2026 application timeline for Indian scholarships for Nepali students

January 2026 (Early Planning & Scholarship Research)

At the beginning of 2026, students should clearly define their academic goals and preferred field of study (engineering, medicine, humanities, management, AYUSH, etc.). This period is ideal for researching Indian universities, course eligibility, duration, and scholarship options such as ICCR, SAARC, AYUSH, and Nepal–India bilateral scholarships. Students should also check age limits, minimum GPA requirements, and language criteria, as some Indian scholarships have strict eligibility rules.

January – February 2026 (Document Preparation)

During this phase, students should begin preparing all essential documents. These typically include academic transcripts, certificates, passport, recent photographs, medical fitness certificates, police clearance (if required), CV, and statement of purpose. Students planning to apply for professional or research programs should also contact referees for recommendation letters. Since many Indian scholarships require medical and police documents, starting early helps avoid delays.

February – April 2026 (ICCR Scholarship Application Window)

This is the most critical period for Nepali students applying to Indian scholarships. The ICCR (Indian Council for Cultural Relations) Scholarship application portal usually opens between February and March and remains open until April 2026. Students must apply online through the ICCR A2A Scholarship Portal, select preferred universities and courses, and upload all required documents. During this time, applicants may also be contacted by the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu for verification or additional steps

March – April 2026 (SAARC & AYUSH Scholarship Deadlines)

Alongside ICCR, SAARC Scholarship Scheme and AYUSH Scholarships also accept applications during March and April. These scholarships are popular among Nepali students pursuing postgraduate studies, research, or traditional medicine programs. Applicants must carefully follow course-specific requirements, as AYUSH programs often have subject prerequisites such as biology or health sciences.

April – May 2026 (Nepal–India Bilateral & Embassy-Based Scholarships)

Several Nepal–India cooperation scholarships are processed through the Indian Embassy or designated Nepali authorities. Applications for these schemes are typically collected between April and May 2026. These scholarships are especially common for engineering, medical, nursing, and technical education. Students may be required to submit hard copies of documents or attend in-person verification.

May – June 2026 (University-Specific Scholarship Applications)

During this period, students should also apply for university-based scholarships or fee waivers offered by Indian institutions such as Delhi University, JNU, BHU, IITs, NITs, Manipal, Amity, and other public or private universities. These scholarships may be merit-based or need-based and often complement government scholarships. Some universities may conduct entrance exams or interviews during this phase.

June – July 2026 (Selection Results & Offer Letters)

By June or July 2026, most Indian scholarship programs release their selection results. Successful applicants receive provisional admission letters, scholarship award letters, and instructions regarding enrollment and travel. Students must confirm acceptance within the given deadline and ensure all academic and medical requirements are met.

July – August 2026 (Visa, Travel & Pre-Departure Preparation)

Although Nepali students generally do not require a visa to study in India, scholarship holders may need to complete institutional registration, medical verification, and travel coordination. During this time, students should arrange accommodation, travel to India, and financial planning. Scholarship orientation or briefings may also be conducted by the Indian Embassy or host universities.

August – September 2026 (Arrival & Enrollment in India)

Most Indian universities begin their academic sessions between August and September 2026. Upon arrival, students complete university registration, hostel allocation, and scholarship verification procedures. ICCR and SAARC scholarship holders must also report to designated authorities to activate their monthly stipend and medical benefits.

Quick Timeline Summary (2026)