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While many people dream of studying abroad, we are aware of the costs and difficulties involved. The cost of higher education can be significant in countries like Australia. Australian scholarships will assist in covering all or part of the tuition costs. Some scholarships additionally assist applicants with living costs and immigration fees, depending on their background and level of academic achievement. 1. Australia awards scholarship One of the top scholarships for international students is the Australia Awards Scholarship, which is managed by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) of the Australian government. This Australian scholarship provides students from developing nations in the Indo-Pacific area more power. Its main objective is to strengthen bilateral ties between Australia and its partner nations. If your child is selected for this scholarship, they will benefit from the following:  The complete cost of the chosen course's tuition is covered by this award.  It pays for travel expenses like airline tickets.  Students receive a one-time grant to help with the cost of housing and materials.  For the expense of living in Australia, they receive a bimonthly stipend or Contribution to Living Expenses (CLE).  During their time studying in Australia, they can also benefit from an Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). To qualify for this scholarship, all students have to do is be accepted into any graduate program offered in Australia. 2. Destination Australia scholarships The Australian Government's "Planning for Australia's Future Population" effort includes the Destination Australia program. This scholarship program's ability to admit students who are studying at Australian universities remotely is one of its special features.  Look at the advantages this Australian scholarship offers:  If your child is accepted into this esteemed program, they will have the chance to take part in leading research and skill-development initiatives that incorporate studies in a range of academic fields.  Each academic year, this award covers the equivalent of $15,000 in tuition costs for recipients.  If they have graduated from high school and are currently considering enrolling in a graduate program, they may be qualified for this grant. 3. Australian government research training program (RTP) The Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) is amongst the top Australian scholarships to help you fund your child’s dreams. It intends to provide funding for both domestic and foreign students who want to pursue a Research Masters's or Research Doctorate in Australia.  It offers recipients several special advantages, including:  The complete award for tuition is due to students who enroll in this scholarship.  Additionally, it provides an RTP stipend that can be used to pay for housing, transportation, and other living expenses.  The RTP also includes a supplemental allowance to assist with other expenses including printing a research thesis, paying for scholarly publication, and paying for student health insurance.  If they have successfully finished their postgraduate level of higher education, they may be eligible for this award. They must, however, acknowledge the RTP program in their published research as a requirement of this scholarship. 4. John Allwright fellowship (JAF) If your child is enrolled in a postgraduate degree in any scientific field, this scholarship program is ideal for them. It primarily aims to improve the research capacities of its partner nations and gives researchers from other nations the opportunity to do research in Australia.  Here are the advantages that your child can receive if they are eligible for this scholarship:  It makes it simpler for researchers to apply for and obtain a postgraduate research degree.  Scholarships at the Master's and Ph.D. levels are available each year through this program to deserving candidates.  This fellowship, which is similarly managed by the Australian Awards, aids in covering a sizable portion of the expenditures associated with studying and living in Australia.  Your child can only be eligible for this award after completing their graduate program because it is for postgraduate study. Alternatively, they will also be given equal weight if they are a promising scientist from one of the developing nations when choosing who receives the scholarship. Additional read: 10 important reasons to study in Australia How can one win an Australian full scholarship?  For deserving overseas students, Australia offers a variety of programs, but there is also fierce competition. As a result, getting a full scholarship in Australia can be very challenging. However, there is no need for concern. The following are some things you should be aware of:  Your child should submit as many scholarship applications as they can as a student and attempt to differentiate themselves online.  Many websites might not provide accurate information or perhaps lead you astray. Find scholarship opportunities that best suit you by filtering. Some programs could require you to take tests or appear for interviews. Scholarships by Australian universities Some scholarships provided by Australian universities are as follows- Macquarie University International Scholarships University of Sydney International Research Scholarships Melbourne Research Scholarships Australian National University Scholarships Rotary Peace Fellowships University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships Adelaide Global Excellence Scholarships for International students Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarships University of Newcastle Postgraduate Research Scholarships Monash University International Scholarships for Excellence Australian scholarships can help you fund your child’s college in the country. However, the competition can be fierce as Australia is considered one of the largest hotspots for international students. This is why having an education corpus to rely on or dig into, reduces the stress of higher education and its costs! Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Recent statistics state that 32 million children up to the age of 13 have never attended any school in India, and 47 million secondary and higher secondary students drop out because of domestic and financial reasons.  Education can open new doors of opportunities so that children can leave their life of poverty behind and step into a better and enriched life.  Bright children seek education, and one of the best ways to fulfill their dreams is through sponsorship. To know how to sponsor a child’s education, then you must go through this blog. What is a sponsorship? Sponsorship in the context of a child’s education refers to a program that allows an individual, a group, or a business entity to offer monetary contributions so that the money donated can help in educating the child. How much does a sponsorship cost? The cost of sponsoring a child’s education fluctuates from INR 1,000 per month to INR 3,000 per month. The amount varies from donor to donor and organization to organization. If the sponsor wants to pay only for the tuition fees, then they can do so, but if they want to pay for related expenses, there is also a provision for that.  Payments can be made every month or as a lump sum amount for a year. What does the beneficiary get? Financial aid and associated benefits of most sponsorship programs concerning a child’s education cover-  School expenses like tuition fees, lab fees, uniforms, textbooks, and stationery (pen, pencil, rubber, geometry box and sharpener, etc.). Nutritious and balanced meals. Medical screenings and health care to ensure physical and mental well-being. Learning vocational skills. Facilitating extra-curricular activities.  