Your Complete Guide to the Fully Funded Dalai Lama Trust Scholarship 2025

Embarking on your higher education journey is a momentous step, and the Fully Funded Dalai Lama Trust Scholarship 2025 offers a remarkable opportunity to turn your academic aspirations into reality. For many bright and deserving Tibetan students, financial constraints can feel like an insurmountable barrier to a university degree. This prestigious scholarship, administered directly by The Dalai Lama Trust, is designed to remove that barrier, providing a pathway for dedicated students to achieve their full potential. If you are a student with a strong academic foundation, a commitment to your community, and a dream of higher learning, this guide will provide you with the comprehensive, actionable, and encouraging information you need to successfully navigate the application process.

This article will walk you through the entire process, from understanding the unique eligibility criteria to compiling your documents and submitting a standout application.

Fully Funded Dalai Lama Trust Scholarship 2025

Applying for a scholarship of this magnitude can feel daunting, but it is an incredible opportunity to invest in your future and make a meaningful contribution to your community. The Dalai Lama Trust has created this scholarship precisely for students like you—those with potential, character, and a deep-seated desire to learn and grow.

Believe in your story and your strengths. Take the time to prepare a thoughtful and honest application that reflects who you are. Your journey to higher education is a testament to your resilience and ambition, and this scholarship could be the key that unlocks the next chapter. Start preparing today, and step forward with confidence.

Understanding the Spirit of the Scholarship

Before delving into the application’s nuts and bolts, it’s crucial to understand the ethos behind the Dalai Lama Trust Scholarship. This isn’t just about funding; it’s about fostering a generation of educated, compassionate, and socially responsible leaders within the Tibetan community. The scholarship seeks to support students who not only excel academically but also embody qualities of sincerity, honesty, and a commitment to serving others.

In my experience advising students, I’ve seen many successful applicants focus on authentically conveying their personal story and how it aligns with these values. The selection committee is looking for more than just high marks; they are looking for individuals with heart and a clear vision for their future.

Are You Eligible for the Dalai Lama Trust Scholarship?

The scholarship has distinct criteria for undergraduate and postgraduate applicants.² It’s vital to read these carefully to ensure you qualify before you begin the application process.

Undergraduate Scholarship Eligibility

The Trust offers 100 scholarships for undergraduate or diploma programs with a minimum duration of three years.³ A unique feature of this scholarship is its inclusive approach. Applicants only need to meet one of the following three criteria:

1. Consistent Academic Performers: This is for students who have a strong and consistent academic record but may not have scored top marks in their Class 12 board examinations. A recommendation from your school (using Form ‘B’) is required to validate your academic history.
2. Students of Strong Moral Character: If you are known for being responsible, sincere, honest, and possessing good moral conduct, you are encouraged to apply. This also requires a recommendation from your school (using Form ‘B’).
3. Students Facing Hardship: This criterion is for students who are orphaned, semi-orphaned, or come from a destitute family. You will need a recommendation from your local Tibetan Settlement Officer (using Form ‘A’) to verify your circumstances.

In addition to one of the above, all undergraduate applicants must:

• Have a Green Book (GB) with contributions paid up to March 31, 2024.
• Hold a valid Registration Certificate (RC).
• Not be a recipient of any other scholarship.

Postgraduate Scholarship Eligibility

The Trust offers 5 postgraduate scholarships. The eligibility here is very specific:

• Applicants must have been a recipient of the Dalai Lama Trust Undergraduate Scholarship. Students who did not receive the undergraduate scholarship are not eligible to apply for the postgraduate award.

This structure ensures a continued investment in the most promising students who have already demonstrated their commitment and potential during their undergraduate studies.

Here’s the official announcement from the Dalai Lama Trust’s social media:

A Note on a Separate Scholarship: The Dalai Lama Graduate Scholarship

It is important for applicants not to confuse the Dalai Lama Trust Scholarship with The Dalai Lama Graduate Scholarship, which is administered by the Gaden Phodrang Foundation. The latter is for Tibetan students pursuing Master’s or Doctoral degrees in Europe, the Americas, Australia, and Asia (excluding the Indian subcontinent). Always ensure you are applying for the correct scholarship based on your circumstances.

How to Apply for the Dalai Lama Scholarship: A Step-by-Step Guide

The application process is entirely online to make it accessible for all students. Following these steps carefully will ensure your application is complete and considered by the selection committee.

Step 1: Gather Your Essential Documents

Preparation is key. Before you start the online form, gather all the necessary documents. For most applicants, this will be the most time-consuming part of the process.

For Undergraduate Applicants:

• Green Book (GB): Scanned copies of the front and back.
• Registration Certificate (RC): A clear, scanned copy.
• Class X Mark Sheet
• Class XII Mark Sheet
• Passport-sized Photograph: A recent, clear photo.
• Best Boy/Girl Certificate: If applicable.
• Form ‘A’ or Form ‘B’: This is crucial. Download the correct form from the official Dalai Lama Trust website, have it filled out and signed by your Tibetan Settlement Officer (Form A) or School Principal (Form B), and scan it.

For Postgraduate Applicants:

• Green Book (GB): Scanned copies of the front and back.
• Registration Certificate (RC): A clear, scanned copy.
• Undergraduate Mark Sheets: In chronological order for each year of your course.
• Provisional Degree Certificate or Final Degree Certificate
• Internship Completion Certificate: Where applicable.
• Passport-sized Photograph

Important Note: All documents, except for your passport photo, must be compiled into a single PDF file before uploading.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application Form

Once your documents are ready, navigate to the correct application portal on the Dalai Lama Trust website. There are separate forms for undergraduate and postgraduate applicants.

• Undergraduate Application Form Link
• Postgraduate Application Form Link

Fill out every section of the form accurately and thoughtfully. Double-check your details, especially your contact information. If you have taken a gap year, be prepared to explain the reasons clearly in the application form.

Step 3: Submit Before the Deadline

This may seem obvious, but late or incomplete applications will be disqualified. Mark these dates in your calendar:

• Undergraduate Application Deadline: June 15, 2025
• Postgraduate Application Deadline: August 31, 2025

I’ve seen the disappointment of students who missed the deadline by just a day. Plan to submit your application at least a few days in advance to avoid any last-minute technical issues.

What Happens After You Apply?

The selection process is handled by a dedicated committee of qualified individuals. They will carefully review each application, considering not just academic merit but also the applicant’s overall profile and alignment with the scholarship’s values. Successful applicants will be notified directly, and the scholarship funds will be deposited into their personal bank account (the Trust prefers an SBI account).

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FAQ

Q1. Is this scholarship available for vocational courses?

A. No, the Dalai Lama Trust Scholarship is only for degree or diploma programs of at least three years. It does not cover vocational courses.

Q2. Can I apply if I am already receiving another scholarship?

A. No, this scholarship is only for students who do not have other financial awards for their studies.

Q3. What if I am a Tibetan student living in Nepal or Bhutan and don’t have an RC?

A. If you live in Nepal, Bhutan, Kalimpong, Darjeeling, or Gangtok, you must submit a recommendation from your local Tibetan Settlement Officer that confirms your refugee status.

Q4. Can I apply for the postgraduate scholarship if I wasn’t a Dalai Lama Trust undergraduate scholar?

A. No, the postgraduate scholarship is exclusively for students who were recipients of the Trust’s undergraduate scholarship.