SAT Scholarships 2025: Requirements for Indian Students to Study Abroad

SAT scholarships are for students who achieve good SAT scores, like 1300 or above. These scholarships acknowledge students’ hard work, high SAT scores, and help reduce the financial burden of studying abroad.

Students can get partial or full tuition coverage, support for accommodation, and other benefits by securing an SAT scholarship. These scholarships also strengthen a student’s profile apart from just easing expenses, making it simpler to get admission to top universities in the USA, Canada, and other countries.

Various types of scholarships are offered while keeping the needs of the students in mind. These are listed below:

Academic Scholarship

It is also known as the SAT Merit Scholarship, which is based on your SAT scores and overall academic performance. It rewards students who maintain a consistently high score and good grades throughout high school.

Eligibility Criteria: Students must have a high SAT score, usually above 1200. They must also have strong high school grades and a consistent record of academic achievement.

Military Scholarship

This scholarship is for students from a military family background. It is offered as a way to honor the service of the armed forces.

Eligibility Criteria: Students must provide valid documentation to prove their parent or guardian’s military service.

Athletic Scholarship

This scholarship is for students who excel in sports or athletics. It is commonly offered in the US and the UK to support talented athletes.

Eligibility Criteria: Students must provide valid documentation to prove their parent or guardian’s military service.

Need-based Scholarship

This scholarship is for bright students from low-income families. It helps provide equal opportunities to those who may not afford higher education otherwise.

Eligibility Criteria: Students must provide proof of financial need. They must also have a strong academic record and show the potential to succeed in higher education.

Identity-based Scholarship

This scholarship is for students from underrepresented minority communities. It considers factors such as race, gender, or ethnicity.

Eligibility Criteria: Students must provide proof of their identity as required. They must also show good academic performance. In some cases, financial need may be considered.

It is ideal to have an SAT score between 1300 and 1600 to improve your chances of securing a scholarship. Even a perfect SAT score of around 1600 will not automatically guarantee a 100% scholarship. Other factors are equally important, like excellent academic records, extracurricular achievements, and leadership skills.

Still keep in mind that the higher your score, the better your chances of getting a significant SAT scholarship from top universities.

The Indian Scholars Program (officially the College Board India Scholars Program) is the only SAT-based scholarship scheme designed specifically for Indian students. It is run by the College Board in India. It aims to support high-achieving students from lower-income families and offers two main benefits:

• SAT Fee Discounts: Income-eligible students (in Class XI or XII) can receive up to 90% off the SAT registration fee.
• Tuition Scholarships: Merit-cum-need scholarships at participating Indian universities, including full tuition waivers through graduation for those with annual family incomes below ₹8 lakh who score at least 1300 (out of 1600) on the SAT. Students who achieve this score are recognised as “SAT India Top Performers

Participating Universities

Some of the universities that participate in the College Board India Scholars Program include:

• Ahmedabad University
• Ashoka University
• Azim Premji University
• BML Munjal University
• FLAME University
• Jagdish Sheth School of Management
• Jain University
• Krea University
• Manipal Academy of Higher Education
• O.P. Jindal Global University
• Shiv Nadar University
• SRM Institute of Science and Technology
• Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology (TIET)
• World University of Design

Key Eligibility Requirements

Below are the important eligibility criteria for the Indian Scholars Program: 

• Indian Resident: The student must be an Indian resident currently enrolled in Class 11 or 12.
• Family Annual Income: The family’s annual income should not exceed INR 8 lakh to qualify for full benefits, though partial benefits may apply for families earning up to INR 15 lakh.
• SAT Score: The student must achieve a minimum SAT score of 1300 out of 1600.
• Participating Universities: Scholarships are awarded to students who gain admission to a participating university and meet all program requirements.

How to Apply for the Indian Scholars Program?

Below are the detailed steps you can follow when applying for the Indian Scholars Program:

• Step #1 - Apply for the SAT Discount Voucher: Income-eligible students can request the voucher when registering for the SAT online.
• Step #2 - Take the SAT Exam: Achieve a competitive score, ideally 1300 or higher.
• Step #3 - Apply to Participating Universities: Submit your admission applications to universities that are part of the program.
• Step #4 - Apply for Scholarships: Indicate your eligibility for the SAT India Scholars Program during the university application process.
• Step #5 - University Selection: On the basis of SAT scores, financial need, and other criteria, the participating universities select students from the pool of eligible applicants.

