ICCR Scholarships

ICCR Scholarship 2025 offers full financial support to students from 180+ countries! Covers tuition, living costs, travel & more for UG, PG & Ph.D. programs at top Indian universities. Apply now for a world-class education in India!

ICCR Scholarship 2025

ICCR Scholarship 2025 are among the prestigious and fully funded scholarships offered by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) under the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. The scholarships are offered to students from beyond 180 countries to pursue Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and Ph.D. courses in reputed Indian universities and institutions. 

With more than 3,800 scholarships under 21 different schemes, including special scholarships for Asian, African, Latin American, and Commonwealth students, ICCR attempts to further the educational and cultural exchange between India and the world at large. The ICCR Scholarship Program covers tuition fees, accommodation, monthly living expenses, health insurance, and travel allowance. Applicants may enter specialisations such as Engineering, Science, Arts, Humanities, Classical Music, Dance, Yoga, and more. 

Since the application process is online-based through the Admissions to Alumni (A2A) Portal, the process remains transparent and efficient. So, if you are an aspiring international student seeking an opportunity to study in India in 2025, the ICCR scholarship program is an open window for you to avail quality education and immersion into a rich cultural experience in one of the most happening nations in the world.

Also Read: Atal Bihari Vajpayee Scholarship 2025

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Important Dates For ICCR Scholarship 2025

If you’re preparing to apply for the ICCR Scholarship 2025, it’s important to stay organised with the timeline. Below is a tentative schedule of all major events:

Event

Dates ( Tentative)

Opening of A2A Portal for submission of scholarship applicationsTBA
Last date for applicants to submit their applications on the A2A PortalJune 2025
Deadline for universities to confirm admission or reject applicationsJuly 2025
Last date for Indian Missions abroad to finalise allocation and generate Offer LettersJuly 2025
Deadline for students to accept or reject the scholarship offerJuly 2025
Second-round scholarship offers issued by Indian Missions (if seats remain vacant)August 2025
Last date for second-round students to accept the scholarship offerAugust 2025

Also Read: Commonwealth Scholarships 2025

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Overview of ICCR Scholarship 2025

The ICCR Scholarship 2025 by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations provided fully funded education to international students for studying in India. From undergraduate programs to postgraduate and even doctoral-level programs at top universities, the scholarship, so to say, maintained that academic rigor alongside cultural exchange. Here is an up-to-date account of the main features of the program to assist prospective applicants.

Feature

Details

Scholarship NameICCR Scholarship 2025
Administered ByIndian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR)
Study Levels CoveredUndergraduate (UG), Postgraduate (PG), and Doctoral (Ph.D.)
Mode of ApplicationOnline through the A2A Scholarship Portal
Number of Scholarships3800+ scholarships under 21 schemes
Eligible CountriesApplicants from over 180 countries
Language of InstructionEnglish
Major Fields of StudyEngineering, Arts, Sciences, Agriculture, Performing Arts, Political Science, Yoga, Ayurveda
Financial CoverageTuition fees, accommodation, monthly stipend, medical insurance, thesis grants
Host InstitutionsCentral/State Universities, NITs, Agricultural Institutes, and other ICCR-empanelled institutions
Selection CriteriaAcademic merit, course relevance, English proficiency, and eligibility per university norms

Also Read: Labour Card Scholarship2025

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Objectives of ICCR Scholarship 2025

ICCR Scholarship 2025 offers meritorious international students a fully funded education. Covering programs from undergraduate, postgraduate, and Ph.D. in top Indian institutions, the programs allow for academic collaborations and cross-cultural enhancement. This program opens doors to students from more than 180 countries to study in diverse disciplines like Engineering, Arts, Political Science, Ayurveda, and Performing Arts. 

Another important objective of the ICCR scholarship was to build cultural goodwill among countries through education and cultural exchange. This program enables students to not only participate in academic pursuits but also to get the first-hand experience of gorgeous cultures and traditions of India. ICCR, therefore, being full of grant and with an extensive list of disciplines, brings forth a major educational bridge for future leaders on a global scale.

Also Read: Digital Gujarat Scholarship 2025 

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Schemes and Programs Under ICCR Scholarship 2025

The ICCR Scholarship 2025 offers a wide range of scholarship schemes designed to support international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral studies in India. With over 3,800 scholarships available under 21 different schemes, students from around 180 countries can benefit from India’s robust academic infrastructure. 

Students from almost 180 countries can take advantage of India's strong academic infrastructure with more than 3,800 scholarships offered under 21 different schemes. These programs, which encompass a wide range of academic subjects and cultural studies, are run either directly by ICCR or in partnership with India's Ministries of External Affairs and AYUSH.

