Are you dreaming of studying in India on a fully funded scholarship? The ICCR Scholarship offered by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations is one of the most prestigious opportunities for international students who want to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, or Ph.D. degrees in India.
In this article, we will cover:
- What is the ICCR Scholarship?
- Benefits of the ICCR Scholarship
- Eligibility Criteria
- Required Documents
- How to Apply via the A2A ICCR Portal
- Tips to Win the ICCR Scholarship
- ICCR Scholarship 2025 Deadline & Important Dates
- List of Indian Universities under ICCR
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Let’s dive deep into every detail to help you prepare for your journey to India under this prestigious scholarship.
What is the ICCR Scholarship?
The ICCR Scholarship, officially known as the Indian Council for Cultural Relations Scholarship, is an Indian government initiative to promote cultural exchange and education cooperation. It offers fully funded education to students from Africa, Asia, Latin America, Europe, and other regions.
The program supports international students to study Arts, Science, Engineering, Commerce, and more in reputed Indian universities and institutions.
ICCR Scholarship Benefits
This is a fully funded scholarship, which means selected students receive:
- ✅ Full Tuition Fees
- ✅ Monthly Living Allowance (Stipend)
- ✅ Accommodation Allowance
- ✅ Health Insurance
- ✅ Book Grant & Study Material Allowance
- ✅ Economy Class Airfare (to and from India)
- ✅ Free Visa Support
🔥 ICCR Scholars not only gain academic excellence but also get a chance to explore India’s rich culture, history, and heritage.
ICCR Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the ICCR Scholarship 2025, you must:
- Be a citizen of a participating country (Bangladesh, Nepal, Afghanistan, African countries, etc.)
- Have a strong academic background (minimum GPA or equivalent required by host universities)
- Be between 18 to 30 years old (for UG & PG programs)
- Meet the English proficiency criteria (preferably IELTS/TOEFL, or proof of English medium education)
- Have no major health issues
- Apply through the official A2A ICCR portal
Note: ICCR does not support MBBS, BDS, or paramedical courses under this scholarship.
Required Documents for ICCR Scholarship
Before applying, ensure you have the following documents ready:
- Valid Passport
- Recent Passport-sized Photographs
- Academic Transcripts (SSC, HSC, Bachelor’s, Master’s)
- Degree Certificates
- English Proficiency Certificate (IELTS/TOEFL/English Medium Certificate)
- Letter of Recommendation (LORs)
- Statement of Purpose / Motivation Letter
- Medical Fitness Certificate
- Admission Letter (if already contacted Indian university)
- Research Proposal (for MPhil/PhD applicants)
How to Apply for ICCR Scholarship (Step-by-Step)
The application process for the ICCR Scholarship 2025 is done entirely online via the A2A ICCR Portal.
✅ Step 1: Visit A2A ICCR Portal
Go to https://a2ascholarships.iccr.gov.in
✅ Step 2: Create an Account
Sign up as a new user and create your login credentials.
✅ Step 3: Fill in Application Form
- Personal Information
- Academic Details
- Course Level (UG/PG/PhD)
- Preferred Universities (up to 5 choices)
- Upload documents
✅ Step 4: Choose Courses and Universities
ICCR allows you to apply to up to 5 Indian universities or institutes. Choose carefully based on:
- Availability of desired course
- University ranking
- Location & facilities
✅ Step 5: Submit Application
Double-check everything and submit before the deadline.
✅ Step 6: Await Selection
Shortlisted candidates may be called for an interview or online test by the Indian Embassy or High Commission in your country.
👉 Note: Always check the A2A portal and your local Indian Embassy for the latest updates.
Top Indian Universities Under ICCR Scholarship
Here are some reputed Indian institutions that accept ICCR Scholars:
- Delhi University
- Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)
- University of Hyderabad
- Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
- Aligarh Muslim University (AMU)
- Jamia Millia Islamia
- Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) – selective programs
- National Institutes of Technology (NITs)
- Visva-Bharati University
- Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT)
You can choose up to five universities during application.
Tips to Win the ICCR Scholarship
- Apply Early: Don’t wait till the deadline. Early applications get more attention.
- Choose Practical Courses: Apply for courses that match your academic background.
- Write a Strong SOP: Explain why you want to study in India, your goals, and how you’ll contribute after returning home.
- Good Academic Record: Maintain high GPA/grades.
