ICCR India-Africa Maitri Scholarship for Botswana Students 2026

India has long been a preferred destination for African students seeking quality higher education at affordable costs, offering world-class institutions, cultural diversity, and globally recognized degrees. Through the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), the Government of India is offering 75 scholarship slots for Botswana nationals under the prestigious India-Africa Maitri Scholarship Scheme for the academic year 2026-27. This initiative strengthens educational ties between India and Africa, providing talented Botswana students with opportunities to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate degrees at leading Indian universities. For students exploring educational opportunities across the continent, you should check fully funded scholarships in India for international students to understand the broader landscape of funding options available in this dynamic country.

Overview of ICCR India-Africa Maitri Scholarship 2026

The India-Africa Maitri Scholarship Scheme is a flagship program of the Indian government designed to promote educational cooperation and cultural exchange between India and African nations. For the 2026-27 academic year, the High Commission of India in Gaborone is inviting applications from Botswana nationals for 75 scholarship slots across PhD, Master's, and Bachelor's programs.

• Scholarship Provider: Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR)

• Number of Slots: 75 for Botswana nationals

• Degree Levels: PhD, Master's, Bachelor's

• Fields of Study: Engineering, Information Technology, BBA, MBA, Arts

• Application Portal: a2ascholarships.iccr.gov.in

• Application Opens: February 27, 2026

• Application Deadline: April 15, 2026

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Available Fields of Study

The ICCR scholarships cover a diverse range of disciplines at Indian universities, allowing students to pursue their academic interests across multiple fields.

• Engineering: Various specializations at leading technical institutions

• Information Technology: Computer science, software engineering, and IT management

• BBA: Bachelor of Business Administration

• MBA: Master of Business Administration

• Arts: Humanities, social sciences, and liberal arts programs

Scholarship recipients will study at Indian State and Central Universities and their affiliated colleges, with complete program details available on the ICCR scholarship portal.

Scholarship Benefits

While specific benefit details should be verified on the portal, ICCR scholarships typically include:

• Full tuition fee coverage

• Monthly living allowance

• Accommodation support

• Medical benefits

• Research facilities for doctoral students

For students seeking additional funding options across the continent, Africa's latest scholarships in 2026 provides information on various opportunities available to African students.

Eligibility Criteria

• Botswana nationality

• Strong academic record in previous studies

• Meeting program-specific admission requirements

• English proficiency for programs taught in English

Application Timeline

• February 27, 2026: Portal opens for applications

• April 15, 2026: Last date for students to submit applications

• April 30, 2026: Universities communicate decisions

• May 15, 2026: Final date for offer letters and student acceptances

• May 16, 2026: Second round of offers (if seats remain vacant)

• June 10, 2026: Deadline for second-round acceptances

Required Documents

• Completed online application

• Academic transcripts and certificates

• Proof of Botswana nationality

• Recommendation letters

• Statement of purpose

• English proficiency proof (if applicable)

How to Apply

Interested applicants must apply online through the ICCR Scholarship Portal at a2ascholarships.iccr.gov.in. The portal provides comprehensive information including details of universities, available courses, application guidelines, eligibility criteria, and other relevant information.

For students managing multiple scholarship deadlines, financial aids for students in Africa provides information on programs with various timelines requiring coordinated planning.

Contact Information

For further queries, please contact the High Commission of India, Gaborone:

• Email: tlec.gaborone@mea.gov.in | admn.gaborone@mea.gov.in

• Tel: +267 3972676

Final Thoughts

The ICCR India-Africa Maitri Scholarship Scheme offers Botswana students a remarkable opportunity to pursue quality higher education in India with full financial support. With 75 dedicated slots for the 2026-27 academic year, this program reflects India's commitment to educational partnership with African nations. The application window opens February 27, 2026, giving prospective applicants time to prepare their materials before the April 15 deadline.

For Botswana students ready to embark on an enriching educational journey in one of Asia's most dynamic countries, this scholarship provides a pathway to academic excellence and cultural exchange.

Apply Now for ICCR India-Africa Maitri Scholarship 2026