Hinduism is one of the world’s largest religions with nearly 900 million followers worldwide. While Hinduism doesn’t enjoy the same widespread practice in the U.S., there are many tight knit Hindu communities in cites across the country. Students can help others learn about their religion and culture while getting a college education for themselves through many Hindu scholarship programs.

All students who are members of the Hindu religion will be able to apply at least some of the available scholarships. Some are limited to students that can demonstrate a real financial need for support or students who are pursuing studies of the Hindu religion. There may even be some scholarships that are available to students outside of the United States, provided they meet the academic standards set by the donors. Each program will have its own requirements as to who is eligible.

Money will come from a variety of sources for Hindu students. Many will have the best luck working directly through the school they are attending which may offer them assistance based on their financial need or because they are pursuing a particular course of study. Students applying for these types of scholarships will have less competition than nationwide scholarships, but will still need to maintain a respectable GPA in most cases in order to be eligible.

There are many more programs available to students who are Hindu for study outside the US. Students from the UK or Canada may find a variety of scholarships available to them if they are pursuing a career in Hindu studies. There are numerous programs for students who are from India and a few for students who want to study Hinduism in India as well.

Hindu Scholarships

• Rattan L. Khosa Scholarship: $4,000 to $10,000 for one year to a student enrolled in the University of Chicago’s Graduate School of Business.
• Hindu Samaj Award: $300 to one student studying Hindu religion, philosophy, or culture at the University of Regina.