Education Funding for International Students to Study in India!

Study in India: Education Funding Solutions for International Students! Finding an appropriate education funding solution for students remains a challenge not only for the students willing to pursue their studies abroad but vice versa. Those students who have secured their admission into Indian institutions but lack adequate financial resources to pursue their study in India renders an additional obligation upon us to guide them towards a tangible solution based on real and productive outcome.

India is a God’s own country to explore. Based on the principle of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’ and with its reputed and quality educational institutions, and affordable living costs, India offers an attractive study destination for students worldwide. However, one of the significant challenges faced by international students relates to funding their education in the absence of adequate supporting infrastructure.

It would be worth quoting a real life example of a student hailing from Swaziland. Sindile Precious Macwele, a student from Swaziland, whose aspiration to study electronics engineering led her to apply for GITAM University in India. She secured admission and received 78 percent scholarship support from the university, however, despite that she lacked adequate wherewithal to manage remaining expenditures required to pursue her studies.

Using this article as a medium we sincerely intend to guide international students coming to India, in finding scholarships and related funding support systems to help turn their educational dreams into reality.

Why Study in India?

With a strong network of more than 1600 universities and 42,000 colleges, India has emerged as the second-largest education ecosystem in the world. It is home to the second-largest pool of engineers and scientists in the world. The present academic system is a blend of modern theoretical and practical learning bringing education at par with the global standards. India is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities and technical institutes, offering affordable quality higher education. Additionally, pursuing studies in India provides a diversity of cultural experience. The country’s rich traditions, diverse population, and vibrant cities offer international students an enriching environment to grow both academically and spiritually.

Five Steps to Study in India!

The name India is a derivative of the Sanskrit term Sindhu. It was the name used for the Indus River. The ‘Study in India’ is a flagship project of the Government of India’s Ministry of Education. The project hosts international students seeking higher education through its 200+ partner institutes offering more than 2600 diverse courses in the following disciplines:

Availability of an array of options the students have the flexibility to choose the course of their interest and study in premier Indian institutes.

Step 1 — Registration

The applicants can get started right away by completing the 1st step to apply, i.e. registration, by clicking on the ‘Register Now’ tab.

This facilitates easy access to the education landscape of India, the ‘Study in India’ Program steps in and extends complete support to the international students.

Step 2 — Planning Your Budget

There are several costs involved in the journey of pursuing education, however, the main expenses revolve around costs towards education covering the admission, tuition, institution fees etc., travel cost and other miscellaneous expenses. The costs incurred on education may be broadly divided into the following:

• Admission and tuition fees
• Cost incurred on educational supplies, purchase of laptop
• Travel expenses including visa permits, airfare, day-to-day travelling etc.

However, the significant costs incurred the following:

Against such a backdrop and wide array of expenditures involved, students need to plan their budget, when it comes to managing their expenses.

The Study in India scholarship covers tuition fees, hostel and mess charges whereas fee waivers only cover the tuition fees. Furthermore, scholarship recipients are finalised on the basis of PRAGATII Exam. Performance Rating of Applicants through Global Aptitude Test for Indian Institutes abbreviated as ‘PRAGATII’ was formerly known as the Indian Scholastic Assessment (Ind-SAT). More details are available on the following link: https://studyinindia.gov.in/pragatii-exam-page

The students are advised to curate their budget, keeping in mind the financial help enabled through SII Scholarship or Fee Waiver. In addition to this step, they are recommended to include some smart tips to save money and avoid any kind of cash crunch as well.

Step 3 — Submit Application

Students after having registered themselves on the webpage of Study in India should complete the application and submit it. This is the most significant step as the students are required to fill in with the following details:

While filling the preferences, students are recommended to do thorough research about institute rankings, fee structure, facilities, etc. before arriving at the final conclusion. To begin the application filling process, students need to first log in to the Student Dashboard (on the Study in India website) with the credentials provided at the time of registration. The application is divided into following three sections, namely:

After having filled in all the details and providing necessary documents across the three sections, applicants may proceed to the process of final submission.

