The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), an independent entity under the Ministry of External Affairs India, in collaboration with the High Commission of India across various nations, has disclosed scholarship opportunities aimed at encouraging international students to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD programs in selected Indian universities.
In its recent announcement, the ICCR unveiled openings for the academic year 2024-25, extending scholarships for programs centered on Indian culture such as dance, music, theater, performing arts, sculpture, Indian languages, and Indian cuisine.
Additionally, scholarships are accessible for disciplines including engineering, science, agriculture, commerce and economics, arts, humanities, and social sciences. However, medical/paramedical, fashion, law courses, and integrated courses such as BALLB (5 Years) or BSc & MSc (5 Years) are not covered by these scholarships.
Eligibility criteria dictate that applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English, possess a valid passport for the entirety of the course duration, and maintain good health. Prospective candidates must also meet age requirements, being at least 18 years old as of April 30, 2023, but no older than 30 years for undergraduate or postgraduate courses, and 45 years for PhD courses. The deadline for submitting applications is May 31, 2024.
The ICCR boasts a roster of over 6,000 foreign students from approximately 120 countries at any given time. The scholarship package encompasses living allowances, contingent grants, thesis and dissertation expenses, as well as medical benefits. Initial living allowances for the first three months are disbursed in cash in advance by ICCR regional offices or headquarters, with subsequent payments released on a monthly or quarterly basis following the submission of a joining report.
For aspirants in the UK, applications are being accepted under various schemes, including the Atal Bihari Vajpayee General Scholarship Scheme (A1201), the Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam Commonwealth Scholarship Scheme (A1203), and the Lata Mangeshkar Dance and Music Scholarship Scheme (A1209).
Similarly, for prospective students in Ghana, opportunities are available under schemes such as the Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam Commonwealth Scholarship Scheme (A1203), the Lata Mangeshkar Dance and Music Scholarship Scheme (A1209), and The India-Africa Maitri Scholarship Scheme for Africa (G0179).
