Unlocking Opportunities: A Comprehensive Guide to Securing Scholarships for Studying Abroad.

1. Introduction
2. An Overview of the importance of studying abroad
3. Understanding Scholarship
4. How to Research Scholarship
5. How to prepare for Application
6. How to Navigate for Application
7. Interview Preparation
8. Post Application Strategies

 The number of students applying for higher education in India is increasing yearly. According to the Ministry of Education, the number of enrolments in foreign education increased from 4.44 lakhs (in 2020) to 7.50 lakhs (in 2022).

 Experts say this is first because of the increasing purchase power, where Indians can afford foreign education today, and secondly to avoid competition – that is, average students, are usually unable to get into the top 50 best colleges in India because of the high population, limited seats, and lack of facilities. They then think it would be wise to study abroad, where the return on investment is high even after completion of the course. – possibilities of getting a good job.

1. The financial challenge and role of Scholarships

Studying abroad has not always been an easy decision for students in India because of affordability, which is a challenge. Tuition fees and living expenses annually may cost around 20 to 30 lakhs minimum (varies from country to country and institutions). Bank loans with high interests may eventually burden a student to repay within the given period.

Thus, Scholarship acts as a gateway, making education abroad accessible to a broader range of students. 

It reduces the financial burden on parents and students, allowing them to engage more in learning and upskilling.

Scholarship often rewards and encourages academic merit, fostering excellence in education.

Scholarship can build networking and future job opportunities for students where they learn from different professionals and make valuable connections.

Case study: Mobikwik (a fintech company in India) Cofounder Upasana Taku, from a tier 2 city, explains how she could afford her higher studies in the USA with the help of scholarships. Watch the inspiring podcast to learn about her journey.

II. Understanding Scholarships

1. There are various types of Scholarships available for studying abroad, Sponsored by various profit and non-profit bodies, such as corporations, foundations, trusts, educational institutions, and governments, to support education across the globe.
2. Merit-Based Scholarships – These are financial awards given to students for their extraordinary performances in academics, skills (communication or leadership skills), and extracurricular activities at schools or colleges. Projects completed or winning consecutive awards in a particular field like sports, science or arts are also considered for scholarships.
3. Need-based scholarships -provide financial assistance for those with significant financial need to pursue higher education overseas. They consider a student’s financial circumstances, including the family’s income, assets, and economic needs. The aim is to make education affordable to students who may face challenges affording it but have the potential to study.

A need-based Scholarship may have a specific income threshold to qualify, ensuring financial support is directed towards students with genuine needs. The process includes assessing various financial documents, such as family income, bank statements, and tax return papers, to balance the cost of education (including tuition fees and living costs). 

1. Country-Specific Scholarships—These are specific financial aid programs to support students from a particular region or country to promote globalization, academic collaboration, and cultural exchange between nations. The eligibility criteria and application process may vary according to the sponsors, governments, educational institutions, or organizations of specific countries.  

 Certain countries may offer scholarships to support students in research and innovation to attract talented individuals who can contribute to various fields. For example, the University Of Alberta gives scholarships to students from China, India, and the United States.

1. Program-Specific Scholarship—These are financial aid opportunities tailored to support students pursuing a particular academic program, degree, or discipline. These scholarships aim to attract and help students with exceptional interest and commitment to a specific study area.

Educational institutions generally partner with industry, companies, or foundations to strengthen the relationship between industry and academia. These scholarships are also supported by industry-based training and workshops to make them more relevant. The program is supported for niche categories of study like STEM courses (like Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths), innovation, and research to support future industries.

III. How to research Scholarship Opportunities:

A step-by-step guide for researching scholarship opportunities can be fulfilling and rewarding. So let’s find out the process:

Step 1: Start Early—Begin your scholarship research at least a year before your enrolment, giving you enough time to research and fulfil the application requirements.

Step 2: Determine eligibility criteria—Identify your eligibility criteria, considering factors like academic performance, area of study, financial requirements, extracurricular activities, and nationality. Knowing your opportunities will help you filter through the numerous opportunities available.

