The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship helps talented Indian students pursue postgraduate studies (Master’s, MPhil, PhD) at top universities in the US, UK, and Europe, offering up to $100,000 (or more with joint partners like Cambridge, Imperial) for tuition, living, travel, and health. Key requirements include Indian citizenship, residing in India, a strong academic record (minimum grades vary by field, e.g., 65% for Humanities/Arts, 70% for Sciences), and applying for full-time programs. The application period usually runs from January/February to March/April annually.
What is the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship?
The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship is offered by the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation, established in 1976. The scholarship is designed to nurture young Indian talent by providing financial support for advanced studies in arts, sciences, humanities, social sciences, and select professional fields.
Unlike many government scholarships, the Inlaks Scholarship focuses heavily on merit, excellence, and potential.
Benefits of Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship
The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship offers generous financial support, including:
🎓 Tuition fees up to USD 100,000
💷 Living expenses
✈️ One-way or return airfare
🏥 Health insurance
📚 Academic & research expenses
🎭 Special grants for arts students
This makes the Inlaks Scholarship one of the most powerful fully funded scholarships for Indian students.
Courses Covered Under Inlaks Scholarship
The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship supports a wide range of disciplines:
Eligible Fields
Humanities & Social Sciences
Sciences & Mathematics
Environmental Studies
Fine Arts & Design
Music, Film & Performing Arts
Architecture
Public Policy
Not Usually Covered
Engineering
Computer Science
Medicine (MBBS)
Business Management (MBA)
(Exceptions may apply for interdisciplinary programs)
Eligible Countries & Universities
Under the Inlaks Scholarship, students can study in:
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
🇺🇸 United States
🇪🇺 Europe (select countries)
Universities typically include:
University of Oxford
University of Cambridge
Imperial College London
Harvard University
Stanford University
University of California system
Eligibility Criteria for Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship
To apply for the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship, candidates must:
Be an Indian citizen
Be under 30 years of age
Hold a first-class Bachelor’s degree
Have admission to a top-ranked foreign university
Demonstrate exceptional academic or artistic talent
Show strong career vision and impact
Age Limit for Inlaks Scholarship
Maximum age: 30 years
Must be born on or after 1 January 1996 (for 2026 cycle – indicative)
How to Apply for Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship
Step-by-Step Application Process
Apply and secure admission offer from a top university
Visit the Inlaks Foundation official website
Fill out the online application form
Upload required documents:
Academic transcripts
Statement of purpose
CV / Portfolio (for arts students)
Offer letter
References
Attend interview (shortlisted candidates)
Final selection by Inlaks panel
Selection Process
The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship selection is based on:
Academic excellence
Quality of university offer
Leadership & originality
Interview performance
Long-term contribution to India
Inlaks Scholarship Deadline 2026
Applications open: January 2026
Last date: March 2026
Interviews: April – May 2026
Final results: June 2026
(Dates may change every year)
Why Choose Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship?
Fully funded overseas education
Focus on merit & excellence
Support for non-traditional & creative fields
Global exposure
High prestige in academic & artistic circles
The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship is ideal for students who aim for academic brilliance, creative excellence, and global impact.
FAQs – Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship
What is the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship?
A fully funded scholarship for Indian students to study abroad.
Is the Inlaks Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, it covers tuition, living expenses, and travel.
Who can apply for Inlaks Scholarship?
Indian citizens under 30 with excellent academic records.
Is MBA covered under Inlaks Scholarship?
No, MBA is usually not supported.
Is engineering eligible?
Engineering and computer science are generally excluded.
What is the maximum funding amount?
Up to USD 100,000.
Is age limit strict?
Yes, applicants must be under 30.
Is IELTS required?
Depends on university requirements.
Can arts students apply?
Yes, arts and creative fields are strongly supported.
Is admission required before applying?
Yes, an offer letter is mandatory.
Is interview compulsory?
Yes, shortlisted candidates must attend interviews.
Can I reapply if rejected?
Yes, if you still meet eligibility criteria.
How competitive is Inlaks Scholarship?
Very competitive due to limited seats.
Is PhD covered?
Yes, select doctoral programs are supported.
Are US universities eligible?
Yes, top US universities are eligible.
Is there any bond after completion?
No formal bond, but contribution to India is encouraged.
Can family members accompany scholars?
Yes, at personal expense.
Is application fee required?
No, application is free.
How many scholars are selected each year?
Usually 15–30 students.
Where to apply for Inlaks Scholarship?
Through the official Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation website.