Indian students planning to pursue higher education overseas in 2027 can explore several international scholarship programmes offered by governments, universities and educational organisations. These scholarships provide financial assistance for eligible undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral and research programmes.
The Scholarship Calendar 2027 for Indian Students includes funding opportunities in the UK, USA, Germany, Japan, Switzerland, Hong Kong and European countries. Some programmes offer full financial support, while others provide assistance for specific education and research expenses.
However, scholarship application dates are different for each programme. Some applications for the 2027 academic intake have already closed, while others are accepting applications or following their selection process.
This article covers the available scholarship opportunities, official application schedules, eligibility information and funding details for Indian students planning to study abroad in 2027.
Scholarship Calendar 2027: Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Article Title | Scholarship Calendar 2027 |
| Eligible Applicants | Indian Students |
| Academic Session | 2027–28 |
| Study Destinations | UK, USA, Germany, Japan, Europe, Hong Kong and Switzerland |
| Study Levels | Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD and Research |
| Scholarship Types | Fully Funded and Partially Funded |
| Application Mode | Online or as specified by the provider |
| Scholarship Providers | Governments, Universities and Organisations |
Scholarship Calendar 2027 for Indian Students
The following table presents major international scholarship programmes and their verified application status for the 2027 academic intake.
| Scholarship Name | Country | Study Level | 2027 Application Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commonwealth Master’s | UK | Master’s | Closed |
| Erasmus Mundus | Europe | Master’s | Programme-specific applications open |
| Hong Kong PhD Fellowship | Hong Kong | PhD | Open until 1 December 2026 |
| Gates Cambridge | UK | Postgraduate | Course-specific deadlines |
| DAAD Scholarships | Germany | Master’s, PhD and Research | Programme-specific |
| Chevening | UK | Master’s | Closed |
| Fulbright-Nehru | USA | Research and Academic Programmes | 2027–28 selection underway for applicable awards |
| MEXT | Japan | Undergraduate, Master’s and Research | Closed for 2027 through the announced Embassy rounds |
| Swiss Government Excellence | Switzerland | Research, PhD and Arts | Country-specific application schedule |
| Inlaks Scholarship | Multiple Countries | Postgraduate | 2026 applications closed; 2027 dates not announced |
1. Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship 2027 – UK
The Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship is a funding programme offered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK. It supports eligible students from participating Commonwealth countries, including India, who want to pursue full-time taught master’s programmes at UK universities.
The scholarship is offered under six development themes and supports candidates whose studies are connected with development priorities.
Scholarship Details
| Particulars | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Eligible Country | India and other eligible Commonwealth countries |
| Study Level | Master’s |
| Academic Session | 2027–28 |
| Application Deadline | 20 October 2026 |
| Current Status | Closed |
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be citizens of an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Be permanently resident in an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Meet the academic and other requirements specified by the scholarship.
- Be available to begin their studies in the UK in September 2027.
- Submit the required supporting documents and references.
The scholarship requires successful candidates to return to their home country after completing their studies and contribute to its development.
Official Application Website: https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/scholarships/
The official commission confirms that applications for the 2027/28 academic year closed on 20 October 2026. Nomination procedures continue, and applicants can expect selection outcomes by July 2027.
2. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarship 2027 – Europe
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters programme provides international students with opportunities to pursue master’s degrees through partnerships between higher education institutions.
Students can study at different participating universities during their programme. Depending on the course, their academic journey may include education and research in several European countries.
Scholarship Details
| Particulars | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters |
| Study Destination | European Countries |
| Study Level | Master’s |
| Programme Duration | 1–2 Academic Years |
| Application Period | Generally October to January |
| Funding | Participation Costs, Travel, Visa and Living Allowance |
| Application Mode | Directly through the Programme |
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants generally need:
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.
- A bachelor’s degree in progress, provided it is completed before the master’s programme begins.
- To meet the academic and admission requirements of the selected programme.
Application Process
- Visit the official Erasmus Mundus website.
- Open the course catalogue.
- Select a suitable master’s programme.
- Visit the programme’s official website.
- Check admission and scholarship requirements.
- Complete the application before the course-specific deadline.
There is no common application deadline for all Erasmus Mundus programmes. Most applications for courses starting in the following academic year are submitted between October and January.
Official Website: https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/opportunities/individuals/students/erasmus-mundus-joint-masters
3. Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027–28
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme is offered by the Research Grants Council to attract outstanding international students to pursue doctoral studies at participating universities in Hong Kong.
The scheme will provide 400 fellowships for the 2027/28 academic year.
