🎯 Top 10 Scholarship Exams for Indian Students (2025–2026)
📘 Education in India is becoming increasingly competitive and expensive — but what if you could get paid to study? Imagine earning ₹50,000 to ₹10 Lakh+ while pursuing school, undergraduate, or even postgraduate studies. That’s exactly what these top 20 scholarships can offer — not just financial aid, but mentorship, prestige, and a launchpad to elite institutes like IITs, AIIMS, IISc, IIMs, Oxford and beyond.
Whether you're a Class 6 student dreaming of cracking NTSE, a Class 12 student preparing for NEET or JEE, or a postgraduate aspirant targeting research at the global level — there’s a scholarship tailored just for you. And the best part? Many of these don’t even require you to be a topper — just dedication, strategy, and the right guidance.
📌 Why Scholarships Matter in 2025?
- 🎓 Help students access quality education without financial burden
- 🌐 Boost your profile for top colleges and global admissions
- 💼 Provide internship & job opportunities via networks
- 🧠 Recognize talent beyond just marks — aptitude, innovation & creativity
This post is a hand-curated list of the most prestigious and financially rewarding scholarships available for Indian students from **school to postgraduate level**. We’ve categorized them based on:
📚 Class Level
From Class 5 to PG – we’ve got you covered.
📝 Type of Exam
Merit-based, need-based, or research-focused.
🏛️ Organizing Body
Govt. of India, State Boards, Private Trusts, International Orgs.
So whether you’re from a CBSE, ICSE, or State board, or you're preparing for engineering, medical, law, humanities, or commerce — these scholarships can change your academic journey forever. From ₹1,000 to ₹1 crore in funding, and opportunities to study at Oxford, Stanford, IITs or IIMs, this guide will unlock your full potential.
1️⃣ NTSE – National Talent Search Examination
The National Talent Search Examination (NTSE) is one of the most prestigious merit-based national-level scholarship programs in India, run by NCERT. Aimed at Class 10 students, NTSE identifies and honors academically brilliant students by awarding them lifelong recognition and financial aid. This exam tests your mental aptitude, analytical skills, and academic knowledge.
🎯 Eligibility:
All Class 10 students from recognized schools across India are eligible. Indian nationals studying abroad can also apply under certain conditions.
💸 Scholarship Amount
- ₹1,250/month for Class 11 & 12 students
- ₹2,000/month for UG and PG students
- Additional grants for PhD as per UGC norms
📅 Exam Pattern
- Stage 1: Conducted by state/UT boards
- Stage 2: Conducted by NCERT (National level)
- Paper 1: MAT (Mental Ability Test) – 100 Marks
- Paper 2: SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) – 100 Marks
🌟 Key Highlights of NTSE:
- Over 15 lakh students apply in Stage 1 across India.
- Only 2,000 students qualify for the final scholarship.
- Recognition by IITs, NITs, AIIMS, and other top institutions.
- Acts as a stepping stone for UPSC, JEE, NEET aspirants.
- Label of "NTSE Scholar" stays with you for life.
📝 How to Apply:
Application is done online via the official education board of your state/UT. The process usually starts between August to October. Keep scanned documents ready like your photo, school ID, and domicile certificate.
📢 Pro Tips for NTSE 2025–2026
- Start preparation from Class 9 itself.
- Stick to NCERT books – especially for SAT.
- Use NTSE prep books like Arihant or MTG.
- Focus on Mental Ability daily – it's highly scoring.
- Take full mock tests monthly and analyze your weak areas.
- Join an NTSE-dedicated coaching (offline/online).
2️⃣ Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY)
The KVPY (Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana), now merged into the INSPIRE program, is one of India’s most prestigious scholarships for science-aspiring students. Conducted by the Department of Science & Technology, it aims to identify talent at an early stage and provide them with an environment that nurtures scientific inquiry and innovation.
🎓 Who Can Apply?
- Students in Class 11 (SA stream)
- Students in Class 12 (SX stream)
- 1st Year BSc, B.Stat, B.Math, or Integrated MSc (SB stream)
- Indian citizens enrolled in recognized boards/universities
📜 Scholarship Benefits
- Fellowship: ₹5,000–7,000/month
- Contingency Grant: ₹20,000/year
- Priority admission in IISc, IISER, NISER, and other premier institutions
- Special research camps and mentorship opportunities
🧠 Selection Process
- Submit online application with academic details
- Appear for KVPY Aptitude Test (stream-wise syllabus)
- Shortlisted candidates undergo an Interview
- Final merit list released based on overall performance
💼 Why It Matters?
- Boosts your chances in research-based institutions
- Builds an early scientific research portfolio
- Major value addition to your CV & SOP (Statement of Purpose)
- Helps build a strong academic + research career path
3️⃣ INSPIRE Scholarship – Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research
The INSPIRE Program, initiated by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), is a prestigious scholarship aimed at nurturing India's future scientific talent. It identifies and rewards the top 1% of Class 12 Science stream students who show promise in the field of natural and basic sciences.
