Pursuing a career in veterinary science is a noble choice, but the journey to becoming a qualified veterinarian can be financially demanding. Fortunately, several scholarships and financial aid programs are available to help deserving students in India. This blog post outlines some of the top veterinary scholarships and provides a step-by-step guide on how to apply for them.
Top Veterinary Scholarships and Fellowships in India
Many of the most significant scholarships for veterinary students are provided or coordinated by government bodies and prominent universities. Here are some of the key ones to consider:
1. Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Scholarships
ICAR is the apex body for agricultural education and research in India, and it offers several scholarships for students in allied sciences, including veterinary medicine.
- ICAR-JRF/SRF (PGS) for PG and PhD Students: This is one of the most prestigious fellowships for postgraduate studies. It is awarded based on a national competitive entrance examination.
- Value: ₹12640 per month for master's students in veterinary sciences, plus a contingency grant. For PhD students, the amount is ₹37000 to ₹42000 per month.
- Eligibility: Candidates must have a Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc-AH) degree with a minimum 60% marks or a specific OGPA (Overall Grade Point Average) and clear the ICAR All India Competitive Examination.
- Application Process: The application is entirely online and is linked to the ICAR AIEEA (PG) and AICE-JRF/SRF (Ph.D) examinations. You must qualify in this exam to be eligible for the scholarship.
- ICAR National Talent Scholarship (NTS) for UG Students: The NTS is for undergraduate students who join a university outside their domicile state.
- Value: The scholarship amount for undergraduates is ₹3000 per month.
- Eligibility: You must be admitted to an ICAR-accredited agricultural university outside your home state through the ICAR All India Entrance Examination for Admission (
AIEEA-UG). A minimum OGPA must be maintained throughout your studies.
2. State Government Scholarships
Many state governments offer their own scholarships for students pursuing professional degrees. These are typically based on merit and the student's economic background.
- Common Schemes: Look for schemes like Post-Matric Scholarships for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC), and scholarships for students from economically weaker sections.
- How to Find Them: Check the official scholarship portals of your state government (e.g., National Scholarship Portal, state-specific portals). The eligibility and application process can vary widely by state.
3. University-Specific Scholarships
Several veterinary universities in India offer their own scholarships and awards to meritorious students. These can be based on academic performance, financial need, or a combination of both.
- Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU): GADVASU, for example, offers various internal scholarships like the University Merit Fellowship and the Dr. G.S. Khush Scholarship, which are awarded on the basis of entrance exam ranks or subsequent academic merit.
- Other Universities: Institutions like the College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Junagadh, also have their own merit-based and income-based scholarships. Always check the prospectus or official website of the university you are applying to.
Scholarships for Studying Veterinary Science Abroad
Many prestigious international universities and governments offer scholarships to attract talented students from around the world. Here are some options for Indian students aspiring to study veterinary medicine abroad.
1. Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships (USA)
The Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships are a highly competitive program for Indian citizens to pursue a master's degree in the United States. While not limited to veterinary science, it's a key avenue for aspiring vets.
- Value: This is a fully funded scholarship covering tuition and fees, living expenses, round-trip airfare, and visa support.
- Eligibility: Candidates must have a bachelor's degree with a minimum 55% marks, a demonstrated commitment to return to India, and at least three years of professional work experience.
2. Chevening Scholarships (UK)
Funded by the UK Government, Chevening Scholarships are a globally recognized program for future leaders.
- Value: The scholarship covers tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, and travel costs.
- Eligibility: You must have an undergraduate degree, at least two years of work experience, and an unconditional offer from a UK university for an eligible master's program.
3. University-Specific International Scholarships
Many top veterinary schools offer their own scholarships for international students. These are often based on academic excellence.
- Royal Veterinary College (RVC), London: The RVC offers scholarships for both undergraduate and postgraduate international students, such as the International Scholarship for undergraduates (full-fee waiver for one new awardee each year) and the Commonwealth Master's Scholarships.
- University of Edinburgh: The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies offers the "UK Graduate and International Scholarship," which provides 5000 per year to international students on the BVM&S programme.
- University of Sydney: The "Sydney Scholars India Scholarship" offers a one-time award of AUD 20,000 to high-achieving Indian students.
- University of Guelph, Ontario Veterinary College (OVC): The OVC offers scholarships for exceptional international students entering their Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program.
General Steps to Apply for a Scholarship
The application process for scholarships in India generally follows a similar pattern, though specific requirements may differ.
- Research and Shortlist: Identify the scholarships you are eligible for. Pay close attention to the eligibility criteria, including academic qualifications, family income, and domicile requirements.
- Gather Documents: Prepare all necessary documents in advance. Common documents include:
- Mark sheets and certificates of previous qualifying examinations (Class 10th, Class 12th and Graduation).
- Entrance exam rank card (e.g., NEET, ICAR AIEEA).
- Domicile certificate.
- Caste/category certificate (if applicable).
- Income certificate for your family.
- Passport-size photographs and signature.
- Aadhar card or other proof of identity.
- Fill Out the Application Form: Most applications are now online. Fill out the forms accurately and completely. Pay attention to any essay questions or statements of purpose.
- Submit and Track: Submit your application before the deadline. It's crucial to keep a record of your application ID and track its status on the respective portal.
- Maintain Academic Performance: For scholarships that are renewable, maintaining a strong academic record (high CGPA/OGPA) is a key requirement for continued financial support.
Disclaimer: Scholarship amounts and criteria are subject to change. Always refer to the latest official notifications from the concerned institutions and government bodies.
References
- Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) Institute Scholarship. (n.d.). Retrieved from myScheme.
- ICAR Admission Portal. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://icaradmission.in/.
- Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University. (n.d.). Scholarship/Stipends/Fellowships & Other Awards. Retrieved from https://www.gadvasu.in/.
- National Talent Scholarship (NTS) Undergraduate. (n.d.). Retrieved from myScheme.
- WeMakeScholars. (n.d.). 114+ Veterinary medicine Scholarships in India 2025-26. Retrieved from https://www.wemakescholars.com/.
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies. (n.d.). Finances. Retrieved from https://vet.ed.ac.uk/education/admissions/offer-holders/next-steps/vmcas-n-american-candidates/finances.
- Royal Veterinary College. (n.d.). RVC Scholarships for Postgraduates. Retrieved from https://www.rvc.ac.uk/study/scholarships-and-bursaries/postgraduate.
- Chevening. (n.d.). Find a course. Retrieved from https://www.chevening.org/scholarships/find-a-course/.
- USIEF. (n.d.). 2026-2027 Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships. Retrieved from https://www.usief.org.in/fulbright-fellowships/fellowships-for-indian-citizen/.
