Scholarships for Nepali students: types, top programmes and how to apply
The main types of scholarships for Nepali students, fully funded programmes such as Chevening, Fulbright and Erasmus Mundus, and how to build a strong application.
Most scholarships for international students are partial, so budget for full fees. Apply early, answer each selection criterion with evidence, and never pay a fee to receive an award.
The main types of scholarship
“Scholarship” covers very different kinds of support. Knowing which type you are applying for helps you plan your budget realistically.
Most scholarships for international undergraduates are partial. Plan your finances as if you will pay full fees, and treat any award as a bonus.
Programmes Nepali students often research
These are major, fully funded programmes that have been open to applicants from Nepal. Eligibility, deadlines and conditions change every round, so always read the official website.
- Chevening: the UK government’s scholarships for one-year master’s degrees, for applicants with leadership potential and work experience.
- Fulbright: US graduate study and research awards, administered in Nepal through the Commission for Educational Exchange between the United States and Nepal (USEF-Nepal).
- Erasmus Mundus: joint master’s programmes run by European university consortia, open to students worldwide.
- Australia Awards: Australian government scholarships offered to selected countries in the region, when open to Nepal.
How to build a strong application
- Start a year ahead: many major scholarships close 9 to 12 months before the course starts.
- Read the selection criteria and give evidence for each one, such as grades, leadership, community work or research.
- Write targeted essays: one generic essay sent to every scholarship rarely succeeds.
- Choose referees who know you well and give them plenty of time.
- Keep documents ready: transcripts, English test results, CV and a passport.
Apply to the course first. Many university scholarships are considered automatically once you apply for admission, so a complete, early application is your first scholarship application.
Avoid scholarship scams
- Real scholarships never ask you to pay a fee to “release” or “process” the award.
- Be wary of messages saying you won a scholarship you never applied for.
- Check that emails come from the official university or government domain.
- Get every award in writing, including its value, duration and renewal conditions.
Questions students ask
Can I get a full scholarship for a bachelor’s degree?
Fully funded undergraduate scholarships exist but are rare and extremely competitive. Most bachelor’s students receive partial awards.
Does a scholarship help my visa?
A confirmed scholarship reduces the funds you must show, but you still need evidence for the remaining costs.
Do I need a high IELTS score?
Competitive scholarships often expect scores above the course minimum. Check each programme’s requirements.
Talk to a Shrey Education counsellor.
We can review your documents, course choice and budget before you apply.
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