Best Scholarships for College Students in 2023

Scholarships for college students are meticulously crafted to support and empower deserving students throughout their academic endeavors. These scholarships, offered by various organizations and institutions, serve as a beacon of financial freedom, enabling students to overcome economic hurdles and pursue their aspirations with zeal and determination.

In 2023, the pursuit of higher education has become more important than ever, with numerous career paths and opportunities awaiting ambitious students in India. As the academic journey commences after successfully passing Class 12, a diverse range of undergraduate courses in fields such as Engineering, Medical, Architecture, Arts/Humanities, Science, and Commerce beckon talented individuals. However, for many students, financial constraints can pose a significant obstacle in realizing their dream education.

In this age of rising educational costs, these college scholarships play an integral role in nurturing young minds and fostering an environment where talent knows no financial bounds. By facilitating access to higher education, they pave the way for the next generation of scholars, innovators, and leaders to realize their full potential and make a positive impact on society. Here, we delve into the scholarships for undergraduate students in India 2023, unveiling a comprehensive list of opportunities that open doors to diverse undergraduate disciplines. 

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List of Scholarships for College Students: National

Here is an inclusive compilation of scholarships for college students in India aspiring to pursue undergraduate courses, encompassing both national and international opportunities. Additionally, tentative application timelines have been provided to assist students in applying for these scholarships within the specified timeframe.

G. P. Birla Scholarship

One of the best scholarships for college students, the G.P. Birla Scholarship 2023 is an initiative by the G.P. Birla Educational Foundation aimed at aiding accomplished students from West Bengal who have cleared their class 12 examination in the year 2023. 

Rewards

INR 50,000 annually, coupled with various supplementary advantages

Eligibility

• Domicile: Applicants must be residents of West Bengal.
• Academic Qualification:
  • Applicants should have successfully passed the class 12 examination in the year 2023.
  • Must have secured 85% marks or higher from WBCHSE (West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education) or 90% marks or higher from ISC/CBSE.
  • Must be pursuing undergraduate courses in disciplines such as Science, Commerce, Arts, Engineering, Medicine, Architecture, Law, Chartered Accountancy, Company Secretary, and Cost Accountancy from any recognized University/Institution in India.

• Financial Situations: Applicants should have an annual family income of less than INR 3,00,000.

Note: In specific cases, the maximum family income criteria may be relaxed for exceptionally meritorious students at the discretion of the Trustees. Alternatively, applicants who require financial assistance to pursue further studies are also eligible.

Application Process

Offline Mode

Eligible students who wish to apply for this college scholarship using the offline mode should download and fill out the prescribed application form. Once completed, the application form, along with the necessary documents, should be sent to the following address:

G.P. Birla Educational Foundation,

78, Syed Amir Ali Avenue, Kolkata – 700019

Online Mode

• Eligible students who prefer to apply for these college scholarships online should follow the instructions below.
• Before starting the application, students, parents, or guardians are advised to gather the following documents:
  • Scanned Colour Photograph (.jpg, max size 30KB).
  • Proof of Annual Family Income Certificate (.pdf, max size 2MB)
• If the father or mother is employed in the government or private sector: Copy of Form 16 or Salary Certificate.
• In other cases: Copy of Income Tax Return or Certificate from Tahsildars, Councillors, etc.
• Copy of Class XII Marksheet (.pdf, max size 2MB).
• Proof of admission (if already taken) at a university or college for further studies (.pdf, max size 2MB).  

The INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) Scholarship

The INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) Scholarship is a component of the INSPIRE program that aims to promote the pursuit of basic and natural sciences at the undergraduate level. provides meritorious students with appealing scholarship and mentorship opportunities.

Rewards

INR 80,000

Eligibility

• Meritorious students within the top 1% of their Class XII exam in any State/Central Education Board in India are eligible.
• Students with ranks in JEE (IIT) or AIPMT (within the top 10,000 ranks) pursuing Natural and Basic Science courses at B.Sc., B.S., Int. M.Sc./M.S. level is eligible.
• Students within the top 1% of the Class XII exam pursuing Integrated M.S. courses in Natural and Basic Sciences at specific institutions (consult the website for the listed institutions)are eligible.

Application Process

The scholarship application can only be submitted through online mode. To apply online, please click on the following link: www.online-inspire.gov.in. Detailed guidelines for submitting online applications can be found on the provided website.

CLP India Scholarship Scheme

CLP India Scholarship Scheme, another one of these scholarships for college students, has been launched to provide scholarships to both boys and girls, ensuring they can pursue their studies without financial constraints. The scheme offers admission to class 12th, UG, and PG degree studies for girls.

