If you’re a Muslim postgraduate student from Tamil Nadu dreaming of studying abroad, there’s significant news that could change your academic future. The Tamil Nadu government has just launched a groundbreaking overseas scholarship scheme for Muslim PG students in Tamil Nadu that provides substantial financial support for international education.
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about this new opportunity, along with other relevant scholarship programs available to you.
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What Makes This Scheme Special
The Tamil Nadu government has allocated Rs 3.60 crore for this initiative, demonstrating a serious commitment to supporting Muslim students’ higher education aspirations. This scheme will provide up to Rs 36 lakh annually to selected students, with 10 beneficiaries chosen each year.
What sets this apart from other programs is its comprehensive coverage and the fact that it replaces the Centre’s discontinued Padho Pardesh scheme that provided subsidized education loans.
Quick Reference
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Amount | Application Deadline | Official Link |
| TN Overseas Scholarship for Muslim PG Students | Muslim students from Tamil Nadu, Postgraduate studies abroad | Up to Rs 36 lakh annually | To be announced | Tamil Nadu Waqf Board |
Tamil Nadu Overseas Scholarship Scheme for Muslim Students- Core Objectives of the Scheme
The Tamil Nadu government designed this program with clear objectives in mind:
- Educational Gap Bridging: The programme aims to bridge the educational gap and enhance the economic status of the Muslim community
- International Exposure: Providing Muslim students access to world-class education at reputed foreign universities
- Community Empowerment: Supporting the socio-economic development of the Muslim community through higher education
- Skill Development: Ensuring students gain international qualifications and experience to contribute to Tamil Nadu’s development
Who Can Apply
You’re eligible for this scholarship if you meet these criteria:
Community Requirement: You must belong to the Muslim community
Residency: You should be a resident of Tamil Nadu
Academic Level: The scheme specifically targets postgraduate students
University Standards: You must secure admission to reputed foreign universities
The exact eligibility criteria, including academic performance requirements, family income limits, and age restrictions, are yet to be officially announced by the implementing authority.
Financial Support Details
Each beneficiary is eligible to receive up to Rs 36 lakh annually. This substantial amount is designed to cover:
- Complete tuition fees for postgraduate programs
- Living expenses including accommodation and food
- Travel costs including flight tickets
- Academic expenses such as books, equipment, and materials
- Other necessary expenses for international study
Annual Selection: Ten students will be selected every year to pursue postgraduate studies abroad
Total Budget: The scheme has been allocated a financial sanction of Rs 3.60 crore for the financial year 2025-26
Implementation and Application Process
Implementing Authority: The scheme will be implemented through the Waqf Board
Government Department: The scheme falls under the Backward Classes, Most Backward Classes and Minorities Welfare Department
How to Apply: Since this is a newly launched scheme, detailed application procedures are yet to be announced. You should:
- Monitor the Tamil Nadu Waqf Board’s official announcements
- Keep track of the BC, MBC & Minorities Welfare Department notifications
- Prepare your academic documents and community certificates
- Research and apply to reputed foreign universities for postgraduate programs
Special Conditions
University Selection: You must choose from reputed foreign universities. The government will likely publish an approved list of institutions.
Course Restrictions: The scheme targets postgraduate studies, so bachelor’s degree completion is mandatory.
Renewal Policy: Information about scholarship renewal for multi-year programs is to be announced.
Official Source: The scheme was announced through a government order issued by the Tamil Nadu government in September 2025.
Required Documents Checklist
While specific requirements for the Tamil Nadu scheme are pending announcement, prepare these essential documents:
Identity and Community Proof:
- Aadhaar card
- Community certificate (Muslim)
- Tamil Nadu domicile certificate
- Passport
Academic Documents:
- All mark sheets from Class 10 onwards
- Degree certificates
- University transcripts
- Admission letter from foreign university
Financial Documents:
- Family income certificate
- Bank account details
- Income tax returns (if applicable)
Additional Requirements:
- Recent passport-size photographs
- Medical fitness certificate
- English proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Statement of Purpose
- Letters of Recommendation
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: When will the application process begin for the Tamil Nadu overseas scholarship?
The Tamil Nadu government has just issued the government order in September 2025. Application details and timelines are expected to be announced soon through the Waqf Board and concerned departments.
Q2: Can I apply if I’m already studying abroad?
This information hasn’t been clarified yet. Typically, such schemes support students who are planning to begin their studies, but you should wait for official guidelines.
Q3: Which countries and universities are covered under this scheme?
The scheme mentions “reputed foreign universities” but hasn’t specified countries or institutions. An approved list is expected with the detailed guidelines.
Q4: Is there any bond or service commitment after completing studies?
Details about post-study obligations haven’t been announced. Some scholarship schemes require recipients to work in India for a specified period after completion.
Q5: Can I apply for both Tamil Nadu and National Overseas Scholarship simultaneously?
Generally, you cannot receive multiple government scholarships for the same purpose, but specific rules will be clarified in the official guidelines.
Q6: What happens if the scholarship amount exceeds my actual expenses?
Scholarship disbursement policies vary. Some schemes pay actual expenses up to the maximum limit, while others provide fixed amounts. Official guidelines will clarify this.