It is 2024 and India just got better in education standards. So, if you are considering India right now as an African, that is a good decision. When it comes to world rankings, India makes the top 250 in the world according to Times Higher Education. So, yes, that’s a good position to be globally. India is also an affordable country to study but not everyone can afford the tuition and miscellaneous. So, in this post, we will talk about getting in through a scholarship. Specifically, we will be looking at the best India scholarship for African students. With this pathway, you do not have to pay from your pocket to learn.
India Scholarship for African Students
Compared to other developed nations, getting a scholarship in India is fairly easy. But if you find it hard to receive a scholarship program in India, here’s a list of 10 scholarships for African students that you can easily receive in 2034.
1. ITEC/SCAAP Government Of India Fully Funded Scholarship
First, the best India scholarship for African students you can apply for is the ITEC/SCAAP Government Of India fully funded scholarship. The National Institute of Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (NIESBUD), together with the Indian government, runs the ITEC/SCAAP scholarship program. This program is for students from the ITEC (Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation) countries in Africa and worldwide. Being fluent in English is necessary to be eligible.
African students who get this scholarship receive full support. This includes an accommodation allowance, full coverage of tuition fees, and a monthly stipend of $360. Additionally, African recipients get a book allowance of $72, visa fees, project expenses, and round-trip travel expenses to and from India.
2. DBT JRF Scholarship
Under the Ministry of Science and Technology in India, there’s a scholarship known as the Department of Biotechnology India scholarship for African students. It’s designed to support international students, including those from Africa, who are studying in India, as well as Indian nationals pursuing studies in biotechnology.
Selection for the DBT Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) is based on performance in the Biotechnology Eligibility Test (BET). This scholarship initially lasts for three years, with the possibility of extending it for two more years as a Senior Research Fellowship (SRF), depending on the student’s performance.
The Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) awards a scholarship of Rs. 25,000 plus a House Rent Allowance (HRA), while the Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) provides Rs. 28,000 plus a House Rent Allowance (HRA).
3. Government of India Fully-funded Scholarships for International Training Programmes in India
We also have the National Institute of Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (NIESBUD) which manages a scholarship program for the Indian government. This program provides fully funded scholarships for training programs in India, offering 105 scholarships in total. These training programs focus on topics like Rural Enterprise Planning, International Marketing, Global Competitiveness, and Women and Youth Entrepreneurship in Water Supply and Sanitation Development.
Students from Africa, South America, and certain European countries are eligible to apply. Selected candidates will get complete coverage for their tuition fees, visa fees, course and accommodation expenses, and a monthly allowance of Rs 25,000. They will also receive a book allowance of Rs 5,000 and the chance to go on a study tour.
4. Indian School Of International Business Scholarship (ISB)
At number 4, we have the Indian School Of International Business Scholarship, commonly called ISB scholarship. The ISB scholarship is for African and international students who are interested in pursuing a postgraduate degree in business management. It offers a one-year postgraduate course in business management. There are 26 scholarships available for those who qualify.
To be eligible for this India scholarship for African students, you should:
- Provide a certificate showing your proficiency in English.
- Have a strong background in business administration.
- Possess practical experience in the field.
- Have a good Graduate Record Examination (GRE) score.
The ISB scholarship program includes different categories, each with its own scholarship package. The first category is the ISB merit waiver, which offers tuition fee reductions that vary from 25% to 100%. There’s also the ISB-AIESEC category, which provides a substantial scholarship of INR 1,000,000, about $14,360. The Bridge to India category offers scholarships between $7,180 and $14,360. Finally, the La Caixa, Casa Asia, and Talentia categories grant full scholarships to deserving candidates.
5. Wellcome Trust/DBT India Alliance Senior Fellowships in India
This scholarship program is a joint effort between the Wellcome Trust in the UK and the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India. It’s designed to support researchers working in biomedical sciences, with a focus on improving animal and human health. Students from all over the world, including Africa, are welcome to apply. As an African, to be eligible for this scholarship, you need to be a researcher in basic or veterinary science with up to 15 years of post-Ph.D. research experience. If you win the Wellcome Trust/DBT India Alliance Senior Fellowship, you’ll get financial support for your research expenses for 4 years. Unfortunately, this particular scholarship is not renewable.
6. SIU-ICCR Joint Scholarship For Developing Countries
Symbiosis International University (SIU) and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) have teamed up to offer a scholarship program for international students and those from developing African countries. If you are interested in studying at SIU, you can apply and choose from a variety of courses the university offers. You must be proficient in English.
The candidates who are selected will get a complete scholarship package, which includes full payment of tuition fees, accommodation expenses, and a stipend for meals.
