Updated on Oct 17, 2025 | 8 min read | 4.54K+ views
Share:
Latest Updates
For 2024-batch INSPIRE SHE applicants who missed uploading corrected documents, the last date has been extended to 30 September 2025.
New guidelines now allow more subjects to be supported under INSPIRE-SHE at the M.Sc level.
The INSPIRE Scholarship (Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research) by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) is designed to encourage young students in science and research.
Knowing the INSPIRE Scholarship eligibility criteria is crucial for applicants, as it ensures they meet the academic and age requirements before applying.
The INSPIRE Scholarship amount provides significant financial support to cover tuition and living expenses, making higher education more accessible. Students who qualify under the INSPIRE Scholarship eligibility guidelines can benefit from mentorship and structured research opportunities.
The INSPIRE Scholarship (Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research) is a flagship initiative implemented by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, to support young talent in the field of natural and basic sciences.
It provides financial assistance to talented aspirants to pursue bachelor’s and master’sdegrees in science.
By supporting students at various stages of their studies, the INSPIRE program intends to create a substantial foundation for future research and innovation in India's scientific ecosystem.
In addition to financial support to attend college, the scholarship is complemented with mentorship and access to opportunities in research.
What are the main components of the INSPIRE scheme?
The INSPIRE program is structured into three key components, each targeting a specific academic level:
INSPIRE Award – Promotes creativity and scientific thinking among school students (Class 6–10).
INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) – Provides up to ₹80,000 per year to undergraduate and postgraduate students in basic and natural sciences.
INSPIRE Fellowship & Faculty Programs – Supports PhD scholars and post-doctoral researchers, encouraging advanced research and teaching careers in science.
Who provides funding for the scholarship?
The Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India) is the only funding agency for the INSPIRE Scholarship Program.
As a centrally sponsored scheme, it aims to be transparent, accountable, and uniform across the country. Funding for the program comes from the Union Government's allocation for science and research development in its budget.
Key aspects of funding and disbursement include:
Managed by DST directly, Ministry of Science & Technology
Disbursed using Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to the student’s Aadhaar-linked bank account
Annual award of up to ₹80,000 if a SHE scholar
Funding can include tuition fee, academic expenses and research project funding.
This centralized funding mechanism ensures timely payments, avoids middlemen, and guarantees that deserving students across India benefit equally from the scholarship.
Who Can Apply for the Inspire Scholarship?
The INSPIRE Scholarship is for academically talented students who want to promote pre-requisite studies of the natural and basic sciences.
The scheme pertains specifically to students that are extremely strong in their board checks, students that are exceptionally ranked in an exit course exam, and students who have been confirmed in a core science endorsement.
Applicants must follow obligatory eligibility criteria including age, academic accomplishments, and enrollment in an approved institution.
What are the Inspire Scholarship eligibility criteria for students?
To be eligible for the INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE), a student must meet the following conditions:
Must be aged 17 - 22 years old when applying.
Must be in the top 1% of their Class 12 examination (on a recognized board).
Must be a high ranker in recognized national competitive exam like a JEE (Mains/Advanced), NEET, KVPY or NTSE.
Must be enrolled in a UG program deliberated in basic and natural sciences (physics, chemistry, biology, maths, astronomy, geology).
Must be accessing an Indian recognized university or institution.
Note: The IST scholarship does not include professional courses; engineering, medical and applied sciences.
Is a top 1% board exam rank enough to qualify?
Yes, securing a position in the top 1% of Class 12 board examination results makes a student eligible for the scholarship. However, being in the top 1% does not guarantee automatic selection, students must also:
Enroll in natural/basic science courses at recognized institutions.
Provide official proof (board certificate and rank list).
Apply within the specified application window on the INSPIRE portal.
The 1% eligibility rule is one of the most common pathways into the scholarship, ensuring inclusivity across all state and central boards.
