Scholarships for Indians to Study Abroad After 10th: Complete Guide Here 2026-27

Aspiring Indian students dreaming of a global education right after Class 10 often face the challenge of high costs, but numerous international scholarships exist to make this journey achievable for the academic year 2026-27. These opportunities cover a range of programs from prestigious high school diplomas like the International Baccalaureate (IB) and A-Levels (e.g., United World Colleges (UWC) Scholarships, AFS Intercultural Program Scholarships) to specialized foundation and pre-university courses in countries like the UK, USA, Canada, and Germany. The coverage can be substantial, varying from partial tuition fee waivers to fully funded awards that include living expenses, travel, health insurance, and sometimes even a stipend. The immense benefits extend beyond financial relief, providing students with world-class education, global exposure, enhanced career prospects, and crucial personal growth.

In this complete guide, we provide detailed information on the top scholarships for Indian students to study abroad after 10th grade, including eligibility criteria, application processes, and deadlines for the 2026-27 session.

Types of Scholarships for Indians to Study Abroad After 10th

While the majority of fully funded scholarships for Indians to study abroad are typically targeted at postgraduate students (Master’s or Ph.D.), there are specific programs and types of scholarships available for students aspiring to pursue high school (Class 11 and 12, often through the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma or A-Level programs) or foundation courses abroad after completing their 10th grade.

These scholarships can be broadly categorized based on the awarding body and the selection criteria.

Classification Category	Scholarship Type	Primary Focus & Target Programs
I. Based on Awarding Body
Intergovernmental/Organizational	United World Colleges (UWC) Scholarships	High school level (IB Diploma) programs. Funded by UWC and partner organizations globally.
	AFS Intercultural Program Scholarships	High school cultural exchange programs (e.g., in the USA, Germany, Japan).
	Other Exchange Programs	Scholarships for year-long or short-term high school student exchange programs (e.g., YES, FLEX, CBYX).
University-Specific/Institutional	International School/University Awards	Scholarships offered directly by international high schools or universities for their Foundation, A-Level, or IB Diploma programs.
	Private Endowments/Trusts	Scholarships provided by private foundations (e.g., Tata, Inlaks—though often for UG/PG, some may support early entry).
	Host Country Government Awards	Scholarships from the destination country’s government (e.g., a country may offer grants for foundation courses).
II. Based on Selection Criteria
Merit-Based	Academic Excellence Scholarships	Awarded based on outstanding performance in Class 10 (or equivalent) examinations, standardized test scores, and academic track record.
	Leadership/Talent Scholarships	Awarded for demonstrated leadership skills, excellence in extracurricular activities (sports, arts, debate), or specific talents.
Need-Based	Financial Aid/Assistance	Awarded based on the demonstrated financial need of the student’s family, often requiring income proofs. These frequently offer full or partial tuition coverage.
	Socio-Economic Category Schemes	Scholarships specifically reserved for students from certain marginalized communities (e.g., the eligibility criteria of the Indian government’s National Overseas Scholarship—though primarily for PG—sets a precedent for socio-economic criteria).

List of Scholarships for Indians to Study Abroad After 10th

You’ve successfully completed your 10th grade! That’s a great milestone, and exploring scholarships is a smart next step for your continued education. While many large, fully-funded international scholarships are targeted towards Master’s or PhD programs, there are definitely valuable scholarships and exchange programs available for students after their 10th grade, especially those focusing on high school exchanges or undergraduate studies.

Here are some important scholarship and exchange opportunities you can look into after completing your 10th grade (or equivalent):

Scholarship Name	Study Location	Coverage	Eligibility (Post 10th Grade)
United World Colleges (UWC) Scholarships	UWC schools globally (18 countries)	Full or partial funding for a two-year IB Diploma program.	High academic merit, creativity, leadership, and commitment to community service.
AFS Intercultural Programs Scholarships	USA, Germany, Japan, and other countries	Full or partial funding for intercultural exchange programs (typically one year of high school).	Strong academic performance, motivation to learn, and teacher recommendations.
Tata Scholarship for Cornell University (Undergraduate)	USA	Need-based financial aid for undergraduate studies at Cornell.	Indian students with exceptional academic records and demonstrated financial need.
Future of Change India Scholarship	Australia (University of New South Wales)	Partial tuition fee support for undergraduate programs.	Indian residents who have passed 10th grade and meet academic criteria.
Reach Cambridge University Scholarship	UK (Cambridge)	Full or partial scholarships for high school summer programs or undergraduate courses.	High school students with academic excellence.
Smooth Movers International Scholarships	Australia	Financial assistance (typically around $1000) for international students.	Students applying for scholarships or programs abroad.

Also Read: List of Scholarships for Polytechnic/Diploma Students

Details of Top Scholarships for Indians to Study Abroad After 10th

Studying abroad after the 10th grade typically involves enrolling in an International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma program or a high school exchange program. Very few full-fledged undergraduate degree scholarships are available immediately after Class 10, as most university programs require the completion of higher secondary education (Class 12 or equivalent).