Connect children with teachers and mentors. An opportunity to learn and practice literacy skills. Teaching activities that will help in sharpening income-generating skills. Additional read: Best sip plan for child's future Sponsoring a child’s education 1. Select a verified organization You can sponsor a child’s education in India by selecting a verified and genuine organization. These organizations are often constrained by a lack of monetary resources as the number of needy children far exceeds the support options. Numerous non-profit organizations in India have set up the required infrastructure to help children in getting the education they deserve. Some of them have the backing of government agencies, and some are dependent upon business entities for funds.  2. Get the required information You can call the NGOs directly on the phone, email them or conduct an in-person meeting to gather the related information. Ask about the program, how many children they support, what amenities they provide and how you can make a difference. Ask about the sponsorship amount and what it will entail. Will the organization provide only the tuition fees, or will the amount include related expenses? You can also speak about your budget and what benefits it can offer to the child.  3. Select a child Some people believe in creating a personal bond with a child and if you are one of them, then ask the NGO about the children that need education. Select a child and form a connection by speaking with them and making sure both emotional needs and financial needs are met.  When the sponsor becomes personally involved with a child, then they can ask the organization to send periodic reports of the sponsored child to know how the child is faring. They can also visit or write to the child periodically to maintain the bond.  4. Sponsor a child online If you are not interested in creating a one-on-one bond and just want to donate the money as a charitable contribution for income tax purposes, then you can donate online on the NGO site.  The government encourages its well-off citizens to contribute to the education of children who do not have the necessary funds to get admitted to schools and colleges. Donations related to the sponsorship program are eligible for a 50% tax exemption under Section 80 G (5) of the Income Tax Act 1961.  Thus, sponsorship acts as a two-fold beneficial tool. It will provide education to needy children and help the sponsor to claim exemption during the income tax filing.  5. No refund or cancellation Charitable organizations generally do not allow refunds or cancellations of donations by any donor. Hence be sure before making a payment. Conclusion By now, you must have come to know how to sponsor a child’s education effectively. The sponsorship program can create a positive impact on the life of a student who just needs an opportunity to break the cycle of poverty and improve their living conditions. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

There are thousands of UK scholarships to fund your child’s college today. These scholarships are offered by local governments and universities to help children finance their education in a foreign country.  While some scholarships offer absolute funding, there are some that cover a portion of your child’s tuition— including program costs, living expenses, and return flights to the UK. Let’s dive into the different scholarships for the UK and how they can help you finance your child’s UK dream. Top scholarships in the UK to fund your child's college List of the best UK scholarships for your child: Scholarships for masters in the UK  Does your child intend to pursue a master's degree in the UK? Mentioned below is the list of scholarships for master's degrees in the UK: University of Reading Master’s Scholarship Marshall Scholarships CastleSmart Scholarships Cardiff University Elite International Scholarships Clarendon Scholarships by the University of Oxford University of Edinburgh Global Scholarships Queen’s University Belfast International Scholarships MBA scholarships in the UK  Mentioned below is the list of scholarships for MBA degrees in the UK: IKOS Scholarships Women in Leadership Scholarship The University of Strathclyde MBA Visionary Scholarship. Chevening Scholarships Commonwealth Masters Scholarships Commonwealth Fellowship Plan GREAT scholarships The Global Study Awards Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships The Cranfield Trust Scholarships in the UK Inlaks Scholarship Felix Scholarship https://youtu.be/EyP3Li4ofNg Ph.D. scholarships in the UK Mentioned below is the list of scholarships for Ph.D. degrees in the UK: Imperial College London President’s Ph.D. Scholarships Gates Cambridge Scholarship The Royal Society Grants Carnegie Ph.D. Scholarships Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships Commonwealth Scholarships for Developing Commonwealth Countries The Newton-Bhabha Fund Wolfson Postgraduate Scholarships in the Humanities Goa Education Trust Scholarships Saltire Scholarships Euraxess UK Scholarships Additional read: Will a scholarship be enough for my child's fees in the UK Are scholarships enough to cover the cost of education in the UK? There are merit-based and need-based scholarships offered in the UK. Some scholarships typically only cover a portion of the cost of the course, the rest has to be covered by the student. Consequently, there are a number of costs to take into account when a student plans to move to the UK to attend college. These include tuition costs, university registration fees, security deposits, travel-related projects, lodging, food, and even trip-related travel expenses. You can use our College Cost Calculator to determine the precise cost of studying in the UK and help you acquire the funds you need to save for your future education. Additional read: Difference between grants and scholarships Cheapest universities in the UK International students can enroll in affordable degree programs at several UK universities. Each of the institutions listed here has a fantastic campus and offers students top-notch instruction, facilities, and services. Here is a list of the UK's least expensive universities: UK scholarships are a fantastic option to either partially or entirely finance your child's education. By improving their grades and participating in extracurricular activities, community service projects, and outreach programs, your child can also increase their chances of getting a scholarship. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

