Scholarships for Students in STEM – In the ever-evolving landscape of modern education, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) have emerged as the bedrock of progress and innovation.
As India propels towards becoming a global knowledge hub, the need to nurture bright minds in these fields has become paramount. Recognising the potential of aspiring scholars, various organisations and institutions have taken up the mantle of empowering students with the financial support they need to pursue their dreams.
Through a myriad of STEM scholarships, they are fostering a new generation of visionaries, problem solvers, and trailblazers who will shape the technological landscape of tomorrow.
In this article, students will find an extensive compilation of existing STEM scholarships, curated to encompass crucial aspects, including eligibility criteria, scholarship amounts, application procedures, and other pertinent details.
Overview of Scholarships for Students in STEM
STEM, an acronym encompassing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, lies at the heart of cultivating vital skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration, equipping students with the indispensable qualities required to excel in today’s dynamic world.
The realm of STEM education encompasses a wide spectrum of subjects, ranging from physics, chemistry, and biology to computer science, engineering, and mathematics, among others.
Despite its undeniable significance, pursuing a STEM education can pose challenges for many talented individuals due to the high costs of tuition, the need for expensive technology, and time constraints arising from demanding coursework.
Types of STEM Scholarships
Below are the different types of STEM scholarships:
a.) STEM Scholarships for Undergraduate Courses
These scholarships are designed to support students pursuing their bachelor’s degrees in STEM fields. They aim to encourage young minds to explore and excel in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics disciplines during their undergraduate studies.
b.) STEM Scholarships for Postgraduate Courses
Geared towards students pursuing advanced degrees in STEM disciplines, these scholarships provide financial assistance for master’s and doctoral programs. They play a crucial role in nurturing specialised expertise and research in various scientific and technological domains.
c.) Scholarships for Women in STEM
With the aim of promoting gender diversity and representation in STEM fields, these scholarships are specifically tailored to support female students pursuing education and careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. They strive to break down gender barriers and empower women to succeed in traditionally male-dominated fields.
The following sections provide detailed insights into each type, shedding light on eligibility criteria, application processes, and more.
STEM Scholarships for Undergraduate Courses
Inspire Scholarship – Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE)
The INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) 2022-23 is a programme launched by the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India. It aims to extend financial support to students who have successfully completed their Class 12 and aspire to pursue courses in the fields of Natural and Basic Science. The selected students will receive annual financial assistance of up to INR 80,000 throughout the duration of their chosen course.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE), applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age Group: Applicants must meet the minimum age requirement of 17 years, while the maximum age allowed is 22 years.
- Academic Qualification: They must have successfully passed the Class 12 examination from any central/state board in India.
- Course of Study: Eligible candidates can pursue courses in Natural and Basic Sciences at the B.Sc., B.S., and Int.M.Sc./M.S. levels.
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- Entrance Exam Ranks: Applicants can also qualify based on their ranks in the JEE (IIT), AIPMT, and NEET (within the top 10,000 ranks).
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- Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY): Those selected under the KVPY and pursuing bachelor’s or master’s level courses in Natural Sciences are also eligible.
In addition to the previously mentioned criteria, the INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) also considers the eligibility of candidates who are NTSE and JBNSTS scholars and International Olympiad medalists pursuing bachelor’s or master’s level courses in Natural Sciences.
Award Details
- The INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) offers INR 80,000 per annum.
- Each selected candidate will receive a monthly scholarship of INR 5,000, totalling INR 60,000 annually.
- As part of the scholarship program, all SHE scholars are expected to undertake summer research projects under the guidance of an active researcher in a recognised research centre in India.
- A summertime mentorship grant of INR 20,000 will be provided annually to support the scholars during their summer research projects.
Note: To know more about this scholarship, please read the article INSPIRE Scholarship – Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE).
Medhaavi Engineering Scholarship Program 2023-24
The Medhaavi Engineering Scholarship Program 2023-24, initiated by Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), extends financial support to underprivileged students pursuing undergraduate engineering courses at 20 specified National Institutes of Technology (NITs) throughout India. Eligible engineering students enrolled in any year of their course will receive a one-time fixed scholarship amount of INR 50,000 to facilitate their higher education.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Medhaavi Engineering Scholarship Program 2023-24, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Academic Level: Applicants must be undergraduate engineering students in any year of their course.
