Scholarship for MBA to Study Abroad: Types, College List, Eligibility, How to Apply

Updated on 9th July 2025 | 01:00 PM

In a world where elite MBA programs come with a staggering price tag of over $100,000 per year, top scholarships for MBA to study abroad are not just a money-saver; they are the pathway to earning your degree without the burden of a quarter million dollars in debt.

Aware that their high tuition fees can be a barrier for students aiming for an MBA, business schools ensure that scholarship for MBA options are available so financial constraints don’t limit access to their programs. The scholarship scheme offered by these institutions varies widely, but all aim to support meritorious students pursuing their academic goals.

We’ve compiled a list of essential abroad scholarship for MBA programs to help you reduce the financial burden of studying internationally. Many students search for scholarships for MBA students at the time of admission, not realizing that planning ahead can significantly increase their chances. Read on to find out whether you qualify for these scholarships and how to submit your application.

Scholarship for MBA to Study Abroad

Types of Scholarships for MBA Students

  • Merit-Based Merit-based scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership skills, and potential for future success. These scholarships often consider factors such as GPA, GMAT scores, work experience, and extracurricular activities.

Speak to our career counselor


Top MBA Scholarships in the USA For Indian Students

The United States offers numerous scholarships for MBA opportunities for international students, including MBA scholarships in USA for Indian students specifically. These can range from partial to fully funded MBA scholarships for Indian students. The US MBA scholarships for Indian students are highly competitive but can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying at prestigious institutions. (Note: students should research scholarship in GMAT requirements carefully, as many programs require minimum scores for consideration.)

