India Announces Fully Funded Undergraduate, Masters & PhD Scholarships for Kenyans; How to Apply
The Government of India has unveiled a major scholarship opportunity targeting Kenyan students, offering more than 100 fully funded slots for the 2026/2027 academic year across a range of disciplines.
In a statement released by Kenya’s Ministry of Education, officials confirmed that the offer was communicated through the High Commission of India in Nairobi, with the scholarships administered under the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR).
“The Ministry is in receipt of communication from the Indian High Commission in Nairobi informing that the Government of India has announced scholarship slots for qualified students from Kenya to pursue Undergraduate and Postgraduate programmes for the Academic Year 2026/2027,” the statement read.
Over 100 slots across multiple programmes
The scholarships are spread across three key schemes, each targeting different academic fields and levels of study.
Under the India-Africa Scholarship Scheme, the largest allocation has been reserved, with 100 slots specifically earmarked for Kenyan students. This programme supports studies at undergraduate, master’s, and PhD levels across a wide range of disciplines.
In addition, the Quad STEM Scholarship Scheme offers a more specialised opportunity, focusing on engineering. However, only three Kenyan students will be selected under this highly competitive programme, which leads to a Bachelor of Technology degree.
A third option, the Lata Mangeshkar Dance and Music Scholarship Scheme, caters to students pursuing performing arts. While it also supports undergraduate through PhD studies, the scheme is globally competitive, with just 100 slots available worldwide.
Strict application process and deadline
Interested candidates have been urged to submit their applications through the ICCR’s A2A Scholarship Portal, where they can select up to five preferred universities from an approved list.
The deadline for applications has been set for April 15, leaving prospective applicants with limited time to complete the process.
Eligibility criteria and restrictions
Applicants must meet strict age requirements to qualify. Candidates must be at least 18 years old by July 1, 2026. The upper age limit is 35 years for undergraduate and master’s programmes, while PhD applicants must not exceed 40 years.
For those seeking to pursue engineering courses, Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics (PCM) are mandatory subject requirements.
However, the scholarships exclude several fields, including medical and paramedical courses such as Nursing, Physiotherapy and Anaesthesia. Courses in Fashion and Law are also not covered under the programme.
This effectively limits eligibility to students pursuing engineering, sciences, humanities, and performing arts.
Priority for first-time beneficiaries
The Ministry further noted that priority will be given to applicants who have not previously benefited from ICCR scholarships, a move aimed at widening access to international education opportunities.
With limited slots available and competition expected to be high, students have been encouraged to apply early and ensure all requirements are met before the deadline.
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India Announces Fully Funded Undergraduate, Masters & PhD Scholarships for Kenyans; How to Apply