Step 4 — Result Declaration and Visa status

After having submitted the application, applicants need to wait for the result declaration to know about the allotted institute, course and Visa status. Therefore, they are advised to regularly visit their student dashboard and email IDs for notification or update. The result contains the following essential information:

Results also provide information about the financial assistance (Study in India Scholarship or Fee Waiver) awarded to students.

( Note:- Allocations mentioned in the result are entirely based on merit and choice priority of the applicants.)

Step 5 — Preparation for Departure

Students upon accepting the offer letter presented by the institute of their choice and VISA approval, are advised to begin preparations for their departure to India. Leaving home country is an emotional moment while travelling to a new country has its own challenges, but the students coming to study in India need not worry, for they are likely to come across a smooth immigration and onboarding process followed with a joyful and enriching experience during their stay for the entire course duration.

All necessary things they would require while staying in India are listed as under:

• Travel documents (passport, visa, national ID proof, etc.)
• Vaccination certificate if required
• Original academic documents
• Electronic devices, and toiletries

Besides, students are recommended to check the weight limits of their respective flights and pack the luggage accordingly to avoid any last-minute hassle. Packing the clothes as per the prevalent climatic conditions including formal clothing should be kept in mind. Last but not the least, communication with respective institutes about their travel schedules beforehand is very important.

Sindile Precious Macwele: A Case Study!

Sindile Precious Macwele, a young female from Swaziland had applied for a scholarship at GITAM University as she came from an underprivileged background and her parents were unable to afford the tuition fees. To work her way around this financial hurdle, Sindile was hoping to get a full tuition waiver for her engineering course. After patiently waiting for several days, she got an email for an interview from the college’s administrative council and a week thereafter, she received her provisional acceptance letter from GITAM University India for a B.Tech in electronics engineering. She had worked hard for years and was naturally delighted to receive this letter. However, upon reading the letter, Sindile found out that the university had only approved a 78 percent scholarship. This posed an issue for her as now she had to look for additional funding opportunities to cover the remaining costs towards tuition fees. She searched online for the various scholarship programmes and finally approached Buddy4Study to seek necessary help and guidance. On the basis of her experience, we felt inspired to share her story and possible avenues of support on offer.

Possible Avenues of Scholarship and Financial Support!

Securing additional funding after having received university specific scholarship support for her studies could be challenging. Therefore, It is possible for her to get financial support in the form of grants, or student loans provided by the country of origin, government and the related agencies. She can reach out to non-governmental organisations that offer scholarships or financial aid for helping students pursuing studies abroad.

There are several international organisations that focus on supporting African students in pursuing their studies in India including other countries.

• African Union (AU) Scholarships: The African Union offers various scholarship programs to support African students pursuing their studies abroad, including India.
• United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO): It provides scholarships and funding opportunities for students from Africa to pursue higher education in different countries, including India.
• Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC): This organisation offers scholarships to students from Commonwealth countries, including many African nations, to study in member countries, including India.
• The Aga Khan Foundation: This foundation offers scholarships to outstanding students from developing countries, including African countries, to pursue postgraduate studies, including India.
• The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR): ICCR provides scholarships to students from various African countries to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in India.
• MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program: This program provides scholarships and support to talented but economically disadvantaged students from Africa to pursue higher education, including the institutions located in India.
• DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service): DAAD offers scholarships for African students to study in Germany and sometimes other countries, promoting educational exchange and academic cooperation.
• British Council: Through its various scholarship programs, such as the Chevening Scholarships, the British Council supports African students in pursuing higher education in the UK and sometimes in other Commonwealth countries.

Last but not the least, crowdfunding is another desperate measure that students after having explored all available avenues can resort to. Some of the popular crowdfunding platforms include ‘GoFundMe’, ‘Kickstarter’, ‘Indiegogo’, ScholarMatch etc. where genuine financial support seekers can create a compelling campaign title with a catchy and clear tagline, share their story, add visuals and set up the campaign.

Scholarship Opportunities to Study in India!