United States Scholarships
S.no. Scholarship Name Applicable Degrees Amount Offered Eligibility Criteria Application Deadline
1 Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships MBA, MiM, MSBA, MEM, MFin Tuition, living expenses, airfare, and health insurance Indian citizens with at least 55% marks in bachelor's degree; three years of work experience; demonstrated leadership and community service Varies annually; typically May-June
2 Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships MBA, MiM, MSBA, MEM, MFin Up to $100,000 USD Indian citizens with a first-class degree; admission to a top institution; candidates under 30 years of age March 30 annually
3 Tata Scholarship for Cornell University MBA, MiM, MSBA, MEM, MFin Full tuition and living expenses Indian citizens; admission to Cornell University; demonstrated financial need Varies annually
4 AAUW International Fellowships MBA, MiM, MSBA, MEM, MFin $18,000–$30,000 USD Women from countries other than the U.S.; bachelor's degree; commitment to return to home country December 1 annually
5 Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program MBA, MiM, MSBA, MEM, MFin Tuition, living stipend, airfare, and health insurance Indian citizens; bachelor's degree; three years of related work experience; admission to a participating program Varies annually
6 Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship MBA Approximately $150,000 USD Indian citizens; admission to Stanford MBA program; commitment to return and work in India May annually
7 Harvard University—Inlaks Fellowship MBA, MFin Up to $100,000 USD Indian citizens; admission to Harvard University; candidates under 30 years of age Varies annually
8 Chicago Booth School of Business—The India Trust Fellowship MBA $10,000 USD Indian citizens; admission to Chicago Booth MBA program Varies annually
9 Kellogg School of Management—Emerging Markets Scholarship MBA Varies Students from emerging markets, including India; admission to Kellogg MBA program Varies annually
10 MIT Sloan School of Management—Aker Scholarship MBA, MFin Full tuition and living expenses Norwegian students or those with strong ties to Norway; admission to MIT Sloan Varies annually
11 University of Pennsylvania Wharton School— Emerging Economy Fellowships MBA Full tuition Students from emerging economies, including India; admission to Wharton MBA program Varies annually
12 Yale School of Management—Global Leaders from India Scholarship MBA Varies Indian citizens; admission to Yale MBA program Varies annually
13 Columbia Business School—India Business Fellowship MBA Varies Indian citizens; admission to Columbia MBA program; interest in Indian economic development Varies annually
14 Dartmouth Tuck School of Business—Tuck India Scholarship MBA Varies Indian citizens; admission to Tuck MBA program Varies annually
15 University of Michigan Ross School of Business— India Fellowships MBA Varies Indian citizens; admission to Ross MBA program Varies annually
16 Duke University Fuqua School of Business—India Scholarship MBA Varies Indian citizens; admission to Fuqua MBA program Varies annually
17 NYU Stern School of Business—Dean's Scholarship MBA, MFin Full tuition Exceptional candidates; admission to NYU Stern Varies annually
18 University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy— India Fellowships MFin Varies Indian citizens; admission to Harris School programs Varies annually
19 Cornell SC Johnson College of Business—Emerging Markets Institute Fellowships MBA, MFin Varies Students from emerging markets, including India; admission to Cornell Varies annually
20 UCLA Anderson School of Management—Dean's Fellowship MBA Varies Outstanding candidates; admission to UCLA Anderson Varies annually
21 University of Texas McCombs School of Business— India Excellence Scholarship MBA Varies Indian citizens; admission to McCombs MBA program Varies annually
22 Carnegie Mellon Tepper School of Business—Dean's Scholarship MBA, MFin Varies Exceptional candidates; admission to Tepper School Varies annually
23 University of Virginia Darden School of Business— India Scholarship MBA Varies Indian citizens; admission to Darden MBA program Varies annually
24 University of North Carolina Kenan-Flagler Business School—Global Scholarships MBA Varies International students, including Indians; admission to Kenan- Flagler MBA program Varies annually
25 University of Southern California Marshall School of Business—International Business Education and Research MBA Fellowships MBA Varies International students; admission to Marshall MBA program Varies annually
26 University of Notre Dame Mendoza College of Business—MBA Fellowships MBA Varies Outstanding candidates; admission to Mendoza MBA program Varies annually
27 Emory University Goizueta Business School—Global Scholarships MBA Varies International students; admission to Goizueta MBA program Varies annually
28 Georgetown University McDonough School of Business—Global Business Fellowship MBA Varies International students; admission to McDonough MBA program Varies annually
29 University of Rochester Simon Business School— International Student Scholarships MBA, MFin Varies International students; admission to Simon Business School Varies annually
30 Vanderbilt University Owen Graduate School of Management—Dean's Scholars Program MBA Varies Exceptional candidates; admission to Owen Graduate School Varies annually
31 University of Washington Foster School of Business—Global Business Scholarships MBA Varies International students; admission to Foster MBA program Varies annually
32 University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management—Global Excellence Scholarships MBA Varies International students; admission to Carlson MBA program Varies annually
33 Ohio State University Fisher College of Business— International Student Scholarships MBA Varies International students; admission to Fisher MBA program Varies annually
34 University of Illinois Gies College of Business— Dean's Scholarships MBA, MFin Varies Outstanding candidates; admission to Gies College Varies annually
35 University of Arizona Eller College of Management— Global Excellence Awards MBA Varies International students; admission to Eller MBA program Varies annually
36 Michigan State University Broad College of Business—International Business Scholarships MBA Varies International students; admission to Broad MBA program Varies annually
37 University of Maryland Smith School of Business— Global Scholarships MBA, MFin Varies International students; admission to Smith School Varies annually
38 University of Florida Warrington College of Business—International Student Scholarships MBA, MFin Varies International students; admission to Warrington Varies annually
39 Northeastern University D’Amore-McKim School of Business—Global Scholars Awards MBA, MSBA, MFin Varies International students; admission to D'Amore-McKim Varies annually
40 Boston University Questrom School of Business— International Merit Scholarships MBA, MSBA, MFin Varies International students; admission to Questrom Varies annually
41 Babson College F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business—International Student Fellowships MBA, MiM, MSBA Varies International students; admission to Babson Olin Varies annually
42 Rice University Jones Graduate School of Business— Global Scholarships MBA, MFin Varies International students; admission to Rice Jones Varies annually
43 Indiana University Kelley School of Business—Dean’s Fellowships MBA, MSBA, MFin Varies International students; admission to Kelley Varies annually
44 Southern Methodist University Cox School of Business—Global Business Fellowships MBA, MFin Varies International students; admission to Cox School Varies annually
45 Georgia Institute of Technology Scheller College of Business—International Merit Scholarships MBA, MEM, MSBA Varies International students; admission to Scheller Varies annually
Varies annually
46 University of California Irvine Merage School of Business—International Student Scholarships MBA, MSBA, MFin Varies
International students; admission to Merage
47 University of Pittsburgh Katz Graduate School of Business—Global Business Fellowships MBA, MSBA, MFin Varies International students; admission to Katz Varies annually
48 University of Utah Eccles School of Business—Dean’ s International Scholarships MBA, MSBA, MFin Varies International students; admission to Eccles Varies annually
49 Arizona State University W.P. Carey School of Business—Global Scholars Awards MBA, MiM, MSBA, MFin Varies International students; admission to W.P. Carey Varies annually
50 University of Colorado Leeds School of Business— International Student Fellowships MBA, MSBA, MFin Varies International students; admission to Leeds Varies annually
51 University of Georgia Terry College of Business— Global Excellence Scholarships MBA, MSBA, MFin Varies International students; admission to Terry Varies annually
52 University of Iowa Tippie College of Business— International Student Awards MBA, MSBA, MFin Varies International students; admission to Tippie Varies annually
53 University of Miami Herbert Business School—Global Business Fellowships MBA, MSBA, MFin Varies International students; admission to Herbert Varies annually
54 Washington University in St. Louis Olin Business School—Global Scholars Program MBA, MSBA, MFin Varies International students; admission to Olin Varies annually
55 University of Arizona Global Wildcat Award MBA, MSBA, MFin Varies International students; admission to Arizona Varies annually
56 Clark University Graduate Scholarship for International Students MBA, MSBA, MFin Varies International students; admission to Clark University Varies annually
57 Hult International Business School Global Scholarship MBA, MiM, MSBA, MFin Varies International students; admission to Hult Varies annually
58 Brandeis International Business School Global Dean’ s Scholarships MBA, MSBA, MFin Varies International students; admission to Brandeis IBS Varies annually