7. KIIT University International Scholarship Program (KUISP)
At number 7, we have the KUISP India scholarship for African students. The KIIT University International Scholarship Program is designed to help students from various countries, including Africa, who want to study at KIIT University. You can apply for any degree program offered by the university, except for nursing, architecture, and medical courses.
This India scholarship for African students is open to students globally, except those from South Asian countries. Applicants who are in a challenging financial situation will be given special consideration. If you’re chosen as a recipient, you’ll get a full waiver of your tuition fees and accommodation allowances. Those who are awarded the half scholarship program will receive 50% of the total scholarship value.
8. E-Governance Digital India Fellowship for International Students
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology is offering a global scholarship program—Digital India Fellowship for International Students. Students from across the world, including Africa, are invited to apply. The focus of this scholarship is on courses related to e-governance.
There are 25 scholarships available, mainly aimed at government officials from different countries. Eligible candidates should be postgraduates under the age of 50 and have a passport that is valid for at least one more year. A deep understanding of national and international e-governance issues is also required. Successful applicants will receive full financial support, covering tuition fees, accommodation, meals, and travel expenses.
9. General Scholarship Scheme (GSS) For International Students
The Government of India and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) provide the GSS scholarship to African and international students who want to study at an accredited university in India. To be eligible for the GSS scholarship, you need to:
- Be proficient in English, as that’s the language used for teaching.
- Be a citizen of certain countries from Asia, Africa, or Latin and American regions.
You can pick 3 courses that you prefer. If you’re interested in performance art, you should submit a short video or audio of your talent. Postgraduate applicants need to provide a summary of their research work with relevant documents and transcripts. Chosen candidates will have their tuition fees fully covered. They’ll also get a stipend of INR 5500 for undergraduates, INR 6000 for postgraduates, and INR 7500 for research and postdoctoral candidates. Also, there’s a monthly accommodation allowance of INR 5000, a one-time thesis allowance, and a medical allowance of INR 5000 for undergraduates, INR 7000 for postgraduates, and INR 15500 for research and postdoctoral candidates.
10. Nalanda University Master Scholarship For International Students
So, finally, we have the Nalanda University Master scholarship for international students, including Africans. This scholarship is very popular among international and African students and is one of the most prestigious in India. It invites students ready to study in any field offered by the University.
You can choose from various courses like history, ecology, philosophy, and several arts and humanities subjects. To be eligible for the Nalanda University scholarship, you need an excellent academic record in your previous degree and a certificate proving your proficiency in English. If selected, you’ll receive a package covering your full tuition fees, accommodation, and a stipend for meals.
India a Good Place for Scholarship
If you are an African student wondering whether India is the right place for your academic journey, the answer is definitely YES. India is home to many globally recognized universities, especially known for their engineering and technology programs.
India offers a wide variety of courses and unique educational programs, and the cost of education here is quite affordable. This affordability doesn’t mean you’ll be sacrificing quality; it’s an opportunity to get a high-quality education without spending too much.
Moreover, there are various scholarships, loans, and financial aid programs available to help with education costs. These scholarships can be in the form of financial support, educational resources, or even job opportunities. Some scholarships are specifically designed for certain study areas, like business or engineering.
There are also organizations, such as the African American Scholarship Foundation (AASCF), that offer scholarships particularly for African students. This makes studying in India a very practical choice.
Reasons to Study In India in 2024
Scholarships in India for African students are incredibly valuable. They include a variety of scholarships and grants that help overcome the challenges African students might face in India. These scholarships provide financial aid, housing options, and other resources to support your stay in India.
A big benefit of getting a scholarship in India for African students is the country’s rich cultural diversity. India is used to welcoming people from various backgrounds, including different cultures, races, religions, and ethnicities. This makes it easier for African students to adapt to life in India compared to other countries.
Another advantage is the language. Unlike many countries where knowing the local language is essential, in India, this isn’t a big issue. Most people in India speak English, and educational courses are often taught in English too.
Requirements for India scholarship for African students
To apply for a scholarship in India as an African student, there are several important documents you need to prepare. First, you’ll need a student visa, which is specifically for students studying abroad. Make sure your passport will be valid for at least 6 months after your planned stay in India. You should also have passport-sized photos and a photocopy of your passport. You’ll need proof of where you live. Gather a copy of the online application forms you’ve filled out and the acceptance letter from the university you’ll be attending, as well as details about the university itself.
Conclusion
So, we have had a look at 10 different scholarships. The best India scholarship for African students is the ICCR Africa Scholarship Scheme. In India, a fully paid scholarship covers all your educational expenses, including tuition, accommodation, board fees, and other academic costs. On the other hand, a partial scholarship only covers some of these expenses. Choose the scholarship that fits your needs and apply.
Read Also: Scholarship for African Students in Canada
