Higher Education Scholarship Test (HEST) for Indian Students
Study Abroad with Full Financial Support
Country Focussed
Various Countries
Scholarship Type
Merit Based
Organising Entity
The Ministry of Electronics and
Information Technology, India
Scholarship Coverage
Partly Funded
Higher Education Scholarship Test (HEST)
The Higher Education Scholarship Test (HEST) is a prestigious initiative designed to empower aspiring Indian students who dream of studying abroad but face financial challenges. Organized with the support of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, India, this scholarship test opens doors to global education opportunities by offering financial assistance, exclusive access to full-fee waiver scholarships, and recognition at a national level.
HEST is not just a scholarship; it is a platform for deserving students to showcase their potential and take a decisive step toward achieving their study-abroad aspirations. With generous rewards and transparent selection criteria, this program ensures that talent and ambition are not limited by financial constraints.
Link – HEST Official Website
Why Study Abroad?
Studying Abroad 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, Global institutions foster critical thinking and academic excellence. The multicultural environment, wide range of courses, and post-study work opportunities like the Graduate Route – make studying abroad an attractive destination for Indian students seeking quality education and career growth on a global scale.
Everything You Need to Know about the Higher Education Scholarship Test
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the HEST Scholarship, candidates must meet the following requirements:
1. Indian nationality
Applicants must be Indian citizens holding a valid Indian passport.
2. Educational qualifications
Candidates must have achieved a minimum score of 55% in both 10th and 12th grade.
3. Admission confirmation flexibility
Students are not required to present foreign university admission confirmation at the time of application. They can submit it later while claiming the scholarship award.
4. Financial need
Students who are completely self-funding their education are not eligible. The scholarship prioritizes financially weaker students who genuinely require assistance.
Type of Scholarship
Need and Merit Based
The Higher Education Scholarship Test is a competitive scholarship examination designed to assess the academic potential and readiness of Indian students for overseas education.
Organising Entity
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, India, in collaboration with WeMakeScholars, manages and organizes the HEST program. This partnership highlights the government’s commitment to supporting deserving Indian students in their international education journey.
Is it Country Focused?
HEST is not restricted to a single destination. It supports students aspiring to study in all major study-abroad destinations worldwide, including the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, and other popular higher education hubs.
Is it University Focused?
No. HEST does not limit applicants to a specific university. Instead, it provides flexibility for students applying to any recognized international university across different countries.
Number of Students Selected
The number of recipients varies each year depending on applications and available funding. However, a large pool of talented students is recognized and rewarded annually, making it one of India’s most impactful study-abroad scholarship initiatives.
What are the Benefits Available
The HEST Scholarship offers multiple financial and academic benefits to its winners:
Scholarship Cash Award:
Up to ₹3 lakh per student – helping students reduce their tuition and living expenses abroad.
Gateway to study abroad opportunities
By reducing financial stress, the scholarship helps students focus on academics and career growth.
Government access and private full fee waiver scholarships
Winners receive exclusive opportunities to apply for additional funding support from government bodies, trusts, and foundations.
Recognition at a national level
Being selected as a HEST winner adds significant value to a student’s profile, strengthening future academic and professional pursuits.
Why Apply for the Higher Education Scholarship Test?
Financial Support for Education Abroad –
With rewards up to ₹3 lakh, HEST directly reduces the cost burden on students and their families.
Access to Additional Scholarships –
Winners gain entry into a network of full-fee waiver opportunities offered by trusts, government organizations, and private institutions.
Recognition of Merit and Potential –
Being a HEST scholar demonstrates academic capability and resilience, boosting credibility in international applications.
Nationwide Competitive Platform –
HEST is India’s largest inter-college scholarship test, providing exposure and recognition to students from diverse academic backgrounds.
Inclusive and Flexible Process –
Students can apply even without immediate admission confirmation, making the scholarship accessible to those still navigating the admission process.
Planning to Study Abroad?
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Final Thoughts
The Higher Education Scholarship Test (HEST) stands as a beacon of opportunity for Indian students aspiring to study abroad. Backed by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and executed by WeMakeScholars, HEST uniquely combines merit and financial need to select deserving candidates. With up to ₹3 lakh in rewards, access to full fee waiver scholarships, and recognition on a national platform, it ensures that ambitious students can achieve their global education dreams without being constrained by financial barriers.
HEST is not just a test – it is the first step toward a brighter, borderless academic future.