Indian students can earn scholarships like the Merit-Based Scholarship at Colorado State University or the Academic Excellence Award at Baylor University by scoring well on the SAT.

Check the colleges offering SAT scholarships below for details on eligibility, score requirements, and award amounts:

Students with scores between 1000 to 1200 may qualify for the Bruce Fishkin Scholarship Fund (USD 200,000 / INR 1.6 Cr), while higher scores like 1400+ can get you scholarships such as the Texas State University President's Honor Scholarship (USD 48,000 / INR 38.4 L). 

Below, we’ve divided the scholarships into three score ranges so you can quickly find the best options for your SAT score:

SAT Score (1000 - 1200)

Here is the full table of scholarships, amounts, and deadlines for the SAT score range of 1000 to 1200: 

SAT Score (1201 - 1400)

Below is the list of scholarships available for students scoring between 1201-1400 on the SAT:

SAT Score (1401 - 1600)

The following table highlights scholarships available for top scorers in the 1401-1600 SAT range:

You need to be eligible for certain factors to avail of SAT scholarships, such as:

• The candidate must be enrolled in class 11 or 12.
• The annual household income of the candidate must be less than 8 lakh INR or less.
• The candidate must score at least 1300 out of 1600 on their SAT exam.
• The candidate must ensure admission to any Indian participating university.

While applying for an SAT scholarship, you should be ready with the following documents: 

• SAT scholarship application form: The official form provided by the university or scholarship body that you need to fill out with accurate personal and academic details.
• Academic transcripts: Certified copies of your previous academic records, such as high school or college mark sheets, to prove your academic performance.
• SAT results: Your official SAT score report that showcases your eligibility for score-based scholarships.
• Resume/CV: A summary of your academic background, achievements, extracurricular activities, and any relevant work or volunteer experience.
• Letter of Recommendation (LOR): Written by teachers, mentors, or employers to highlight your skills, strengths, and suitability for the scholarship.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): A personal essay explaining your academic goals, career aspirations, and why you deserve the scholarship.
• Acceptance letter from the university: Proof that you have secured admission to the institution where the scholarship will be applied. 
• Valid passport: A government-issued identification document required for international travel and verification purposes.
• Student visa: The visa issued by the host country, allowing you to study legally at the university.
• Passport-sized photos: Recent photographs that are often needed for application forms, identification, and official records.

To apply for an SAT scholarship, you first need to register for the SAT exam and then apply to universities that offer scholarships based on SAT scores. Below is the complete list of steps you should follow:

Step 1: Register for the SAT

Go to the College Board website and sign up for the SAT exam. You can also apply for a fee waiver to reduce the registration cost if your family income is low.

Step 2: Apply for SAT Fee Reduction (For Indian Students)

Indian students can apply for the College Board India Scholars Program if they meet the income rules. If approved, you’ll get a voucher to lower your SAT fee.

Step 3: Choose Universities with SAT Scholarships

Research and make a list of universities that give scholarships for good SAT scores. Check each university’s website to know the rules and deadlines.

Step 4: Apply to the Universities and Send Scores

Submit your admission applications to the universities you like. Then, send your SAT scores directly to them through the College Board.

Step 5: Fill Out Scholarship Applications

Some universities will consider you for scholarships automatically if you have a high SAT score. Others may ask you to fill out a separate form for the scholarship.

Step 6: Upload Your Documents

Get your documents ready, like transcripts, SAT score report, income proof, resume, SOP, and recommendation letters. Upload them when the university asks for them.

Step 7: Keep Track of Deadlines

Every scholarship has its own deadline. Make a calendar and keep checking so you don’t miss any important dates.

The most important tips for writing a strong scholarship essay are to answer the prompt clearly and to proofread carefully before submitting. Below, we have compiled all the important tips you should follow in detail to make your essay stand out: 

