India has opened applications for the ICCR AYUSH Scholarship Scheme 2026–27, inviting foreign nationals to study traditional systems like Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy.
The last date to apply is May 15, 2026, making it a key opportunity for international students interested in alternative medicine and wellness sciences.
The scholarship is offered by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) on behalf of the Ministry of AYUSH. It comes under the International Fellowship Programme, which supports students financially while they pursue higher education in India.
With growing global interest in AYUSH systems, the programme aims to attract international students to Indian institutions known for their expertise in traditional medicine.
WHAT COURSES ARE OFFERED?
The scholarship covers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes:
Undergraduate courses:
- Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) – 5.5 years with internship
- Bachelor of Siddha Medicine and Surgery (BSMS) – 5.5 years
- Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery (BUMS) – 5.5 years
- Bachelor of Homoeopathic Medicine and Surgery (BHMS) – 5.5 years
- BSc in Yoga – 3 years
- BA in Yoga Shastra – 3 years
Postgraduate courses:
- MD Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, Homoeopathy – 3 years
- MSc Yoga – 2 years
PhD courses:
- PhD in Ayurveda – 3 years
- PhD in Unani – 3 years
WHO CAN APPLY FOR ICCR SCHOLARSHIP?
Applicants must meet the following eligibility conditions:
- Must be a foreign national
- Must be at least 18 years of age with no upper limit
- Must meet academic qualifications for the selected course
- Undergraduate applicants need 12 years of schooling (Science for medical courses)
- Postgraduate applicants must hold relevant recognised degrees
- PhD applicants must have a recognised postgraduate qualification
Candidates must also submit all required documents with English translations where needed.
HOW TO APPLY FOR ICCR SCHOLARSHIP?
The application process is fully online and must be completed carefully:
- Visit the official portal: a2ascholarships.iccr.gov.in
- Fill out the online application form on the A2A portal
- Upload all required documents and certificates
- Ensure documents are properly certified and translated into English
- Submit the application before May 15, 2026
Applicants may also need to register on the study in India portal for further processing, including visa and registration.
WHAT BENEFITS DO SCHOLARS GET?
The scholarship offers strong financial and academic support:
- Financial assistance for selected courses
- Admission to premier AYUSH institutions in India
- Airfare support (once at the beginning and after course completion)
- Exposure to India’s traditional healthcare systems
The funding helps reduce financial barriers and encourages international participation in AYUSH education.
HOW DOES SELECTION WORK?
The selection process follows a structured approach:
- Applications are reviewed by ICCR
- Admission must be confirmed by the respective institute/university
- Final scholarship is awarded only after admission confirmation
- Students then proceed with visa and registration formalities
The programme ensures that only eligible and selected candidates receive funding.
WHY THIS SCHOLARSHIP IS GAINING ATTENTION
The AYUSH Scholarship Scheme reflects India’s growing global influence in traditional medicine.
With increasing interest in natural healing systems, more international students are looking towards India for authentic education in Ayurveda and Yoga.
By combining academic training with cultural exposure, the scholarship offers a unique learning experience that goes beyond classroom education.