However, candidates should also consider other eligibility routes like national-level exams, which provide an additional opportunity to qualify if their board rank falls short.
Are gap year students allowed to apply?
Yes, students who take a gap year after Class 12 are allowed to apply for the INSPIRE Scholarship, provided they:
Fall within the 17–22 years age limit at the time of application.
Meet the academic requirements (top 1% board rank or equivalent national exam rank).
Have proof of admission in a science course at the time of application.
Gap year students should note:
They must apply in the year of joining UG science courses, not during the break year.
Previous board exam results remain valid if within the eligibility timeline.
This flexibility ensures that deserving students who delay admission for preparation or personal reasons do not lose their chance to receive funding support.
No, students pursuing diploma programs, professional courses, or distance learning are not eligible for the INSPIRE Scholarship. The Inspire scholarship eligibility is exclusively for full-time undergraduate and postgraduate science programs in recognized institutions.
Key reasons for exclusion:
Diploma and distance courses generally do not offer the rigorous academic exposure expected under INSPIRE.
The scheme aims to promote direct research pathways, which are more feasible in regular science degree programs.
Eligible formats:
Full-time B.Sc., B.S., M.Sc., M.S. courses in basic sciences.
Recognized universities or autonomous research institutions only.
This ensures funding goes strictly to students dedicated to a structured academic and research-oriented path in natural sciences.
Which courses and institutions are covered?
The INSPIRE Scholarship covers specific basic and natural science courses and only certain recognized institutions.
Recognized autonomous institutions like IISc, IISERs, NISER.
Accredited colleges affiliated with recognized universities.
This restriction ensures that INSPIRE benefits students pursuing pure sciences, directly contributing to India’s research ecosystem rather than professional industries.
The applications for the INSPIRE scholarship is entirely online and managed by the Department of Science & Technology (DST) via its official INSPIRE portal.
Students have to register to complete the application, which consists of their personal details, academic records, and bank records.
Students would need to ensure that their additional documentation like mark sheets, certificates, along with the institute verification form, is uploaded in support of their application so that it can be validly submitted.
Deadlines are important to observe. If no application is submitted or if an application is submitted incomplete or late, all applications will be disqualified. A completed application form is helpful to ensure that students eligible for the scholarship do not miss their chance.
What is the process for online registration?
The online application process involves the following steps:
Visit the INSPIRE online portal (online-inspire.gov.in).
Click on “New User? Register Here” to create an account.
Provide personal details (name, DOB, email, Aadhaar/PAN).
Verify the account via email link.
Log in with credentials and select “Scholarship – SHE”.
Fill the application form with:
Academic details (Class 12 scores, board name, year of passing).
Admission details (course, institution).
Bank details for scholarship disbursement.
Upload required documents in prescribed format.
Submit and download the acknowledgment slip.
Tip: Keep scanned copies of all documents ready in PDF/JPEG format under 1 MB for smooth uploading.
Should applications be submitted by students or colleges?
Applications are only done by students using the INSPIRE portal. The applications are not processed through colleges or universities, like many scholarships do; however, the institutions must verify it:
Students are making application individually on the portal.
The Institute Head/Principal/Registrar must verify and digitally sign the application.
Applications are not processed until they are verified.
The process helps provide:
Transparency in individual student applications.
A direct accountability relationship between students - DST.
1st step from students to apply - not reliant on colleges
Students apply for the scholarships, but the process is only complete after institution verification and review by DST.
What is the application deadline each year?
The application window for the INSPIRE Scholarship usually opens every year in October/November and remains active for 6–8 weeks. The exact dates vary annually depending on board result announcements and policy updates.
Start Date: Around October (tentative).
Closing Date: Late November to early December.
Students should:
Regularly check the INSPIRE official website for latest notifications.
Apply early to avoid last-minute technical glitches.
Keep documents ready before the portal opens.
Note: The deadline is strict, applications after closure are not considered under any circumstances.
Can late applications be accepted?