Scholarship Scheme

Courses Offered

Number of Scholarships

Eligibility Criteria

Atal Bihari Vajpayee General Scholarship Scheme (ICCR)UG, PG, Ph.D.900+Open to students from 100+ countries; English proficiency required
Suborno Jayanti Scholarship Scheme (Bangladesh nationals) (ICCR)UG, PG, Ph.D.Around 200Bangladesh nationals; academic merit and English language proficiency
Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam Commonwealth Scholarship Scheme (ICCR)UG, PG, Ph.D.VariesCitizens of Commonwealth countries; merit-based
Nehru Memorial Scholarship (Sri Lanka nationals) (ICCR)UGAround 50Sri Lankan nationals; academic qualifications
Dr. S. Radhakrishnan Cultural Exchange Scholarship (ICCR)UG, PG, Ph.D.Country-specific quotasBilateral agreement-based; English language skills
Lata Mangeshkar Dance & Music Scholarship (ICCR)Indian Music, Dance, Sculpture, Theatre, Cuisine100+Talent in Indian classical arts; portfolio may be required
Sushma Swaraj Silver Jubilee Scholarship (Nepal nationals) (MEA)PG, Ph.D.50Nepalese citizens; UG qualification required
B.R. Ambedkar Scholarship (Bhutan nationals) (MEA)BE, B.Tech.100Bhutanese students; Science stream in 10+2
Aid to Maldives Scholarship Scheme (MEA)UG (including Engineering)50+Maldivian citizens; merit-based
Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Scholarship (Mongolia nationals) (MEA)UG, PG, Ph.D.Around 30Mongolian citizens; English medium capability
Mekong Ganga Co-operation (MGC) Scholarship (MEA)UG, PG, Ph.D.Around 50Students from MGC countries (Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, etc.)
India-Africa Maitri Scholarship Scheme (MEA)UG, PG, Ph.D.900+African nationals, based on bilateral cooperation
Nehru Memorial Scholarship (Sri Lanka nationals) (MEA)UG60Sri Lankan students; academic merit
Maulana Azad Scholarship (Sri Lanka nationals) (MEA)PG in Agriculture Science & Engineering25Sri Lankan PG candidates; Science and Engineering background
Rajiv Gandhi Scholarship (Sri Lanka nationals) (MEA)BE, B.Tech.25Sri Lankan students with strong science background
Scholarship (Online) for Afghan Nationals (MEA)UG, PG, Ph.D. (Online)100+Afghan citizens; online learning readiness
AYUSH Scholarship (BIMSTEC Countries) (MEA)UG, PG, Ph.D. in AYUSHAround 100Citizens of BIMSTEC nations; interest in AYUSH fields
AYUSH Scholarship (Non-BIMSTEC Countries) (AYUSH Ministry)UG, PG, Ph.D. in AYUSHVariesGlobal applicants outside BIMSTEC; background in science/medicine
AYUSH Scholarship (Malaysia) (AYUSH Ministry)UG, PG, Ph.D. in AYUSH30Malaysian students; relevant science background
AYUSH Scholarship (SEAR Countries) (AYUSH Ministry)UG, PG, Ph.D. in AYUSH50SEAR country nationals (WHO region); interest in Indian medicine
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Eligibility Criteria of ICCR Scholarship 2025

The ICCR Scholarship program is open to international students across undergraduate, postgraduate, and Ph.D. levels in a wide range of disciplines, including arts, humanities, science, engineering, music, and more. To ensure fair selection, ICCR has set specific eligibility guidelines regarding age, academic qualifications, English proficiency, and medical fitness. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Eligibility FactorCriteria
NationalityMust be a citizen of a country eligible under the respective ICCR/MEA scheme
Academic Qualification

UG: 12 years of schooling or equivalent with good academic record 

PG: Undergraduate degree 

Ph.D.: Master’s degree

English Language ProficiencyMust have strong command over English; TOEFL/IELTS scores may be required; interviews may be conducted by Indian Missions
Age Limit

Minimum: 18 years 

Maximum: 30 years (for UG/PG), 45 years (for Ph.D.) at the time of application

Health RequirementsMust be medically fit; selected candidates are required to undergo a medical examination in their home country and again after arrival in India
Course RelevanceAcademic background must match the course applied for (especially for technical and professional programs)
Prior Education in IndiaStudents already studying in India are usually not eligible under most ICCR schemes
Portfolio (Arts Applicants)Applicants for Music, Dance, Fine Arts may need to submit a portfolio or video/audio samples
Medium of InstructionAll programs are taught in English; applicants must be able to comprehend and study in English
Genuine IntentMust have a genuine interest in pursuing education in India and willingness to follow all rules and cultural norms
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Application Process of ICCR Scholarship 2025

Applying for the ICCR Scholarship 2025 is a structured and transparent process designed to help international students access quality education in India. Here’s how to complete your application efficiently:

Step 1: Begin your application by visiting the official ICCR A2A Scholarship Portal. 

Step 2: Create an account by registering on the portal with a valid email ID. Carefully enter your personal, academic, and contact details to build a complete profile.

Step 3: Select up to five universities or courses of interest from the list provided on the portal. Make sure to choose programs that match your academic background and future career aspirations for a better chance of approval.