Rewards

INR 18,000 per annum

Eligibility

• Minimum 50% marks required in previous year's examinations
• Students can gain admission to the next class after receiving the scholarship
• Post-matric classes covered: 12th, UG, and PG courses

Application Process

Instructions to apply for the scholarship programme will be announced on their official website: www.apraava.com.

PM Young Achievers Scholarship Rewards Scheme for Vibrant India (YASASVI) 2023

The Government of India, through the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, has introduced a program called PM Young Achievers Scholarship Rewards Scheme for Vibrant India (YASASVI).

The objective of this scheme is to grant scholarships to eligible students from OBC, Economic (EBC), and De-Notified, Nomadic, and Semi Nomadic Tribes categories.

Rewards

The scholarship amounts to INR 75,000 annually for class 9 and INR 125,000 annually for class 11

Eligibility

• Exams will be taken for scholarship selection
• Candidates from OBC, EBC, and DNT categories in Class IX and Class XI
• Scholarships for studying in Top Schools identified by MSJ&E
• Mode of conducting the Exam: Pen and Paper (OMR-based)

Application Process

Candidates desiring to sit for the selection exam are required to apply online atyet.nta.ac.in.

NIU Scholarship cum Admission Test (NSAT)

NSAT serves as a standard entrance examination for securing admission to Noida International University's diverse undergraduate and postgraduate courses, including B Tech, BBA, BA LLB, BBA LLB, BTech+MTech, BBA+MBA, and BAJMC programs. 

Rewards

70% waived off from the tuition fee

Eligibility

• Minimum 50% aggregate in Class 12 or equivalent from a recognized board or university.
• Candidates with pending Class 12 results can apply, but admission is provisional until they submit their certificate before the university's deadline.

Application Process

Prospective applicants have the option to apply for NSAT through either the online or offline mode. To acquire the NSAT application form, interested individuals can pay a nominal application fee of INR 1,100.

Indus Towers Scholarship Program 2023-24 For Students with Disabilities

The primary aim of the Indus Towers Scholarship Program is to support and empower young students with disabilities in pursuing their career goals by providing scholarships for higher education. The primary objective of this program is to extend essential assistance to deserving students with disabilities who might face financial constraints in pursuing their dreams.

Eligibility

• Category I: This category includes students who are state subjects or domiciled in the Northeastern states of India, namely Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura.
• Category II: Students falling under this category belong to states other than the Northeastern states and are pursuing their education in Indian Institutes of National Importance (INIs). 

Application Process

Eligible candidates can apply for this scholarship online.

Raman Kant Munjal Scholarship

This scholarship for undergraduate students in India aims to offer financial aid to economically disadvantaged students who face challenges in pursuing their higher education. The primary objective of this scheme is to promote education nationwide and enable students to continue their studies beyond the 12th grade, thereby creating a pathway for a brighter future.

Rewards

An amount of up to INR 2.7 lakhs per annum for 3 years

Eligibility

• The applicant must have successfully passed the class 12th examination.
• The candidate's age should not exceed 19 years as of May 31, 2022.
• The annual family income should not exceed INR 4 lakhs per annum.
• Students must have secured a minimum of 80% marks in both class 10th and 12th examinations.

Application Process

Candidates have to visit the official website, rkmfoundation.org to apply for this scholarship for undergraduate students in India 2023. 

Dr Reddy’s Foundation Sashakt Scholarship

The Dr Reddy's Foundation Sashakt Scholarship is designed to support girls coming from rural and economically disadvantaged backgrounds in their pursuit of higher education. This scholarship for undergraduate students in India 2023 is specifically aimed at girls who have completed their 12th grade and wish to continue their studies in the field of science. 

Rewards

INR 2.4 lakhs for 3 years

Eligibility

• Only female residents of India can apply for this scholarship.
• Exceptional academic achievements are highly valued.
• Aspiring candidates must apply for the BSc program in pure or natural science.

Application Process

Candidates can log in to the official website www.sashaktscholarship.org to apply for this scholarship.

Keep India Smiling Foundational Scholarship Programme

The primary objective of the Colgate Keep India Smiling Foundational Scholarship & Mentorship Programme is to offer essential backing to deserving and talented individuals who might face financial constraints in pursuing their aspirations. In addition to providing financial assistance, this scholarship program places significant emphasis on mentorship and career guidance, ensuring that the beneficiaries receive the necessary support throughout their journey whenever needed.

Rewards

INR 30,000 per year for 3 years

Eligibility

• Applicants must have successfully cleared the Class 12 board examination in the year 2022.
• A minimum score of 60% in the Class 12 board exams is required.
• Candidates should be currently enrolled in a 3-year graduation program at a recognized institution in India.
• The annual family income of applicants should not exceed INR 5 Lakhs.

