Top U S Scholarships for Students from Pakistan India and Bangladesh A Comprehensive Guide

International students walking on a university campus in the U.S.

Studying in the United States offers students from Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh access to world-class education and opportunities. However, the cost of tuition and living expenses can be a major barrier. Fortunately, many prestigious scholarships exist specifically to support talented students from developing countries. This guide highlights some of the most respected U.S. scholarships available to students from these South Asian countries, detailing eligibility, application steps, and where to apply.

Fulbright Foreign Student Program

The Fulbright Program is one of the most well-known scholarships for international students. It supports graduate study, research, and professional development in the U.S.

Eligibility

• Citizens of Pakistan, India, or Bangladesh

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent before starting the program

• Strong academic record and leadership potential

• Proficiency in English

  
  

What it Covers

• Tuition and fees

• Living stipend

• Health insurance

• Travel costs

  
  

Application Process

• Apply through the Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy in your country

• Submit academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a research or study proposal

• Attend an interview if shortlisted

  
  

Where to Apply

• Fulbright Pakistan

• Fulbright India

• Fulbright Bangladesh

  
  

Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program

This fellowship targets mid-career professionals from developing countries who want to enhance their leadership skills through non-degree academic study and professional experiences.

Eligibility

• Citizens of Pakistan, India, or Bangladesh

• Minimum of five years of professional experience

• Demonstrated leadership qualities

• Commitment to public service

  
  

What it Covers

• Tuition and fees for non-degree study

• Monthly stipend

• Health insurance

• Travel expenses

  
  

Application Process

• Apply through the U.S. Embassy or Fulbright Commission in your country

• Submit a detailed resume, essays, and references

• Participate in an interview

  
  

Where to Apply

• Humphrey Fellowship Pakistan

• Humphrey Fellowship India

• Humphrey Fellowship Bangladesh

  
  
  
  

Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program

This scholarship supports students from developing countries pursuing graduate studies in development-related fields.

Eligibility

• Nationals of World Bank member countries including Pakistan, India, Bangladesh

• Accepted into a master’s degree program related to development

• Commitment to return to home country after studies

  
  

What it Covers

• Tuition and fees

• Monthly living stipend

• Round-trip airfare

• Health insurance

  
  

Application Process

• Apply online through the World Bank Graduate Scholarship portal

• Provide academic records, work experience, and a study plan

• Submit letters of recommendation

  
  

Where to Apply

• World Bank Scholarship Portal

  
  

Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program

This program offers scholarships for postgraduate studies to students from select developing countries, including Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh.

Eligibility

• Citizens of Pakistan, India, or Bangladesh

• Demonstrated financial need

• Admission to a reputable university outside their home country

• Strong academic record

  
  

What it Covers

• Tuition fees

• Living expenses (partial scholarships)

  
  

Application Process

• Apply directly to the Aga Khan Foundation office in your country

• Submit academic transcripts, financial documents, and admission letters

• Participate in an interview

  
  

Where to Apply

• Aga Khan Foundation Pakistan

• Aga Khan Foundation India

• Aga Khan Foundation Bangladesh

  
  
  
  

The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships

The Inlaks Foundation offers scholarships to Indian students for full-time graduate or postgraduate studies in the U.S. and other countries.

Eligibility

• Indian citizen

• Age below 30 years

• Admission to a top university abroad

• Strong academic and extracurricular record

  
  

What it Covers

• Tuition fees

• Living expenses

• One-way travel costs

  
  

Application Process

• Apply online through the Inlaks Foundation website

• Submit academic transcripts, essays, and references

• Shortlisted candidates attend interviews

  
  

Where to Apply

• Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation

  
  

The Tata Scholarship for Cornell University

This scholarship supports Indian students admitted to Cornell University who demonstrate financial need.

Eligibility

• Indian citizen

• Admission to Cornell University undergraduate program

• Demonstrated financial need

  
  

What it Covers

• Partial to full tuition support

• Living expenses

  
  

Application Process

• Apply for admission to Cornell University

• Submit financial aid application and supporting documents

• Scholarship awarded based on need and merit

  
  

Where to Apply

• Cornell University Financial Aid

  
  
  
  

Tips for Applying to U.S. Scholarships

• Start early: Scholarship deadlines often fall months before university application deadlines.

• Prepare strong documents: Personal statements, recommendation letters, and academic records must be clear and compelling.

• Research thoroughly: Each scholarship has unique criteria and application steps. Follow instructions carefully.

• Demonstrate leadership and impact: Many scholarships value community involvement and leadership potential.

• Seek guidance: Reach out to scholarship offices, alumni, or education consultants for advice.

  
  

Finding the right scholarship can transform your dream of studying in the U.S. into reality. These scholarships offer financial support and open doors to new academic and professional opportunities. Explore the options, prepare your applications carefully, and take the first step toward a brighter future.