Top MBA Scholarships in the UK For Indian Students

The UK has established itself as a premier destination for MBA studies, with numerous MBA scholarships in the UK available for international applicants. These scholarships for graduate students MBA often cover partial tuition and sometimes living expenses.

United Kingdom Scholarships
S.no. Scholarship Name Applicable Degrees Amount Offered Eligibility Criteria Application Deadline
1 Chevening Scholarships MBA, MiM, MSBA, MEM, MFin Full tuition + living expenses Strong leadership potential; 2+ years of work experience November (varies annually)
2 Commonwealth Masters Scholarships MBA, MiM, MSBA, MEM, MFin Full tuition + living expenses Citizens of eligible Commonwealth countries; strong academic record October (varies annually)
3 Great Scholarship (UK Gov & British Council) MBA, MiM, MSBA, MEM, MFin £10,000 Indian citizens; strong academic record Varies by university
4 Rhodes Scholarship (University of Oxford) MBA, MiM, MSBA, MFin Full tuition + stipend Indian citizens; exceptional academic and leadership potential August (varies annually)
5 Clarendon Scholarships (University of Oxford) MBA, MiM, MSBA, MEM, MFin Full tuition + stipend High academic merit; automatic consideration with Oxford application January (varies annually)
6 Cambridge Trust Scholarships MBA, MiM, MSBA, MFin Partial to full tuition Indian students; admission to University of Cambridge December-January (varies)
7 Warwick Business School Scholarships MBA, MiM, MSBA, MFin Up to 50% tuition waiver Merit-based; admission to WBS Rolling basis
8 London Business School Fund Scholarships MBA, MiM, MSBA, MFin £20,000-£50,000 Merit-based; admission to LBS Rolling basis
9 Imperial College Business School Scholarships MBA, MiM, MSBA, MFin Up to 50% tuition fee coverage Admission to Imperial College Business School Rolling basis
10 University of Edinburgh Business School Scholarships MBA, MiM, MSBA, MFin £5,000-£20,000 Merit-based; admission to Edinburgh Business School Rolling basis
11 University of Manchester Alliance Manchester Business School Scholarships MBA, MiM, MSBA, MFin Up to 50% tuition fee waiver Merit-based; admission to AMBS Rolling basis
12 Nottingham Global Scholarships MBA, MiM, MSBA, MFin £5,000-£15,000 Merit-based; admission to Nottingham University Rolling basis
13 Brunel University London International MBA, MiM, MSBA, MFin £6,000 Indian students merit-based Rolling basis