No, late applications are not accepted under the INSPIRE Scholarship programme. The INSPIRE system is completely automated. When the portal closes, students will be unable to register or upload documents.
Reasons for not accepting late submissions include:
To make sure that it is fair to all applications by having one deadline for all applicants.
To prevent delays in verification and scholarship disbursement.
To make the process fair, transparent, and time-limited.
Suggestions for students:
Pay attention to announcements made on the official portal.
Prepare your documents much in advance.
Upload your documents at least a week before the closing deadline to ensure that you are not affected my server overload.
If you miss the deadline, you will have to wait till the next academic cycle; therefore make sure to apply on-time.
Which documents must be uploaded?
Applicants need to upload specific scanned documents in PDF/JPEG format (under 1 MB each):
Document
Purpose
Mandatory?
Class 12 Marksheet
Proof of top 1% or eligibility
Yes
Certificate of Board Rank/Top 1% Cutoff
Eligibility verification
Yes
Proof of Admission (UG in Basic Sciences)
Course validation
Yes
Aadhaar Card / Govt. ID
Identity proof
Yes
Bank Passbook (student’s account)
Scholarship transfer
Yes
Institute Verification Form (signed by Head)
Institutional approval
Yes
Passport-size Photograph
Identification
Yes
All documents must be clear, attested (if required), and updated, or the application risks rejection.
What is the selection process for Inspire Scholarship in comparison to other Indian scholarships?
The selection for the INSPIRE Scholarship is entirely merit-based, relying on academic excellence and national rankings. Unlike other schemes that include interviews or family income criteria, INSPIRE focuses solely on academic merit and enrollment in approved science courses.
Comparison with other scholarships:
INSPIRE (SHE): Based on being in the top 1% of Class XII boards or qualifying JEE Main, NEET, KVPY, or Olympiads. No interview or income criteria.
KVPY Fellowship: Selection through aptitude test followed by an interview assessing scientific aptitude.
NTSE Scholarship: Two-tier examination (Stage I & II) assessing reasoning, mental ability, and subject knowledge.
AICTE Pragati/Saksham: Selection primarily on merit and annual family income limits (below ₹8 lakh).
INSPIRE stands out for its transparent, exam-free process, relying purely on academic merit and science-focused enrollment, unlike others that evaluate broader criteria.
What Benefits Are Offered in the INSPIRE scholarships?
The INSPIRE SHE (SHE) Scheme provides financial assistance to talented students for studying basic and natural sciences at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
In addition to useful financial assistance, SHE will aid students explore mentoring, research exposure and the possibility of networking with the prominent scientists of the country.
The SHE Scheme intends to encourage India’s younger generation to choose a career in science and contribute to research and innovation in the country.
The grant will provide annual assistance, direct credit to the fund, and will include mentorship or internship programs provided under the aegis of the Department of Science & Technology (DST).
The INSPIRE Scholarship provides a fixed annual amount to each selected candidate for the full duration of the course (up to 5 years, covering UG + PG if applicable).
A student receives ₹80,000 per year, totaling up to ₹4,00,000 over 5 years.
The amount is uniform for all eligible students, regardless of course or institution.
It is non-renewable beyond 5 years.
This financial assistance ensures students can continue their higher studies without financial burden.
How is the money disbursed, monthly or yearly in the Inspire Scholarships?
Scholarships are awarded annually, directly to the student’s account via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) process.
The annual scholarship amount is ₹60,000 which shall be received in two equal parts.
The amount of ₹20,000 is kept as contingency grant for academic/research expenses.
Funds are made available to HRD/DED Institute in reliance on the funding, after Due Diligence and approval from DST.
Points to Note:
When required, students must maintain satisfactory academic performance for renewal of the SHE Scheme in each subsequent year.
No monthly stipend shall be paid to students for their SHE. Students shall receive the annual amount in a lump sum based on their legally justified educational, book, or project costs.