Application Process

Log in to the official website www.colgate.com/en-in/smile-karo-aur-shuru-ho-jao/foundation-scholarship to apply for this scholarship for undergraduate students in India 2023. 

Prime Minister’s Special Scholarship Scheme (PMSSS), J&K

Another of the top scholarships for college students in India, the Prime Minister Scholarship grants educational opportunities to individuals who face financial constraints hindering their educational pursuits. Established in 2006 by the Prime Minister of India, the Prime Minister Scholarship Scheme 2023 specifically focuses on offering higher and technical education to deserving candidates.

Rewards

• A total of 5,500 college scholarships are Rewarded annually to widows of Ex-servicemen.
• These scholarships for college students are equally distributed between boys and girls (2750 each).
• Scholarship duration ranges from one to five years, as per the course duration approved by regulatory bodies.
• Selected students receive the scholarship amount on an annual basis.
• Boys receive INR 2500/- per month, while girls receive INR 3000 per month.

Eligibility

• Only 1st-year students (excluding Lateral Entry and integrated Courses) can apply for PMSS.
• Students must have scored 60% and above in 10+2 / Diploma / Graduation.
• 2nd-year or subsequent-year students (except for integrated courses) are not eligible.
• Dependents of Ex-Servicemen & Ex-Coast Guard personnel.
• Wards of Civilians, including Para Military Personnel, are NOT ELIGIBLE.

Application Process

Visit the official website to apply for the scholarship for undergraduate students in India 2023.

LSAT India Law Scholarship

LSAC's initiative in India aims to foster accessibility to law colleges for aspiring students. To achieve this goal, the LSAT India scholarships have been introduced. These scholarships for college students are exclusively available to candidates who are appearing in the online LSAT India 2023 examination. The exam will be conducted in two phases: the first in January and the second in June.

Rewards

Up to INR 4 lakh

Eligibility

• Eligibility for these college scholarships is limited to Indian citizens only.
• Applicants must be currently enrolled in a 5-year law program at an LSAC Global Law Alliance college.
• The recipient of the Rewards must not accept any other scholarships for college students.

Application Process

The application form for LSAT—India 2023 can be accessed online through its official website - pearsonvue.excelindia.com/lsatindia/.

Also Read: BBA Scholarships in India

List of Scholarships for College Students: International

Given below are some of the top international scholarships for college students in India at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels: 

Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarships for Undergraduate Students

The Japanese Government is extending college scholarships to Indian students for the academic year 2024. These scholarships are offered under the esteemed Japanese Government MEXT (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology) Scholarship programs, catering to Undergraduate, College of Technology, and Specialized Training College students. 

Rewards

• Monthly Allowance: 117,000 yen (Approx. INR 71,200)
• Education Fees: Exempted Travel expenses
• Round-trip airfare will be provided.

Eligibility

• Minimum of 65% marks at 12th (or 11th) grade, in addition to the Qualifications and Conditions specified in the Guidelines.
• Candidates with Japanese Language proficiency will be given priority.

Application Process

Can apply online on the website of the Embassy of Japan in India for these scholarships for college students. 

Tianjin Government Scholarship Program (China)

The Tianjin Government Scholarship offers international students the opportunity to pursue higher education in China. This scheme offers a wide range of Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degree programs for international students, fully and partially funded by the Tianjin government.

Rewards

Fully funded; a monthly stipend of up to CNY 2000.

Eligibility

• Citizenship & Health: Applicants must hold non-Chinese citizenship and maintain good health.
• Educational Background & Age Limit:
  • For Undergraduate Program: Candidates must possess a senior high school diploma with a commendable academic record and should be below the age of 30.
  • For Master’s Degree Program: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree and should be under the age of 35.

Application Process

• Applicants are required to submit their application materials as mentioned in their official website to the International College of Tianjin University of Technology and Education.
• The application period is open from March 1st to June 15th.

Chinese Government Scholarship (China)

Annually, a total of 274 Chinese universities offer international scholarships for college students. The list of universities offering the Chinese Government Scholarship can be found in the download section of their official website. Additionally, students can access scholarships for studying Chinese language courses in China, as well as pursuing MBBS programs in various Chinese universities.