Scholarship Details
| Particulars | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme |
| Country | Hong Kong |
| Study Level | PhD |
| Academic Session | 2027–28 |
| Application Start Date | 1 September 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 1 December 2026 |
| Fellowships Available | 400 |
Financial Benefits
According to the official fellowship information, the 2026/27 award provides:
- Annual stipend of HK$344,400.
- Annual conference and research-related travel allowance of HK$14,400.
- Funding for up to three years, with additional university support potentially available for longer doctoral programmes.
The published 2027/28 fellowship call confirms the number of awards. Applicants should check the latest award conditions for their admission year.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate:
- Excellent academic performance.
- Strong research ability and potential.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills.
- Leadership abilities.
Applicants must also satisfy the admission requirements of their selected Hong Kong universities.
How to Apply
- Visit the official Hong Kong PhD Fellowship website.
- Complete the initial application.
- Obtain an application reference number.
- Apply separately to the selected university or universities.
- Complete the university admission process.
- Follow the selection and interview instructions.
An applicant can select a maximum of two programmes within one or two participating universities.
Official Website: https://cerg1.ugc.edu.hk/hkpfs/
Application deadline: 1 December 2026, 12 noon Hong Kong time.
4. Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2027
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship supports outstanding international students who want to pursue eligible postgraduate programmes at the University of Cambridge.
The scholarship considers academic excellence, leadership potential, the ability to make a positive contribution to society and the suitability of the applicant’s chosen course.
Scholarship Details
| Particulars | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Gates Cambridge |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| University | University of Cambridge |
| Study Level | Postgraduate |
| Eligible Applicants | International Students |
| Academic Session | 2027–28 |
| Application Method | University Admission Application |
Financial Support
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship provides funding for the approved costs of studying at Cambridge. The standard award includes:
- University composition fee.
- Maintenance allowance.
- One economy single airfare at the beginning and end of the course.
- Inbound visa costs and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Additional discretionary funding may be available for certain approved activities.
Application Process
Applicants must apply for an eligible postgraduate course at the University of Cambridge and complete the Gates Cambridge scholarship section of the application.
The deadline depends on the selected course and the applicant’s category. Therefore, applicants must check the official 2027 entry application timetable.
Official Website: https://www.gatescambridge.org/
5. DAAD Scholarship 2027 – Germany
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) provides different scholarship opportunities for international students, graduates, researchers and academics.
Indian applicants can explore funding programmes according to their academic qualifications, subject areas and intended study or research plans.
Scholarship Details
| Particulars | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Provider | DAAD |
| Country | Germany |
| Study Levels | Master’s, PhD and Research |
| Eligible Applicants | International Students and Researchers |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Application Deadline | Depends on the Programme |
DAAD funding opportunities may include:
- Monthly scholarship payments.
- Travel allowances.
- Health, accident and personal liability insurance.
- Additional allowances under selected programmes.
For example, the DAAD scholarship database lists a doctoral programme scholarship with an application deadline of 21 October 2026, selection around February 2027 and funding starting in October 2027.
However, this deadline is for that particular programme and does not apply to every DAAD scholarship.
How to Apply
- Visit the official DAAD scholarship database.
- Select India as the country of origin.
- Choose Germany as the study destination.
- Select your qualification and subject area.
- Review the available scholarship programmes.
- Read the eligibility and application instructions.
- Submit the application through the prescribed portal.
Official Website: https://www.daad.in/en/find-funding/scholarship-database/
6. Chevening Scholarship 2027–28 – UK
Chevening is a UK Government scholarship programme for international students who want to pursue eligible one-year master’s degrees at UK universities.
The programme supports future leaders and professionals. Its selection process considers professional experience, leadership potential, networking abilities and future career plans.
Scholarship Details
| Particulars | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Chevening Scholarship |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Study Level | Master’s |
| Programme Duration | One Year |
| Academic Session | 2027–28 |
| Application Opening | 4 August 2026 |
| Application Closing | 6 October 2026 |
| Current Status | Closed |
Scholarship Benefits
The Chevening award provides financial support for eligible scholars, including:
- University tuition fees.
- Monthly living allowance.
- Travel costs to and from the UK.
- Other approved allowances.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the official Chevening eligibility conditions, including:
- Citizenship of an eligible country.
- An undergraduate qualification meeting the required entry standard.
- At least 2,800 hours of work experience after completing undergraduate studies.
- Application to three eligible UK university courses.
- Meeting the required admission conditions.
Applicants must also agree to return to their home country for at least two years after completing the scholarship.
The UK Government announced that applications for Indian students opened on 4 August 2026 and closed on 6 October 2026.
Official Website: https://www.chevening.org/scholarship/india/
7. Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships 2027–28 – USA
The Fulbright-Nehru programme provides academic and research opportunities for eligible Indian students, faculty members, researchers and professionals in the United States.