Students can track the funds to be released through the online portal of INSPIRE.
Students need to ensure that their bank account details are updated, and their Aadhaar is linked to the bank account for the process to run effortlessly.
Are mentorships or internships included?
Yes, apart from financial aid, the INSPIRE Scholarship also provides mentorship and internship opportunities under the INSPIRE Internship program.
Selected scholars get exposure to workshops, summer schools, and lectures by top scientists and researchers.
They can apply for short-term internships in research labs, IITs, IISERs, and national institutes.
Mentorship programs connect students with renowned academicians and researchers, offering guidance for higher studies and career development.
Benefits of these opportunities:
Hands-on research exposure.
Networking with peers and scientists.
Building a strong foundation for pursuing PhD or research careers.
These non-monetary benefits are unique to INSPIRE and add immense value beyond financial assistance.
Ever dreamt about pursuing your higher education in Europe without thinking too much about the cost? Well, check this out: Study in Europe for Free: A Step-by-Step Guideand make your dreams come true!
How Are Students Selected?
Selection under the INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) is a competitive process.
The SHE program directly targets students falling in the top 1% from Class 12 Board examinations or those scoring high on national entrance examinations like the JEE/NEET/KVPY, however, being eligible is not indicative of funding.
The Department of Science & Technology (DST) performs a rigorous multi-step selection process on behalf of SHE, which involves academic merit verification, document verification and cutoff checks.
Once the selection process is complete, results of selected students are announced on the official INSPIRE portal and the Students' grant funding is triggered.
What is the selection procedure?
Transparency and merit is very vital to the selection process.
The Steps are as follows:
Application Introduction An intended student registers and uploads their documents on the INSPIRE portal.
Document verification The students academic & personal detail will be verified against the submitted certificates.
Merit list Generation A student would be offered funding based on their performance on the 12 Class Board examinations or their national entrance examinations rank.
Cut-off application on a state basis This provides mechanisms for a better reflection of students across many education boards.
Final Selection Announcement Posted online and students selected are sent award letters.
Students should regularly check the official INSPIRE website to stay updated on the shortlists and results.
Does eligibility guarantee funding?
No, eligibility does not guarantee funding. Meeting the minimum criteria only makes a student eligible to apply, but selection depends on merit and availability of slots.
Every year, 10,000 scholarships are awarded nationwide.
Only students ranked within the cutoff range are considered.
Candidates must also have valid and correctly uploaded documents.
Even if a student is in the top 1% board rank, funding will only be awarded if their application passes verification and falls within the final cutoff list.
How are state-wise cutoffs decided?
The state-wise cutoffs are designed by DST to ensure that they are fair with respect to the different education boards in India.
Factors accounted are:
The total population of students that appear in each state/board.
The performance trajectory of students in Class 12 science subjects.
Having all boards represented in the final merit list.
Eg. A student ranks 3rd in a state board and scores 92%, while a student ranked 3rd in a different board must score 95% because of varying cutoffs.
This process is thoughtful, allowing schools to stay reasonable and inclusive while accounting for the variations in marking by different boards.
What if documents are rejected?
If documents are rejected or considered invalid, the application will be registered as incomplete and subsequently not processed.
Reasons for rejection are often:
Uploads that are blurry or not readable.
Inconsistencies between details in application and documents/certificates.
Missing mandatory documents (such as) Class 12 mark list, Aadhar, Bank details.
Bogus or manipulated certificates.
What students can do:
Make sure the uploads in PDF/JPEG are clear and not exceed the file size limits.
Double check that your personal details are the same across all documents.
If your application is rejected, you should apply again in the next cycle.
Students need to pay even more attention to the application steps because the INSPIRE portal does not allow corrections after the closing date.
How Does Renewal Work?
The INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) is not a one-time award; it is renewable each academic year until the course is completed.