The United States is one of the most popular places for students to study abroad. The majority of the world's best colleges are located in the USA. In addition to having excellent educational infrastructure, the United States is renowned for offering a wide range of scholarships to students around the world. In this blog, we have covered everything you need to know about scholarships for Indian students to study in the United States. Top scholarships for Indian students in the USA The USA provides top-notch education, but applicants must pay the required course costs in exchange. Due to the expensive tuition fees charged by colleges in the USA, many candidates decide not to study in the USA. So for that, we have compiled a comprehensive list of all the popular scholarships that enable Indian students to study in the United States to aid students in similar situations. Scholarships for MS in the USA Following is the list of scholarships for Indian students who are planning to study MS in the USA. Scholarships for MBA in the USA Following is the list of scholarships for Indian students who are planning to study MBA in the USA. Scholarships for Ph.D. in the USA Following is the list of scholarships for Indian students who are planning to study Ph.D. in the USA. Cost of studying in the USA Every student's study abroad plan must include the cost of learning at the university. An applicant must pay their living expenses in addition to the tuition. The cost of living in the USA can make studying in the country too expensive. The entire cost varies depending on the university location one chooses. Compared to metropolitan campuses, your overall cost of living will instantly decrease if your selected study location is suburban or rural. The following table displays the typical price of education in the USA. How to apply for a scholarship in the USA? If you want to apply for a scholarship in the USA, you have many options. You need to have an application or registration form to get a scholarship in the USA, along with the following documents: Letter of recommendation. Personal essay or letter of motivation Official financial documents, as well as evidence of low income Letter of acceptance from a recognized university. Proof of all extracurricular activities, positions of leadership, academic accomplishments, etc. If you are planning to study abroad and are unsure about how to fund your study abroad you can speak with education counselors. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

The intense education inflation and extremely higher fee structure leave little room for pursuing a higher degree course abroad at one’s expense. Students with genius brains cannot put their intellect to use due to the lack of appropriate funds.  At such times the Commonwealth Scholarship sponsored by Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) is a blessing in disguise for brilliant minds as it provides a much-deserved opportunity to boost their academic brilliance and skills. What is a Commonwealth scholarship? The Commonwealth Scholarship is a program initiated by the British government that provides fully-funded scholarships to deserving students residing within the Commonwealth countries. The scholarship program is funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office to attract talented individuals to UK universities and support sustainable development.   The Commonwealth Scholarship program is open to 800 students each year. The number keeps on increasing every year so that the CSC can make constructive changes on the global stage. Additional read: Questions to ask before sending a child to UK? Who can apply for a Commonwealth scholarship? A permanent resident or a citizen of a Commonwealth country. A refugee or a British-protected person. Students with an undergraduate honors degree of at least upper second class. Students applying for the Ph.D. program must have a Master’s degree. There is no minimum age for applying but the maximum age limit is 40 years.  For the academic year 2023, the CSC is accepting online applications from students of all majors. It has launched varied programs for both the Master's degree and Ph.D. levels for the students to choose from. How can you apply for the Commonwealth scholarship in the UK? The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission does not accept a direct application hence students can apply through the nominating bodies. These include government, non-governmental bodies, and charitable institutions.  Students have to visit the MHRD website and then the ECAS portal and apply to both before the stipulated deadlines. Additional read: Can your child do an MBA within 25 lakhs? List of documents required for the Commonwealth Scholarship in the UK Proof of citizenship. If the applicant is a refugee then the document that proves the refugee status. A full transcript with details of higher education qualifications. References of two persons should be submitted by the referee in the online application system. Supporting statement from the proposed supervisor in the UK.  Scan copy of the passport. A concise CV/resume Time to apply for Commonwealth scholarship 2023 The process for receiving applications is open between October to December and students should start checking on the official website even before the tentative dates.  Numerous programs under the Commonwealth Scholarships 2023 are open for applicants throughout the year hence interested students can log in to the website and find the timings for their preferred degree courses.   Funding by the Commonwealth scholarship commission and related benefits The Commonwealth Foundation provides grants of up to £200,000 (INR 18,464,000) to eligible students for four years as funding for the postgraduate degree courses. This is a fully-funded scholarship program by the UK government which covers all the expenses of the students. It includes Economy class airfare tickets for round trip. Transportation cost. Visa and travel fee. Medical expenses. Tuition fees. Textbook costs. Accommodation expenses. Allowance for woolen clothes during the winter season. Personal expenses - allowance of £1,133 (INR 104,599) per month and £1,190 (INR 109,860) per month for small cities and big cities respectively. The scholarship also covers family allowances if the couple stays for at least 18 months. It includes- Spouse allowance of £225 (INR 20,772) per month if the applicant and spouse are living together at the same address in the UK. Child allowance of £225 (INR 20,772) per month for the first child and £110 ( INR 10,155) per month for the second and third child under the age of 16 if the scholarship applicant is living with their spouse and children at the same address in the UK.  Child allowance of £450 (INR 41,544) per month for the first child and £110 (INR 10,155) per month for the second and third child under the age of 16 if the scholar is a single parent, divorced or widowed and is accompanied by the children and living at the same address in the UK.  Is the Commonwealth Scholarship enough to study in the UK? The Commonwealth Scholarship is enough to study in the UK as it is a fully funded program that covers both the study costs like tuition fees as well as related expenses. Conclusion The Commonwealth Scholarship is a golden chance for deserving students who are unable to study abroad just because of the lack of funds. The program offers opportunities to such students so that their dreams can come true. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

