National Overseas Scholarship 2026: Government Invites Applications for 125 Fully Funded Foreign Study Slots

There is an annual scholarship programme in the Government of India for students from marginalised communities to receive 125 scholarships every year to study abroad and get a full scholarship. 

The scheme aims to increase access to international higher education to those from social and economically disadvantaged backgrounds and to strengthen national capacity through the training of scholars in fields which are relevant to the development process.

Eligibility for Annual Scholarship Programme

The eligibility criteria include students from the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes and the economically weaker sections of the minority community with an emphasis on students from the first generation of college going students and those who have evidence of financial need. 

Indian citizens with good academic standing having specific minimum marks, degree conditions and domicile would be specified in official notifications.

What are the Inclusions in the Scholarship?

All the awards include tuition fees at partner universities, return economy airfare, a living allowance or stipend, health insurance, and visa-processing assistance. Awards may come with a single payment of a settling allowance as well as thesis and research support. The coverage is designed to free students from financial burden when studying.

The application process takes place annually on the ministry's official website and various scholarship websites. Academic transcripts, caste and income certificates, passport copies, statements of purpose and admission offers are sent by the applicants. 

Shortlisting is based on merit and the selected candidates for final appointment then go through an interview or a written test; a clear-cut scoring matrix ensures that both merit and financial need and community representation are considered. Eligible candidates are issued the official notification and grant agreements with conditions such as return to India or service obligations.

Countries and fields participating in the program.Countries and fields involved in the program.

Students are awarded to study in partner institutions all over the UK, Australia, Canada, the US and selected universities in Europe and Asia. Priority areas are STEM, public health, education, social sciences, agriculture and other areas related to national development.