The renewal is dependent on the maintenance of good academic standing and the completion of credit/satisfactory grade requirements and the completion and submission of the renewal application on or before the due date.
When receiving an INSPIRE award, students agree to upload progress reports, mark sheets, and a continuation certificate from their institution, which they must monitor to remain eligible for funding.
If students do not complete all of the requirements in a timely manner, funding may be withheld or made permanently unavailable.
What conditions must be met for renewal?
To renew the INSPIRE SHE, students must satisfy the following THREE conditions:
Demonstrated Good Academic Performance - Achieve a minimum of 60% or equivalent CGPA in every academic year.
Demonstrated Regular Class Attendance - Attend classes in accordance with University rule.
Timely Application - Complete the renewal forms and submit all required documents through the official INSPIRE Scholarship portal.
Certificate from Institution - Get the renewal forms endorsed or verified by the Head of Institution/Department.
Students who do not demonstrate all 3 of the performance conditions are grounds for potential ineligibility for future disbursements Recovery and Pursuit of Completion will be at INSPIRE'S discretion.
What if a student fails or drops a semester?
If a student fails in a semester but clears it in the following attempt, renewal may continue provided the overall academic record meets the required standards.
If a student drops or takes a break, they must submit valid reasons (medical certificates or official approval from the institution).
Long-term breaks without justification usually lead to termination of funding.
Renewal is considered case by case, but maintaining consistent academic progress is key.
How to correct mistakes in renewal applications?
Errors on renewal forms has an impact on eligibility or approving your renewal form. You should remind students to:
Take the time to review what you entered and verify the details before submitting.
If you submitted the form with errors, then you should create a support ticket on the INSPIRE portal.
If you need assistance with correcting any errors, you can reach out to the Nodal Officer of your college.
In some cases, if they ask for you to replace your documents in the format requested by DST, then you will need to re-upload the documents.
Since you are unable to edit on the portal without limits, ensure that you carefully review your applications and confirm that everything is correct prior to the deadline.
Can funding continue after changing courses or colleges?
Changing colleges within the same course (example: a B.Sc. Physics from one university to another) – This is generally okay if the new institution is recognized and approved.
Changing to a different course (example: B.Sc. to B.Tech.) – This is not allowed because the scholarship does not cover other higher education course except those related to basic and natural sciences.
Students must provide proof of transfer/migration with the renewal documents being submitted for confirmation.
If the new institution is not on the list of recognized universities/colleges for INSPIRE, then I cannot approve it.
What About INSPIRE Fellowship?
The INSPIRE Fellowship is aimed at students who want to apply for a PhD in basic and natural sciences route after post graduation, and it enables students to have research or financial support alongside mentoring for their future development as a scientist.
The INSPIRE Fellowship offers support and potential to help meritorious students with good grades, and does so without the need for a separate exam score at the national level, which is what makes it different to other Indian fellowships.
Who can apply for the Fellowship program?
To be eligible for the INSPIRE Fellowship candidates must:
Have completed a Master's degree in Basic/Natural Sciences with a minimum of 70% overall marks
Be a student who is in the course of an integrated MS/M. Sc.-PhD program at a recognized university
Age limit of 32 years at the time of application
Students must be in the top 1% of their university/institution or have an valid INSPIRE Scholarship application in their own right
Candidates who have already held any other fellowship (like CSIR/UGC-JRF) cannot have INSPIRE Fellowship benefits at the same time.
Can students change supervisors or labs later?
Yes, but under certain criteria:
Students may apply for a supervisor or lab change if they can justify it ( for example if the original research area is different; a transfer to another institution; or if certain facilities are not available)
The change must also be approved by the university and THE Department of Science and Technology (DST).
Proper documentation, including a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from both current and new supervisors, must be submitted.
Frequent changes are discouraged, but genuine cases are usually approved.
How does it compare with CSIR/NET Fellowships?
