When you're looking for ways to pay for college in India, scholarships, financial aid awarded based on merit, need, or other criteria to help students cover education costs. Also known as education grants, they can mean the difference between staying in school and dropping out. Not all scholarships are the same. The two biggest types you’ll run into are merit-based scholarships, awards given for academic, athletic, or artistic achievement and need-based scholarships, funds given to students who demonstrate financial hardship. One rewards what you’ve done; the other helps you keep going when money is tight. Many students miss out simply because they don’t know which one fits their situation.
Some scholarships are tied to specific tests. For example, if you’re in 11th grade and aiming for a top national award, your PSAT, a preliminary test used to identify candidates for the National Merit Scholarship Program score could open doors. High PSAT scores don’t just look good on a resume—they can qualify you for the National Merit, a prestigious scholarship program in the U.S. that also impacts Indian students applying abroad. It’s competitive, sure, but thousands of students qualify every year with the right prep. You don’t need to be perfect—just prepared. And it’s not just about test scores. Many Indian state governments and private trusts offer scholarships based on caste, region, gender, or even extracurriculars. The key is knowing what’s out there and matching it to your profile.
There’s no single path to winning a scholarship, but there are clear patterns. Students who win consistently start early, read the fine print, and apply to more than just the big names. A smaller local scholarship might be easier to get and just as helpful. You don’t need a 4.0 GPA to qualify for need-based aid—if your family income is below a certain limit, you’re already in the running. And if you’re good at something—debating, coding, painting, sports—there’s likely a scholarship waiting for you. The real trick? Don’t wait until the last minute. Deadlines don’t move. Neither do the rules.
Below, you’ll find real breakdowns of the most common scholarship types, how PSAT scores connect to major awards, and what you actually need to do to stand out. No fluff. Just what works.
In the realm of scholarships, merit-based and need-based aid are the two most common types. Merit-based scholarships recognize excellence in academics, sports, or arts, while need-based scholarships focus on financial necessity. Understanding these categories can guide students in identifying the most suitable opportunities. This insight into scholarship types can play a crucial role in funding your education efficiently.
Learn how the PSAT scores can qualify students for the prestigious National Merit Scholarship Program. Explore the scoring criteria, key deadlines, and tips to achieve qualifying scores. Discover interesting insights about the program's competition and what makes it a significant opportunity for high school juniors. Useful tips for students aiming to boost their chances of becoming a National Merit Scholar.