After completing high school, many students dream of pursuing higher education, but the rising costs of college and university can be a major burden. The good news is – there are several scholarships available that offer big stipends and are open to everyone, regardless of background, caste, or income. These scholarships can ease your financial worries and allow you to focus on your studies.
Here’s a simple and informative list of the top 5 scholarships after high school (Class 12) that provide big stipends and are open to all Indian students or students across the globe depending on the scheme.
1. HDFC Bank Parivartan’s ECS Scholarship
Who Can Apply?
Students who have passed Class 12 and are now pursuing UG or professional courses.
Eligibility:
- Minimum 55% marks in Class 12
- Annual family income should be less than ₹2.5 lakh
- Open to all Indian students
Stipend: ₹15,000 to ₹75,000 per year depending on the course.
Why It’s Great:
This is a private scholarship that supports economically weaker students across all streams – Arts, Science, Commerce, Engineering, etc.
Apply Through: Buddy4Study or HDFC’s official site.
2. Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) – South Korea
Who Can Apply?
International students who want to pursue undergraduate studies in South Korea.
Eligibility:
- Must have completed high school
- Age below 25 years
- Good academic record
Stipend: Covers full tuition, airfare, monthly stipend of approx ₹65,000–₹70,000
Why It’s Great:
This is one of the most generous scholarships in Asia. You also get exposure to a new culture, language, and education system.
Apply Through: South Korean Embassy or GKS portal.
3. PM Scholarship Scheme (PMSS) for Wards of CAPF, Assam Rifles, and Police
Who Can Apply?
Children of personnel from CAPF, Assam Rifles, and state police.
Eligibility:
- Minimum 60% marks in Class 12
- Pursuing professional courses like BTech, BBA, BSc Nursing, etc.
- Open to specific families (police, army, paramilitary)
Stipend: ₹3,000 per month for girls and ₹2,500 for boys
Why It’s Great:
A well-structured scholarship scheme that helps children of security personnel complete their higher education with strong financial support.
Apply Through: National Scholarship Portal (NSP)
4. Google Generation Scholarship – Asia Pacific
Who Can Apply?
Students identifying as female and pursuing computer science or related fields.
Eligibility:
- Must be currently enrolled in or planning for a UG course in CS
- High academic performance
- Strong interest in tech and leadership
Stipend: USD 1,000 (Approx ₹80,000+)
Why It’s Great:
Global exposure, mentorship opportunities, and a great boost for students from underrepresented backgrounds in tech.
Apply Through: Google Scholarships Portal
5. Inspire Scholarship by Department of Science and Technology (DST), India
Who Can Apply?
Science stream students after Class 12 who want to pursue careers in research and science.
Eligibility:
- Top 1% performers in Class 12 board exams
- Must be enrolled in natural or basic science UG courses (like BSc Physics, Chemistry, etc.)
Stipend: ₹80,000 per year + mentoring + summer camps
Why It’s Great:
Perfect for those who want to pursue science careers and possibly become future scientists.
Apply Through: https://online-inspire.gov.in/
Benefits of These Scholarships
- Financial Support: Big stipends mean you don’t have to worry about college fees, books, or even hostel expenses.
- Equal Opportunities: Open for all (some are gender or field-specific), these scholarships help students from humble backgrounds shine.
- Career Boost: Global scholarships like GKS or Google bring in internships, mentorship, and global recognition.
- Encouragement: These programs are meant to reward your hard work in school and support your dreams.
Summary Table: Top 5 Scholarships After High School
| Scholarship Name | Who Can Apply | Stipend/Benefits | Apply Through |
| HDFC Parivartan ECS | All Indian UG students | ₹15,000 – ₹75,000/year | Buddy4Study / HDFC site |
| Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) | All global students | Tuition + ₹65K+/month + airfare | Korean Embassy / GKS site |
| PMSS for CAPF/Police Wards | Children of armed/security forces | ₹2,500–₹3,000/month | National Scholarship Portal |
| Google Generation Scholarship | Female CS/Tech students | $1,000 (₹80K+) + mentorship | Google portal |
| DST Inspire Scholarship | Top 1% Science students (India) | ₹80,000/year + camps | Inspire official site |
Final Words
If you’ve just finished Class 12, don’t miss these scholarship opportunities. Whether you’re from a small town in India or looking for a global education, these big stipend scholarships can make your dreams affordable.
Tip: Always check the official websites, prepare your documents in advance, and apply before deadlines. A little effort now can give you a huge reward later!