Studying abroad in September 2026 is closer than you think — and it can cost far less than you expect. From government grants to university awards to a free air ticket, here's every way to fund your dream.
The September 2026 intake is one of the most competitive — and most rewarding — windows to study abroad. Most students think they can't afford it. The truth is, with the right mix of scholarships, government schemes, and smart planning, the cost can be cut dramatically. Let's break down every option available to you right now.
Funding a foreign education isn't a single act — it's a combination of multiple sources stacked together. Think of it like building blocks: each scholarship, scheme, or saving adds up until your September 2026 dream becomes completely achievable.
Indian Government Scholarships
The Government of India runs several merit-based and need-based scholarship programmes specifically for students planning to study abroad. These are largely underutilised because agents rarely promote them — they don't earn a commission from them.
National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) Offered by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment for SC, ST, and OBC students for masters and PhD programmes abroad. Covers tuition, living allowance, and travel. Eligible: SC / ST / OBC students
ICCR Scholarships The Indian Council for Cultural Relations offers bilateral scholarships for Indian students to study in partner countries including France, Germany, Italy, and more. Eligible: All Indian students
State Government Schemes Many states like Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, and Telangana have dedicated foreign study scholarships and fee reimbursement schemes for meritorious students. Varies by state
Host Country Government Scholarships
Destination countries actively fund international students — especially from India — as a way to attract global talent. These scholarships are government-funded and often cover tuition fully.
Chevening Scholarships — UK Fully funded scholarships for outstanding Indian students for one-year master's programmes at UK universities. Covers tuition, living costs, and flights. Fully funded
Australia Awards Funded by the Australian Government, open to Indian students for postgraduate study. Covers full tuition, return airfare, and living expenses. Fully funded
DAAD Scholarships — Germany The German Academic Exchange Service offers scholarships for Indian students at German universities — many programmes taught entirely in English and tuition-free. Tuition-free + stipend
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships For doctoral students heading to Canada, offering CAD $50,000/year for three years. Highly competitive but life-changing. Doctoral level
University Scholarships
Most universities offer their own merit-based, need-based, or country-specific scholarships for international students. These are often automatic — you apply for them when you apply to the university itself.
University scholarships are one of the most accessible ways to save money — they don't require a separate application in most cases. On Edvia, you can see which universities offer scholarships before you even apply.
Merit-based university awards Awarded based on your academic performance — typically 10% to 50% reduction in tuition fees. Available at most UK, Canadian, and Australian universities. Based on your grades
International student bursaries Many universities reserve special funds for students from South Asia. These are awarded on a combination of merit and demonstrated financial need. India-specific at many universities
Department-specific scholarships Engineering, business, and healthcare departments often have their own scholarship budgets. These are less publicised — Edvia's course explorer helps surface them. By subject area
The Edvia Roadshow — Save More Than Just Money
This is where Edvia goes beyond information. The Edvia Roadshow is a unique opportunity for September 2026 applicants to experience their dream destination firsthand — and walk away with real financial benefits baked in.
What you get from the Edvia Roadshow:
- Free air ticket — To your dream destination, worth ₹60,000–₹1.2 lakh
- Scholarships up to ₹10 lakh — Direct university scholarships unlocked at the Roadshow
- PTE / IELTS discount coupons — Save on your English proficiency tests
- Recreational activities — Experience the student life before you commit
05 — Other Smart Ways to Save for September 2026
Beyond scholarships, there are practical financial moves that reduce the total cost of studying abroad significantly.
Education loans with moratorium Many banks like SBI, Bank of Baroda, and HDFC offer education loans at competitive rates with repayment starting only after you're employed. Pair this with a partial scholarship for maximum benefit. Start repaying after placement
Zero platform fee with Edvia Traditional agents charge ₹50,000–₹2,00,000 in fees. Edvia charges nothing — that's money that stays with you. Plus no commission cuts on your university payments. ₹0 platform fees
Early application advantage Most university scholarships are awarded first-come, first-served. Applying early for September 2026 — starting now — dramatically increases your chances of securing financial aid. Apply now for best chances
Your September 2026 Scholarship Timeline
April – June 2026 → Check eligibility & shortlist universities Use Edvia's real-time eligibility checker to know exactly where you stand.
July – August 2026 → Appear for PTE / IELTS Use your Edvia Roadshow discount coupons to save on test fees.
September – October 2026 → Apply for government scholarships NOS, ICCR, and state schemes open around this window.
Start Arranging Your September 2026 Scholarship Today
Check your eligibility in 2 minutes. No agents. No fees. No confusion. Just your options, clearly laid out.
Visit Edvia and check your eligibility now.
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