Studying abroad can open doors to exciting academic and career opportunities, but the cost can be a major concern.
Tuition fees, accommodation, travel, food and other expenses can make international education difficult to afford. Fortunately, scholarship opportunities can help reduce this financial pressure and make studying overseas more accessible.
For Indian students planning to study in the UK, Europe or Australia—or already studying at a foreign university—October is a useful time to research funding for the next academic year.
Several important scholarship cycles are approaching, while others have already closed for 2027 entry.
In this guide, we explore some of the most relevant scholarship opportunities to investigate as of 12 October 2026, along with application tips to help you prepare.
Please check the official scholarship websites for the latest eligibility criteria, application dates and funding conditions before applying.
1. Commonwealth Shared Scholarships – Study in the UK
Applications expected to open in November 2026
The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship is worth investigating if you want to pursue a one-year taught master’s degree in the UK.
Funded jointly by the UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and participating universities, the programme supports eligible students from Commonwealth countries, including India, who could not otherwise afford to study in the UK.
What can it cover?
Tuition fees, subject to the programme’s funding limit.
Return air travel.
A monthly living allowance.
Certain study-related costs and eligible additional support.
Who should consider it?
Indian students planning to begin an eligible master’s course in the UK in 2027, particularly those whose proposed studies relate to development needs.
Applications for the 2027–2028 awards are expected to open in early November 2026 and close in mid-December 2026. The approved course list is expected in November.
Check the official Commonwealth Shared Scholarships website for the confirmed dates and eligible courses.
Important: This programme has strict eligibility conditions, including a requirement to return to your home country before the end of your UK visa. Students who have already studied or worked in a high-income country for one academic year or more may not qualify.
2. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters – Study Across Europe
Many programmes accept applications between October and January
If you would like to study in Europe, Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters is another important option.
These programmes are delivered by partnerships of universities in different countries. Depending on the course, you may study at multiple institutions and gain a joint or multiple degree qualification.
Full scholarships are available to highly ranked applicants from around the world, including eligible Indian applicants. Funding can cover participation costs and contribute towards travel, visa and living expenses.
Suitable for students interested in:
Science and technology
Business and management
Environmental studies
Public policy
Engineering
Social sciences and other academic fields
Application dates depend on the programme, but many courses accept applications between October and January for the following academic year.
Explore the official Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters opportunities and check individual programme requirements.
3. Oxford Clarendon Scholarships – Study in the UK
Prepare for course deadlines in December 2026 or January 2027
For students with a strong academic record, Oxford University’s Clarendon Fund is worth considering.
Clarendon offers fully funded graduate scholarships covering course fees and a grant for living costs. There are no nationality restrictions, and eligible new master’s and DPhil applicants are considered across subject areas.
One useful feature is that you generally do not need to submit a separate scholarship application. Eligible candidates who apply for their Oxford graduate course by its relevant December or January deadline are automatically considered.
How to prepare
First, find your intended course and confirm its application deadline. Next, review its academic entry requirements and prepare your supporting documents well in advance.
Visit the official Oxford Clarendon applicant guidance for full details.
4. Australian Research Training Program (RTP)
University-specific application dates
Are you considering a research master’s or PhD in Australia?
The Australian Government’s Research Training Program supports eligible domestic and international students undertaking higher degrees by research at participating Australian universities.
Depending on the award, funding can include a tuition-fee offset, a living-cost stipend or allowances for eligible research-related expenses. Each university manages its own application, selection and offer process.
This is mainly for research students, not those applying for a standard taught bachelor’s or master’s degree.
Contact the postgraduate research office at your chosen Australian university to find out whether international applicants can apply and when the next scholarship round opens.
Read the Australian Government’s RTP guidance.
What About Chevening and GREAT Scholarships Opportunities?
These are also important funding schemes for Indian students interested in UK study, but check the dates carefully.
Chevening: Applications for the 2027–2028 scholarship cycle in India closed on 6 October 2026. Students preparing for a later cycle should monitor the official Chevening India page.
GREAT Scholarships: The 2026–2027 programme listed £10,000 tuition-fee awards for eligible Indian students at participating UK universities. Deadlines vary by institution, so check the British Council’s India scholarship page to see whether any relevant deadline remains open.
Already Studying Abroad? Check These Funding Options
Not every scholarship is intended for students who are still in India.
If you are already enrolled at a university abroad, investigate funding specifically available to current students.
Funding option | What to check |
|---|---|
University merit scholarships | Awards based on academic results |
Departmental scholarships | Funding for particular subjects or programmes |
Progression awards | Support for eligible continuing students |
Research funding | Grants or studentships for research projects |
Hardship funds | Financial assistance for eligible students facing difficulty |
Ask your university’s international student office, funding team or academic department which options are available to you.
How to Improve Your Chances of Receiving a Scholarship
Scholarships are competitive, so preparation matters.
Follow this simple process:
Research scholarships
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Check eligibility
↓
Confirm deadlines
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Prepare documents
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Write a strong statement
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Submit and track applicationsBefore applying, prepare your academic transcripts, CV, personal statement, references and evidence of achievements where required.
Explain why you have chosen the course, how it fits your goals and what you hope to contribute after graduation. Follow the application instructions carefully and never rely on an old deadline found in an unofficial article.
Final Thoughts
The latest scholarship opportunities can help Indian students reduce the cost of international education, but finding the right one requires research and planning.
For the coming academic year, the Commonwealth Shared Scholarships and Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters are important options to investigate, while Oxford Clarendon and Australia’s Research Training Program may suit eligible graduate and research applicants.
If you are already studying abroad, don’t overlook funding offered directly by your university.
Start early, check eligibility carefully and apply only through official channels. A well-prepared application can put you in a stronger position to access financial support for your education.
Scholarship dates and conditions can change. This article reflects official information checked on 12 October 2026; verify all details with the relevant provider before applying.
Read our previous blog here!