The US is one of the most expensive countries to pursue further studies. With the rupee falling against the dollar and the annual increase in the tuition fees at US universities, this dream of studying in the USA is slowly slipping away for most Indian students. But not all hope is lost; if you are planning to send your child to the USA for a master's, then here is a list of US scholarships for MS courses your child should apply for!  List of US scholarships for MS courses   Scholarships are a great way to fund your child’s higher education and ease the financial burden on you as a parent. Scholarships are monetary rewards given to students based on their academic performance, financial need, or ethnic background. The reward given by each scholarship varies from university to university and may not be uniform for all awardees. (Some awardees may be eligible for a higher reward than others)  US scholarships for MS course 1. Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships  Fulbright Nehru Masters Fellowship is for Indian students who wish to study in the USA for their master's. The program offers scholarships to students studying a wide range of courses like Arts and Culture, Economics, Environmental Studies, Higher, Journalism and Mass Communication, Public Administration, Urban, and Regional Planning & Gender Studies at select universities and colleges.   The fellowship is offered for one or two years and provides J-1 visa support, round-trip economy class air travel from a fellow’s home city to the USA, funding for tuition and fees, living costs, and accident and sickness coverage.   2. Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Scholarships  Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Scholarships offers meritorious students full and part scholarships as interest-free loans to study abroad or in India. The students who have an excellent academic background and want to pursue postgraduation must apply for these loans and interest-free scholarships on the official website. Students can win financial rewards as well as mentor guidance to help them build a unique career.   3. Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship  The Aga Khan Foundation provides scholarships to pursue masters and PhDs to meritorious scholars from developing countries. Scholarships functions as 50% grant and 50% loan rewards. Scholarships are awarded for full-term courses and not for short-term courses. The scholarships are a helping hand to those who cannot financially support themselves throughout college.   Students get assistance with tuition fees and living expenses. The scholarships do not cover travel costs while funding for Ph.D. courses is limited to 2 years of study. Since the program covers 50% grants and 50% loans, the interest charged on a 50% scholarship is 5% (less than the average loan interest rate in India).  The payback period is five years and starts six months after the study period. The loan scholarship requires a guarantor to co-sign and provide reassurance.   4. Generation Google Scholarship  Generation Google scholarships is an initiative by the tech company, Google to sponsor students who wish to study in Canada and USA. The scholarships are meant for students who wish to pursue computer science degrees at bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. Students receive around $10,000 USD (for those studying in the US) or $5,000 CAD (for those studying in Canada) for the year. The scholarship is given on the basis of diversity, equity, and inclusion, demonstrated leadership, and academic performance.  5. Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship  The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation scholarship is offered to students to study in North America or Europe. It’s given to students who display exceptional talent in their field of choice. It covers a host of costs like tuition, one-way travel, and living expenses is more than the US $100,000. During the interview process, students are required to provide financial proof to cover their course. This is a mandatory requirement for selection.   The list of US scholarships for MS courses for Indian students is one way to finance your child’s US dream. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

With the cost of studying overseas rising higher, students dream of winning a scholarship that would cover their fees and overseas stay. But there are some truths about winning scholarships that you should be aware of if your child is planning to travel for studies abroad. There are several misconceptions surrounding winning scholarships such as your child need to be straight. A student or athlete. But there are many scholarships available for minorities, meritorious individuals, athletes, and many others. The truth about winning scholarships 1. Only for the Meritorious Being a straight A-student is not enough to win a scholarship. While good grades do help, international universities look for the all-around development of the student when considering applicants for scholarships. 2. Extra-curriculars matter Scholarships for students with extracurricular achievements. There are separate scholarships for students with accomplishments in sports, theatre, music, art, and volunteering activities. Most Indian students are unaware of these options and miss out on going to a great university thinking that a lack of ‘A grades’ means no scholarship. 3. Minority Scholarships Check if you qualify for the many minority scholarships. These are usually categorized under gender, race, and sexual orientation. There is a lot of impetus being given to women in the STEM fields, and there are Scholarships for Asian students that your child may qualify for. So make it a point to explore the many options available out there today. 4. Different types of scholarships There are scholarships for students from every stratum of society, not just the economically backward. Do your research and see which categories of scholarships your child is eligible for. Apply for as many as you can. This will improve your chances of winning the scholarship. 5. Country-specific scholarships In most countries, universities offer government and private scholarships. In most cases, government scholarships are reserved for students of the said country. But if your country of origin has diplomatic arrangements that facilitate higher studies across borders, there may be scholarships reserved for you. Make sure you check these out. 6. Need-based scholarships Some colleges review need-based benefits for students who enroll under scholarships. This could mean that if you get a scholarship, you may be denied other need-based benefits at the university. This may make you rethink your scholarship application. But you don’t have to. If you are really in need of the money, present your case to the university and they often have the flexibility to sanction funds along with the scholarship if need be. 7. Competitive Don’t be put off by the effort required to apply for scholarships. Of course, you and your child will have to put in hours of research, meet the eligibility criteria, draft applications, send them out, follow up for confirmation of receipt, and submit a host of documents but you will find it is all worth it. The scholarship pay-out as the reward makes all the effort meaningful. Once your application is drafted, you can usually rework it slightly and apply to multiple colleges. So don’t shy away from the effort. You could save some serious money in the bargain. 8. Partial Funding Not all scholarships do not cover the cost of your entire study. This is one harsh truth of winning scholarships that people find out later in life most scholarships only cover a portion of your expense. Some scholarships cover one-year tuition costs, some cover accommodation, and flight expenses while some may cover your books and research apparatus. Take the example of the Rhodes scholarship, it covers Oxford University course fees and gives an annual stipend. It does not cover the cost of your accommodation or living expenses.  While it would be great to win scholarships for study abroad, it is something you cannot count on. The parameters of the scholarships and academic and non-academic requirements of the universities are constantly being tweaked and upgraded. Keeping these variables in mind, it is important that you start saving for your child’s overseas education well in advance through various investment instruments. Some scholarships for Indian students Invest wisely and build an adequate education fund so that when your child finally does win the scholarship, it will be a delight and a bonus! You will have extra funds to use for other aspects of your child’s growth with what you would have saved. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Scholarships and Bursaries are financial awards offered to students interested in pursuing their education. Various guidelines and conditions are attached to their application which makes them both similar and dissimilar to each other.  In this article, before discussing the differences between scholarships vs bursaries, let us go through the definition of a bursary and scholarship to get a clearer picture of them.  What are Scholarships? Scholarships are non-repayable financial assistance offered to students to encourage talent. It can be both merit and need-based and is usually offered to a specific category of students. Scholarships are also country-based and are offered to students who want to study abroad in specific countries.  Scholarships cover educational costs (like tuition fees), and costs of living (like maintenance, accommodation, transportation, etc).  What are Bursaries? Bursaries are financial aids offered by colleges, universities, foundations, or governments to students for their education. These are meant for students who belong to low-income households and are unable to meet their educational expenses. Bursaries are need-based and not merit-based. It covers the living costs of the student in a specific year. Additional read: Savings vs Investment Key differences between Scholarships vs Bursaries The key differences between scholarships vs bursaries based on various parameters are as follows- 1. Financial status The financial status of a student is not necessarily taken into consideration while awarding the scholarships, whereas the opposite is true for a bursary as it is given to students facing financial difficulties in paying their education fees.  2. Purpose The purpose of the scholarship is to provide financial aid to students who are gifted in terms of talent or an area of expertise so that the funds can promote their education. The purpose of offering bursaries, on the other hand, is to offer financial support or monetary funds to students who are unable to pay their education fees.  Thus, the purpose of scholarships is to boost skills and bursaries are to avoid financial struggles.  3. Types There are different types of scholarships like merit-based scholarships, talent-based scholarships, and merit-cum-need based scholarships whereas bursaries are only need-based financial supports. 4. The offering Party The scholarships and bursaries are offered by schools, universities, governments, or third parties like a foundation. In the case of scholarships, the third party is usually interested in promoting talent, whereas, in the case of bursaries, it is to help the recipient avoid financial problems.  5. Offered to Scholarships are based on the academic performance of the student or achievements in specific categories like music, sports, etc., or based on need. Bursaries are offered only based on need so that the students can pay the education fees and continue with their studies.  6. Area of consideration The main area of consideration while awarding scholarships is the merit and skills of the student whereas the financial status is the primary area of consideration while offering a bursary.  7. Paying back Scholarships are non-refundable awards offered to students with exceptional talent. If the student does not agree to the terms and conditions of the offered scholarship then he has to pay back the money at a later period.  Some bursaries claim a specific percentage of the offered fund once the student gets a job and starts earning. If the student cannot complete the education or has to leave it midway he will have to pay back a specific percentage of the offered bursary that he has received for that specific year.  8. Related conditions Specific conditions are attached to both scholarships and bursaries and the students have to follow them at all costs. When the student is offered a bursary, he has to agree to work for the offering party for a specific time.  The primary condition of a scholarship is that the student will have to maintain exemplary grades. Only sometimes does the scholarship require the student to work for the organization offering the scholarship.  9. Benefits The benefits offered under scholarships vs bursaries vary to a great extent. Scholarship often covers the entire or a part of tuition fees along with a discount on maintenance costs, transport expenses, and cost of books. Bursaries on the other hand offer monetary aid to cover education expenses and sometimes include one-off payments for meeting living costs.  The education cost calculator on the Edufund App helps to get an estimate of the future education so that the student can know the scholarship or bursary amount that will be sufficient to meet his requirements.   Conclusion Knowing about the differences between scholarships vs bursaries helps students to understand which type of aid will prove beneficial for meeting their specific needs. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan for you TALK TO AN EXPERT

People often consider grants and scholarships as synonyms because both provide financial aid. They help students to pursue their studies without the hassle of paying fees.   But there is a thin line that distinguishes grants and scholarships. A scholarship is only awarded to students, whereas grants are given to students, professionals, or research scientists. Both scholarships and grants are not student loans and do not have to be paid back in ordinary circumstances. Instead, these are financial help that encourages people to reduce debt, minimize work problems, promote research, and realize their dreams without any financial burden. Although both come under monetary help and are equally popular, it becomes crucial to have in-depth knowledge about them.  Grants vs Scholarships A grant is a financial award from a government, foundation, or company to another company or an individual for a specific goal or to encourage better performance. Scholarships are also defined as financial awards, but an organization offers government or a college/university only to students to pay for their degree courses as tuition and related fees. Need vs Merit Grants are need-based as they are awarded to deserving people who do not have the funds to fulfill their purpose. Scholarships are merit-based and need-based and go to students who cannot continue their studies because they lack adequate funds and have shown exceptional excellence or outstanding performance in their fields. 1. Purpose The purpose of grants and scholarships is different as the former is to fulfill a specific purpose which can be educational, research, or even to start a business. In contrast, the latter is meant only for educational purposes and is given to students who excel in sports, academics, or extracurricular activities. 2. Recipients  The grants and scholarships differ from each other as grants can be conferred to any individual, entity, non-profit organization, educational institution, or organization working towards a specific purpose. Scholarships are given only to students for excellence in their academic, athletic, or artistic abilities. 