Different fellowship categories have different eligibility conditions, funding arrangements and application schedules.
One of the published 2027–28 opportunities is the Fulbright-Nehru Academic and Professional Excellence Fellowship.
Scholarship Details
| Particulars | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | Fulbright-Nehru Academic and Professional Excellence |
| Country | United States |
| Duration | 4–9 Months |
| Eligible Applicants | Indian Faculty, Researchers and Professionals |
| Academic Year | 2027–28 |
| Application Deadline | 1 July 2026 |
| Current Status | Closed |
Financial Benefits
The fellowship provides eligible benefits that include:
- J-1 visa support.
- Monthly stipend.
- Round-trip economy-class airfare.
- Accident and sickness insurance.
- Settling-in allowance.
- Professional allowance.
Additional dependent support may be available under specified conditions.
Application Process
Applicants must submit their applications through the designated online system and provide the required supporting documents.
The programme may require:
- Academic and professional information.
- Research or teaching proposals.
- A letter of support from the home institution.
- An applicant checklist and additional annexures.
- Host institution affiliation details, where applicable.
The official application deadline for this particular 2027–28 fellowship was 1 July 2026. The published selection schedule includes interviews in November 2026 and final notifications in April 2027.
Official Website: https://www.usief.org.in/
8. MEXT Scholarship 2027 – Japan
The Japanese Government offers MEXT scholarships to international students who want to study at Japanese universities and educational institutions.
Indian students can apply through the scholarship categories announced by the Embassy of Japan in India and the relevant Japanese authorities.
The 2027 scholarship announcements included research students, undergraduate students, college of technology students and specialised training college students.
Scholarship Details
| Particulars | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | MEXT Scholarship |
| Country | Japan |
| Scholarship Provider | Japanese Government |
| Study Levels | Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD and Other Eligible Categories |
| Application Method | Embassy or University Recommendation |
| 2027 Embassy Application Status | Closed |
Scholarship Benefits
Depending on the scholarship category, benefits may include:
- Exemption from tuition fees.
- Monthly scholarship allowance.
- One return air ticket.
- Japanese language training under applicable programmes.
Application Schedule for 2027
The Embassy of Japan in India published the following application periods:
| Scholarship Category | Application Period |
|---|---|
| Research Students | 20 April–15 May 2026 |
| Undergraduate Students | 23 April–25 May 2026 |
| College of Technology | 23 April–25 May 2026 |
| Specialised Training College | 23 April–25 May 2026 |
Applications for these 2027 scholarship categories have closed.
Students can check the Embassy’s official website for future recruitment announcements and category-specific guidelines.
Official Website: https://www.in.emb-japan.go.jp/Education/japanese_government_scholarships.html
9. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2027–28
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships support international academic exchange and research cooperation between Switzerland and other countries.
The programme mainly targets talented early-career researchers who have completed a master’s degree and want to conduct research or pursue doctoral studies at eligible Swiss institutions.
Scholarship Details
| Particulars | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships |
| Country | Switzerland |
| Scholarship Provider | Swiss Confederation |
| Study Categories | Research, PhD and Selected Arts Programmes |
| Academic Session | 2027–28 |
| Application Opening | 20 August 2026 |
| Application Deadline | Depends on Country |
Financial Benefits
The published scholarship information lists a monthly allowance of CHF 2,450 for applicable award categories.
The programme also provides funding according to the conditions of the selected scholarship category.
Eligibility Requirements
Depending on the category, applicants may need:
- A completed master’s degree.
- A suitable research proposal.
- Acceptance or support from a Swiss academic supervisor.
- Academic qualifications matching the selected programme.
- Compliance with the age and other eligibility conditions.
The Swiss Government publishes country-specific scholarship availability and deadlines. Therefore, Indian applicants must check the official country list before applying.
Official Website: https://www.sbfi.admin.ch/en/swiss-government-excellence-scholarships
10. Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarship 2027
The Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarship supports talented Indian graduates who want to pursue eligible postgraduate education at selected institutions outside India.
The scholarship provides financial assistance for approved courses in countries including the United Kingdom, Europe and the United States.
Scholarship Details
| Particulars | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarship |
| Eligible Applicants | Indian Students |
| Study Destination | UK, Europe and USA |
| Study Level | Postgraduate |
| Scholarship Provider | Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation |
| Maximum Funding | Up to US$120,000 |
| 2026 Application Status | Closed |
| 2027 Application Dates | Not Announced |
Eligibility Requirements
The published eligibility conditions include:
- Indian passport holder residing in India at the time of application.
- Required academic qualification from a recognised Indian university.
- Compliance with the specified age requirements.
- Required academic grades according to the selected subject category.
- Admission to the chosen institution and course.