Step 3: Explore Online Database – Websites like Fastweb, Chegg, Scholarship 360, Career One Stop and many more allow you to create profiles and match scholarships according to your details. Moreover, going through government websites and targeting universities also gives you information on scholarship declarations for talented international students.

Step 4: Explore Program-Specific Scholarships—Check with the academic department of your intended course and explore opportunities tied to your discipline.

Step 5: Consult Financial aid offices- Contact the financial aid or international student offices you are interested in. They can provide information about grants, institutional scholarships, and government and private company aid to encourage international students.

Step 6: Network and Seek guidance: Connect with current or former international students, alums, or professionals in your chosen field through personal connections or follow social media and newsletters. They might provide insights into available scholarships and share their own experiences.

Step 7: Attend Scholarship fairs and events—To get professional guidance, you must attend fairs and events related to study abroad universities. There, you can meet directly with university representatives and learn more about scholarship details. Sometimes, the university rep offers on-the-spot scholarships to students, depending on their background.   

III. How to prepare for the Application—In Order to crack the Scholarship for yourself, you need to create a tailored profile with your achievements and experiences aligning with the specific criteria of the Scholarship you are applying for. Well, it is not easy. You need to pursue academic excellence, participate in purposeful extracurricular activities, and gain relevant practical experiences.  

A. Building a strong Academic profile 

• Maintaining a high GPA – Strive for consistent academic excellence throughout the year. Consistent high grades help you prove your commitment to your educational goal and being a genuine student.
• Pay extra attention to core subjects relevant to your field of study. A strong foundation on these subjects will enhance your profile. If you face any challenges, don’t hesitate to seek support from your teachers and mentors.

                     B. Participate in extracurricular activities

• Engage in extracurricular activities that align with your interests and showcase your skills. These could be clubs, sports, cultural activities, or student organizations. Take on leadership roles within these clubs, sports, and other activities, which might highlight your skills in your application process.
• Showcase diversity by participating in academic and non-academic mix activities to demonstrate a well-rounded personality.

                C. Gaining relevant or volunteering experiences

• Seek internships or part-time jobs related to your field of study because practical experience illustrates your application of theoretical knowledge. Participate in volunteer opportunities that align with your values. This not only reflects your commitment to social causes but also adds depth to your profile.
• Highlight notable achievements or projects from your work or volunteer experiences. This demonstrates initiative and impact.

Additional tips:

1. Time Management – Learn to effectively manage your time to balance academics and work or volunteer commitments. Demonstrating your ability to handle multiple responsibilities is valuable.
2. Networking and Mentorship—Seek guidance and build a network with teachers, mentors, and professionals in your field who may provide recommendations or insights for application.
3. Portfolio Development—Create a portfolio and tailor it to align with the requirements of the scholarships you are applying for.   
4. Personal Development – Focus on personal reflection to understand how your academic and extracurricular experiences have shaped your character, goals and aspirations.
5. Prepare for Interview – Anticipate potential interview questions related to your field and practice well.
6. Seek Guidance from Mentors – Consult with your teachers and professors for feedback on your academic and extracurricular choices. They can offer valuable guidance and insights for Improvement.

VI Navigating the Application Process

1. Common Application Requirements:

1. Transcripts and academic records—Ensure that you gather official transcripts and academic records from all educational institutions attended. Submit these documents according to the scholarship provider’s instructions.
2.  Proof of Language Proficiency – If the Scholarship requires proficiency in a specific language such as English, provide valid test scores (e.g. IELTS, PTE TOEFL). Some scholarships may have language proficiency requirements for non-native speakers. 
3. Personal Statement or Essay – Craft a compelling personal statement or essay that highlights your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, career goals and reasons for applying for the Scholarship.
4. Letter of Recommendation: Your letter of recommendation can speak for your academic abilities, character, and potential for success, so choose recommenders who know you well and can provide specific examples of your accomplishments. Recommendations from industry professionals and academics hold weight in your scholarship application.   

