Close up of a boarding pass with blurred background of airport

The Study Abroad Timeline for Indian Masters Students

From finding courses, funding and a place to live, a lot of prep work goes into studying abroad! Plus, with lots of information out there catering to all international students, it can be easy to miss out on your country-specific opportunities.

We’ve decided to hone in on study abroad opportunities for Indian students. This blog will cover the key information you need to know as an Indian student wishing to study a Masters degree abroad.

Step one: research

Research is the most important stage of the study abroad timeline. Not only will good research help you decide where you want to study (and what subject) but you’ll also find all the important deadlines you need to work towards. Here are the key things you should note down:

What places you want to study
What courses you’re interested in and the application deadlines
What funding is available and the application deadlines

Many universities have their own internal funding available, some of which may be available for international applicants. However, we’ve also included a round-up of some of the most popular funding for Indian students below!

Funding opportunities

There are many different funding opportunities available to Indian students to study all over the world. Those looking to come to the UK may consider applying for a Chevening Scholarship, Commonwealth Scholarship or GREAT Scholarship. There is also the Saltire Scholarship for those interested in studying in Scotland. All of these are very generous (and competitive) schemes which cover tuition fees. Some also offer living allowances and even cover travel costs!

Many Indian students study in Europe with the help of the Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Degree scheme. Individual countries may also have their own scholarships, such as the Netherland’s Orange Tulip Scholarship which provides a reduction to tuition fees. Or, outside of Europe, the US offers the Fulbright Program.

Additionally, the Indian government has its own funding incentives. For example, The National Overseas Scholarship Scheme covers tuition fees, maintenance and travel expenses of exceptional low income students wishing to study abroad.

This list is far from exhaustive but shows the sheer amount of funding available to international Indian students!

Step two: entry requirements and documents

Now that you know what you’re applying for, the question is how. You should make sure to check the entry requirements of your chosen courses as well as any funding schemes you wish to apply for. They may require certain language tests or entry exams. Additionally, some funding opportunities may ask for proof of acceptance into a Masters course, whereas others, such as the Chevening competition, you apply to before being accepted onto a course.

If you’re applying for a Masters in the UK, you’ll usually need the equivalent of a 2.1 Bachelors degree in a relevant subject. This is typically between 55% and 66% in an Indian undergraduate programme.

Make a list all the documents you need, such as a CV or personal statement, and when they need to be submitted.

Stage three: sit any required tests

Some courses or funding bodies may require proof of your language skills in your applications. The most common tests for study in the English language are the IELTS or the TOEFL. Both are internationally recognised. We advise you sit your test at least two weeks before you intend to apply as some tests can take up to 10 days to return your result.

In the UK a typical Masters programme will require a score of at least 6.5 on the IELTS or a 90 overall for TOEFL, with a minimum score of 20 for each component (reading, listening, speaking and writing). However, depending on the literacy requirements of your chosen subject entry scores may be higher.

You might also have to complete a graduate admission test. While there are a huge range of exams, the two mains ones are the GMAT and the GRE. These are most common in the US and Canada but are becoming increasingly popular in parts of Asia.

Stage four: apply and interviews

Once you’ve collected all your documents and passed any exams, the next stage is to apply for your course! Make sure there is at least four months before your start date to allow time for visa applications.

You may also be called for a virtual interview, usually within 2-3 weeks of the application closing. We have lots of advice on what to expect and how to prepare on our website.

Stage five: scholarship applications

Assuming you’ve received a letter of acceptance and are not currently involved in a scholarships scheme, now is the time to submit those all-important funding applications. Just like your course application, make sure you have all the documents needed and ready to go so that process is as smooth as possible.

Stage six: visa applications, housing and travel

Since you’re studying abroad, it’s likely that you’ll need a visa. Make sure to check with the embassy on their processing times but usually it is recommended you apply at least three months before your start date. If you’re heading to the UK, check out our guide to the Student Route visa scheme. You can also see a list of the UK visa application centres in India, which is where you’ll provide your biometrics information.

You will need to make sure you have all the necessary documents such as your acceptance letter, proven language skills and sufficient finances or scholarship confirmation.

You will also need to do some research into where you want to live. Many universities have information on their website about trusted letting agents or their own accommodation for postgraduates. Oh, and don’t forget to book your flights!

Stage seven: arrival and residence permits

Perhaps the most exciting stage, all your hard work will pay off once you arrive and begin your course. Universities may allow earlier arrival dates for international students so you can settle in before starting your studies. Depending on your country of study your visa may require you to obtain a residence permit within a few weeks of arriving. In the UK, you’ll need to pick up a biometric residence permit (BRP) from your university, usually within 10 days of your arrival in the country.

Stage eight: post-graduation visas

Once you’ve finished your international Masters adventure you may wish to remain in your country of study. Many countries offer post-graduation visas to their international students. For example, the UK has the Graduate Route Visa that allows Masters graduates to live and work in the UK for up to two years.

Think you’re ready to find the perfect course for you?

Search our database of Masters courses in the UK.