Merit-based scholarships reward your achievements — strong academics, test scores, leadership, research or extracurricular excellence — rather than your financial situation. If you have performed well, these awards can significantly reduce your study-abroad costs.
From university merit awards to prestigious national scholarships, there are merit-based options at every level. Vibedu helps you present your strengths effectively and apply for the awards where you have the best chance of winning — free of charge.
What Counts as Merit
- Academic record and grades (GPA / percentage)
- Standardised test scores (IELTS, GRE, GMAT, SAT)
- Leadership, extracurriculars and community work
- Research, publications or relevant projects
- Work experience and professional achievements
How to Strengthen a Merit Application
- Highlight measurable achievements and impact
- Write a focused, authentic personal statement
- Secure references that speak to your strengths
- Target awards that match your specific profile
Example Merit-Based Scholarships You Can Apply For
Chevening Scholarship
UK Government (FCDO)
Covers: Full tuition, monthly living stipend, return airfare, visa & arrival all...
Deadline: November (annual)
Commonwealth Scholarship
UK Government (CSC)
Covers: Tuition, living stipend, return airfare and study-related costs
Deadline: October–December
GREAT Scholarships
British Council + UK universities
Covers: A £10,000 tuition-fee reduction for one year of study
Deadline: Varies by university
Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship
USIEF / US Government
Covers: Tuition, living stipend, return airfare and health insurance
Deadline: May–July (annual)
Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarship
Inlaks Foundation
Covers: Tuition, living costs and one-way travel (up to $100,000)
Deadline: March (annual)
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship
Government of Canada
Covers: C$50,000 per year for up to 3 years (living + research)
Deadline: November (via university)
Lester B. Pearson Scholarship
University of Toronto
Covers: Tuition, books, incidental fees and full residence for 4 years
Deadline: November–January
Australia Awards Scholarship
Australian Government
Covers: Full tuition, return airfare, living allowance, health cover and establi...
Deadline: April–June
Research Training Program (RTP)
Australian Government
Covers: Tuition offset plus an annual living stipend for research students
Deadline: Varies by university
Merit-Based Scholarships — FAQs
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