The foundation’s published 2026 scholarship conditions include a maximum age of 30 years and specific academic grade requirements.
The 2027 application schedule has not been announced on the official scholarship page.
Official Website: https://inlaksfoundation.org/opportunities/scholarship/
Month-Wise Scholarship Calendar 2027
Students can use the following calendar to track the major application and selection activities for the 2027 academic intake.
| Month | Scholarship-Related Activities |
|---|---|
| November 2026 | Hong Kong PhD Fellowship interviews and selection activities; Fulbright-Nehru selection for applicable awards |
| December 2026 | Hong Kong PhD Fellowship application deadline; Commonwealth nominations and selection process |
| January 2027 | Erasmus Mundus programme-specific application deadlines |
| February–March 2027 | DAAD selection activities for relevant programmes |
| April 2027 | Fulbright-Nehru finalist notifications for the specified fellowship |
| May–June 2027 | Fulbright-Nehru pre-departure activities and Swiss scholarship selection |
| July 2027 | Commonwealth scholarship results expected |
| August–September 2027 | Preparation and commencement of several 2027 academic programmes |
This calendar covers the published schedules of the listed scholarship programmes. Individual universities and scholarship providers may follow different dates.
Documents Required for Study Abroad Scholarships 2027
Students applying for international scholarships may need to submit the following documents, depending on the programme:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Academic Mark Sheets | Academic performance verification |
| Degree Certificate | Proof of educational qualification |
| Passport | Identity and travel documentation |
| Updated CV | Academic and professional details |
| Statement of Purpose | Study objectives and academic interests |
| Recommendation Letters | Academic or professional references |
| English Test Score | Language proficiency, if required |
| Research Proposal | Research-based scholarship applications |
| Admission Letter | University admission proof, where required |
| Financial Documents | Financial eligibility, where applicable |
The final document requirements are provided in the official application guidelines of each scholarship.
How to Apply for Scholarships to Study Abroad in 2027?
The application procedure depends on the scholarship provider. However, most international scholarship applications involve the following steps.
Step 1: Select a Scholarship
Choose an international scholarship according to your preferred country, qualification and academic programme.
Step 2: Check Eligibility
Read the official eligibility conditions, including academic qualifications, nationality, age and language requirements.
Step 3: Select a University
Identify the universities and courses covered by the scholarship.
Step 4: Prepare Documents
Arrange academic certificates, passport details, recommendation letters, CV and other required documents.
Step 5: Complete the Application Form
Visit the official scholarship website and complete the application using the prescribed method.
Step 6: Upload Supporting Documents
Attach the required certificates, statements and other documents in the specified format.
Step 7: Submit the Application
Review all the information and submit the application before the official closing date.
Step 8: Follow the Selection Process
Check application updates, interview invitations, university admission decisions and scholarship results through the relevant official portal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which scholarships are available for Indian students to study abroad in 2027?
Indian students can explore Commonwealth Master’s, Erasmus Mundus, Hong Kong PhD Fellowship, Gates Cambridge, DAAD, Chevening, Fulbright-Nehru, MEXT, Swiss Government Excellence and Inlaks scholarships.
2. Which scholarship applications are still open for 2027?
As of 4 November 2026, the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027/28 is accepting initial applications until 1 December 2026. Erasmus Mundus applications are also being accepted by individual programmes according to their respective deadlines.
3. Is the Commonwealth Scholarship 2027 application still open?
No. The Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship application for the 2027/28 academic year closed on 20 October 2026.
4. What is the last date for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship 2027?
The last date for submitting the initial application is 1 December 2026 at 12 noon Hong Kong time.
5. Can Indian students apply for the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship?
Yes. Students from India are eligible to apply for Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters programmes if they satisfy the admission and scholarship conditions of their selected programme.
6. Is the MEXT Scholarship 2027 available for Indian students?
The Embassy of Japan in India announced several MEXT scholarship categories for 2027. However, the announced Embassy application periods for these categories have closed.
7. What is the maximum funding under the Inlaks Scholarship?
The published Inlaks scholarship conditions provide funding of up to US$120,000, subject to the scholarship terms and eligibility requirements.
8. Do all study abroad scholarships cover full tuition fees?
No. Funding depends on the individual scholarship. Some programmes provide comprehensive financial support, while others cover selected expenses or provide specific allowances.
9. Can Indian students apply for scholarships without IELTS?
Language requirements differ between scholarship providers and universities. Some programmes may accept alternative English-language qualifications or exemptions, while others require specific test results.
10. When should students start preparing for 2027 study abroad scholarships?
Students planning to begin their studies in 2027 should check scholarship and university application requirements well before the relevant deadlines. Many international scholarship applications are submitted several months before the academic session begins.