The connection between India and Nepal extends beyond geography and culture—it is deeply rooted in mutual cooperation and development. Among the many areas of collaboration, one of the most impactful has been education. India’s various scholarship programs for Nepali students have played a significant role in fostering capacity building and empowering Nepal’s youth for decades.
Through these scholarships, thousands of students—from middle school to doctoral levels—have received financial support to pursue quality education in a wide array of disciplines such as engineering, medicine, agriculture, business, computer science, music, and fine arts. These efforts are a reflection of India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy, reinforcing strong bilateral ties through education and opportunity.
A Legacy of Support
Each year, the Government of India offers around 1,500 scholarships to Nepali nationals, benefitting students studying both in India and within Nepal. Since 2006, more than 27,000 Nepali students have been supported through these programs, a clear testament to the impact of these initiatives.
These scholarships are not just about covering tuition; they are about enabling dreams—whether that means pursuing traditional medicine in India, obtaining a professional degree, or continuing studies within Nepal. With options spanning undergraduate, postgraduate, and Ph.D. levels, these programs offer diverse pathways for academic and professional growth.
Highlighted Scholarship Programs
Here are some of the prominent scholarship schemes available for Nepali students:
For School-Level Students:
- Army Public School (APS) Scholarship Scheme
For students from Class VI to IX & XI to study in selected APS branches in India (like Noida, Pithoragarh).
Opens: Jan/Feb | Application: Offline - Mahatma Gandhi Scholarship Scheme (MGSS)
Supports students in Class XI and XII continuing their studies in Nepal.
Opens: Oct/Nov | Application: Online
For Undergraduate Studies:
- Atal Bihari Vajpayee General Scholarship Scheme (ABVGSS)
For non-medical bachelor programs like B.Tech, BBA, BCA, B.Sc., etc.
Opens: Feb/March | Application: Online - COMPEX Scholarship Scheme
A well-known program supporting degrees in engineering, agriculture, pharmacy, food technology, and nursing in India.
Opens: Apr/May | Application: Online - Golden Jubilee Scholarship Scheme (GJSS)
Offers funding for courses like MBBS, BDS, engineering, and other 3-year bachelor’s programs in Nepal.
Opens: Oct/Nov | Application: Online - AYUSH Scholarship Scheme
For those interested in traditional Indian medicine (Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Unani).
Opens: May/June | Application: Online - Lata Mangeshkar Dance & Music Scholarship Scheme (LMDMSS)
Supports degrees in fine arts, music, and performing arts.
Opens: Feb/March | Application: Online - SAARC Scholarship Scheme
Designed for students pursuing hospitality and hotel management.
Opens: Apr/May | Application: Offline
For Postgraduate Studies:
- Silver Jubilee Scholarship Scheme (SJSS)
Provides financial aid for master’s programs like MBA, MCA, MA, and M.Sc.
Opens: Feb/March | Application: Online - Homi Jahangir Bhabha Scholarship Scheme (HJBSS)
For master’s degrees in engineering fields.
Opens: Apr/May | Application: Offline - Nepal Aid Fund Scholarship
For students pursuing M.Sc. in agriculture.
Opens: Apr/May | Application: Offline - Forest Research Institute (FRI)
Offers scholarships for postgraduate studies in forestry.
Opens: Feb/March | Application: Offline
For Doctoral (Ph.D.) Programs:
- Silver Jubilee Scholarship Scheme (SJSS)
Available for Ph.D. aspirants across non-medical disciplines.
Opens: Feb/March | Application: Online - AYUSH Scholarship Scheme for Ph.D.
Supports doctoral studies in traditional medical systems.
Opens: May/June | Application: Online
Why It Matters
For many students in Nepal, these scholarship opportunities represent more than financial assistance—they’re a gateway to life-changing education, global exposure, and long-term career development. Studying in India’s premier institutions also allows students to engage with diverse cultures and academic environments that are closely tied to Nepal’s own history and traditions.
The accessibility and variety of these programs ensure that students from all backgrounds can find a suitable pathway to continue their studies. Whether you aim to become a doctor, engineer, artist, or researcher, there is a scholarship to help you get started.
At Admizz Education, we are here to guide you through the application process and help you explore these enriching opportunities. Connect with us to learn more about your eligibility and get personalized support for your education journey to India!