- Institute Enrollment: Applicants should enrol in one of the 20 specified National Institutes of Technology (NITs) in India for the academic year 2023-24. The list includes renowned institutes such as NIT Warangal, MNIT Jaipur, NIT Trichy, and others.
- Academic Performance: Candidates must have scored a minimum of 55% marks in their Class 12 examination.
- Family Income: The annual family income of the applicants should be less than INR 8 lakh.
- Exclusions: Students who have already received scholarships from other sources cannot apply for this scholarship. Also, the children of employees from BPCL and Buddy4Study are not eligible for this scholarship.
Note: Preference will be given to SC/ST/OBC/Women candidates.
Award Details: One-time fixed scholarship of INR 50,000
Note: To know more about the scholarship, read Medhaavi Engineering Scholarship Program
Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship for College and University Students
The Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD), Government of India, provides this scholarship opportunity to support the higher education of undergraduate and postgraduate students. This scholarship program is for students who have scored above the 80th percentile in their specific stream in Class 12 or equivalent exams.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this scholarship, students must meet the following requirements:
- Academic Performance: Candidates must have secured the 80th percentile or above in their Class 12 or equivalent examination.
- Course Enrollment: Candidates must be pursuing regular degree courses at AICTE-recognised colleges/institutions.
- Family Income: The parental/family income should not exceed INR 4.5 lakh per annum.
- Income Certificate: Only fresh applicants need to provide an income certificate.
Award Details
- INR 12,000 per annum at the graduation level for the first three years of college and university courses
- INR 20,000 per annum at the postgraduation level
Application Period – August to October (tentative)
Also Read: NSP Central Sector Scheme for School Students (OBC/EBC/DNT)
STEM Scholarships for Postgraduate Courses
Fulbright Kalam Climate Fellowship for Doctoral Research 2024-25
The Fulbright Kalam Climate Fellowship for Doctoral Research 2024-25 is an initiative of the United States-India Education Foundation (USIEF). This fellowship is designed to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and professional expertise between Ph.D. candidates in India and the United States. The selected fellows will be granted a monthly stipend along with additional benefits to pursue their research and contribute to the advancement of climate-related studies.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Ph.D. Registration: Applicants should be registered for a Ph.D. degree at an Indian institution on or before November 1, 2022. (This criterion applies to U.S. applicants.)
- Research Experience: Applicants must have conducted sufficient research in the relevant field, demonstrating their expertise and familiarity with the available resources in India.
- Academic Excellence: A high academic background is required, showcasing strong educational achievements and a track record of excellence in their field of study.
- Exclusion: These fellowships are specifically intended for pre-doctoral level research. Therefore, applicants who already hold a Ph.D. degree or are in the final stages of submitting their Ph.D. thesis will not be eligible for the scholarship.
Award Details
Selected fellows will receive the following benefits:
- Monthly Stipend: Monthly financial assistance will be provided to support the living expenses of the fellows.
- J1 Visa Support: Assistance will be provided to facilitate the acquisition of the J1 Visa, which is necessary for participating in the program.
- Accident and Sickness Program: Fellows will be covered by an insurance program that follows the guidelines set by the U.S. Government, ensuring protection in case of accidents or illness during the exchange period.
- Round-Trip Economy Class Air Travel: The program covers the cost of round-trip economy class airfare for the fellows to travel to and from their home country and the destination of the fellowship.
- Settling-In Allowance: A modest allowance will be provided to help fellows with their initial settling-in expenses upon arrival at the fellowship location.
- Professional Allowance: Fellows will also receive a professional allowance to support their research and academic activities during the program.
| Note: Subject to the availability of funds, grantees on eight or nine-month grants may be eligible for additional benefits. This includes a dependent allowance and international travel support for one eligible dependent accompanying the grantee to the U.S. It is important to ensure that the dependent is present with the grantee for at least 80% of the grant period to qualify for these benefits. |
Note: For more details about this fellowship, read Fulbright Kalam Climate Fellowship for Doctoral Research 2024-25
Fulbright Nehru Academic and Professional Excellence Fellowships 2024-25
The Fulbright Nehru Academic and Professional Excellence Fellowships 2024-25, administered by the United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF), offer a unique opportunity for Ph.D./master’s degree holders. This fellowship program aims to provide Indian faculty, researchers, and professionals with the chance to engage in teaching, research, or a combination of both at a U.S. institution. Selected fellows will receive a monthly stipend along with other valuable benefits as part of this fellowship opportunity.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Nationality: Applicants must be either Indian nationals or U.S. citizens.
