What types of scholarships are available for international students in India?

India offers various scholarships, including government-funded, university-specific, and private organization scholarships, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and more.

How can I apply for a scholarship to study in India?

Each scholarship has its own application process. Typically, you need to apply through the official university website, government portals, or scholarship providers by submitting academic records, recommendation letters, and other required documents.

Am I eligible for a scholarship to study in India?

Eligibility varies based on the scholarship. Common criteria include academic excellence, financial need, country of origin, and specific program requirements.

Do Indian universities offer full scholarships?

Yes, some Indian universities and government schemes provide full scholarships covering tuition, accommodation, and even a stipend for living expenses.

When is the best time to apply for scholarships?

Most scholarship applications open between January and June, but deadlines vary. It’s best to check the official scholarship provider’s website for exact dates.

Can I work while studying in India on a scholarship?

International students on scholarships may have work restrictions depending on visa regulations. Some scholarships also include a stipend to cover living expenses.

Are there scholarships for postgraduate and PhD programs in India?

Yes! Many universities and research institutions offer scholarships for master's and PhD programs in India, especially in STEM, business, and humanities fields.

What are the required documents for a scholarship application?

Commonly required documents include academic transcripts, passport & visa documents, Statement of Purpose (SOP), recommendation letters, and financial proof (if applicable).

Do I need to take an English proficiency test for a scholarship?

Some universities require TOEFL/IELTS, while others accept proof of previous education in English. It depends on the university and scholarship program.

How will I know if I’ve been selected for a scholarship?

Shortlisted candidates are usually notified via email or official portals. Some scholarships also require an interview before final selection.

indian-universities-for-international-students

Top Indian Universities Offering Courses In English For International Students

Introduction

India is quickly becoming a preferred destination for international students seeking quality, affordable education. One of the major reasons is that English is the primary medium of instruction at most Indian universities—especially in higher education. Whether you’re interested in engineering, business, humanities, medicine, or law, India offers a broad range of English-taught degree programs.

Why Study in India?

Let’s look at various reasons why thousands of students want to study in India :

1. English-Medium Instruction

India is the world's second-largest English-speaking country. At the university level, English is the default language of instruction for most degree programs—especially in STEM, business, and social sciences.

2. Affordable Education

India has a high investment return. Fee structures for courses are usually much lesser than in the U.S., U.K., or Australia. Cost of living is also low, making India one of the cheapest places to study in the world.

3. Ranked Universities on the International Stage

IITs, IISc, Jawaharlal Nehru University, and O.P. Jindal Global University universities regularly feature in international QS and Times Higher Education rankings.

4. Cultural Immersion

With its rich culture, multicultural population, and strong roots in tradition, India provides a unique cultural immersion opportunity.

Best Public Universities with English-Medium Courses

These universities are perfect blend of accessible English courses and academic prestige

1. University of Delhi (DU)

One of India's most highly regarded universities.
Undergraduate and postgraduate courses in arts, science, commerce, and social sciences.
Courses such as English Literature, Economics, Political Science, and Business Studies are conducted wholly in English.

2. Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Delhi

Nationally reputed for political science, international relations, and languages.
Strong focus on research and postgraduate courses.
All MA, MPhil, and Ph.D. courses are taught in English.

3. University of Hyderabad

Pioneering research university with M.A., M.Sc., M.Tech., MBA, and Ph.D. courses taught in English.
Sophisticated campus, modern facilities, and international faculty partnerships.

4. Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi

Provides a broad spectrum of English-medium undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
Most renowned for arts, science, engineering, medicine, and performing arts.

5. University of Mumbai

Provides English-medium programs in commerce, science, arts, media studies, and more.
International student-friendly reputation, particularly from Africa and Asia.

Best IITs & Science Institutes with English-Taught Programs

If you're looking for advanced science and engineering education in English, these are your top choices.

1. Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs)

All IITs (Delhi, Bombay, Madras, Kanpur, etc.) have English-medium BTech, MTech, and PhD courses.
Preferred institution for international students in engineering and technology.
Competitive entrance process; foreign students can apply through DASA or ICCR schemes.

2. Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore

India's highest-ranked science research university.
Provides Master's and PhD degrees in science and engineering disciplines—all in English.

3. IISERs (Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research)

English medium for BS-MS double degree and PhD programs in basic sciences.

Best Private & Deemed Universities for English-Medium Education

Private Universities in India provide world-class infrastructure and globally aligned curriculum.

1. O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU), Haryana

An internationally oriented private university ranked in QS World Rankings.
Offers English-medium law, liberal arts, international relations, business, and journalism degrees.
Renowned for its international faculty and international student facilities.

2. Amity University

Noida, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Dubai campuses.
Provides more than 300 English-medium degree courses.
Students from Africa, Central Asia, and the Middle East prefer it.

3. Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE)

Health sciences, engineering, and hospitality are its popular programs.
English is used as the main teaching language on all campuses.

4. VIT Vellore

Rank-one private engineering college.
Provides English-medium undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs.
International transfer program and multicultural campus.

5. KREA University

Modern liberal arts and sciences university with international faculty.
English-language instruction for BA, BSc, and PhD programs.

Specialized Institutions with English Programs

For students pursuing a niche field, these institutions offer specialized English programs and global opportunities.

1. National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bangalore

India's number one law school.
Provides BA LLB, LLM, and PhD programs in English.
Very selective, but welcomes international students.

2. Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai

Serves English-medium MA courses in Social Work, Development Studies, Public Health, etc.

3. XLRI & SPJIMR

Premier business schools with full-time MBA/PGDM courses in English.
Renowned for international internships and exchange programs.

4. Christ University, Bengaluru

Serves more than 50 UG and PG courses in English.
Famous for commerce, arts, business, and social sciences.

Popular Courses Among International Students

If you are thinking what is the most sought after courses by international students, following are most popular courses:
Engineering (B.Tech, M.Tech)

Business (BBA, MBA, PGDM)
Medicine (MBBS, BDS, Nursing)
Liberal Arts & Humanities (English, Psychology, Sociology)
Law (BA LLB, LLM)
Computer Science, Data Science, AI
International Relations & Political Science

Requirements for International Students Admission

Before applying to any course it is very important to know what are the required academic and language qualifications.

Academic Qualifications

Should qualify for eligibility in specific courses (e.g., UG in 12th grade, PG in bachelor's).

English Proficiency

IELTS/TOEFL might be necessary.
Internal English tests by some universities or exemptions for native English-speaking nations.

Entrance Exams

Engineering: JEE / DASA / SAT
Law: CLAT
MBA: CAT / XAT / GMAT
Others: Entrance tests are conducted by some universities.

Documents Required

Academic transcripts
Passport
Letters of recommendation
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Medical certificate
Financial evidence (for visa)

How to Apply?

Here is step by step guide to help you apply to your dream course and university:

Select Your University & Course
Use university websites or websites like studyinindia.gov.in.
Verify Eligibility & Get Documents Ready
Send Application
On the university website directly or through centralized platforms like Study in India.

Wait for Offer Letter

Apply for Student Visa
Apply for a visa from your local Indian consulate on acceptance.
Book Travel & Accommodation
Register with FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office) on arrival.

Scholarships & Financial Aid for International Students

Managing your studies financially is easier with following scholarships and aids:

ICCR Scholarships (Indian Council for Cultural Relations)
Study in India Scholarship Program
University-specific scholarships (e.g., Parul University, JGU)
Merit-based tuition waivers

Student Life and Support

Most leading universities have international student offices to assist with visas, orientation, and accommodation.

Campus facilities usually comprise hostels, libraries, medical care, and sports facilities.

Cultural exchange events, fests, and workshops add to social interaction.

Conclusion

What makes studying in India a great blend of academic excellence, English-medium education, affordability, and student life. Be it engineering in an IIT, world education in NLSIU, or liberal arts in JGU—India has a place for everyone.

There are over 200 universities in India that teach in English. International students can thus confidently pursue the best in the world that is tailored to their ambitions.