100% Scholarships in India for African Students – Complete Guide

India has become one of the top study destinations for African students due to its affordable tuition fees, English-medium education, world-class universities, and strong cultural compatibility. To support meritorious students from Africa, the Government of India and various institutions offer 100% scholarships, which cover tuition fees and sometimes additional allowances. If you are an African student looking to study in India without financial burden, this guide will help you understand the best scholarship options and how to apply.


Types of 100% Scholarships Available for African Students 

Study in India (SII) Scholarship 

Offered by: Government of India
Covers: Up to 100% tuition fee waiver
Eligible For: UG, PG, and PhD programs
Selection: Based on academic merit & IND-SAT (for some courses)


ICCR Scholarship (Fully Funded) 

Offered by: Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) 

Covers:

  • 100% tuition fee
  • Hostel fee
  • Monthly stipend
  • Medical insurance
Best for: 

Students seeking completely free education in India


AICTE & Institutional Scholarships 

Some Indian universities also provide:

  • Full tuition waiver
  • Accommodation support
  • Merit-based scholarships

Courses Covered Under These Scholarships

  • Engineering & Technology (B.Tech / M.Tech)
  • Medicine & Healthcare (in select institutes)
  • Business & Management (BBA / MBA)
  • Computer Science & IT
  • Humanities & Social Sciences
  • Agriculture & Environment Studies
  • Performing Arts & Cultural Studies
  • Yoga, Ayurveda, and Indian traditional disciplines

Eligibility Criteria for African Students


RequirementDetails
NationalityMust be a citizen of an African country
QualificationA-Level/12th for UG, Bachelor’s for PG
DocumentsAcademic transcripts & passport
Scholarship portalMust apply through SII or ICCR
EnglishRecommended but not always compulsory

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a 100% Scholarship 


Step 1: Choose a Scholarship Program 

Select between:

  • Study in India Scholarship
    or
  • ICCR Scholarship (for fully funded)

Step 2: Register on the Official Portal

  • Study in India:
  • ICCR:

Step 3: Submit Documents

  • Academic certificates
  • Passport
  • Passport-size photo
  • SOP (Statement of Purpose)
  • Recommendation letters (if required)

Step 4: Selection Process

  • Academic merit evaluation
  • Entrance test (IND-SAT) for SII (if applicable)
  • Interview for ICCR (in some cases)

Step 5: Receive Offer Letter 

Once selected, you will get a scholarship confirmation/offer letter.


Step 6: Apply for a Student Visa 

Visit the Indian Embassy in your country for visa stamping.


Benefits of Studying in India with Scholarship

 
BenefitDescription
100% Tuition Fee WaiverNo academic fee burden
English-medium EducationNo language barrier
International ExposureStudy with students from 160+ countries
Affordable LivingCheaper compared to Europe/US
Cultural CompatibilityIndia is friendly & welcoming for African students

Conclusion

Studying in India with a 100% scholarship is a great opportunity for African students who are looking for quality education at minimal or zero cost. Whether you apply through the Study in India program or the ICCR Scholarship, you can receive world-class academic training along with international exposure. If you plan early, prepare your documents, and apply through the right portal, you can secure an excellent scholarship for the 2025 academic intake.

Saurabh Mishra
An Indian entrepreneur, a lover of food, oceans, and nature.