- Ph.D. Degree: Applicants should hold a Ph.D degree in their respective fields.
- Teaching/Research/Professional Experience: A minimum of five years of relevant teaching, research, or professional experience is required.
- Master’s Degree: Applicants must possess a master’s degree in their relevant area of expertise.
Award Details
Selected fellows will receive the following benefits:
- Monthly Stipend: A monthly financial allowance will be provided to support the living expenses of the fellows.
- J1 Visa Support: Assistance will be provided to facilitate the acquisition of the J1 Visa, which is necessary for participating in the program.
- Accident and Sickness Program: Fellows will be covered by an insurance program that follows the guidelines set by the U.S. government, ensuring protection in case of accidents or illness during the exchange period.
- Round-Trip Economy Class Air Travel: The program covers the cost of round-trip economy class airfare for the fellows to travel to and from their home country and the destination of the fellowship.
- Settling-In Allowance: A modest allowance will be provided to help fellows with their initial settling-in expenses upon arrival at the fellowship location.
- Professional Allowance: Fellows will also receive a professional allowance to support their research and academic activities during the program.
Note: For more details about this fellowship, read Fulbright Nehru Academic and Professional Excellence Fellowships.
AICTE PG (GATE/GPAT/CEED) Scholarship
The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) extends this scholarship opportunity to students who have successfully cleared the GATE/GPAT/CEED examination. The scholarship is specifically designed for students enrolled in the first year of M.E./M.Tech./M.Pharma./M.Arch. /M.Des. programmes at recognised institutions affiliated with AICTE.
Eligibility Criteria
- Students must have qualified GATE/GPAT/CEED.
- Students must be admitted as full-time scholars.
- Students enrolled in dual degree integrated programmes, even in their final year will be able to avail of the scholarship from their 9th semester.
- Candidates studying at AICTE-approved universities/institutions and enrolled in AICTE-approved programmes such as Master of Engineering, Master of Technology, Master of Pharmacy, Master of Architecture, and Master of Design are eligible to apply.
Award Details – A monthly stipend of INR 12,400
Application Period – August to November (tentative)
Also Read: AICTE PG Scholarship, Check Eligibility, Award and Other Details
Scholarships for Women in STEM
With increasing recognition of the significance of diversity and inclusion in STEM disciplines, numerous organisations are encouraging women to pursue their careers in STEM fields. These scholarships play a crucial role in bridging the gender gap by providing financial support, mentorship, and opportunities for women to excel in STEM.
Here is a list of scholarships for talented women to thrive and make significant contributions to scientific advancements and technological innovations.
Rolls-Royce Unnati Scholarship for Women Engineering Students 2023
The ‘Rolls-Royce Unnati Scholarship for Women Engineering Students’ is an initiative of Rolls-Royce India Pvt. Ltd., providing financial aid to deserving female students pursuing an undergraduate engineering degree. The scholarship is open to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd-year students at AICTE-recognised institutions in India. In addition to the financial support of INR 35,000 per annum, selected candidates receive valuable mentorship from esteemed professionals at Rolls-Royce India.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Current Enrollment: Applicants must be girl students studying in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd-year of the engineering degree program at AICTE-recognised institutions.
- Engineering Fields: The scholarship is open to students pursuing engineering disciplines such as Aerospace, Marine, Electronics, Computers, and others.
- Academic Performance: Candidates must have scored more than 60% marks in their Class 10 and 12 board examinations.
- Family Income: The annual family income of the applicants must not exceed INR 4 lakh.
- Pan India Availability: The scholarship is available to students from across India.
Note:
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Award Details – One-time scholarship amount of INR 35,000 and mentorship sessions, webinars, and workshops on different topics.
Note: To know more about the scholarship, read Rolls-Royce Unnati Scholarship for Women Engineering Students.
SERB (Science and Engineering Research Board) – POWER (Promoting Opportunities For Women in Exploratory Research) Research Grants 2023
SERB (Science and Engineering Research Board) – POWER (Promoting Opportunities For Women in Exploratory Research) Research Grants 2023 is provided by the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) under the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India. This opportunity is provided to women scientists in India.
Successful applicants are granted research funding of up to INR 15 lakh per year, accompanied by coverage of international travel expenses. These grants will serve as overhead charges for a period of two years.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Indian Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens of India.
- Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) and Non-Resident Indians (NRI) are also eligible if they meet the eligibility criteria specified by SERB.
- Woman Scientist: The grant is open exclusively to women scientists.
- Regular Academic/Research Position: Applicants must hold a regular academic or research position in a recognised academic institution, national laboratory, or R&D institution in India. They should have at least 4 years of service remaining.
- Qualification: Ph.D. degree in Science, Mathematics, or Engineering, or an M.D./M.S./M.D.S./M.V.Sc degree is required.
Award Details
- The chosen applicants will be awarded a research grant of up to INR 15 lakh per year, in addition to full coverage of their international travel expenses.
Note: To know more about the scholarship, read SERB (Science and Engineering Research Board) – POWER (Promoting Opportunities For Women in Exploratory Research) Research Grants.
Progress Software Akanksha Scholarship for Women in STEM
The Progress Software Akanksha Scholarship for Women in STEM provides a four-year renewable scholarship of up to INR 1.5 lakh per year. This scholarship aims to support Indian women planning to major in computer science, software engineering, IT, and/or computer information systems.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Gender: Applicants must either be female or identify as female.
- Citizenship: They must hold Indian citizenship.
- Academic Enrollment: Candidates must be high school students planning to enrol or currently enrolled in an accredited university or college.
- Intended Major: Students must plan to major in computer science, computer information systems, software engineering, and/or IT.
- Academic Performance: Candidates must have scored a minimum aggregate mark of 75% or above in the Class 12 (or equivalent) examination.
Award Details – Annual scholarship of up to INR 1.5 lakh.
Application Period – June to July (tentative)
List of Other Women in STEM Scholarships
| To read about other STEM scholarships for women, please refer to the links mentioned below: |
STEM Scholarships – How to Apply?
| STEM Scholarships | Application Links |
| Inspire Scholarship – Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) | Apply Now |
| Medhaavi Engineering Scholarship Program | Apply Now |
| Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship for College and University Students | Apply Now |
| Fulbright Kalam Climate Fellowship for Doctoral Research | Apply Now |
| Fulbright Nehru Academic and Professional Excellence Fellowships | Apply Now |
| AICTE PG (GATE/GPAT/CEED) Scholarship | Apply Now |
| Rolls-Royce Unnati Scholarship for Women Engineering Students | Apply Now |
| SERB (Science and Engineering Research Board) – POWER (Promoting Opportunities For Women in Exploratory Research) Research Grants | Apply Now |
| Progress Software Akanksha Scholarship for Women in STEM | Apply Now |
Scholarships for Students in STEM – Other Scholarships
Below-mentioned is the scholarship opportunity available for school students pursuing STEM education in India.
KVPY Fellowship
The Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, funds the Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY) scholarship. It is available for students of Class 11 to undergraduate level. The scholarship facilitates the academic journey of students interested in Basic Sciences to help their transformation into successful professionals.
Scholarships for Students in STEM – FAQs
What documents are mandatory for AICTE PG (GATE/GPAT/CEED) Scholarship?
To apply for the AICTE PG (GATE/GPAT/CEED) scholarship, scanned copies of GATE/GPAT/CEED scorecard, bank passbook, Aadhaar card, caste certificate and Non-Creamy Layer (NCL) certificate are mandatory. Authentic certificates for SC/ST/OBC/Physically Handicapped candidates are also required.
What are the annual income criteria for the Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship for College and University Students?
The annual family income of the candidates must not exceed INR 4.5 lakh to be eligible for the scholarship.
What are the benefits of the British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM?
The British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM cover various expenses such as tuition fees, travel costs, visa costs, and health coverage.
How many scholarships are offered under the British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM?
As many as 97 scholarships are offered under the British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM.
When can I apply for the Rolls-Royce Unnati Scholarship for Women Engineering Students 2023?
The last date to apply for this scholarship is August 31, 2023.
What is the significance of STEM careers?
STEM careers are in high demand and offer diverse opportunities in architecture, civil engineering, computer programming, video game design, and more. Employers value individuals with STEM skills and actively seek them out for these rewarding roles.
Are STEM scholarships applicable for studying abroad?
Several STEM scholarships enable Indian students to pursue courses abroad, such as the renowned British Council Women in STEM Scholarship. These scholarships offer opportunities for international education and support students in pursuing STEM studies abroad.
What is Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY)?
Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY) is a scholarship program funded by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India. The students from Class 11 to the undergraduate level can apply for this scholarship.