Top MBA Scholarships in Europe For Indian Students

Europe offers diverse opportunities through MBA Europe scholarship programs. Many European business schools provide scholarships for MBA students with strong academic backgrounds and professional experience. MBA in foreign countries with scholarship opportunities in Europe often include benefits like reduced tuition, stipends, and networking opportunities

Europe Scholarships (France, Germany, Netherlands, Spain, etc.)
Sno. Scholarship Name Applicable Degrees Amount Offered Eligibility Criteria Application Deadline
1 Eiffel Excellence Scholarship (France) MBA, MiM, MSBA, MEM, MFin €1,181/month + tuition waiver International students; under 30 years old January (varies annually)
2 EDHEC Business School Excellence Scholarship (France) MBA, MiM, MSBA, MFin Up to 50% tuition fee waiver Merit-based; admission to EDHEC Rolling basis
3 HEC Paris Excellence & Diversity Scholarships (France) MBA, MiM, MSBA, MFin Up to €25,000 Admission to HEC Paris; merit-based Rolling basis
4 INSEAD Need-Based & Merit Scholarships (France) MBA, MiM, MSBA, MFin €10,000-€30,000 Need-based and merit-based options available Varies per scholarship
5 ESSEC Business School International Scholarships (France) MBA, MiM, MSBA, MFin 20%-50% tuition fee waiver Merit-based; admission to ESSEC Rolling basis
6 Erasmus Mundus Scholarships (Europe-wide) MBA, MiM, MSBA, MEM, MFin Full tuition + stipend Admission to Erasmus Mundus programs Varies per program
7 DAAD Scholarships (Germany) MBA, MiM, MSBA, MEM, MFin Full/Partial tuition + stipend Admission to a German university; strong academic record October (varies annually)
8 WHU Otto Beisheim School of Management Scholarships (Germany) MBA, MiM, MFin Up to 50% tuition waiver Merit-based; admission to WHU Rolling basis
9 Frankfurt School of Finance & Management Scholarships (Germany) MBA, MiM, MSBA, MFin 20%-50% tuition coverage Strong academic and professional background Rolling basis
10 Stuttgart University Scholarships for International Students (Germany) MBA, MEM €750/month stipend Merit-based; admission to Stuttgart University Rolling basis
11 RSM Erasmus University Scholarships (Netherlands) MBA, MiM, MSBA, MFin Up to 50% tuition fee coverage Merit-based; admission to RSM Rolling basis
12 VU Amsterdam Business School Scholarships (Netherlands) MBA, MiM, MSBA, MFin €10,000 Merit-based; admission to VU Amsterdam Rolling basis
13 IE Business School Scholarships (Spain) MBA, MiM, MSBA, MFin 25%-50% tuition fee waiver Merit-based; admission to IE Business School Rolling basis
14 ESADE Business School Scholarships (Spain) MBA, MiM, MSBA, MFin Up to 50% tuition fee coverage Admission to ESADE; merit-based Rolling basis
15 EADA Business School Barcelona Scholarships (Spain) MBA, MiM, MSBA, MFin €5,000-€15,000 Merit-based; admission to EADA Rolling basis

Eligibility Criteria: Scholarship for MBA Abroad

While eligibility criteria can vary depending on the specific scholarship, some common requirements for scholarships for MBA abroad include:

