Indian Government ICCR and MEA Scholarships 2025-2026

Applications are currently being received for the 2025-2026 Indian Government ICCR and MEA Scholarships. The program regroups different types of scholarships for Foreign Students to study at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, as well as conducting research in India. The program is intended for citizens of specific countries (specified in each type of scholarship) interested in studying at Indian universities and higher education institutes.

The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) has the mandate to administer the Indian government’s various scholarship programs and provide about 3500 scholarships to foreign students from many countries on an annual basis. Candidates can study a Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD degree programs in available fields at higher educational institutions in India.

Program Details

• Field of study and Host Institutions: Courses and programs available at universities listed on the Scholarship Portal.
• Number of Awards: About 3500.
• Duration: Candidate’s program duration.
• Target group: Varies per scholarship type.

Scholarship Types

A brief list of available scholarship types. These are some main programs. The full list is available on the A2 portal:

1. General Scholarship Scheme – ICCR

The GSS is one of the most important scholarship schemes of ICCR and is open to foreign students belonging to Asian and Latin American Countries.

2. Bangladesh Scholarship Scheme – ICCR

This scholarship is open to citizens of Bangladesh to study in India

3. Commonwealth Scholarship Scheme – ICCR

The program aims to implement the policy of Commonwealth countries to contribute together in providing higher education to each other and is open for students of Commonwealth Countries.

4. AYUSH Scholarship Scheme for BIMSTEC Countries – MEA

This scheme is meant for BIMSTEC countries (Thailand, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Bhutan and Myanmar). Under this scheme, scholarships are provided to pursue courses in the Indian traditional medical systems such as Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy.

5. Aid-to-Maldives Scholarship Scheme – MEA

The scholarship scheme is open for Bhutan, Maldives and Mongolia students.

6. Africa Scholarship Scheme – MEA

Open to citizens of African countries.

7. ICCR Scholarship for Indian Culture

Open to citizens of all countries in the world who wish to study Indian Culture such as dance, music, theatre, performing arts, sculpture, Indian languages, Indian cuisine, etc.

Note: For full scholarship programs, please visit the official page.

Indian Government ICCR and MEA Scholarships Benefits

ICCR scholarship is a fully funded program that provides the following Benefits :

• Accommodation;
• Health insurance;
• Tuition fee waiver;
• Airfare;
• Living allowances;
• Thesis and dissertation allowance, etc.

Indian Government ICCR and MEA Scholarships Eligibility

In order to be eligible for this Asia scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. be a citizen of an eligible country;
2. have good knowledge of English to the extent of fluently speaking in English and comprehending lessons in English without any difficulty.
3. have a:
   • high school diploma when applying for a bachelor’s degree;
   • bachelor’s degree when applying for a Master’s degree programs;
   • master’s degree when applying for doctoral degree programs.
   • PhD degree when applying for post-doctoral programs.
4. minimum-maximum age limit for different programs
   • undergraduate/masters : 18- 40 Years (18 years as on date 01.07.2025)
   • PhD : 50 Years maximum

Similar opportunities

1. Japan and World Bank Scholarship for Developing Countries;
2. Skoltech Scholarship in Russia for Local and International Students;
3. Australia Awards Scholarships for Development.

How to Apply for the Indian Government ICCR and MEA Scholarships

Interested applicants who wish to apply for this government scholarship must click on the apply button below to access the A2A ICCR Scholarship Portal and follow the given instructions to apply and submit their applications.

Key Things to Know Before Applying for ICCR Scholarships

1. Double-Check Every Detail: Incomplete applications? The A2A portal will reject them faster than you can say “oops!” Take time to fill in every field and upload all required files. Missing even one document could cost you the opportunity.
2. English Translations Are Non-Negotiable: Upload English-certified copies of documents available in languages other than English.
3. For M.Phil/Doctoral Applicants: Your application needs a research proposal synopsis (think of it as a sneak peek into your study goals). Keep it concise but compelling!
4. Performing Arts Students, Show Your Talent!: Applying for music, dance, or theater? Include a recent video/audio clip or YouTube link of your performance. Let your skills speak louder than words!
5. Already Studying in India?: Even if you’re currently enrolled at an Indian institution, you’ll need to reapply online via the A2A portal. Physical applications are not acceptable.
6. Online-Only Submissions: All applications must be submitted digitally through the portal. Don’t send physical copies to Indian embassies, ICCR offices, or universities—they won’t be accepted.
7. Eligible Institutions: These scholarships are valid only for study at Indian government-recognized state/central universities or affiliated colleges. Private universities or colleges are not covered. Check the ICCR portal for the official list of approved institutions.
8. Pick Your Top 5: You get to choose 5 universities/institutes in order of preference. Think carefully—rank them based on your academic goals and where you’d most love to study!
9. Stick to Your Strengths: Universities often reject applications if your chosen course doesn’t align with your past education (like what you studied in high school). Double-check that your subject choices match your background to avoid hiccups.
10. Do Your Homework: Before hitting “submit,” visit the websites of your chosen universities. Each institution lists course details, admission criteria, and prerequisites. The A2A portal even links directly to these resources—use them! This saves everyone time and boosts your chances of approval.
11. No Changes Later: Once you’ve been awarded the scholarship, you can’t switch your university, institute, or course. Choose wisely the first time!
12. Focus on Studies: This scholarship requires your full commitment. You’re not allowed to take on part-time or full-time jobs while studying.

Note: Applicants must read the instructions, detailed application guidelines, procedures and norms governing the ICCR Scholarships on the A2A Portal before applying.

The application deadline for the Indian Government’s ICCR and MEA Scholarships for foreign students has been extended to April 30, 2025. For more details, please visit the official page. To be the first to see latest opportunities, please follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.