• Proofread: Check your essay for spelling and grammar mistakes before submitting.
• Answer the prompt: Stick to the exact question asked and avoid going off-topic.
• Scholarship essay example:Read sample essays to understand how a good essay looks.
• Compose a great essay: Write in a way that shows your strengths and keeps the reader interested.
• Follow the instructions: Carefully follow word limits, format rules, and any special directions.
• Consider reusing an existing essay: If allowed, you can edit and reuse essays for different scholarships.
• Know your audience: Think about what the scholarship committee values most and write with that in mind.
• Research the scholarship provider: Learn about the organization giving the scholarship and match your essay to their goals.
• Start writing early: Don’t wait until the last minute; give yourself time to edit and improve.
• Use an outline: Plan your essay with a clear beginning, middle, and end before you start writing.
• Answer the underlying question: Show not only what you did, but also why it matters.
• Brainstorm your topic: List different ideas before deciding on the one that best tells your story.
• Clear structure and organization: Use short paragraphs and make your points easy to follow.
• Create a strong introduction: Begin with an opening line that grabs the reader’s attention.
• Don’t use AI: Write in your own words so your essay feels honest and personal.
• Highlight your achievements without bragging: Share your successes humbly and genuinely.
• Incorporate stories from your life: Use real examples and experiences to make your essay memorable.
• Organize your thoughts: Connect your ideas so the essay flows smoothly.
• Scholarship amounts & deadlines: Mention how the scholarship will help you reach your goals.
• Show emotions: Be real about your challenges, hopes, and passions.
• Strictly follow the word limit: Do not go over or under the required length.
• Tell your story: Focus on your personal journey rather than generic answers.
• Use simple, clear, concise language: Avoid complicated words; write in a way anyone can understand.

Many students believe that the SAT is unfair or that only rich students can succeed, but that’s not true. Below, we have explained some common myths and the real facts behind them.

Myth 1: The SAT is a Barrier to College Admissions

Many students think the SAT only blocks opportunities, but in reality, it often helps. SAT scores can highlight a student’s strengths and sometimes even support those whose grades don’t fully show their ability. For example, many students have SAT scores that are stronger than their GPAs, making their applications stand out.

Myth 2: The SAT is Biased Against Financially Weaker Students

Indeed, students from wealthy families often have more educational resources, but that doesn’t mean the test itself is unfair. Every SAT question is carefully checked to make sure it doesn’t favor one group over another. Colleges also look at scores in the context of where a student comes from, so the SAT alone is never a final barrier.

Myth 3: Expensive Coaching is the Only Way to Get a Good SAT Score

You don’t need to spend a lot of money on test prep to do well. Various websites or academies offer SAT free practice resources, including full-length practice tests. Even retaking the test with proper practice can lead to better scores, without any costly coaching.

Myth 4: Only Top Scorers Get SAT Scholarships

Many believe scholarships are only for students with near-perfect scores. In reality, different universities offer scholarships for a wide range of scores. Even mid-range SAT scores can qualify you for partial tuition waivers or financial aid.

Myth 5: Applying for SAT Scholarships is Too Complicated

Some students avoid applying because they think the process is too hard. But most scholarships just need your test scores, transcripts, and a few supporting documents. The process becomes simple and manageable with proper planning and by tracking deadlines.

Scoring high on the SAT and applying before deadlines are two of the best ways to secure a scholarship. Below, we’ve shared more helpful tips you should follow to increase your chances.

Maintain a Strong Academic Record

Your GPA and overall grades also play a big role in scholarship selection. A strong academic record shows consistency and makes your SAT score look even better.

Aim for a Higher SAT Score

The higher your SAT score, the better the scholarships you can qualify for. Even a small score improvement can open doors to bigger financial aid.

Apply Early

Scholarship deadlines are very strict, and many students miss out just because they apply late. Always apply as early as possible to stay ahead.

Research Universities Offering Scholarships

Not all universities offer SAT-based scholarships, and the benefits differ for each. Take time to research which universities provide the best options for your score range.

Write a Strong Scholarship Essay

If the scholarship requires an essay, make it personal and clear. Share your story and goals honestly to stand out from other applicants.

Prepare Your Documents in Advance

Get your transcripts, SAT scores, essays, and recommendation letters ready before applying. Having everything prepared will save time and reduce stress.

Apply for Multiple Scholarships

Don’t depend on just one scholarship. Apply to as many as you qualify for to increase your chances of winning financial aid.

Many students worry about whether their SAT scores will be enough to secure a scholarship. The truth is, scholarships vary by university and score range, so it’s important not to compare yourself too much with others. Focus instead on preparing well, applying early, and keeping your documents ready.

You don’t have to figure it all out alone with Yocket Premium. Our experts can guide you on which universities match your SAT score, help with scholarship essays, and make sure you don’t miss any deadlines.