  1. Academic Excellence: Most scholarships require a strong academic background, often with a minimum GPA or percentage in your undergraduate degree.
  2. Standardized Test Scores: Competitive scores on tests like GMAT or GRE are often required.
  3. Work Experience: Many abroad scholarship for MBA, especially for top programs, require 2-5 years of professional work experience.
  4. Leadership Potential: Demonstrated leadership skills through work or extracurricular activities are often valued.
  5. Financial Need: Some scholarships are need-based and require proof of financial necessity.
  6. Specific Background: Some scholarships for graduate students MBA target students from particular countries, industries, or underrepresented groups.
  7. Essay or Statement of Purpose: Most applications require a well-written essay explaining your goals and why you deserve the scholarship.
  8. Letters of Recommendation: Strong recommendations from professors or employers are often required.
  9. Citizenship or Residency: Many MBA in foreign countries with scholarship options are restricted to citizens or residents of specific countries.
  10. Age Limit: Some scholarships have age restrictions, often preferring younger applicants.

How can I apply for a scholarship to study an MBA abroad?

To apply for a scholarship for MBA:

  1. Research Extensively: Start by researching various scholarships available for Indian students pursuing MBAs abroad. Use resources like university websites, scholarship portal services, and education counseling services.
  2. Check Eligibility: Carefully review the eligibility criteria for each scholarship to ensure you meet all requirements before applying.
  3. Prepare Required Documents: Gather all necessary documents, which may include:
    • Academic transcripts
    • Standardized test scores (GMAT/GRE, TOEFL/IELTS)
    • Resume/CV
    • Letters of recommendation
    • Statement of purpose or scholarship essay
    • Proof of financial need (if applicable)
  4. Write a Compelling Essay: Craft a strong, personalized essay that highlights your achievements, goals, and why you deserve the scholarship.
  5. Apply Early: Submit your applications well before the deadlines. Many scholarships for MBA students have a limited number of awards.
  6. Apply for Multiple Scholarships: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Apply for multiple abroad scholarship for MBA opportunities.
  7. Follow Instructions Carefully: Pay close attention to application instructions and ensure you complete all required steps.
  8. Prepare for Interviews: Some scholarships may require an interview. Be ready to discuss your background, goals, and why you’re a good fit for the scholarship.
  9. Check University-Specific Scholarships: Many business schools offer their own scholarships for graduate students MBA. Check with each school you’re applying to for additional opportunities.
  10. Seek Guidance: Consider seeking help from education counselors or alumni who have gone through the process to get insights and tips.

How to get fully funded MBA scholarships for Indian students?

Here are some strategies to increase your chances of securing fully funded MBA scholarships for Indian students:

  1. Aim for Excellence: Maintain an outstanding academic record and aim for top scores in standardized tests like GMAT or GRE.
  2. Build a Strong Profile: Engage in extracurricular activities, take leadership roles, and gain relevant work experience to stand out.
  3. Target Specific Scholarships: Look for scholarships specifically designed for Indian students or those that align closely with your profile and career goals.
  4. Apply Early: Many fully funded scholarships have early deadlines. Start your application process well in advance.
  5. Craft Compelling Essays: Your essays should clearly articulate your goals, achievements, and how the MBA aligns with your future plans.
  6. Demonstrate Financial Need: If applying for need-based scholarships, be prepared to provide detailed information about your financial situation.
  7. Seek University-Specific Scholarships: Many top business schools offer their own fully funded scholarships. Research and apply for these opportunities.
  8. Consider Less Competitive Markets: While top US and UK schools are popular, consider other countries like Germany or Canada, which may offer more funding opportunities.
  9. Leverage Your Unique Background: Highlight any unique experiences or perspectives you bring, especially if they align with the scholarship’s goals.
  10. Prepare for Interviews: If shortlisted, be ready to articulate your goals and value proposition clearly in interviews.
  11. Look Beyond Traditional MBA Scholarships: Consider scholarships from corporations, non-profits, or government agencies in your field of interest.
  12. Network: Connect with alumni or current students who have received similar scholarships for advice and insights.

Remember, fully funded scholarships are highly competitive. It’s wise to have a backup plan and consider partial scholarships or other funding options as well.


List of Government Scholarships for MBA Graduate Students

There are several govt scholarships for MBA students pursuing education abroad. These scholarships from the government often come with the requirement that students return to India after completing their education to contribute to the nation’s development.

