Top Scholarships for International Students to Study Abroad in 2025

Most Popular Scholarships for International Students in 2025

Studying abroad is a dream for thousands of Indian students every year. From gaining international exposure to learning from world-class universities, the benefits are immense. However, the high cost of tuition, living expenses, and travel often makes this dream seem out of reach. Thankfully, there are numerous scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs that can help reduce this financial burden.

In 2025, Indian students have access to a wide range of scholarships for programs in the US, Europe, Asia, and Latin America. By applying strategically, you can secure funding and make your global education journey financially feasible.

This guide lists the top 10 scholarships to study abroad in 2025, along with eligibility criteria, award amounts, and tips to increase your chances of receiving them.

1. CET Academic Programs Scholarships ($500 - $3,000)

CET is a global study abroad provider with offices in Brazil, China, Colombia, Czech Republic, Italy, Spain, Jordan, and Taiwan. It offers scholarships for high school, gap year, and college programs, awarded based on merit and financial need.

Eligibility Tips:

• Students applying to any CET program are automatically eligible for scholarships.
• Maintain strong academic records and showcase community involvement.

Application Strategy:

• Submit scholarship application along with program application.
• Include a compelling essay highlighting your goals and financial need.

Why Choose CET:

• Flexible programs across multiple countries.
• Support for both tuition and living costs.

2. SIT Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants ($500 - $5,000)

SIT Study Abroad offers need-based scholarships for semester and summer programs. Semester scholarships range from $500 to $5,000, and summer scholarships from $500 to $3,000.

Eligibility Tips:

• Open to all accepted SIT students.
• Strong academic performance and demonstrated financial need increase chances.

Application Strategy:

• Apply as soon as acceptance is confirmed.
• Seek guidance from your home school’s financial aid office for additional support.

Benefits:

• Widely accessible scholarships.
• Helps reduce both tuition and travel expenses.

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3. St. John’s University Scholarships ($250 - $12,000)

St. John’s University provides various scholarships, including:

• Automatic merit-based awards
• Catholic and service-oriented scholarships
• Donor-funded scholarships

Eligibility Tips:

• Scholarship requirements vary by award type.
• Prepare separate applications if multiple scholarships are applicable.

Application Strategy:

• Highlight leadership, volunteering, or unique academic achievements.
• Request recommendation letters that reflect your commitment to studies and service.

Benefits:

• Covers tuition costs and provides additional living expense support.

4. Arcadia Abroad Scholarships & Financial Aid ($250 - $2,500)

Arcadia Abroad assists approximately 70% of students with financial aid. Even students already receiving support from their home institution can qualify.

Eligibility Tips:

• Academic excellence and financial need are key factors.
• Students participating in faculty-led programs have an advantage.

Application Strategy:

• Submit required documentation early.
• Include a detailed financial need statement.

Benefits:

• Enhances accessibility for students from diverse financial backgrounds.

5. The School for Field Studies Scholarships ($500 - $7,500)

SFS focuses on field-based, research-oriented programs. They collaborate with students’ home institutions to provide financial support.

Eligibility Tips:

• Students should check with their financial aid office for external funding opportunities.
• Participation in environmental or field research programs improves chances.

Application Strategy:

• Submit your home school’s recommendation letters.
• Provide a clear plan on how the program will benefit your academic and career goals.

Benefits:

• Significant support for experiential learning abroad.

6. CISabroad Scholarships and Financial Aid ($500 - $5,000)

CISabroad aims to make international education accessible to all students. Around 70% of students receive scholarships, grants, or discounts.

Eligibility Tips:

• Students must submit their initial CISabroad application before applying for financial aid.
• Demonstrated financial need and academic performance matter.

Application Strategy:

• Keep all documentation ready (essays, transcripts, recommendation letters).
• Apply early to maximize funding chances.

Benefits:

• Supports a majority of applicants.
• Flexible use across different program types.

7. Verto Opportunity Grant & Verto Scholars Award ($1,500 - $15,000)

Verto Education offers two distinct scholarships: Verto Opportunity Grant and Verto Scholars Award. These scholarships are for students starting college abroad.

Eligibility Tips:

• Ideal for students seeking an early international college experience.
• Academic merit and leadership are crucial for Verto Scholars Award.

Application Strategy:

• Submit personal essays highlighting your global aspirations.
• Include recommendations emphasizing your adaptability and initiative.

Benefits:

• One of the highest-value scholarships in this list.

