23 September 2024
The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship is one of the prestigious and sought-after scholarships for Indian students aspiring to pursue higher education abroad.
Established in 1976, this scholarship has supported numerous students in achieving their academic dreams. It has enabled them to study at renowned institutions in the United States, the United Kingdom, and other European countries.
The scholarship is not only a testament to academic excellence but also a means to provide financial assistance to those who need it.
In this blog, we will walk you through the eligibility criteria, application process, and tips on how to maximize your chances of securing this esteemed scholarship.
Understanding the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships
The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship is designed to help bright Indian students with exceptional academic achievements continue their education through full-time master’s, MPhil, or doctoral programs.
What sets this scholarship apart is its focus on both merit and financial need, ensuring that deserving students are not held back due to financial constraints.
Key Features of the Scholarship
- Eligibility: Only Indian students are eligible to apply for the Inlaks Scholarship.
- Grant Amount: The scholarship offers a generous grant amounting to a maximum of $100,000.
- Coverage: The scholarship covers tuition, living expenses, healthcare, and a one-way flight to the country of study.
- Additional Costs: If the course costs exceed the grant amount, applicants must provide proof of their ability to cover the additional expenses.
- Study Location: The program you choose should not require travel to India during the study period.
- Scholarship Validity: The scholarship must commence within nine months of being awarded; otherwise, it will be forfeited.
Benefits of the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship
The Inlaks Scholarship is more than just a financial award; it opens doors to a wealth of opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Financial Support: The scholarship considerably reduces the cost of studying abroad by paying tuition, travel, and living expenses.
Top Institutions: Scholars can study at world-class universities such as Imperial College, the University of Cambridge, and King’s College London.
Mentorship: Scholars are guided by professionals in their fields as they navigate their academic paths and employment opportunities.
Networking: The scholarship offers a platform to connect with professionals and researchers, providing invaluable networking opportunities.
Cultural Exchange: Studying abroad provides a unique cultural experience, broadening your horizons and contributing to personal development.
Prestige: Being an Inlaks scholar is a mark of distinction, recognized by academic and professional communities worldwide.
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying for the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship, it is essential to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria.
- Citizenship: The scholarship is open only to Indian citizens.
- Age Limit: For the 2024 scholarships, applicants must be born on or after January 1, 1994.
- Academic Background: Applicants must hold a first-class degree from an Indian university.
- Previous Study: The scholarship is not available to students who have already obtained a postgraduate degree from an overseas institution.
- Admission: Applicants must have been accepted to a full-time master’s, MPhil, or doctorate program at a reputable university in the United States, United Kingdom, or Europe.
- Current Study: If you have already begun your studies abroad, you are not eligible to apply for the scholarship.
- English Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate English language competency, as most programs demand it for admittance.
- Academic Performance: Candidates from Humanities, Social Sciences, Fine Arts, Law, and Architecture must have a minimum of 65% in their previous academic records, while those in Science and related fields need at least 70%.
Application Process
The application process for the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship is simple, but it demands thorough preparation.
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Documents
Before starting your application, ensure that you have a valid passport, academic transcripts, Letters of Recommendation (LORs), and a detailed study or research proposal. These documents are crucial for your application and should be prepared well in advance.
Step 2: Submit Your Online Application
Applications are submitted online through the Inlaks Foundation’s official website. The application period normally begins in January or February and ends in March or April of each year. Late entries will not be accepted, so please stick to these dates.
Step 3: Choose the Right Scholarship Category
The Inlaks Scholarship offers various categories based on the field of study and the institution. It is critical to examine the different possibilities and select the one that best fits your academic goals and interests.
Step 4: Submit Letters of Reference
Two letters of reference are required, one of which must come from an academic referee. Ensure that your referees use their official email accounts to submit these letters. Strong letters of recommendation can greatly improve your application, so choose your referees carefully.
Step 5: Review and Submit
Before submitting your application, review it thoroughly to confirm that all of the needed documents are included and the information supplied is correct.
Incomplete applications are not considered, so attention to detail is critical.
Selection Process
The selection process for the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship is rigorous and tough. It has several stages, including:
Initial Screening: Each application is examined to ensure that it meets the qualifying requirements.
Shortlisting: Candidates are shortlisted based on their academic achievements, the quality of their study or research proposal, and the strength of their Letters of Recommendation.
Interviews: Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews, either in person or via video conferencing. The interview panel assesses the candidate’s academic expertise, leadership qualities, and alignment with the foundation’s values.
Final Selection: The final selection is based on overall merit, taking into consideration the candidate’s potential to excel in their chosen field of study and contribute to society.
Tips for a Successful Application
Securing the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship requires more than just meeting the eligibility requirements. Here are some strategies to increase your chances:
Begin Early: Begin your application process as soon as possible to ensure that you have enough time to gather all required documents and build a compelling application.
A Strong Proposal: Your study or research proposal should be straightforward, short, and appealing. It should demonstrate how your chosen program aligns with your career goals and how it will contribute to your field of study.
Choose Reputable Referees: Choose referees who know you well and can attest to your academic talents and prospects. Their letters should highlight your talents and why you are an excellent candidate for the scholarship.
Prepare for the Interview: If you’ve been shortlisted, make sure you’re fully prepared. Be prepared to talk about your academic work, future aspirations, and how the scholarship will help you reach your objectives.
Conclusion
The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship provides Indian students with opportunities for academic and professional success.
Understanding the eligibility criteria, crafting a great application, and exhibiting your potential will increase your chances of getting this coveted award.
Take the time to prepare thoroughly, and you could be on your way to studying at some of the world’s most renowned universities, opening doors to a bright and successful future.
