Study Abroad Scholarship and Funding Options for Students from Kerala

Kerala, often called God’s Own Country, has long stood out for its education-driven culture and global outlook. Every year, thousands of young Keralites set their sights on prestigious universities abroad — from Canada and the UK to Germany and Australia.

But while the dream is clear, the financial hurdle often feels daunting. Tuition fees, living expenses, and visa costs can together run into lakhs, making many families hesitant to take the leap.

So, the big question is: How can students from Kerala fund their international education without straining family finances?

This article lays out a complete roadmap — from Kerala Government overseas scholarship schemes and global merit awards to smart education loan options — to help you achieve your study abroad dream with confidence.

Need personalized funding guidance?

Book a free counselling session with Jubeerich Study Abroad — Kerala’s trusted consultancy for scholarships, university admissions, and visa support.

Kerala State-Specific Government Support & Schemes

Kerala stands among the few Indian states with dedicated programs for students aspiring to study abroad. These schemes are especially beneficial because Kerala domicile is a key eligibility requirement.

1. Overseas Scholarship (OBC Students)

Administered by: Backward Classes Development Department (BCDD), Government of Kerala

This scheme assists students from Other Backward Classes (OBC) pursuing postgraduate or research studies abroad in disciplines such as Medicine, Engineering, Science, Management, or Law.

Highlights:

• Scholarship Amount: Up to ₹10,00,000
• Eligibility: Kerala resident, OBC category, at least 60% in qualifying degree
• Application: Apply online at bcdd.kerala.gov.in

Note: The 2025 application closed on 20 September 2025, so monitor updates regularly.

2. Unnathi Scholarship (SC/ST Students)

Administered by: Scheduled Castes & Scheduled Tribes Development Department, Government of Kerala

The Unnathi Scholarship Scheme empowers SC/ST students from Kerala to pursue postgraduate or research-level studies abroad.

Highlights:

• • Funding: Up to ₹25,00,000 per student
  • Eligibility: Kerala resident, SC/ST category, below 35 years, minimum 55% marks
  • Support: Covers tuition, living expenses, and orientation

Interest Subsidy and Loan Schemes

Kerala also offers interest subsidy programs for students availing education loans — particularly for lower-income and marginalized communities. These subsidies help cover partial interest during the study period, reducing the repayment burden.

University and Global Merit Scholarships

Beyond government aid, many Kerala students secure international merit scholarships through universities and global foundations.

A. University-Specific Awards

Universities worldwide offer automatic merit-based scholarships. For instance, Macquarie University (Australia) offers Vice-Chancellor’s and Early Acceptance Awards, while UK and Canadian universities have departmental scholarships for Engineering, Data Science, and Business programs.

B. Global Scholarships for Indian Students

Some of the most prestigious fully-funded programs include:

• Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship (USA)
• Chevening Scholarship (UK)
• Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EU)
• DAAD Scholarship (Germany)

These cover tuition, living expenses, and travel, making them ideal for top performers planning to return to India and contribute to national development.

C. Indian Trusts & Foundations

Private organizations such as the K. C. Mahindra Education Trust, Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation, and Foundation for Excellence (FFE) also support students pursuing higher education abroad.

Education Loans: Your Primary Funding Pillar

For most students, education loans bridge the gap between scholarships and total expenses.

A. Nationalized Banks vs. Private NBFCs

Key Features

• Nationalized Banks:  Lower interest rates, longer tenures, but collateral required
•  Private NBFCs : Quick processing, unsecured loans up to ₹50 lakh based on co-applicant income

B. Tax Benefits (Section 80E)

Under Section 80E, interest paid on education loans is tax-deductible for up to eight years, easing long-term repayment.

C. Documentation Checklist

To secure your visa, a Pre-Admission Sanction Letter (P-SAL) is often required.

Prepare:

• ID & address proof
• Academic transcripts
• Admission letter
• Co-applicant income details

Jubeerich’s finance team can pre-review your documents for accuracy before submission.

Maximizing Your Scholarship Success

A. Build a Strong Profile

Scholarship committees value academic excellence, leadership, and community engagement.

B. Craft a Winning Application

A well-written SOP and strong LORs are crucial.

Jubeerich’s writing team can help refine your scholarship essays and SOPs.

C. Choose a Trusted Partner

Partnering with a reputed consultancy ensures transparency and timely submissions.

At Jubeerich, students receive end-to-end support — university selection, funding guidance, visa processing, and pre-departure sessions.

Conclusion: Your Financial Launchpad

Studying abroad is a life-changing investment. With the right mix of Kerala Government scholarships, international awards, and education loans, your global dream can become reality.

Stay updated via:

• e-grantz.kerala.gov.in
• bcdd.kerala.gov.in
• stdd.kerala.gov.in

Need help navigating scholarships and loans?

Talk to a Jubeerich Study Abroad advisor today and get personalized funding support.

From God’s Own Country to the world’s top universities — your journey begins with the right financial plan and the right partner.