Scholarship Name

Offered by

Benefits

Eligibility

National Overseas Scholarship Scheme

Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India

Tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other allowances

Indian students from economically weaker sections, aged below 35, with at least 60% marks in qualifying examination

Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships

United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF)

Tuition fees, living expenses, round-trip economy class air travel, and health insurance

Indian citizens with at least a bachelor’s degree and three years of professional work experience

Chevening Scholarships

UK Government

Tuition fees, living expenses, and return flights to the UK

Indian graduates with at least two years of work experience

Commonwealth Scholarships

Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, UK

Tuition fees, living allowance, airfare, and other allowances

Citizens of Commonwealth countries with at least an upper second-class honours bachelor’s degree

DAAD Scholarships

German Academic Exchange Service

Monthly stipend, travel allowance, health insurance, and in some cases, tuition fees

Varies by program, generally requires a bachelor’s degree

New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships

New Zealand Government

Full tuition fees, living allowance, establishment allowance, medical insurance, and travel costs

Citizens of Commonwealth countries with at least a bachelor’s degree

Australia Awards Scholarships

Australian Government

Full tuition fees, return air travel, establishment allowance, living expenses, and health insurance

Citizens of participating countries (including India) with at least a bachelor’s degree


Our Scholar Students

Kartik

735 GMAT Score

Percentile: 100%

Aviral Agarwal

705 GMAT Score

Percentile: 98%

Shubham

705 GMAT Score

Percentile: 98%

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it is possible to get a 100% scholarship for MBA abroad, although these opportunities are highly competitive. Some prestigious programs offer full funding to exceptional candidates. For instance, the Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship provides up to USD 150,000 to five students who will return to India after the program. Additionally, the Laidlaw Scholars Program at HEC Paris offers up to 10 full tuition scholarships per graduating class for exceptional women candidates. Govt scholarship for MBA students can also provide good funding in some cases.

To check eligibility for GMAT scholarship opportunities, you should:

  • Research specific scholarship programs offered by your target business schools.
  • Review the scholarship criteria, which often include a minimum GMAT score, typically 700 or higher (which equates to 645 and above under the updated GMAT Focus Edition system).
  • Check your academic record, as many scholarships require a strong GPA.
  • Assess your leadership experience and extracurricular activities.
  • Verify if there are any geographical or demographic requirements.

For example, some business schools automatically consider applicants with high GMAT scores for merit-based scholarships. At EDHEC Business School, applicants with a GMAT score at the 85th percentile or higher can get € 3,000 in scholarship funds.

For example, some business schools automatically consider applicants with high GMAT scores for merit-based scholarships. At EDHEC Business School, applicants with a GMAT score at the 85th percentile or higher (equivalent to 645 or higher in the latest edition of the GMAT) can get € 3,000 in scholarship funds.

Yes, you can and should apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously. This strategy increases your chances of securing financial aid for your MBA. Many business schools and external organizations encourage applicants to apply for multiple scholarships. For example:

  • At HEC Paris, applicants can apply for up to five scholarships.
  • INSEAD allows candidates to apply for different scholarships after completing their profile questions.

However, it's important to carefully read the terms and conditions of each scholarship, as some may have restrictions on combining awards.

To find MBA scholarships tailored to your major or specific interests:

  • Research business schools that specialize in your area of interest, as they often offer targeted scholarships.
  • Look for industry-specific scholarships offered by professional associations or companies in your field.
  • Use scholarship search engines and filter by your major or career goals.
  • Check with your current employer or professional network for industry-specific scholarship opportunities.

For example, the AFWA Master’s Scholarships are specifically for students pursuing accounting or finance degrees. Many business schools offer scholarships for specific career paths or industries, such as technology, entrepreneurship, or sustainability.

