Benefit Amount
Varies by course and institution; covers tuition, accommodation, and living expenses up to Rs. 2,50,000 per annumScholarship
✓ Government Verified✓ Direct Bank Transfer
ℹAbout Mahatma Gandhi Scholarship Scheme for SAARC Countries
The Mahatma Gandhi Scholarship Scheme for SAARC Countries is a prestigious scholarship program launched by the Ministry of External Affairs to promote educational ties and cultural exchange with neighboring South Asian countries. The scheme provides financial support to meritorious students from SAARC nations (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) pursuing higher education in India. Beneficiaries receive scholarships covering tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses while studying at recognized Indian educational institutions. The scheme aims to strengthen people-to-people contacts, enhance India's soft power, and develop skilled human resources in the South Asian region. Students from SAARC countries pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs in various fields are eligible. The scholarship promotes academic excellence and fosters long-term diplomatic relationships through educational cooperation.
Ministry
Ministry of External Affairs
✓Who Is Eligible?
The Mahatma Gandhi Scholarship Scheme for SAARC Countries is exclusively open to students who are citizens of SAARC member nations, which include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. To be eligible, you must be a meritorious student with strong academic performance and secured admission to a recognized higher education institution in India. The scheme welcomes applications from students pursuing undergraduate degree programs, postgraduate programs, and research-level studies across various fields of study. There are no specific age limits mentioned in the scheme guidelines, but applicants should be eligible for admission at their chosen Indian institution. The scholarship does not have restrictions based on gender, caste, or category, making it open to all students from eligible SAARC countries. You must have obtained valid admission from an accredited Indian educational institution before applying. The scheme is available throughout India for students at any recognized institution. For specific details about academic merit criteria, age restrictions, or any additional eligibility conditions, it is recommended to check the official Ministry of External Affairs website or contact them directly for the most current and detailed requirements.
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Gender: Male, Female, Other📝How to Apply for Mahatma Gandhi Scholarship Scheme for SAARC Countries
Follow these simple steps to apply for the Mahatma Gandhi Scholarship Scheme for SAARC Countries. First, visit the official Ministry of External Affairs website at https://mea.gov.in/ and locate the scholarship application portal. Second, create your account on the portal by providing your basic personal information and email address. Third, fill out the complete application form with accurate details about your academic background, the course you wish to pursue, and the Indian institution where you have received admission. Fourth, upload all required documents including your valid passport, academic transcripts, letter of admission from your Indian institution, birth certificate, medical fitness certificate, character certificate, bank statements showing financial status, and proof of nationality. Fifth, review all information carefully to ensure there are no errors before submitting. Sixth, submit your application before the closing date mentioned on the portal. Finally, keep track of your application status through the portal using your login credentials and wait for the selection results. Make sure all documents are clear, valid, and meet the specified requirements to avoid rejection of your application.
Visit Official Portal →📄Documents Required8 required
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Academic transcripts and certificates📋
Letter of admission from Indian institution📋
Medical fitness certificate📋
Character certificate from competent authority📋
Bank statements or proof of financial status?Frequently Asked Questions
1Which countries are covered under the SAARC scholarship?
The scheme covers seven SAARC member nations: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Students from these countries pursuing studies in India are eligible to apply for the scholarship.
2What courses and fields of study are eligible?
The scholarship covers undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs across various fields including engineering, medicine, sciences, humanities, commerce, and social sciences at recognized Indian universities and institutions.
3What is the application process and timeline?
Applicants must obtain admission to an Indian institution first, then apply through the Ministry of External Affairs with required documents. The application window typically opens annually; interested candidates should check the MEA website for current notifications and deadlines.
4Are there any merit-based criteria for selection?
Yes, applicants must demonstrate strong academic performance in previous studies. Selection is based on academic merit, potential for academic excellence, and overall suitability as assessed by the Ministry of External Affairs.
5Is the scholarship renewable for multiple years?
Scholarship recipients must maintain satisfactory academic progress and meet annual performance criteria for renewal. Continuation is subject to review by the MEA and the Indian institution, typically on a yearly basis.
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