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How to Study Abroad for Free?
Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience but often comes with a hefty price tag. However, it's not impossible to study abroad for free or at a significantly reduced cost. In fact, there are several ways to make your dream of studying abroad a reality without breaking the bank. In this article, we'll explore the various options, from tuition-free universities to scholarships and financial aid.
Whether you're looking to pursue a degree or simply take a semester abroad, we'll show you how to study abroad for free without draining your bank account.
Understanding Study Abroad Scholarships
Understanding the types of scholarships available, who offers them, and what they cover is essential to maximise your chances of receiving financial aid.
Here's a quick guide to help you navigate the world of study abroad scholarships. It highlights critical factors like eligibility, funding sources, and expenses covered.
Don’t know how to get an education loan? Read How to Get an Education Loan for Abroad Studies in 2024?
Types of Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students Abroad
Understanding the different types of fully funded scholarships can help you identify the best opportunities suited to your needs and goals.
Below are the three main categories of fully funded scholarships distinguished by their sponsoring bodies.
Also read: Education Loan for MS Abroad: Eligibility & Interest Rates
List of Top 20+ Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students
Fully funded scholarships can make a world of difference for Indian students aspiring to pursue higher education abroad. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and sometimes even travel costs, making international education more accessible.
Below is a list of some of the best fully funded scholarships available to Indian students, organised by the country or region where they can be applied.
Read Banks That Give Education Loans without Collateral for Abroad
Top 5 Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students
When it comes to pursuing higher education abroad, fully funded scholarships can open doors to prestigious universities and unique learning opportunities.
These scholarships not only cover tuition fees but also provide support for living expenses, travel, and more.
Below, we explore five of the best fully funded scholarships available to Indian students, highlighting their essential details, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines.
1. Fulbright Scholarships
2. GREAT Scholarship
3. Rhodes Scholarship
4. Commonwealth Scholarships
5. British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM
Looking for education loans for your Master's? Read Education Loan for Abroad Studies in 2024: A Comprehensive Guide
Other Ways to Study Abroad For Free
Besides scholarships, there are a few more ways to study abroad for free. We have listed them below:
1. Education Exchange Programs (EEPs)
The Indian government has MOUs, Education Exchange Programs (EEPs), and Joint Declarations of Intent (JDIs) with 54 nations worldwide. Such agreements are meant to encourage student exchanges.
The Ministry of Human Resource and Development's (MHRD) official website lists nations and their agreements.
Apart from these countries, some other countries also offer scholarships to Indian students, they are:
- South Korea
- China
- Mexico
- United Kingdom (UK)
- New Zealand
- Israel
- Hungary
- Italy
2. German Public Universities
German universities are known for teaching excellence and scientific research. The country has some prestigious universities, over 40 in the QS World University Rankings.
However, the Challenging admission process can make it quite challenging and competitive for students to get in. Most universities may require German language knowledge.
The tuition fee is accessible in most German states, with Baden-Württemberg as the only exception. Students should check the eligibility criteria set by individual universities separately.
3. Assistantships
Furthermore, assistantships are given to PhD and MS (Graduate) scholars as financial support. Different types of assistantships are available for Ph.D. and MS scholars.
Assistantships can involve working 15-20 hours a week, depending on the college, department, discipline, or assigned work. The stipend depends on the college and the department.
4. Bursaries
Bursaries are a form of government-funded financial assistance designed to cover tuition fees, living costs, and books for students pursuing higher education. These awards are often based on financial need rather than merit and vary depending on the organisation offering them.
One of the key advantages of bursaries is that they typically do not require repayment, allowing students to pursue their studies without financial worry. However, some bursaries may require recipients to make a post-graduation donation or contribution or to perform a service in lieu of repayment.
The specific terms and conditions of bursaries can vary significantly between universities. Bursaries provide an essential opportunity for students who might otherwise struggle to afford higher education, focusing on need-based support rather than academic achievement.
5. Paid Internships
Internships are formal work experiences offered by employers to students or recent graduates. Internships significantly enhance students' professional profile, providing hands-on experience in their chosen industry. Often, these experiences can lead to future employment prospects, as interns require less on-the-job training if hired full-time.
Internships are typically offered by potential employers, giving both parties a chance to evaluate fit and compatibility. This mutually beneficial arrangement allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings while employers can assess potential future talent.
Unlike other forms of financial aid or work programs, internships are specifically designed to align with and complement a student's academic pursuits.
6. Part-time Work
Part-time work allows students to earn extra money while pursuing their studies, balancing their financial needs with their academic commitments. These jobs, typically available for up to 20 hours per week, provide additional income and valuable career development experience.
Foreign students with appropriate visas can often access these opportunities, making part-time work a viable option in most popular study destinations.
While the extra income is beneficial, with hourly pay typically ranging from $10 to $12, the restricted hours help maintain students' focus on their academic pursuits.
Part-time work thus serves as a practical solution for students seeking to support themselves financially while investing in their education and future career prospects.
7. Education from Nordic countries
While studying in Nordic countries can be costly, some offer accessible or affordable education.
Norway provides free higher education, regardless of nationality or study level, with only a small semester fee. Finland offers free studies for non-EU/EEA students in Finnish or Swedish. Both countries, along with Sweden and Denmark, fully fund PhD programs.
These nations are known for high-quality education at reasonable prices. International students can often study in English, particularly at master's and PhD levels, but must prove English proficiency.
Many scholarships are available, and PhD students can earn while learning. This "Finlandization" policy aims to attract global talent by removing financial educational barriers.
In conclusion, studying abroad for free or at a reduced cost is possible for Indian students. With various fully funded scholarships available, students can pursue their dreams without financial burdens. Understanding the types of scholarships and eligibility criteria can increase students' chances of securing financial aid.
Ready to take the first step towards making your study abroad dreams a reality? At Propelld, we understand that financial constraints can be a significant obstacle. That's why we offer financial assistance to help bridge the gap. Reach out to us today to learn more!
