Difference Between Scholarship and Fellowship

The scholarship and fellowship both cover a student's expenses related to the cost of living, the cost of studying, study material, and travelling among other things. With the help of these, those with limited financial means can pursue further education in domestic or overseas institutes. There is a subtle difference between a scholarship and a fellowship, but both are differently opted for different purposes. This article will help students understand the difference between fellowship and scholarship and which set of students can choose them. 

Also Read: Bursary Vs Scholarship

What is the Difference Between Scholarships and Fellowships?

Check out the difference between scholarships and fellowships and what should be the ideal option for applicants in the table below:

This contrast was briefly elaborated to help students understand the meaning of scholarships and fellowship meaning so that they can distinguish between the two easily. 

Also Read:

• Difference between Scholarship and Freeship
• Common Expenses Covered in Scholarship
• What is a Good Scholarship Amount?

What is a Scholarship?

A scholarship is a kind of grant given to students for their academic achievement, to encourage them to do better in academics. The scholarship is a financial aid granted by the government, university or any other organization to students to pursue their education. This money can be used to pay for different expenses like books, tuition fees, project work or any other expenses incurred on studies. Students need not repay this money as in the case of an education loan. Students can apply for a scholarship even before their undergraduate or graduate studies.

Famous Scholarships for Indian students: Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program, Chevening Scholarships, Rhodes Scholarships, Tata Scholarship, QS Undergraduate Scholarship, Gates Millennium Scholarship in the USA.

Eligibility for a Scholarship

There are various types of Scholarships and are based on many different criteria set by the organization offering the scholarship. The prospective undergraduate and graduate students seeking funds to pursue academics are eligible to apply for merit-based scholarships.

When to apply for a scholarship?

Usually, scholarships are awarded for the upcoming academic year/session. So, students seeking admission in the next academic year to pursue graduate or undergraduate degrees should apply for the scholarship as early as possible.

How to apply for a scholarship?

The application process for scholarships can vary. You need to visit the website of the organization/college/agency offering the scholarship and check the eligibility criteria and the application process of applying for the scholarship. Some popular scholarships require nomination from the candidate's educational institution. Read in detail how to apply for a scholarship here.

Also Read: What are the Chances of Receiving a Scholarship?

What is a Fellowship?

Fellowship meaning in education is that it is a financial aid awarded to students who are going to do research on a specific subject after clearing the qualifying exam. A fellowship can be a grant given to students or scholars from various disciplines like finance, management, science, etc. for pursuing research in a specific area.

Under the Fellowship, the student/scholar doesn't need to receive financial aid, it can be any other benefits which the research fellow will receive under the fellowship. It can be granted as a status in an academic institution and nothing is provided to the scholar, no financial aid, no salary, etc. However, the scholar may be provided with certain benefits like access to the library or any other research facility as a fellow of a certain college.

Usually, a Fellowship is provided while pursuing a graduate degree or above for doing research in any specific area. Financial aid of other benefits provided for research activities is called fellowship.

Famous fellowships for Indian students: Fulbright-Kalam Climate Fellowship, Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships, Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowships, Akhtarali H. Tobaccowala Fellowship, and The Indian Trust Fellowship. 

Read about one of the most illustrious scholar programmes, the Fullbright Fellowship here

Eligibility for a Fellowship

Every institution may have different eligibility criteria for a fellowship along with its objectives and focus. You need to meet the set requirements and display outstanding capabilities to be considered eligible for a fellowship. You should also demonstrate a strong interest in the research area for which you need a fellowship, leadership skills and some work experience. You also need to be proficient in the language in which you plan to carry out your research. 

When to Apply for a Fellowship?

Deadlines for fellowships are already set by the agency or organisation providing them. Keep track of all the important dates on the official websites of those fellowships and apply timely. Some of the fellowships accept applications once annually, therefore commencing their application process a few months before the set application submission date.

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• What is the Right Time to Apply for a Scholarship?
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This was all about the differences between a scholarship and a fellowship. Avail of Shiksha's Counselling Services for free if you wish to study abroad. Also, you can drop your queries in the comments section below.