The scheme promotes research-focused education from an early stage, motivating students to pursue undergraduate studies in pure science streams. By creating a strong research ecosystem, INSPIRE aims to elevate India’s scientific innovation index on the global scale.
📘 Who is it for?
Class 12 Science toppers and students enrolled in B.Sc., B.S., or integrated M.Sc. programs in Basic Sciences.
🎓 Scholarship Amount:
- ₹80,000 per annum (₹60,000 direct + ₹20,000 contingency)
- Tenure: Up to 5 years
🔍 Key Highlights:
- Eligibility: Top 1% in 12th boards or qualified JEE/NEET + enrolled in pure sciences
- Only applicable for Basic Sciences – B.Sc./B.S./Int. M.Sc. 🔬 Visit Official INSPIRE Portal
- Preferred by top Indian research institutions and universities
💡 Tip: Having a strong academic profile and a clear research inclination increases your chances of selection under INSPIRE.
4️⃣ AICTE Pragati & Saksham Scholarships
The AICTE Pragati & Saksham schemes are specially crafted to empower female students and differently-abled candidates pursuing technical education. These scholarships help eliminate financial barriers and promote inclusive learning in engineering and diploma programs.
🎯 For: Girls and Differently-Abled Students in AICTE-Approved Courses
- Available for both diploma and undergraduate degree courses
- Annual family income must be less than ₹8 lakh 🎓 Visit AICTE Scholarship Portal li>
- Supports girls’ education and inclusivity in STEM
5️⃣ National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship (NMMSS)
The NMMSS scheme by the central government encourages talented students from economically weaker sections to complete their education till Class 12. It's executed by state and union territory governments under MHRD’s direction and includes an entrance exam for selection.
📘 For: Class 9 to 12 Students in Government Schools
- Based on performance in MAT + SAT written exams conducted by state/UTs
- Minimum 55% required in Class 8 (relaxation for SC/ST)
- Parental income should not exceed ₹3.5 lakh/year
8️⃣ Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships – Study in the USA for Free
The Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships are prestigious, fully funded scholarships jointly offered by the United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF) and the U.S. Department of State. They enable exceptional Indian students to pursue a master’s degree at select U.S. universities in fields like Public Administration, Arts & Culture, International Affairs, Education, Women’s Rights, and more.
Every year, thousands of students apply, but only the most promising, community-driven, and academically outstanding candidates are selected. What makes Fulbright-Nehru different is its focus on not just academic excellence but also leadership qualities, community impact, and a commitment to return to India to contribute to nation-building.
🌐 Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be a citizen of India and reside in India at the time of application
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree with at least 55% aggregate marks
- At least 3 years of full-time professional work experience
- Demonstrated leadership, volunteerism, and social commitment
- Must not have another U.S. visa or citizenship
🎓 What Does It Cover?
- ✔️ Full tuition fees at U.S. university (up to 2 years)
- ✔️ Living expenses, accommodation & books
- ✔️ Round-trip airfare (India–USA)
- ✔️ Health insurance & J-1 visa support
- ✔️ Networking and access to Fulbright Alumni events globally
📅 Timeline & Application:
- Application Opens: February – March (Every Year)
- Deadline: Typically May
- Interviews: July – August
- Final Results: October
- Departure: Next academic year (Aug–Sep)
🧩 Selection Process:
The selection process involves a written application (with essays, transcripts, recommendations), followed by an interview and final nomination. The Statement of Purpose and your demonstrated social impact play a major role in your selection. Academic scores alone won’t help — passion, leadership, and clarity of vision matter most.
💡 Why It’s Special:
This fellowship opens the door not only to education at top U.S. universities but also to global policy discussions, leadership summits, and UN-level networks. Many alumni have gone on to become leaders in government, civil society, and global NGOs.
7. ONGC Scholarship for Meritorious SC/ST Students
The ONGC Scholarship Scheme is a prestigious initiative by Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) that aims to provide financial assistance to bright, meritorious students belonging to SC/ST categories. This scholarship helps economically weaker students pursue professional courses like Engineering, MBBS, MBA, and Master's in Geophysics/Geology without financial burden. It is one of the most reputed private-sector-funded scholarships in India.
Each year, ONGC awards a total of 1,000 scholarships to SC/ST students pursuing full-time regular courses in India. The scholarship offers not only monetary benefits but also empowers students from underrepresented communities to stand out in their careers. This scheme significantly reduces the dropout rate in higher education by helping students continue their studies without worrying about finances.
🎯 Eligibility Criteria:
- Applicants must belong to the Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST) categories.
- Must be a full-time student pursuing Engineering, MBBS, MBA, or a Master's course in Geology/Geophysics.
- Minimum 60% marks in Class 12 for Engineering/MBBS and Graduation for MBA/PG courses.
- Annual family income should not exceed ₹4.5 lakh from all sources.
- Students must be in the 1st year of their course during the application.