3. Source of funding The source of funding for grants and scholarships is both similar and different. Grants funding can be derived from non-profit organizations, colleges, and state governments. Scholarship funding is derived from various organizations and institutions. 4. Performance Grants and scholarships share a level of similarity. They require their recipients to live up to a certain standard, but the level of performance may vary. Grants are not purely based on performance, while scholarships depend on performance. Most scholarships may be withdrawn if students fail to keep up their academic performance. Depending on the type of scholarship, every student must participate and maintain a level of excellence.   5. Eligibility  Grant eligibility is based on financial need, whereas scholarship is flexible. It can be need-based, merit-based or given to a specific community. Eligibility for a grant like the Federal Pell Grant is based on EFC, whereas the New York TAP Grants and Cal Grants establish their eligibility on income cutoff. The eligibility for scholarships is dependent upon a student’s GPA or high school grade point average, class rank, and test scores from the admission tests. Additional read: 5 degrees that offer better ROI abroad than in India Requirements and Restrictions The specific requirements and restrictions between scholarships and grants vary greatly as eligibility to receive grants ranges from one grant program to another. Some scholarships have maintenance and eligibility requirements and conditions similar to the grants, whereas others might require maintaining a minimum GPA to renew their scholarships. Both grants and scholarships are good options for people requiring financial assistance. If your child is going to pursue research-driven courses like a PhD, then grants can be beneficial, while for a master's, they can opt for scholarships. Start preparing your child for their dreams, financially and academically!  Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Introduction The Fulbright scholarship for US education is one of the most prestigious awards offered by the US department of state. The fully-funded merit-based program is administered by the Fulbright Commission along with the US embassies all over the global arena. The Fulbright Scholarship helps deserving students to continue with their academic endeavors. It is a brilliant way of promoting cross-cultural understanding and international collaboration because the scholarship is meant for both US students and international students. Fulbright scholarship program The Fulbright scholarship for US education is a fully-funded scholar program that includes two different scholarships. The first is for US students who want to travel abroad, and the other is meant for international students who want to travel to the US for further studies. The students who already have an undergraduate degree can apply for this scholarship program which covers funding for graduate studies, Ph.D. programs, Master’s degrees, or scholarly research. The program is for almost all the fields of study like STEM fields, social sciences, business, agriculture, humanities, performing arts, etc. The Fulbright US student program is offered to 2,200 US students who want to travel to one of the 160 countries where the program is operational and 4,000 international students who want to travel to the US for higher studies. Important facts about the Fulbright scholarship program for US Education The Fulbright scholarship for US education is for an academic year only. Whether it is for the US academic year, which lasts from August to May, or the academic year of the host country depends on the course study. It is possible to extend the period to one more year only if the host country’s Fulbright Commission deems it necessary. The application form is available on the Fulbright Scholarship website, where the candidate has to select their country and fill it up with the necessary documents. The grant is fully-funded, which helps students to lead a comfortable life without the worry of funds for the fee structure. The purpose of the grant is to support both US and international students who are interested in further studies but are unable to do so because of a lack of funds. The internationally acclaimed award encourages cultural exchange and cooperation between students of different countries. Additional read: Rhodes scholarship program Eligibility criteria for entering the Fulbright Scholarship Program The eligibility criteria for the Fulbright scholarship for US education include Applicants should be a citizen of the United States at the time of application, whereas international students entering the US must also be a citizen of their home country. Candidates who have served in the armed forces of the United States are given preference if their qualifications match the requirements and are equivalent to the qualifications of the rest of the candidates. Students in the US should have their bachelor’s degree, and international students should have an equivalent degree by the time they leave their place for further studies. Candidates must show proficiency to complete their study course or project. They must have experience in community service. Foreign applicants must not have any other degree in the US before they submit their application. Employer's endorsement is necessary for working candidates. Applicants have to be willing enough to represent their culture and serve as noble citizens of their country. Members and staff of the scholarship board, along with their immediate families, are not eligible for the Fulbright Scholarship Program. Is the Fulbright Scholarship program enough to meet the needs of your child’s US education? The Fulbright Scholarship Program is funded by the US Congress through an annual appropriation to the US Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. It is also supported by host institutions, participating governments, various corporations, and different foundations from all over the world.  The Fulbright Scholarship grant includes Coverage of full tuition fees  Provides the required textbooks to the students Accommodation Two tickets from and to the country of study J-1 exchange visitor visa Monthly maintenance or living stipend Health insurance Settling-in-allowance Research materials and enrichment activities (optional) Computer (optional) Even though a Fulbright grant is a fully-funded program, it might not cover all the associated costs of studying abroad.  It is important to plan and save money for a study-abroad experience. Edufund app helps Indian parents in the process of planning, saving, and managing money for their child’s education, be it abroad or in India.  Conclusion The Fulbright scholarship for US education is an educational exchange international program to build long-lasting connections between the US and other countries. The flagship program is one of the most effective ways of making dreams come true, enhancing learning, gaining diverse experiences, and unlocking innumerable opportunities for career growth. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan for you TALK TO AN EXPERT

