ICCR Scholarship
The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Scholarship Scheme offers aspiring international students a unique opportunity to pursue higher education in India’s prestigious universities and institutions. This fully funded scholarship aims to promote cultural exchange, foster goodwill, and strengthen academic cooperation between India and countries worldwide.
Scholars can pursue a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD programs across various disciplines.
Eligibility Criteria for ICCR Scholarship
- Nationality: Applicants must be citizens of countries with which India has cultural exchange agreements and where the ICCR scholarship scheme is offered. (List specific eligible countries if this post is targeted, or state “international students from eligible countries”).
- Age Limit:
- Undergraduate Programs: Usually between 18 and 30 years of age.
- Postgraduate Programs: Typically between 18 and 40 years of age.
- PhD Programs: Usually between 18 and 45 years of age.
- (VERIFY EXACT AGE RANGES FOR THE CURRENT CYCLE)
- Educational Qualification:
- Undergraduate: Completion of 12 years of schooling (e.g., Senior Secondary, A-Levels, IB Diploma) or equivalent, with good academic records.
- Postgraduate: Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university with a good academic record in the relevant field.
- PhD: Master’s degree (M.A./M.Sc./M.Com./M.Tech. etc.) from a recognized university in the relevant field. Proof of research proposal or synopsis may be required.
- For Performing Arts Courses: Relevant experience and demonstration of talent are often required.
- Language Proficiency:
- Proficiency in English is essential, as most courses are taught in English.
- Applicants may be required to provide scores from English proficiency tests (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) if their previous education was not in English. (Check if this is a mandatory requirement or if a Medium of Instruction certificate is accepted).
- Medical Fitness: Applicants must be medically fit to undertake studies in India. A medical examination certificate from a recognized medical practitioner will be required.
- Previous Indian Studies (Important Restriction): Generally, applicants who have already studied in India under any scholarship scheme (including ICCR) are not eligible to apply again for the same level of study.
- Specific Course Requirements: Applicants must meet the specific admission criteria for the chosen course and university. Some courses might require specific subjects at the qualifying examination level.
- Passport: A valid passport will be required.
How to apply for ICCR Scholarship
The application process for the ICCR Scholarship is typically conducted online through the A2A (Admission to Alumni) Portal. Follow these steps carefully:
- Read Official Guidelines: Before starting, thoroughly read the detailed guidelines and instructions released by the ICCR and the Indian Mission/Embassy in your country. These documents contain critical information about eligible courses, universities, required documents, and specific deadlines for your region.
- Visit the A2A Portal: Access the ICCR A2A Scholarship Portal:
[Insert Official A2A Portal Link Here - e.g., a2ascholarships.iccr.gov.in] - Registration: Register on the portal using a valid email address. You will receive login credentials.
- Login and Complete Application Form: Log in and accurately fill out the online application form. This will include personal details, academic history, preferred courses, and university choices.
- University Preference: You will typically be asked to select a few preferred universities/institutions and courses. It’s advisable to research these institutions beforehand to ensure they offer your desired program and that you meet their specific admission criteria.
- Research Proposal (for PhD/M.Phil): If applying for research degrees, you must upload a well-defined research proposal/synopsis.
- Upload Required Documents: Prepare scanned copies of all necessary documents as per the specifications (format, size) mentioned in the guidelines. Common documents include:
- Passport (photo page)
- All academic transcripts and certificates (10th, 12th, Bachelor’s, Master’s degrees, etc.)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)/Resume
- Passport-sized photograph
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Recommendation Letters (if required by the specific university/program)
- Proof of English Proficiency (if required)
- Medical fitness certificate
- Any other supporting documents relevant to your application (e.g., portfolio for arts, experience certificates).
- (Crucially: Ensure all non-English documents are accompanied by certified English translations.)
- Submit Application: Review all information carefully before submitting your application. Once submitted, you usually cannot make changes.
- Interview (If applicable): Shortlisted candidates may be called for an interview by the Indian Mission/Embassy in their respective countries. This interview assesses your academic aptitude, communication skills, and motivation for studying in India.
Specifications
| Type of Opportunity | Scholarships and Fellowships |
|---|---|
| Fund Type | Fully Funded |
| Country | India |
| Deadline | March, 2026 |
| Organizer | Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) |
| Official Link | Visit Now |