Step 4: Scan and upload all essential documents. Ensure the documents are clear and legible.

Step 5: Submit a valid certificate showing your English proficiency, such as IELTS or TOEFL scores. Alternatively, provide a letter from your school/college confirming that your previous education was conducted in English.

Step 6: Double-check all the entered information and uploaded documents for accuracy. Once reviewed, submit the complete application online.

Step 7: Your application will be reviewed by the universities you applied to. They will evaluate your academic qualifications and suitability before informing ICCR whether your application is accepted or rejected for their respective programs.

Step 8: If shortlisted, you must obtain a medical fitness certificate from a registered medical authority in your home country. This certificate confirms that you are physically fit to study and reside in India during the academic program.

Step 9: Regularly monitor your application status by logging into the A2A Portal. Important updates, including admission decisions, document verifications, or scholarship offers, will be communicated here.

Step 10: Once selected, you’ll receive a formal scholarship offer via the portal. Accept the offer within the given timeframe, and begin the process of applying for a student visa and preparing your travel to India for studies.

Also Read: SSP Scholarship 2025

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Required Documents For ICCR Scholarship 2025

To successfully apply for the ICCR Scholarship 2025, international students must submit a set of essential documents through the A2A Scholarship Portal. These documents verify eligibility, academic performance, and identity during the selection process.

  • Academic transcripts and certificates (Class X, XII, Bachelor’s, etc.)
  • Valid passport (scanned copy)
  • Recent passport-size photograph
  • Two academic recommendation letters
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume
  • Certificate of English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent)
  • Character certificate from last attended institution
  • Medical fitness certificate from a registered health authority
  • Research proposal or synopsis (for M.Phil./Ph.D. applicants, if applicable)
  • Applicant’s signature (scanned copy)

Also Read: MEXT Scholarship 2025

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Benefits of ICCR Scholarship 2025

The ICCR scholarship 2025 aims at supporting students from across the world to ensure a smooth intercultural interchange and academic excellence so that sustainability in diplomatic relations might be achieved. Selected students get financial, academic, and logistical support, allowing them to focus only on their studies and cultural experience in India.

  • ICCR pays 100% of the tuition expenses for undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctorate programs at accredited Indian institutions, allowing students to pursue a quality education without financial constraints.
  • Students receive a fixed monthly living allowance to cover daily expenses like food, transport, and basic necessities, making their stay in India comfortable and manageable.
  • A yearly contingent grant is given to help students purchase textbooks, study supplies, research materials, and other academic essentials required for their course.
  • ICCR will bear the residence of the student abroad to India economically (round trip) at the commencement of an academic program and after the completion thereof. This will help take the burden of international travel off the student.
  • The scholars participate in cultural programs, academic seminars, university events, and celebrations. Through the events, you will get a chance to experience Indian culture and develop invaluable international contacts.

Also Read: Prize Money Scholarship 2025

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Contact Details For ICCR Scholarship 2025

If you have any queries regarding the ICCR Scholarship 2025, you can easily contact the officials using this information.

Address: ICCR (Indian Council for Cultural Relations) Azad Bhawan Rd, IP Estate, New Delhi, Delhi 110002

Email: grievance@iccr.gov.]in

Phone: +91-11-23379309 / +91-11-23379310

Web Information Manager

Name: Shri Suraj Kumar

Designation: Programme Officer (eG & IT)

Email: po-egit@iccr.gov.in

Phone: +91-11-23379638

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FAQs about ICCR Scholarships

What documents are required during the application process of ICCR Scholarship 2025?

Applicants must provide academic transcripts, a passport copy, a recent photograph, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, English language proficiency proof, and, in some cases, a portfolio or research proposal. A medical fitness certificate will also be required if you are shortlisted.

Can one opt for any university or course in India under the ICCR Scholarship 2025?

Applicants are free to opt for any Indian university or recognised academic course offered under the ICCR Scholarship from the given list. One can express anywhere from one to five preferences. However, a final admission would rest upon the approval of the particular university, along with one's eligibility to the institute and the availability of seats in the said program.

What is covered under the ICCR Scholarship 2025?

This scholarship covers tuition fees in full, a monthly stipend, hostel accommodation or housing allowance, an annual academic grant, health insurance, and return airfare. It also organises exposure to Indian culture, academic seminars, and cultural programs for the further academic and personal development of scholars in India.

How can I apply for the ICCR Scholarship 2025?

Applicants have to apply via the online mode by registering themselves on the ICCR A2A Scholarship Portal. After filling in the profile details, you will have to upload scanned copies of all the required documents and select five universities or courses at most before submission. Also, keep an eye on the status of the application and respond to any request for updates.

Who is eligible to apply for the ICCR Scholarship 2025?

International students from specified countries with a fairly strong academic background can apply. The candidates should fulfill the academic qualifications needed for the course or program they select, should have command over the English language, and should meet respective age and health requirements for the scholarship. It is possible that for some courses, the university may ask for a few additional documents or some entrance tests.

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