Rewards

Basic health insurance and a monthly stipend of up to 3500 Yuan

Eligibility

• Nationality: Applicants must not hold Chinese citizenship.
• Scholarship Limitation: Candidates should not be recipients of any other scholarship granted by the Chinese government or its representatives.
• Minimum Age Requirement:
  • For Bachelor’s Degree: Maximum age should not exceed 25 years. 
  • For Master's Degree: Maximum age limit is up to 35 years
  • For Ph.D. Degree: Maximum age limit is up to 40 years
• Minimum Qualification:
  • Undergraduate Program: A Higher Secondary School Certificate or equivalent qualification
  • Master's Program: A Bachelor's Degree
  • Ph.D. Program: A Master's Degree

Application Process

The online application should be submitted before Friday, February 10, 2023, through the website www.campuschina.org.

Zhengzhou University President Scholarship (China)

Zhengzhou University has established the President Scholarship to promote international exchange and collaboration and to attract outstanding international students to study at the institution. Listed among the best scholarships for college students, with a duration of four years, is designed to support exceptional international postgraduate students, particularly those pursuing a doctorate degree, during their academic journey at Zhengzhou University. 

Rewards

• A stipend of CNY 3500/month
• Covers the tuition fees and offers accommodations costs of CNY 1000

Eligibility

• Nationality: Applicants must hold non-Chinese citizenship and be in good health.
• International Status: This scholarship is open to international students from outside China, as well as graduates of Chinese universities.
• Compliance: Applicants are required to adhere to the laws and regulations of the People's Republic of China and the regulations of Zhengzhou University (ZZU).
• Academic Excellence: Should possess an outstanding academic performance.
• Research Proficiency: Applicants should possess strong capabilities in scientific research.
• Doctoral Program: Those applying for the doctoral program must have an exceptional academic record in a master's program (for Pakistan applicants, a master's program of 18 years) or a higher degree or its equivalent. Additionally, the applicant's age should not exceed 40 years.

Application Process

Desiring Candidates must fill out an application form available at their official website: international.zzu.edu.cn/en/scholarship/detail?cid=49&pid=5&detail=13.

Guangdong Government Outstanding Foreign Student Scholarship (China)

The Guangdong Province Government has instituted the "Guangdong Government Outstanding Student Scholarship" to support international degree students with exceptional academic achievements. Guangdong University of Foreign Studies (GDUFS) considers this scholarship highly significant and ensures a transparent, equitable, and impartial selection process for scholarship recipients.

Rewards

• Scholarship Amount for Bachelor's Degree Students: RMB 10,000 per person.
• Scholarship Amount for Master's Degree Students: RMB 20,000 per person.
• Scholarship Amount for Doctoral Degree Students: RMB 30,000 per person.

Eligibility

• The scholarship is available for non-Chinese students enrolled in degree programs at GDUFS or those intending to pursue a degree at GDUFS.
• Should Comply with Chinese laws, regulations, university policies, and school rules.
• Demonstrate excellent academic and moral performance, maintain a high attendance rate, and achieve good grades in all required courses.
• Not have received any other scholarships for college students in the same academic year.

 Application Process

• New students (freshmen) should download and complete the "Scholarship Application Form (2)," while other students should download and fill out the "Scholarship Application Form (1)". Ensure all required documents are attached.
• All the necessary application documents to Office 102 or email them to iie@gdufs.edu.cn within the specified timeframe. Failure to apply before the deadline will be considered as declining the opportunity.

Undergraduate Global Excellence Scholarship Business School (UK)

The Undergraduate Global Excellence Scholarship offered by various Business Schools in the UK is a prestigious Rewards designed to attract outstanding international students to pursue undergraduate studies in various business-related disciplines. The scholarship recognizes and supports students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievements, leadership skills, and a strong commitment to making a positive impact in the business world.

Rewards

The University of Portsmouth is currently offering GBP 2,200 discount towards the first year’s tuition fees.

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria vary according to the University offering the one of the best scholarships for college students. Log in to the University’s official website to view the eligibility requirements for the scholarship.

Application Process

Desiring Candidates need to log in to the University’s official website to review the application process.

Dean’s Indian Scholarship, University of Strathclyde (UK)

This scholarship for undergraduate students in India 2023 is available to all new international students enrolling in a full-time course within the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, starting in September 2023.

Rewards

• The scholarship offers a 10% reduction in tuition fees for each year of study.
• In the first year, there will be a deduction of GBP 2,375 from the tuition fees.

Eligibility

• Applicants with excellent academic records in high school are encouraged to submit their applications.
• Scholarship selections will be based on the information provided in both the undergraduate admissions and scholarship applications.

Application Process

Log in to their official website to apply for the scholarship.

The Rhodes Scholarships for India, University of Oxford (UK)

The Rhodes Scholarship is an esteemed fully-funded program for graduate students aiming to pursue studies at the renowned University of Oxford. The scholarship provides financial assistance to students pursuing various degree levels, including bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Recipients are fully supported with coverage for tuition, fees, flights, living expenses, and healthcare expenses.

