Finding Scholarships and Financial Aid

Where Indian students can find scholarships beyond top ranks - government portals, state schemes, private foundations and colleges - and how to apply successfully.

Many students assume scholarships are only for toppers. In fact, many scholarships are based on need, background, field of study or other criteria, and many go unclaimed because students don’t apply.

Government scholarships

The National Scholarship Portal lists central government schemes, including pre-matric and post-matric scholarships for students from SC, ST, OBC and minority communities, and schemes for students with disabilities.
State government portals offer their own scholarships, often for students from the state.
Merit-cum-means schemes support talented students from lower-income families.

Private and corporate scholarships

Many companies run scholarships through their CSR programmes.
Foundations and trusts support students in specific fields, such as engineering, medicine or the arts.
Some focus on girls, first-generation college students or students from particular regions.

College and university aid

Many institutions offer fee waivers or need-based aid.
IITs, NITs and other public institutions have fee concessions based on family income.

Study abroad scholarships

Governments, universities and foundations abroad offer scholarships for Indian students, often highly competitive.

Applying successfully

Start early and note deadlines.
Keep documents ready: income certificate, caste certificate if relevant, marksheets, Aadhaar and bank details.
Write clear, honest personal statements.
Apply to many scholarships to improve chances.
Beware of fake scholarship websites asking for fees.

Renewal

Many scholarships must be renewed each year, often requiring minimum marks and attendance.

The unclaimed scholarship

A first-generation college student assumes scholarships are only for toppers. A teacher points him to a state scheme for students from low-income families and a CSR scholarship for engineering students. He receives both, covering most of his fees.

Thinking scholarships are only for top rankers

Many scholarships are need-based or for specific groups and fields. Many go unclaimed simply because students don't apply.

Key takeaways

Many scholarships are need-based, not just merit-based.
The National Scholarship Portal and state portals list government schemes.
Companies, foundations and colleges offer additional aid.
Start early, keep documents ready and beware of fake websites.