Here is a quick comparison between the INSPIRE Fellowship and CSIR/NET Fellowship:
Feature
INSPIRE Fellowship
CSIR/NET Fellowship
Eligibility
Based on marks (top 1%, 70% in PG)
Based on qualifying CSIR/UGC-NET exam
Subjects Covered
Natural & Basic Sciences only
Broader, includes Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, etc.
Monthly Stipend
₹31,000 (JRF) → ₹35,000 (SRF)
₹31,000 (JRF) → ₹35,000 (SRF)
Exam Requirement
No national test required
Must clear CSIR/UGC NET
Selection Authority
DST
CSIR/UGC
INSPIRE is more marks-based, while CSIR/NET is exam-based. Both offer similar stipends but differ in eligibility routes.
Is applying for both Fellowships allowed?
Yes, students can apply for multiple fellowships, including INSPIRE Fellowship and CSIR/UGC-NET JRF, but they cannot hold both simultaneously.
It is perfectly acceptable to submit applications for different fellowships in the same year.
If a student is selected for both, they must choose one fellowship at the time of acceptance.
Continuing to receive funds from both programs is strictly prohibited and may result in:
Cancellation of the INSPIRE Fellowship
Refund of disbursed funds to DST
Future ineligibility for government fellowships
Recommendation: Apply for multiple fellowships to maximize chances, but retain only the one that best supports your research goals, institution type, and subject area.
While the INSPIRE Scholarship provides ongoing funding and academic support for students, they may come across issues when applying, renewing, or collecting their money.
Some of these issues are a result of incomplete forms or incorrect details, while other issues are caused by technological snags or simply not following the rules of the scheme. By understanding potential issues and solutions, students can more easily anticipate problems and avoid delays in obtaining their benefits.
Why are renewal payments sometimes delayed?
Renewal payments can be delayed for the following reasons:
The renewal form on the portal is incomplete or incorrect.
There is pending verification from a university or college.
There are technical mismatches in bank details/Aadhaar linking.
Mark sheets and/or proof of academic progress were not submitted.
Always upload the latest documents in a timely manner and check your bank/Aadhaar details before submission to avoid unnecessary delays.
How to update bank or Aadhaar details?
Students can update their details by:
Logging into the INSPIRE online portal
Going to the Profile/Update Section
Uploading the corrected bank passbook copy or Aadhaar card
Submitting the request for approval
Important: Ensure that the bank account is Aadhaar-linked, active, and in the student’s name. Non-compliance may lead to payment failures.
Can rejected candidates reapply?
Yes, if any applicants were rejected d/t submission of incomplete information or incorrect documents, they can reapply in the next cycle.
New applications must be submitted with correct and verified information.
Students who are not eligible (for any reason, e.g. wrong course/percent) may not reapply.
This protects the genuine candidates applying and assures openness in the process.
What happens if studies are discontinued midway?
If a student discontinues their studies:
The scholarship is terminated at the point of discontinuation.
Any unused funds are terminated and depending on the timing of the discontinuation, applicants may have to return funds dispersed.
Honestly, students cannot restart benefits if they re-enter at a later date.
Except if it was because of health emergencies, or unavoidable circumstances, students should submit to the DST with formal proof and ask for special consideration.
How much financial support does the Inspire Scholarship provide versus similar programs?
The INSPIRE Scholarship offers generous financial support to meritorious science students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies. However, when compared with other prominent government scholarships in India, the amount and coverage differ based on academic level and purpose. The table below highlights key comparisons:
Scholarship
Financial Support Provided
Coverage Duration
INSPIRE (SHE)
₹80,000 per year (₹60,000 annual scholarship + ₹20,000 summer research project grant)
Up to 5 years (for integrated M.Sc. or till course completion)
KVPY Fellowship
₹5,000–₹7,000 per month + annual contingency up to ₹28,000
Till pre-Ph.D. level
NTSE Scholarship
₹1,250 per month (Class XI–XII), ₹2,000 per month (UG–PG)
Up to Ph.D. level (based on performance)
AICTE Pragati/ Saksham
₹50,000 per year (for tuition and equipment)
For entire course duration (max 4 years)
Summary: INSPIRE provides one of the most comprehensive financial supports for science students, especially due to its annual research component, setting it apart from other merit-based scholarships.