Tips for Successful Application:

1. Adhering to deadlines – Prioritize for submitting your application within strict deadlines. Submissions must be on time to ensure you are considered.
2. Proofreading and Editing Application Materials—Thoroughly proofread and edit all application materials to ensure clarity, correctness, relevancy, and consistency. Consider seeking feedback from peers, teachers, or professionals.​​
3. Tailor Application for Specific Scholarship – Different scholarships have different objectives, so customize each Scholarship’s application requirements and objectives. Highlight relevant achievements, experiences and goals that resonate with scholarship focus areas.
4. Be Authentic and genuine. Share genuine insights into your motivation, aspirations, and experiences. Avoid exaggeration or misrepresentations, which can jeopardize your application.

VII. Interview Preparation:

1. Understanding interview process

• The purpose of the interview is to clarify your suitability for the Scholarship beyond your application. So, your objective should align with your application material.
• Format of Interview: Be familiar with in-person, virtual, or telephonic interview formats and prepare for different styles, such as panel or one-on-one interviews.
• Evaluation Criteria—Recognize key factors that interviewers may consider, such as academic achievements, extracurricular activities, career aspirations, and personal qualities that match scholarship objectives. 

1. Common Interview questions and how to answer them:

1. Tell me about yourself – Provide a concise overview of your academic background, interest, relevant experience and career aspiration. Emphasize your strengths and achievements.
2. Why do you deserve this Scholarship? 

Highlight your academic achievements, leadership experiences, community involvement, and future goals. Connect your qualifications with the scholarship mission and values.

1. What motivates you to study abroad?

           Share your reason for international education, such as academic enrichment, cultural immersion, or personal growth.

1. How will you contribute to the academic community abroad?

Explain how your unique skills, perspective and experiences will enrich your academic environment and contribute positively to campus. Also, discuss projects and initiatives you plan to undertake.

1. Tell us a challenge you have Overcome.

Discuss a situation in which you have overcome a significant challenge, including your approach to it and what you learned and experienced from it. Focus on problem-solving skills and personal growth.

1. Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

Outline your long term academic and career goal aligned with your chosen field of study. Emphasize how the Scholarship will support your aspiration.

C. Presenting oneself confidently and authentically?

1. Practice and prepare mock interviews with teachers, advisors, friends, and family to understand strengths and weaknesses and become more confident. This will also help you work on your body language, such as posture, eye contact, and more.
2.  Try to be authentic with your responses and connect with interviewers. Only answer with understanding, which may look scripted.
3. Active listening will help you answer clearly, so listen first and then think about and answer the questions.
4. Express enthusiasm and gratitude to the scholarship authority for allowing you to showcase your accomplishments.

VIII. Post Application Strategies

1. Following up on the Application

• Send a polite email to the scholarship provider confirming receipt of your application. This ensures that your application was received and acknowledges your interest in the Scholarship.
• If your scholarship provider still needs to provide you with an estimated timeline for a decision, consider politely asking about the expected timeline for notification. This will convey your interest in the Scholarship and allow you to plan accordingly.
• Regularly check your email for new updates or requisitions for additional information.

1. Plan for Multiple outcomes

•  Plan for different scenarios—Prepare yourself mentally for different outcomes, whether you receive the Scholarship, are waitlisted, or do not receive it. Have a plan for each scenario and adapt accordingly.
• Explore other alternatives—research other grants, scholarships, or student loans in case you do not receive the Scholarship.
• Stay flexible—If you do not receive your desired Scholarship, be open to changing your destination for studying abroad or to other programs that suit your field of study.

1. Seeking feedback for Improvement

Request feedback: If you are not selected, please politely request feedback from a scholarship provider. Constructive feedback can help you improve your application or interview skills in the future.

Final Words:

Studying abroad is an enriching experience that opens doors to new opportunities, challenges and personal growth. Securing a scholarship to study overseas is a rewarding journey that requires dedication, perseverance, and strategic planning. Dream big, work hard and seize opportunities to make a difference.