- Show English Proficiency: Provide language test scores or certificates.
- Avoid Incomplete Applications: Ensure all documents are uploaded properly.
Life as an ICCR Scholar in India
Being an ICCR scholar in India means:
- Studying in globally recognized institutions
- Experiencing Indian culture, food, languages, and festivals
- Making friends from various countries
- Attending cultural events organized by ICCR
- Building an international academic and professional network
ICCR also hosts cultural tours and events to ensure you have a holistic Indian experience.
Testimonials from ICCR Alumni
“Thanks to ICCR, I completed my Master’s in Computer Science from Delhi University. It was a life-changing opportunity, both academically and personally.” — Abdul Karim, Bangladesh
“ICCR not only gave me free education, but also introduced me to India’s rich culture and values. I now work at a top NGO in Africa.” — Grace Odongo, Kenya
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I apply for MBBS under ICCR Scholarship?
No. MBBS, BDS, and paramedical courses are not included under ICCR.
Q2: Do I need to take IELTS or TOEFL?
It depends. If your previous education was in English, you may not need IELTS. However, English proficiency proof is mandatory.
Q3: How many universities can I choose?
You can select up to 5 Indian universities during your application.
Q4: Do I need to pay any application fee?
No. The ICCR application is completely free of cost.
Q5: Will I get accommodation?
Yes. ICCR provides hostel accommodation or house rent allowance for scholars.
Final Thoughts: Should You Apply for ICCR Scholarship?
The ICCR Scholarship is a golden opportunity for international students who want to study in India with full financial support. Whether you’re from Asia, Africa, or Latin America, India’s diverse academic programs and vibrant culture await you.
✅ High-quality education ✅ Fully funded ✅ International exposure ✅ Cultural immersion ✅ Supportive student environment
So if you’re eligible and have a strong academic profile, don’t miss the ICCR Scholarship 2025!
🔗 Useful Links
- A2A ICCR Portal: https://a2ascholarships.iccr.gov.in
- ICCR Official Site: https://www.iccr.gov.in
- Indian Embassies Worldwide: https://www.mea.gov.in
কীভাবে ICCR স্কলারশিপের জন্য আবেদন করবেন (ধাপে ধাপে গাইড)
ICCR স্কলারশিপ ২০২৫-এর আবেদন প্রক্রিয়া সম্পূর্ণ অনলাইনে সম্পন্ন করতে হবে A2A ICCR পোর্টাল এর মাধ্যমে।
✅ ধাপ ১: A2A ICCR পোর্টালে যান
প্রথমে এই লিঙ্কে যান: https://a2ascholarships.iccr.gov.in
✅ ধাপ ২: অ্যাকাউন্ট তৈরি করুন
নতুন ইউজার হিসেবে সাইন আপ করুন এবং একটি ইউজারনেম ও পাসওয়ার্ড তৈরি করুন।
✅ ধাপ ৩: আবেদন ফর্ম পূরণ করুন
- ব্যক্তিগত তথ্য
- শিক্ষাগত যোগ্যতা
- পছন্দের কোর্স (স্নাতক/স্নাতকোত্তর/পিএইচডি)
- পছন্দের বিশ্ববিদ্যালয়সমূহ (সর্বোচ্চ ৫টি)
- প্রয়োজনীয় ডকুমেন্ট আপলোড করুন
✅ ধাপ ৪: কোর্স এবং বিশ্ববিদ্যালয় নির্বাচন করুন
আপনি সর্বোচ্চ ৫টি বিশ্ববিদ্যালয় নির্বাচন করতে পারবেন। নির্বাচন করার সময় দেখুন:
- আপনার পছন্দের কোর্স সেখানে রয়েছে কিনা
- বিশ্ববিদ্যালয়ের র্যাঙ্কিং
- লোকেশন ও অন্যান্য সুবিধা
✅ ধাপ ৫: আবেদন জমা দিন
সবকিছু ভালোভাবে যাচাই করে সময়ের মধ্যে আবেদনটি জমা দিন।
✅ ধাপ ৬: নির্বাচন প্রক্রিয়া
প্রাথমিকভাবে নির্বাচিত প্রার্থীদের সাক্ষাৎকার বা অনলাইন মূল্যায়নের জন্য ডাকা হতে পারে, যা আপনার দেশের ভারতীয় দূতাবাস/হাই কমিশন দ্বারা পরিচালিত হবে।