Rewards

The Rhodes Scholarship includes coverage for Oxford University course fees and offers an annual stipend. For the 2022/23 academic year, the stipend amounts to GBP 18,180 per annum (£1,515 per month).

Eligibility

• Nationality: The candidate must hold Indian citizenship and possess a valid Indian passport or equivalent proof of citizenship.
• Formal Education: Candidates should have completed a minimum of four years of formal education from an Institution/University in India.
• Age Limit: Candidates must be 26 years of age or younger at the time of submitting their application.
• Academic Performance: Candidates are required to have achieved a first-class in their undergraduate degrees or will be completing their undergraduate degrees with first-class honours. 

Application Process

Candidates can fill out the application form by logging into their official website.

Tel Aviv University Summer Program Scholarship (Israel)

The TAU Summer scholarships are available to various applicants, including current undergraduate and graduate students, graduating high school seniors, and professionals seeking admission to a TAU summer program. These scholarships for college students are Rewarded based on merit, and candidates must fulfil at least one of the following criteria to be eligible for consideration.

Eligibility

To be considered for the scholarship, students must secure admission to their preferred program. After receiving acceptance, they should directly reach out to their respective program coordinator to apply for the TAU International scholarship fund.

Application Process

Log in to TAU's official website to apply for this scholarship for undergraduate students in India 2023

Israel Government Scholarships (Israel)

Each year, the Israeli government presents seven scholarships to Indian students at the graduate level. Out of these, five are general scholarships, and the remaining two are specifically designated for Hebrew language study. These scholarships are granted for a duration of eight months (one academic year) and are available to graduate students under the age of 35 years. 

Rewards

Tuition fees, a monthly allowance of USD 750, and basic health insurance. However, applicants are responsible for arranging their accommodation, transportation, and air travel. 

Eligibility

• Should be an Indian citizen.
• Must be under the age of 35 and hold, at a minimum, a bachelor's degree. Proficiency in English is required for those interested in English-taught programs.

Application Process

• Must be admitted to one of the universities listed in their official website before applying for the Israel Government scholarship. Application procedures vary by institution.
• At Hebrew University, applicants must register through the Rothberg International School of Overseas Students.
• At Tel Aviv University, registration is straightforward as long as there is a willing supervisor to host the student.
• After completing the registration, applicants can proceed with their scholarship application following these steps:
  • Contact the Israeli embassy
  • Provide the required documents for application
  • Wait for the designated University to contact you

Italian Government Scholarship (Italy)

This program aims to enhance international collaboration in scientific, technological, cultural, and artistic domains and to foster the Italian language and culture. These scholarships are available at the bachelor, master, and doctoral levels, and they may also be Rewardsed for research or linguistic stays at public or legally recognized Italian institutions. 

Rewards

A quarterly allowance of 900 euros (900 euros x 3 months = 2,700 euros). Additionally, scholarship Rewardsees will be relieved of paying tuition and fees, excluding language and cultural stays.

Eligibility

• Bachelor's Degree: Scholarships available for art, music, and dance higher education courses.
• Master's Degree: Requires a Bachelor's degree for first-year admission. Second-year entry based on satisfactory progress. Scholarships for 6 or 9 months.
• PhD: Applicants must meet university admission requirements and provide a letter of admission. Scholarships for 6 or 9 months.
• Language Stay: Scholarships for Italian language and culture courses (3 months) require A2 proficiency level.
• Research: Requires a research proposal and letter of invitation from the host university/institute. Scholarships for 6 or 9 months.
• Age Limit: Bachelor, Master, and Linguistic Stay - Not over 28 years and 364 days. PhD - Not over 30 years and 364 days. Research - Applicants must be under 41 years old. 

Application Process

• Exclusively to be applied through the STUDY IN ITALY portal.
• The applicant must possess a valid passport or identity card.

Mexican Government Scholarships for International Students (Mexico)

The scholarship program offers the opportunity for foreigners to study in Mexico without incurring any costs. It covers various levels of education, including undergraduate and graduate mobility programs, as well as Master's, Doctoral, and Postgraduate Research levels. Students from over 180 countries have been granted this opportunity through bilateral and special agreements, as well as multilateral mechanisms.

Rewards

Fully funded throughout the duration of the degree

Eligibility

• Should be full-time sophomore, bachelor's, and master's students, depending on their enrolled program.
• Applicants should not have received a scholarship from a Federal Government institution in the previous year.
• Candidates with excellent scores in their previous degrees are encouraged to apply.

Application Process

Students must use the online application system called SIGCA for registration.

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