Below are the details for top scholarships and programs Indians can apply for after Class 10 for study abroad:

1. United World Colleges (UWC) Scholarship

The United World Colleges (UWC) Scholarship offers a chance to pursue the two-year International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (equivalent to Classes 11 and 12) at one of the 18 UWC schools worldwide, including the Mahindra UWC of India. Selection is based on merit, potential, and an ethos of peace and sustainability, not financial means, though the scholarship amount (full or partial) is determined by the family’s financial situation. It covers tuition, accommodation, meals, and academic resources, fostering an immersive, diverse, and rigorous learning environment for students typically aged 16-18 at entry, preparing them to be compassionate and responsible global citizens. Indian students apply through the UWC Committee of India.

Program	2-year International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme
Destination	18 UWC colleges globally (including India)
Coverage	Full or Partial (based on financial need); covers tuition, board, etc.
Eligibility (India)	Indian citizen/PIO/OCI, typically in Class 10 or 11, usually aged 16-18 at entry

2. Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program

The Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program, administered by AFS Intercultural Programs India, is a fully-funded scholarship for a year-long cultural exchange in the United States. Designed to foster mutual understanding and lasting ties between the US and countries like India, the program selects high-achieving secondary school students (typically aged 15-17.7 at the start) based on merit. Participants live with a volunteer host family, attend a local US high school, and engage in civic education and community service activities, with the scholarship covering round-trip airfare, placement, a modest monthly stipend, health insurance, and program activities.

Program	Year-long cultural exchange
Destination	United States of America (USA)
Coverage	Fully funded (airfare, host family placement, school, stipend, insurance)
Eligibility (India)	Enrolled in Class 8, 9, 10, or 11; aged 15-17.7; minimum ‘B’ academic average (70%+ preferred)

3. Rotary Youth Exchange Program

The Rotary Youth Exchange Program offers secondary school students (typically aged 15-19) a chance for a long-term (full academic year) or short-term (days to three months) exchange abroad, focused on promoting global understanding and peace. Students spend the time immersed in a new culture, living with volunteer host families and attending a local school in the host country. While Rotary provides room, board, and school fees, the program is generally not a full scholarship, and the student or their family is typically responsible for costs like round-trip airfare, travel insurance, and personal spending money, requiring contact with the local Rotary club for specific exchange opportunities and costs.

Program	Long-term (academic year) or Short-term exchange
Destination	Over 100 countries (varies by district)
Coverage	Room, board, and school fees are provided; student pays for airfare, insurance, visa, and spending money
Eligibility	Students aged 15-19; contact local Rotary club for specifics and application

Eligibility Criteria for Scholarship for Indians to Study Abroad After 10th

The eligibility criteria for Indian students to study abroad after the 10th grade primarily revolve around academic performance, age, and language proficiency. Since Class 10 is typically the transition point to senior secondary education (11th and 12th grade), most overseas programs at this stage are for high school completion, foundation courses, or short-term exchange programs.

• Academic Qualification: Successful completion of Class 10 from a recognized board (CBSE, ICSE, State Boards).
• Minimum Grades: A strong academic record is essential; typically, a minimum of 60-75% or equivalent GPA is preferred/required.
• Age Requirement: Generally, students must be at least 16 years old at the time the program begins.
• English Proficiency Test: Mandatory proof of English skills via a standardized exam, such as IELTS (typically minimum 5.5-6.0 band) or TOEFL (minimum 60-80 iBT).
• Valid Passport: A current and valid Indian passport is required for application and visa processing.
• Financial Proof: Demonstrable evidence (bank statements, sponsor letters) that you can cover tuition fees and living expenses abroad.
• Academic Transcripts: Submission of official Class 10 mark sheets and school-leaving certificates.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): A well-written essay outlining your academic goals and reasons for studying abroad.
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs): At least one to two letters from your school teachers or principal.
• Parental Consent: For students under 18, a mandatory letter of consent from parents/guardians is required for admission and visa.

Tips For a Successful Scholarship Application for Indians to Study Abroad After 10th

Securing a scholarship to study abroad after the 10th grade is highly competitive. The focus is on demonstrating exceptional merit, need, and suitability for the specific program.

Here are important tips for a successful scholarship application:

• Begin your scholarship search and document preparation at least 12 months before the program start date. Deadlines for prestigious scholarships are often very early.
• Academic excellence in Class 10 is the foundation. Aim for an outstanding percentage or GPA, as merit-based scholarships prioritize the highest achievers.
• Score exceptionally well on the required language tests (IELTS or TOEFL). A score higher than the minimum requirement will significantly boost your application.
• cholarships for this age group (like UWC or AFS programs) look beyond academics. Highlight leadership roles, extracurricular achievements (sports, arts, debate), and community service involvement.
• Your Statement of Purpose or personal essay must be authentic. Clearly articulate your academic and career goals, explain why you need the scholarship, and demonstrate how you align with the scholarship’s mission.
• Choose teachers/mentors who know you well and can provide specific, powerful examples of your character, potential, and achievements, rather than just a generic letter.
• Don’t just target the big names. Research scholarships offered by individual schools, specific regions/countries, or private foundations, as these may have lower applicant numbers.
• Carefully read and adhere to all the criteria (age, marks, financial need, and course) for each scholarship. A single missed requirement leads to immediate rejection.
• If applying for need-based scholarships, have all income proof, tax returns (ITR), and bank statements meticulously prepared and ready to submit as soon as the portal opens.
• Increase your odds by applying for a mix of scholarships: Government-funded (e.g., National Overseas Scholarship), University/Institution-specific, and private organization scholarships.

Also Read: Partial Scholarships for International Students

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