Odisha has rolled out a major new scholarship for 2025 that gives SC/ST students the chance to study abroad with funding up to ₹25 lakh per year. The scheme is designed for students who dream of pursuing PG or PhD programmes in top global universities but struggle with huge financial requirements.
A Big Opportunity for SC/ST Students: Key Benefits You Should Know
This new scholarship popularly known as the state’s Videsh Siksha Bruti has been launched to support higher education abroad for talented students from SC/ST communities.
Here’s what makes it a breakthrough scheme:
- Funding of up to ₹25 lakh per year
- Covers tuition, living costs, travel, accommodation, and more
- Open for PG and PhD programmes
- Only for students from SC/ST categories
- 50 students selected every year
- Students must get admission into Top 200 universities worldwide
- Applications open twice a year
This is one of the most ambitious education-support initiatives by the state.
Eligibility Criteria Explained in Simple Terms
To make things easier, here’s a quick eligibility table:
| Requirement | You Must Have |
|---|---|
| Category | SC or ST |
| Family Income | Up to ₹12 lakh per year |
| Course Level | PG or PhD |
| University Rank | Must be within Top 200 globally |
| Admission Status | Must already have admission before applying |
| Annual Selection Limit | 50 students |
If you meet these conditions, you’re already halfway there.
How This Scholarship Supports Your Education Abroad
You don’t need to worry about how to cover massive foreign-education expenses. The scholarship takes care of almost everything:
- Full or partial tuition fee
- Living and hostel expenses
- Airfare and travel costs
- Books and academic materials
- Other essential academic needs
And yes it’s not a loan, so you don’t repay anything.
Application Timeline and Step-by-Step Process
The government has made the process flexible with two application windows every year:
Application Months
- July – August
- December – January
How to Apply
- First, get admitted into a Top 200 global university.
- Gather documents: caste proof, income certificate, admission letter, academic records, ID/passport.
- Apply through the official online portal when applications open.
- Upload documents and submit before the deadline.
- Wait for verification and final selection.
If you prepare your documents early, the process becomes smooth.
Reasons This Scheme Is a Game-Changer for Odisha
This scholarship is more than a financial aid program it’s a future-building initiative. It will:
- Help underprivileged students access world-class education
- Create more representation from SC/ST communities in global academia
- Boost Odisha’s talent pool with internationally trained graduates
- Open doors to high-level research and global jobs
For many students, this could be the stepping stone to a life-changing career.
Things to Keep in Mind Before You Apply
- Admission must be confirmed before applying for the scholarship.
- Only 50 students per year are selected, so the competition is strong.
- Funding amount might vary depending on your destination country.
- Missing the application window can delay your entire academic year.
Stay ready, stay prepared.
Conclusion
Odisha’s new foreign-study scholarship for SC/ST students is a landmark initiative offering up to ₹25 lakh per year for PG and PhD studies abroad. With solid financial support, global exposure, and a fair selection process, this scheme opens life-changing opportunities for ambitious students who want to pursue higher education at the best universities in the world.
If you’re eligible, start preparing your documents today this could be your chance to study abroad without financial stress.
FAQs
When will applications for the Odisha foreign-study scholarship open?
Applications open twice a year once in July–August and again in December–January, giving students two chances.
What courses are covered under the scholarship?
It supports Postgraduate (PG) and PhD programmes in top-ranked global universities.
Why is admission required before applying?
The scholarship funds students only after they secure a seat in a Top 200 university, ensuring transparency and merit-based selection.
How much financial support can a student get?
Eligible students can receive up to ₹25 lakh per year, covering tuition, living expenses, travel, and academic costs.
Can students from any stream apply?
Yes. Students from engineering, medical, agriculture, architecture, humanities, commerce, sciences, and more are eligible if other conditions are met.