International students seeking to pursue their education in India have access to a wide array of scholarship opportunities that can significantly alleviate the financial challenges associated with studying abroad.

Government Scholarships for International Students

The Indian government extends a warm invitation to international students by offering a range of scholarships aimed at promoting international cooperation and fostering cultural exchange. Among these offerings are scholarships provided by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), an esteemed institution dedicated to promoting cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

ICCR Scholarships: The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) offers prestigious scholarships to international students from select countries participating in cultural exchange programs. The African Scholarship Scheme in particular provides opportunities to African nationals willing to pursue their studies in India.

• Eligibility: The ICCR scholarships are available to undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD students from countries engaged in cultural exchange programs with India.
• Application Process: Interested students need to submit their scholarship applications through the Indian embassy in their home country. The application process generally involves providing essential documentation and fulfilling specific requirements outlined by the ICCR.

Benefits: These scholarships cover a wide range of expenses, including full or partial tuition fees, living expenses, medical insurance, and additional allowances.

Study in India Scholarships: The Study in India program, as already mentioned in detail, is another significant initiative designed to attract international students by offering merit-based scholarships. Scholarships are granted by Study in India, in collaboration with the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, to international students.

Also Read: Govt. Initiatives and Low-Interest Education Funding Solutions in India!

University-Specific Scholarship Programmes

In addition to government-funded scholarships, international students have the opportunity to benefit from scholarships provided directly by Indian universities and colleges. These scholarships are tailored to attract and support talented students from various corners of the globe.

GITAM University Scholarships: GITAM University offers a range of scholarships to international students based on factors such as academic excellence and financial need.

IIT Scholarships: The prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) are renowned for their rigorous academic programs and provide scholarships to international students-especially those pursuing postgraduate studies.

Also Read: Education Funding Solutions in India: Govt. Initiatives at a Glance!

Scholarships Offered by Private Organisations and NGOs

Apart from government and university scholarships, international students can explore options provided by corporations, foundations, and non-governmental organisations, all of which aim to support deserving students seeking to pursue higher education in India.

Tata Scholarships for Engineering Students: The Tata Group extends support to international students pursuing specific undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in India by offering scholarships aimed at covering tuition fees and various other academic expenses.

Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships: The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation is committed to fostering academic excellence by providing scholarships across various disciplines, including engineering, medicine, and humanities, to students with exceptional talent and outstanding academic achievements.

Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP): Commonwealth Scholarships are given to talented individuals with the potential to make a positive impact on the global stage. These scholarships are meant for students from across the Commonwealth nations who would not otherwise be able to afford to study in the UK. The scholarships fund postgraduate studies in various formats to support future innovators and leaders.

Also Read: Top Scholarships for Undergraduates 2024 — National and International Level

India offers a plethora of opportunities for international students seeking quality higher education at an affordable cost. These scholarships represent just a glimpse of the myriad opportunities available for international students like Sindile Precious Macwele willing to pursue their academic aspirations in India.

FAQs on International Scholarships for Study in India!

How do I ensure getting additional funding if the scholarship offered is inadequate?

Securing additional funding after having received university specific scholarship support or scholarship from any other provider can include getting financial support in the form of grants, or student loans provided by the country of origin, government and the related agencies. Students can reach out to non-governmental organisations, embassies that offer scholarships or financial aid for helping students pursuing studies abroad. Hoping against hope, crowdfunding is another desperate measure that students after having explored all available avenues can resort to. Some of the popular crowdfunding platforms include ‘GoFundMe’, ‘Kickstarter’, ‘Indiegogo’, ScholarMatch etc. where genuine financial support seekers can create a compelling campaign title with a catchy and clear tagline.

Do I need to secure admission to an Indian institution before applying for a scholarship?

Yes, most scholarship programs require you to have secured admission to a recognized Indian institution before applying. Some scholarships may allow you to apply simultaneously for admission and the scholarship.

What is Study in India (SII) programme?

The Study In India (SII) programme is a flagship project of the Government of India. It is being executed by the Ministry of Education (MoE). The SII programme facilitates and encourages international students to pursue their studies in premier Indian institutes. The Study in India website provides one-stop solution for all information on the Study in India (SII) programme.