The Rhodes Scholarship for Oxford University is one of the most revered scholarship programs in the world. The visionary project helps outstanding students with academic excellence to undertake postgraduate and Ph.D. study courses at Oxford University. The world-renowned Rhodes scholarship program includes study courses in several fields like social science, humanities, advanced computer science, physical science, mathematics, life science, etc. It is a golden chance for students to pursue a degree to their heart’s content without the headache of funding. Rhodes scholarship program Rhodes scholarship is offered to students who show signs of intellectual distinction. The prestigious program is a fully-funded award that enables students from all over the world to study postgraduate and Ph.D. programs at Oxford University. The Rhodes Scholarship for Oxford University is offered for two years. The duration of the scholarship is usually extended to meet the demand of the course duration. “But what advantages does the scholarship program entail?” Read on to find out. Rhodes scholarship rewards The scholarship rewards include - Course fees or university fees An annual stipend that is offered to international students for managing travel expenses and accommodation expenses Cost of a Tier-4 study visa  Health insurance or the associated HIS or International Health Surcharge Covers the admission application fees after the student’s selection at the university Two flight tickets of economy class to and from the UK The students are offered settling-in-allowance  The students who want to transition to some other course at the university do not have to fear the process as it is the Rhodes Trust that takes total responsibility for further visa renewal and IHS application Important facts about the Rhodes scholarship for Oxford university The exclusive program is open to only 100 students who want to study in the UK.  The scholarship application form is available on the official website of Rhodes Trust.  The selection criteria are purely based on academic performance and the interview process. For the year 2023, the application dates were 1st June 2022 to 2nd August 2022. Additional read: 5 degrees that offer better ROI abroad than in India Eligibility criteria for entering the Rhodes scholarship program Students should always check the eligibility criteria before applying for the scholarship program. It is available only to those international students who are arriving in the UK for the first time to study.  Due to the limited number of scholarships offered, the eligibility criteria for this program are very stringent. The applicant must take into consideration the following factors - The student has to be a citizen of his home country for instance an Indian living for the last few years in Bhutan is not eligible for the Rhodes Scholarship. On the other hand, an Indian student who is residing in any part of India holding Indian citizenship is eligible to apply for the said program. Students must have a valid passport as they have to submit proof of citizenship while applying for the Rhodes Scholarship for Oxford University. The student must have a formal degree from a recognized board of study and a first-class undergraduate degree.  At the time of submitting their application, the student should be 26 years or less of age. Students must submit two letters of recommendation from the last faculties with remarks on their academic performance. The scholarship program is merit-based, no doubt but, it gives ample credence to students who have made a favorable impact on society through their positive efforts. Applicants who possess value-based and positive soft skills like benevolence and leadership have a better chance of a scholarship. Additional read: Fulbright scholarship program Is the Rhodes scholarship enough to meet the needs of a student?  “Is the Rhodes Scholarship enough to cover your child’s Oxford education?” is one of the most common queries that floats around students who are interested in attending Oxford University. There are only 100 scholarships available and the number of students from various countries is already fixed. For instance, only five students from India are eligible to become a part of the university campus through Rhodes Trust. The current scholarship amount is $20,883, which amounts to INR 15,57,923 annually. It is renewed yearly in a hassle-free manner through the trust. The stipend offered to the international students amounts to GBP 15,900 per annum or GBP 1,325 per month. As the Rhodes Scholarship for Oxford University is a fully-funded program it proves enough to meet the needs of the scholarship students. The program generally covers all the viable expenses that the students will incur during their stay at the university. Conclusion The merit-based Rhodes Scholarship for Oxford University has managed to leave a positive mark in the international arena.  The college-specific degree helps outstanding students to gain experience in studying post-graduate courses and Ph.D. programs at such an august institute without the burden of hefty fees. Think the competition for Rhodes Scholarship Program may become a massive hurdle in financing your child’s education? Fret not because EduFund is here. Explore many saving options with us and start planning for your child’s education in advance. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

With some of the best universities in the world and strong employment prospects, the UK is a popular destination for students all over the globe. But studying at a university as an international student can be seriously costly often topping ₹1 crore for the duration of the course, including tuition fees and living expenses; the majority of students will need financial help from somewhere to make it work. So, where can you or your child go to get this financial support? Can international students get a student loan? Will a scholarship be enough for your child’s fees in the UK? Can it cover living expenses and accommodation? Where can you find financial aid to study in the United Kingdom? There are plenty of funding choices available, from taking on a loan to applying for scholarships to cover the tuition fees in the UK for your child or saving in advance to fund their UK dream. Let’s look at some financially viable options: 1. Scholarships Scholarships for international students are one of the main sources of funding for students seeking to study abroad. But it’s a renowned fact that the higher your child’s academic standing, the bigger the scholarship they have the chance to get.  You need to make sure if your child or you want(s) them to study from a particular university for an undergraduate program, you look for their scholarships beforehand and be prepared to put the effort into having the academic standing it requires for scholarships.  There are many scholarships, but with varying eligibility criteria and competition, they can be extremely tough to navigate.  2. Study Abroad Programs An exchange or study abroad program may be a more economical option for international students looking to attend university in the UK. This would entail applying to a university in your own home country and spending a semester or year studying in the UK. These are short-term courses that are cost-efficient and sometimes sponsored by the universities so that students only have to pay a portion of the expenses. Before applying, research specific universities to see if they have any collaborations with universities in the UK. 3. Student Loans As an international student, there would be some educational loans available in your country for them that you might want to look into. There are over 100 banks and financial institutions in India that provide loans for students to help them cover the costs of tuition and living expenses abroad. You can browse through different loan plans by different banks or consult an expert to filter out the best loans based on your child’s needs!  