Yes, Indian students can get MBA scholarships at INSEAD. The school offers various scholarships that are open to Indian applicants:

  • INSEAD Diversity Scholarships: These address talented individuals who will contribute to the breadth of diversity in the MBA program.
  • INSEAD Need-based Scholarships: These support outstanding individuals with limited financial means.
  • INSEAD Deepak and Sunita Gupta Endowed Scholarship: Worth up to 27,374 USD, this scholarship is for international students from developing countries, including India.

Indian applicants should also look into country-specific scholarships that INSEAD may offer, as well as external scholarships for Indian students studying abroad.

Yes, it is possible to get a fully funded scholarship at HEC Paris, although these are highly competitive. HEC Paris offers several scholarship opportunities that can cover a significant portion of the tuition, and in some cases, provide full funding:

  • The Laidlaw Scholars Program: This offers up to 10 full tuition scholarships per graduating class for exceptional women candidates with strong leadership potential.
  • HEC Paris MBA Scholarship for Excellence: While not always full funding, this can cover up to 50% of tuition fees for exceptional applicants.
  • Other scholarships at HEC Paris range from €5,000 to €25,000, which can significantly reduce the cost of attendance.

It's important to note that while full funding is possible, it's not common. Applicants should consider applying for multiple scholarships to maximize their chances of receiving substantial financial aid.

Securing scholarships for MBA programs can be challenging due to high competition, but it's certainly not impossible. The difficulty level depends on various factors:

  • Academic and professional achievements: Strong academic records and impressive work experience increase your chances.
  • GMAT scores: Many scholarships require high GMAT scores, often 700 (or, 645 in the Focus Edition) or above.
  • Leadership and extracurricular activities: Demonstrating leadership and community involvement can set you apart.
  • Financial need: Some scholarships consider the applicant's financial situation.
  • Specific demographics: Some scholarships target underrepresented groups or specific nationalities.

To improve your chances, apply early, as some scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Tailor your applications to each scholarship's specific requirements and values. Consider applying to multiple scholarships to increase your odds of success.

For middle-class Indian students aspiring to do an MBA abroad, there are several strategies to make it financially feasible:

  1. Scholarships: Apply for multiple scholarships, including those specific to Indian students. Examples include:
  • Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Scholarship: A 100% merit-based scholarship.
  • Aga Khan Scholarship: Offers 50% scholarship and 50% loan.
  • KC Mahindra Scholarship: Provides up to INR 10 Lakhs.
  • JN Tata Endowment program: Offers a loan scholarship worth INR 10 Lakhs.
  1. Education Loans: Consider education loans from Indian banks or international student loan providers.
  2. Part-time Work: Many countries allow international students to work part-time during their studies.
  3. Choose Affordable Destinations: Consider countries with lower living costs or shorter MBA programs.
  4. Apply for Need-based Aid: Many business schools offer need-based scholarships for students from middle-class backgrounds.
  5. Look for Fully Funded Opportunities: Programs like the Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships cover tuition, living expenses, and travel for Indian students.
  6. Consider Employer Sponsorship: Some companies sponsor employees for MBA programs abroad.

Yes, it is possible to get a scholarship for an MBA abroad even after a gap in your education or career. Many scholarship programs do not specifically exclude candidates with gaps, and some even value the diverse experiences that come with non-traditional career paths. Here's what you should keep in mind:

  1. Explain Your Gap: Use your application essays or interviews to explain how you utilized your time during the gap and what you learned from the experience.
  2. Highlight Relevant Experiences: If you gained any work experience, volunteered, or pursued personal projects during your gap, emphasize how these experiences have prepared you for an MBA.
  3. Strong Academic Record: If your gap was before your undergraduate studies, having a strong academic record from your bachelor's degree can help offset concerns about the gap.
  4. Competitive GMAT Score: A high GMAT score can demonstrate your current academic abilities, regardless of past gaps.
  5. Research Specific Programs: Some scholarship programs, like the Forte Fellowships for women, value diverse experiences and may be more open to candidates with non-traditional backgrounds.
  6. Professional Achievements: If your gap includes work experience, highlight any significant achievements or skills gained during this time.

Remember, scholarship committees often look for candidates with unique perspectives and experiences. A gap in your education or career, if utilized productively, can potentially make your application stand out.

Related Blogs