What are the benefits of enrolling in Indian institutes through the Study in India (SII) Programme?

The Study in India programme invites students from all around the globe who can explore the educational opportunities offered by India’s Higher Education Institutions. Overseas students can pursue their higher education in any of the institutions. Major benefits include the following:

1. SII programme has partnered with 400+ institutes that provide more than, 2600 courses across cutting-edge disciplines such as the following:

2. SII partner institutes have National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) accreditation of 3.01 and above or are ranked among the top 100 in any category except medical by the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), or have the status of Institute of National Importance (INI) or Institute of Eminence (IOE).

3. Study in India partner institutes provides financial assistance in form of Partner Institute Scholarship. This concession on tuition fees is made available in categories of 100%, 50% & 25%.

4. Under the SII initiative, it provides 24×7 call support to address student queries and provide assistance at every step of the admission process.

Where can I find the list of institutes and courses offered under Study in India Programme?

The list of the institutes and courses offered under the SII programme can be found by clicking on the ‘Courses’ page present on the top of the homepage of the Study in India website.

What is the annual tuition fee for my courses in India?

The tuition fees vary across courses and institutes. Applicants may find the details of the same through the Courses page present on the homepage of the SII website.

Can my institute provide me with additional concessions on my total fees?

It entirely depends on the institute to provide additional concessions on your fees over and above financial concessions awarded through SII programme. Applicants may confirm the same at the time of admission from the institute itself.

How many courses and institutes are covered under Study in India?

India has the second-largest higher education network in the world, with more than 42,000 colleges and 1000 universities. SII has partnered with 200 top-ranked institutes, offering 2600+ courses across a range of disciplines.

Where can I view the ranking list of SII-partner institutes?

Interested applicants can visit the following link to have a look at the NIRF rankings of Indian universities — https://www.nirfindia.org/2021/UniversityRanking.html

What is the medium of instruction at Study in India partner institutes?

English is the medium of instruction in all the Study in India partner institutes.

What English proficiency tests are popular in India?

It depends and varies from institute to institute, but in general, scores of IELTS or TOEFL are considered. However, the applicants are advised to check the specific eligibility criteria set by the SII partner institute at the time of application.

Where can I apply for the Indian Student Visa?

Student Visa is processed at Study in India portal on the basis of Institute admission offer letter and details furnished by the applicants such as basic and academic information. Applicants do not need to apply separately. This is allowed online and students are advised to fill accurate and complete information on the Study in India portal. Moreover, Student Visa is subject to the approval under prevailing laws and regulation in India

What is the average fee applicable for an Indian student visa?

The fees for a student visa is different for different countries. Generally, the amount ranges from $14 to $118 however, the applicants are advised to check the fees by contacting the Indian mission/embassy present in their home country.

Is SII scholarship fully funded?

Study in India offers scholarships up to USD $3200 to meritorious students through PRAGATII Exam. If the total fees exceed this amount, the remaining balance will have to be paid by the student. Moreover, SII Scholarship is provided to students pursuing UG and PG courses in India. This is not available to international students pursuing a PhD degree in India.

When should I apply for these scholarships?

Application deadlines vary by program. It is important to check the specific deadlines for each scholarship well in advance. Generally, the application period remains active for several months before the start of the academic year in India.

What are the general selection criteria for these scholarships?

General selection criteria often include the following:

• Academic excellence
• Leadership qualities
• Extracurricular achievements
• Financial need (for some scholarships)
• Potential to contribute to the development of your home country after completing studies

Can I apply for multiple scholarships at the same time?

Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously. However, you should carefully read the terms and conditions of each scholarship to ensure there are no restrictions on receiving multiple scholarship awards simultaneously.

What form of support is available for international students in India?

Many Indian institutions offer support services for international students. These include the following:

• Orientation programs
• Academic advising
• Cultural activities
• Counseling services
• Assistance with accommodation and healthcare

Originally published at https://www.buddy4study.com on June 18, 2024.