8. Global Experiences Generation Study Abroad Scholarship ($500 - $10,000)

Global Experiences supports summer and semester programs across 11 global locations. These scholarships are generally for faculty-led programs, so check compatibility with your university.

Eligibility Tips:

• Ensure your program aligns with scholarship criteria.
• Strong academic record and extracurricular achievements improve chances.

Application Strategy:

• Contact your home school for guidance on additional funding.
• Submit all program-specific documents accurately.

Benefits:

• Wide global coverage and financial flexibility.

9. IFSA Scholarships and Financial Aid ($500 - $10,000)

IFSA provides scholarships for January term, semester, year, and summer programs. Financial aid ensures broader access for students.

Eligibility Tips:

• Begin your IFSA program application to access scholarship forms.
• Provide detailed financial need and academic merit documentation.

Application Strategy:

• Include essays that reflect personal growth goals.
• Use prior study abroad or volunteer experience to strengthen the application.

Benefits:

• Makes international education accessible to more students.

10. CEA CAPA Scholarships and Financial Aid ($1,000 - $10,000)

CEA CAPA awards over $2 million annually to students studying and interning abroad. They encourage students to apply for external scholarships alongside internal aid.

Eligibility Tips:

• Scholarships are merit- and need-based.
• Internships abroad also qualify for financial support.

Application Strategy:

• Consult your study abroad office for additional scholarships.
• Apply early to maximize award potential.

Benefits:

• Combines study and internship support with external scholarship guidance.

Tips to Maximize Scholarship Opportunities

Securing a scholarship to study abroad requires more than just meeting basic eligibility criteria. Strategic planning, preparation, and attention to detail can significantly increase your chances of receiving financial aid. Below are key tips to help you maximize scholarship opportunities.

1. Start Early

One of the most important steps in securing a scholarship is starting the process as early as possible. Many scholarships have strict deadlines, sometimes months before your program begins. Early preparation gives you enough time to research scholarship options, gather necessary documents, and craft strong applications. Procrastination can lead to missed opportunities, so create a timeline and checklist to stay on track.

2. Maintain Strong Academics

Grades and academic achievements are often a major factor in scholarship selection. Consistently performing well in your studies demonstrates dedication, discipline, and potential for success in a study abroad program. High GPAs, strong standardized test scores, and academic awards can help your application stand out among thousands of applicants.

3. Highlight Extracurricular Activities

Scholarship committees look for well-rounded students. Leadership roles, volunteering, internships, and participation in clubs or competitions reflect your initiative, teamwork, and community engagement. Clearly highlighting these experiences in your application or essay can show that you bring more than just academic excellence to the table.

4. Tailor Applications

Generic applications are less likely to impress selection committees. Customize each essay and document to match the scholarship’s objectives. Address specific criteria, align your goals with the program’s mission, and provide examples that demonstrate your suitability. A personalized application can significantly enhance your chances of success.

5. Leverage Home School Support

Many scholarships value recommendations or guidance from your home institution. Teachers, counselors, or program coordinators can provide strong recommendation letters and insights into funding options. Additionally, your school may have its own resources or co-sponsorships to support your application.

Conclusion

Studying abroad is more than just an academic pursuit—it is a life-changing experience that exposes students to diverse cultures, global perspectives, and unparalleled learning opportunities. While the financial aspect can often feel overwhelming, scholarships serve as a bridge, making international education accessible to students from all backgrounds.

In 2025, Indian students have access to a wide range of scholarships, from need-based grants to merit-based awards, offered by prestigious universities, study abroad providers, and international organizations.

Programs like CET Academic Programs, SIT Study Abroad, and Verto Education provide significant financial aid to help cover tuition, living expenses, and travel costs. Similarly, scholarships from institutions such as St. John’s University, Arcadia Abroad, and CISabroad ensure that students with strong academic records or financial need can pursue their dreams without compromise.

Maximizing scholarship opportunities requires careful planning, early applications, and strategic presentation of your achievements. Students should focus on academic excellence, extracurricular involvement, leadership roles, and community service, as these factors often play a critical role in awarding scholarships. Additionally, leveraging resources from home institutions and staying informed about deadlines can significantly improve the chances of success.

Ultimately, scholarships do more than reduce financial pressure—they empower students to focus on learning, personal growth, and professional development while studying abroad. By exploring the top scholarships listed in this guide and applying with diligence, Indian students can transform their dream of international education into a reality in 2025, opening doors to new opportunities, global networks, and lifelong experiences.