By Piyush Kumar
The United States has been one of the most popular study destinations for Indian students for years, as it provides world-class education, a plethora of career opportunities, and a global network. According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, four out of the top 10 universities are in the US. Some of the world’s most renowned institutions are based in the US — Harvard University, Stanford University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), to name a few. In 2023–2024, more than 1.1 million international students enrolled at US colleges and universities, according to the Open Doors Report 2024 — a 7% increase from the previous academic year.
Universally reputed degrees, research-based institutions, the flexibility of academic programmes, and cutting-edge infrastructure make the US one of the most sought-after higher education destinations for global students, particularly for Indians looking to boost their knowledge base, cultivate critical thinking, and gain international exposure. It remains a preferred location for higher education, helping students become all-rounders while promoting networking with peers from different nationalities in one multicultural environment. According to the Open Doors Report 2024, India became the top country of origin for the first time since 2009, with a 35% increase in Indian students.
The cost of studying in the US is a key consideration for many aspirants. For instance, tuition fees typically range from $35,000 to $85,000 per year, depending on the type of degree, institution (public or private), and location. For an undergraduate programme, the cost varies from $20,000 to $55,000 per year and from $25,000 to $80,000 for graduate programmes. Additionally, for living costs, depending on the city, students can expect to pay between $1,800 and $3,800 per month, covering accommodation, food, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses.
Scholarships play a crucial role in making higher education in the US more accessible, ensuring that talented students can achieve their academic goals without financial constraints. Many US universities, government bodies, and private organisations offer financial aid tailored for international students, helping to bridge the affordability gap.
Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships (Government-Funded): This scholarship is intended for international students pursuing master’s or doctoral programmes. It covers living expenses, tuition, flights, and health and accident insurance. For PhD researchers, the fellowships are for six to nine months and include a monthly stipend.
For students pursuing master’s degrees, these fellowships are awarded for up to two years at US colleges and universities in fields such as Economics; Environmental Science/Studies; Higher Education Administration; International Affairs; International Legal Studies; Journalism and Mass Communication; Public Administration; Public Health; Urban and Regional Planning; and Women’s Studies/Gender Studies.
Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Programme (Government-Funded): This fellowship, part of the Fulbright programme, is for young and mid-career professionals from developing nations. It provides ten months of graduate study without a degree, along with real-world experience.
The programme is designed to meet the requirements of policymakers, planners, administrators, and managers in government, public and private sectors, and non-governmental organisations, who have a public service commitment, demonstrated leadership potential, and dedication to their country’s development.
It covers tuition, a monthly stipend, living costs, airfare, and allowances for professional activities such as field trips, professional visits, and conferences.
#YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship (Non-Government): Regardless of their subject of study, international undergraduate students are supported by this fellowship. Candidates are required to submit a video or essay that highlights their initiatives to advance cross-cultural communication.
AAUW International Fellowships (Non-Government): International women enrolled full-time in graduate or postdoctoral programmes are supported by these fellowships. Master’s students receive $20,000, while postdoctoral researchers receive $50,000. Fellowships for master’s students last up to five years and may be renewed for a second year.
Most universities offer their own scholarships, depending on the courses and funding they receive from the public or private sector. It is important for students to apply early to the university to increase their chances of securing a scholarship. These scholarships can be available for both undergraduate and graduate students and are often referred to as Merit Scholarships.
Examples include the International Outreach Scholarship Award by the University of Cincinnati, the NAMU ASU Scholarship, the Stamps Scholarship at the University of Connecticut, the Global Scholarship by Kent State University, and the Global Wildcat Award by the University of Arizona.
Securing a scholarship requires thorough research, a well-prepared application, and strategic planning. Students should identify scholarships that align with their academic background, financial needs, and field of study. A compelling statement of purpose, strong letters of recommendation, and an impressive academic record enhance the chances of success. It is crucial to apply early, as many scholarships have strict deadlines. Meeting eligibility requirements, including standardised test scores like GRE, GMAT, SAT, and IELTS, is essential.
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The United States continues to remain the top choice for Indian students seeking academic success. With the right scholarship, Indian students can realise their dream of studying in the US without financial burden. By proactively researching opportunities and preparing well-structured applications, aspiring students can unlock doors to a global educational experience. Numerous scholarships are available to help deserving students overcome financial challenges and pursue their goals.
(The author is the Regional Director for South Asia, Canada, and LATAM at IDP Education. The views expressed in this piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the views of News18.)
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