source: pexels How to get a scholarship to study in the UK There are loads of scholarships for international students in the UK up for grabs. This is great news, but it's important to exercise caution as they are competitive and have very stringent eligibility criteria. Additionally, most of them are for postgraduate degrees rather than undergraduate ones. The easiest way to find out is to check the specific universities you want to send your child to and see if they offer undergraduate scholarships, bursaries, and fee exemptions. You can also consult education experts who can find your child the best scholarships for their university or course.  However, there are really no guarantees, and you should always consider what you'll do if you don't succeed. Most scholarship applications consist of an application form. While others may require a written assignment or test, as well as an interview round. Additional read: How to plan for child master's in the UK? Are scholarships enough? Now, let’s be realistic, the majority of scholarships need an outstanding academic performance in the previous qualifications, and only a few children will be able to do that as schools are very competitive. That brings us to the fact that scholarships cannot be the only option to cover tuition fees. So students either have to take loans or use savings to pay for college. The total amount of studying at a university in the UK about 18 years from now would be over ₹1.5 crores, and that is a huge amount to save. One way to do that is to start saving more than ₹60,000 every month, apart from other expenses, for 18 years till your child comes of an age to go to college.  The other is to invest in Mutual Funds, US stocks, etc, according to a proper market study of the returns. This is the most unexplored and underrated way to pay for your child’s future education needs. By investing small amounts of money every month in a disciplined manner, you can secure their education dreams are completed.   Hence, looking for scholarships has no downside, as there are chances that you can find one that suits your child, but it shouldn’t be the only option. You should consider other financial options to support your child’s education, including saving and investing in mutual funds via SIPs, fixed deposits, equities, etc. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan for you TALK TO AN EXPERT

In the previous article, we read about how to finance your child's education post-pandemic. In this article we will discuss are scholarships in the USA enough to cover your child's college costs. Traditionally, the USA has been the go-to destination for foreign education despite the price tag. The country tops the charts when it comes to higher education and offers grants, scholarships, and fellowships to international students as an incentive to study in the country. While many universities offer scholarships in the USA, the question remains are scholarships enough to cover your child’s college costs in the USA? Scholarships in the USA: Quick Overview There are various American universities and third-party organizations that offer scholarships. But most scholarships cover only a part of the expenses. For instance, While Fulbright Scholarships for Masters and Ph.D. programs and Yale University Scholarships for Undergrad, Master’s, and Ph.D. courses are proposed as fully funded, the fact is not every student is offered a full ride. While a Yale scholarship can go up to USD 70,000, the average scholarship awarded is around USD 50,000. This must be taken into consideration while planning overseas studies. Higher education in the USA in a well-reputed college gives your child access to the best networks, education, and teaching faculty but it's also a costly affair. Scholarships and grants offer relief to an extent and your child will either rely on a student loan or your savings for their education. In fact, the difference in currency rates makes the overall expense amounts even larger, especially if the savings are stored in the local currency. Things to know Know that scholarships in the US are available on a need basis and merit basis. Need-based scholarships need to be renewed annually following the submission of necessary eligibility documents. For most graduate courses, scholarships will fund only a part of the expense. The rest has to be covered by the student. There are various research assistantships and other on-campus job opportunities available that help students cover at least a part of their expenses. 1. Expenses to be considered When a student is planning to travel to the USA for a college education, there are several expenses to be considered. These include tuition fees, university registration, security deposit, flights, stay, meals, and even projects that may include travel. 2. Will my child get a full scholarship? Full scholarship for undergraduate students is rare in the US. Most local students apply for and get federal aid, but they are also required to fund part of their studies on their own. Most students at this juncture apply for an educational loan that takes years to settle. In most universities, similar rules apply to international students as well. Part of the tuition fee is covered under the scholarship for international students, but the remaining tuition fee and all other expenses have to be borne by students on their own. Even in the case of a few colleges that offer 100% scholarships to needy students, the same is applicable only for the first year of study. For the following academic years, the student must arrange funds at his/her end. 3. Criteria for applying for scholarships to study in the US for Indian students While each university will have its own eligibility criteria for scholarships, here is a list of some standard criteria that are considered for scholarships: Students must have good academic scores. This is considered along with your selected university, subject, and level. Universities in the US place significant weight on extracurricular activities such as hobbies, athletics, leadership camps, and volunteering work. The requirements of each scholarship vary and parents would do well to check the eligibility criteria a couple of years in advance to help the child build an appropriate application. In research-centric programs, students typically have to submit original written documents as proof of their capability and ability to think and work in their chosen field. 4. When to apply? The procedures are typically long, and at times applications being considered for the scholarship may also come back with queries or requests for additional documentation. Hence it is best for students to start with the scholarship application procedure about 8-12 months before their preferred intake begins. 5. Building your corpus for international education in the US This is where a planned financial approach comes in. Typically, a four-year undergrad program at any of the top-ranking universities in the USA, with tuition fees, flights, stay, and other standard expenses amount to Rs. 70 lakhs (as of 2022). Even for a post-grad course, the two-year course in a good university would work out to over Rs. 50 lakhs in just tuition fees. As parents, you need to be aware that while scholarships are available, these will only take care of only a part of your expenses. So, if your child is planning to pursue a college education in the USA, you need to start saving and judiciously investing funds at least 10 years in advance. This enables you to put together a substantial corpus over time. And when the time comes, your child will be free to choose the college and course of his/her choice! Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan for you TALK TO AN EXPERT