition fees, living costs, travel expenses, and incidentals. Additionally, selected candidates may receive financial assistance for preparatory courses and language training programs to enhance their academic prospects.

• Scholarship Amount – Fully FundedEligibility Criteria
• Applicants must be Indian citizens belonging to Scheduled Castes.
• Candidates should have secured admission to a recognized foreign university that ranks in the top 500 for a Masters or PhD program.
• The age of the applicant should fall within the prescribed limits set by the scholarship authorities and the maximum age limit is 35 years.

2. National Overseas Scholarship for ST (Scheduled Tribes)

Similar to its SC counterpart, the National Overseas Scholarship for ST aims to provide financial support to deserving ST students pursuing higher education abroad. The scholarship encompasses full coverage for tuition fees, accommodation, travel expenses, and other related costs. Additionally, recipients may benefit from additional allowances to facilitate their academic journey and ensure a smooth transition to life overseas.

• Scholarship Amount – Fully FundedEligibility Criteria
• Applicants must hold Indian citizenship and belong to Scheduled Tribes.
• Candidates should have gained admission to a recognized foreign university for a Research, Masters or PhD program.
• The age of the applicant must adhere to the age criteria of 35 outlined by the scholarship scheme.

Popular Loan Scheme for Indian Students Belonging to Caste Categories

1. Dr Ambedkar Central Scheme of Interest Subsidy on Educational Loans for Overseas Studies for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and Economically Backward Classes (EBCs)

In a bid to promote access to international education among Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and Economically Backward Classes (EBCs), the Dr Ambedkar Central Scheme offers interest subsidies on educational loans for overseas studies. This innovative scheme aims to alleviate the financial burden associated with educational loans, thereby enabling OBC and EBC students to pursue higher education abroad without undue financial constraints.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must be Indian citizens belonging to Other Backward Classes (OBCs) or Economically Backward Classes (EBCs).
• Candidates should have secured admission to an accredited foreign university for any of these specified academic programs like post-graduate diplomas, masters, M.phil, and D.
• The applicant’s family income should not exceed the prescribed threshold determined by the scholarship authorities. At present it is 2.5 lakhs INR.

Apart from these, there are numerous Indian Government Scholarships for studying abroad as well. So, research for them as per your study destination and course option.

Application Process for Scholarships

The application process for these scholarships requires careful attention to detail and adherence to prescribed guidelines, especially the eligibility criteria. Here’s a step-by-step guide to streamline your application journey.

• Research and Preparation for Application: Thoroughly research and shortlist your options as per the eligibility criteria, application requirements, and deadlines for each scholarship scheme. Get all your essential documents together, including previous academic certificates, admission letters, caste/category certificates, and income proofs, scholarship essays, etc.
• Online Application Submission: Nearly all scholarship applications are now processed online. So, go through the designated online portals for each scholarship and complete the application form accurately. Provide all the required information and ensure the timely submission of supporting documents.
• Verification Process: Following your application submission, expect a thorough verification process conducted by the scholarship authorities. They can also ask you to provide additional information if required.
• Await Notification & Result: After the application review process, await communication from the scholarship authorities regarding the status of your application. Stay vigilant for any updates or requests for further documentation. So that you make the most of this given opportunity.

In conclusion, this is all you need to know about the scholarships for SC, ST, OBC, and EBC students in India. The availability of these scholarships and loan schemes underlines the government’s commitment to encouraging inclusive access to higher education abroad. By availing of these scholarships, aspiring students from these communities can go abroad and have a transformative educational and personal journey. Since now you have the opportunity to get substantial financial support, check your eligibility and apply for them at the earliest opportunity as they are limited to a few hundred students and you surely wouldn’t want to miss this opportunity.

Also, with the right focus and determination, you will be able to fulfil your pursuit of international education with a scholarship, making it well within reach. So, why wait any further, begin your application journey today and embark on a path towards a brighter future filled with boundless opportunities. Additionally, remember that scholarships are highly competitive in nature, so be prepared to take additional financial assistance in the form of abroad education loans if required. There are many loan advisors who can guide you through the loan application process. So, look out for the best online loan services for studying abroad and take expert advice to have a hassle-free financial journey ahead. Good luck!