📝 Documents Required:
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Caste certificate (SC/ST)
- Proof of admission into the course
- Previous academic mark sheets (10th & 12th)
- Income certificate issued by a competent authority
- Bank account details (preferably in applicant’s name)
- Bonafide certificate from the institution
📅 Application Timeline:
Applications for the ONGC Scholarship typically open around September–October every year and run till November or early December. However, students should keep an eye on the official ONGC Foundation portal for updates.
🔗 How to Apply:
- Visit the official ONGC Foundation website: www.ongcscholar.org
- Register with a valid email and mobile number.
- Fill in the detailed application form with academic and personal details.
- Upload the scanned copies of required documents in the mentioned format.
- Submit the application and take a printout for reference.
💡 Tips for Selection:
- Ensure that all documents are valid, legible, and updated.
- Maintain a strong academic record throughout school and college.
- Apply within the deadline — late entries are not accepted.
- Provide accurate income proof to avoid disqualification.
🌟 Why This Scholarship Matters?
This ONGC initiative not only fosters inclusivity in the education system but also creates a bridge between underrepresented students and professional careers. With financial aid, mentorship, and recognition, students gain confidence and motivation to succeed in their fields.
🎓 10. Maulana Azad National Fellowship (MANF) – Minority Students ke liye Gold Opportunity
Maulana Azad National Fellowship (MANF) is a prestigious initiative by the Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India. This scholarship is designed specifically for students from six officially recognized minority communities — Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, and Parsis — to pursue MPhil and PhD degrees in India. The goal is to promote higher education participation and research capabilities among disadvantaged communities. Although there have been policy-level changes and debates regarding its continuation, MANF has historically helped thousands of scholars pursue research in both science and humanities.
💰 Fellowship Amount:
• Junior Research Fellowship (JRF): ₹31,000/month for 2 years
• Senior Research Fellowship (SRF): ₹35,000/month for the remaining tenure (up to 5 years)
• Contingency Grants, HRA, and Escort/Reader assistance also included
📌 Eligibility Criteria:
- Candidate must belong to one of the six notified minority communities.
- Must have secured admission in MPhil/PhD courses in a recognized university/institution.
- Annual family income should be less than ₹6 lakh.
- NET-JRF qualification not mandatory (based on UGC guidelines as updated).
- Candidate should not be availing any other fellowship/scholarship.
📅 Application Process:
Previously, applications were accepted through the UGC portal. However, the process has evolved over time and may now align with other research-based fellowship systems. It is advised to check regularly on:
🌐 UGC Website 📢 Ministry of Minority Affairs🧠 Benefits of MANF:
- Ensures equal opportunity in research for underrepresented groups.
- Encourages quality academic contribution from minority communities.
- Promotes inclusion and diversity in Indian higher education institutions.
- Reduces financial pressure for scholars from low-income backgrounds.
📢 Important Note:
Though temporarily paused and debated in Parliament, there is strong advocacy from student groups and policy experts to reinstate MANF or bring an equivalent support scheme for minority students. Keep monitoring government announcements for updates regarding its revival.
📝 Pro Tip for Applicants:
Build a strong Statement of Purpose (SoP) and get recommendation letters from your university professors. This enhances the chances of selection even when competition is high. Focus on research relevance and societal impact in your subject area. You may also reach out to professors with past experience in UGC fellowships for mentorship.
10. HDFC Educational Crisis Scholarship Support (ECSS)
For: School & College Students Facing Sudden Financial Crisis
The HDFC ECSS is one of the most humane and responsive private scholarships in India. It is aimed at students who are undergoing a **sudden family financial crisis**, such as loss of a breadwinner, natural disaster, job loss, or severe illness. Unlike many traditional merit-based schemes, ECSS focuses on retaining students in school/college during tough personal times. This makes it one of the few **emergency-response scholarships** available to Indian students.
Every year, thousands of bright minds drop out due to circumstances beyond their control. The ECSS Scholarship ensures that such students can **continue their education without interruption**. Whether you're in school (6th to 12th grade) or pursuing undergraduate or diploma studies, you may qualify for this scheme.
₹10,000 to ₹25,000 per annum for school students
₹25,000 to ₹75,000 per annum for college/university students
- Open to students from Class 6 to undergraduate level
- Applicable for government or private school/college students
- Should have faced a financial crisis in the last 2 years
- Minimum 55% marks required in the last exam
- Students must submit income and crisis proof documents
- Scholarship directly credited to student’s bank account
📌 Pro Tip: This scholarship doesn't require a national-level exam. Instead, your **narrative, documentation of crisis**, and academic record play a critical role in selection. Be honest and detailed in your application.
How to Apply:
Applications are invited annually via the official HDFC Bank website. Typically opens in **June–July**. Applicants need to register, upload documents, write a short essay on their situation, and await telephonic verification.
Conclusion: Plan Your Future with Scholarships
Scholarships are not just about free money — they open doors to top institutions, prestigious internships, and global opportunities. Every student, from Class 6 to postgraduate level, should be aware of these opportunities and prepare accordingly.
If you're serious about your academic future, bookmark this guide and apply for as many scholarships as you qualify for. It's not about luck, it's about preparation!