Country Focussed
United Kingdom
Scholarship Type
Merit Based
Organising Entity
Government of UK
Scholarship Coverage
Fully Funded
Dr. Manmohan Singh Scholarship - A Prestigious Gateway to the University of Cambridge for Indian Students
The Dr. Manmohan Singh Scholarship is a prestigious merit-based award designed to support academically outstanding Indian students aspiring to pursue doctoral studies at the renowned University of Cambridge. Named after India’s former Prime Minister and a distinguished Cambridge alumnus, this scholarship honours his legacy and aims to cultivate the next generation of global leaders and scholars. With full financial support, it provides a life-changing opportunity to pursue research in one of the world’s most esteemed academic environments.
Official Link https://www.joh.cam.ac.uk/dr-manmohan-singh-scholarship
Why Study in the UK?
Studying in the UK offers a world-class education, globally recognized degrees, and access to some of the oldest and most prestigious universities. With a strong emphasis on research and innovation, UK institutions foster critical thinking and academic excellence. The multicultural environment, wide range of courses, and post-study work opportunities like the Graduate Route – make the UK an attractive destination for Indian students seeking quality education and career growth on a global scale.
Everything You need to Know about the Dr. Manmohan Singh Scholarship
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Dr. Manmohan Singh Scholarship, candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Nationality: Applicants must be Indian nationals and possess a valid Indian passport.
- Residency: Candidates must currently reside in India at the time of application.
- Academic Qualifications: A master’s degree from a recognised Indian university or institution is mandatory.
- Age Limit: Applicants must be under the age of 35 as of January 31 of the year in which they apply.
- Course Admission: The scholarship is intended for those planning to pursue a full-time PhD programme at the University of Cambridge.
- Program Start: Applicants should be beginning their PhD programme in September or October of the relevant academic year.
- No Prior UK Scholarship: Candidates must not have previously received or applied for any other scholarship to study in the United Kingdom.
These eligibility guidelines ensure that the award reaches deserving candidates who are academically capable and have limited prior access to international funding.
Organising Entity
St. John’s College, University of Cambridge
This scholarship is administered by St. John’s College, one of the oldest and most prestigious constituent colleges at the University of Cambridge. It reflects the institution’s deep-rooted commitment to supporting talented Indian scholars and fostering international academic collaboration.
Is it Country Focused?
Yes – India
The scholarship is exclusively available to Indian nationals. Its core objective is to support Indian students in gaining world-class research experience and fostering Indo-British academic and diplomatic ties.
Is it University Focused?
Yes – University of Cambridge
This scholarship is specific to doctoral programmes at the University of Cambridge, with a particular emphasis on students enrolling through St. John’s College. Applicants must have secured admission to one of Cambridge’s PhD programs to be eligible for the award.
Type of Scholarship
Merit-Based
The Dr. Manmohan Singh Scholarship is awarded solely on the basis of academic excellence, research potential, and leadership qualities. It seeks individuals who show the promise to become future leaders in their field and contribute to India’s development through innovation, research, and global engagement.
Number of Students Selected
Varies Annually
While there is no fixed number of scholarships awarded each year, the selection remains highly competitive and based on the quality of applicants. Over the last ten years, 19 Indian students have been selected for this prestigious award. This selective nature highlights the scholarship’s exclusivity and focus on excellence.
What are the Benefits Available
The Dr. Manmohan Singh Scholarship is a fully funded program that covers all essential expenses for the duration of a PhD programme. The benefits are both generous and comprehensive:
Full Tuition Fee Coverage
The scholarship covers 100% of the academic fees charged by the University of Cambridge for the selected PhD programme.
International Airfare
A round-trip economy class airfare between India and the United Kingdom is covered under the scholarship.
UK Visa Costs
The scholarship includes the cost of the UK student visa, enabling a smooth transition to life and study in the UK.
Living Expenses
Recipients are provided with financial support to cover accommodation, food, and other daily necessities while residing in the UK.
Monthly Stipend
A monthly stipend is offered to help the scholar manage additional personal expenses. This further supports a comfortable and focused academic life in Cambridge.
Application Process Overview
The application for the Dr. Manmohan Singh Scholarship typically follows these key steps:
- Apply for Admission to Cambridge
Students must first secure admission to a PhD programme at the University of Cambridge, ideally through St. John’s College. - Check Scholarship Timeline
Scholarship applications usually open in late fall or early winter, with deadlines around January 31 of the application year. - Complete Scholarship Form
After securing admission, candidates must fill out the scholarship application form provided by St. John’s College. - Submit Supporting Documents
Academic transcripts, a detailed research proposal, reference letters, and proof of nationality/residency are commonly required. - Interview and Final Selection
Shortlisted applicants may be invited for an interview before the final recipients are announced.
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Final Thoughts
The Dr. Manmohan Singh Scholarship is more than a financial award, it’s an investment in India’s intellectual and leadership potential. For ambitious scholars looking to pursue a PhD at Cambridge, this scholarship removes financial constraints and provides a platform to excel in a global academic environment. If you are under 35, hold a master’s degree, and have a vision for impact, the Dr. Manmohan Singh Scholarship could be your path to personal growth, academic excellence, and global leadership.