Where to Get Official Help?
Individuals frequently want authentic information and timely information. Generally, because the INSPIRE Scholarship is administered at the national level, students often need such information to prepare their applications, seek renewals, or troubleshoot issues related to their INSPIRE Scholarship.
The Department of Science & Technology (DST), an Indian Government department, provides multiple official channels for all candidates to stay informed and resolve issues. Allocating time to locate accurate direction can be efficiently managed to avoid mistakes.
Where are updates about INSPIRE published?
All announcements related to application dates, guidelines, shortlisted candidates, or renewal notifications will be released on the following official sites:
The INSPIRE Online Portal (https://online-inspire.gov.in)
The DST website (https://dst.gov.in)
Occasionally, through press releases and advertisements published in major newspapers
Students are encouraged to bookmark the official portal and internally check it rather than solely relying on external sites and sources.
Who handles technical problems in the portal?
Technical issues such as:
Portal login errors
Document upload failures
Application form glitches
are handled by the INSPIRE Program Management Team.
Steps to resolve:
Use the “Helpdesk” tab on the portal
Raise a ticket with a detailed description and screenshot
Track the response via registered email or portal dashboard
Always mention your Application ID while raising technical complaints for faster resolution.
Is there a student helpline or support center?
Yes, INSPIRE provides direct support for students:
Helpline Email: inspire.prog-dst@nic.in
Toll-Free Number: Available during working hours (Mon–Fri)
Helpdesk Chat/Portal Support for registered users
Students are advised to contact the support center only through official channels to ensure their queries are securely addressed.
What Should Applicants Keep in Mind?
In order to apply for an INSPIRE Scholarship, you need to do your homework. Unfortunately, even eligible students can lose their scholarships or have their applications delayed if they happen to miss one of the important rules or make a minor mistake.
Knowing what you can do and what you cannot do in advance will make for a better experience and timely disbursement of your scholarship.
What are the key rules about eligibility and renewal?
Students must follow the Inspire scholarship eligibility and renewal rules in order to avoid basic rejection.
Inspire Scholarship Eligibility Rules:
Must be ranked in the top 1% of Class 12 board exams, registered for the JEE/NEET/KVPY/INSPIRE, or have a score on a valid JEE/NEET/KVPY/INSPIRE.
Must pursue a B.Sc. M.Sc. or integrated M.Sc. in Natural and Basic Sciences.
Courses must be from acceptable universities or institutions in India.
Renewal Rules:
Maintain continuously high academic performance (minimum 60% marks or equivalent GPA each year).
Submit application and supporting documents to the respective body at the defined intervals.
Do not leave the course or transfer regularly and without permission.
What common errors delay approval?
Numerous applications are delayed and can be delayed and totally avoidable through little or no effort of the applicant themselves:
Uploading out-of-focus and/or mismatched documents (marksheets, Aadhaar, bank passbook)
Providing incorrect or unlinked bank account details or incorrect details to link the account and Aadhaar
Using a non- or inactive or inappropriate email ID to register
Applying for courses for which one cannot apply (e.g. engineering, medical science and distanced learning courses)
Always triple-check your personal and academic information and documents and all other details before submitting an application.
What tips ensure smooth application processing?
Students can do a few things and follow good practices to ensure that their application proceeds without hiccup:
Register as early as you can in advance of the endpoint to address any issues should the server go down
Use your personal active email ID and phone number for all direct communications
Upload scanned documents in some sort of appropriate format and design
Ensure that your bank account active, linked to Aadhaar, and in your Name
Mark your calendar for your annual renewal deadlines
Regularly check the INSPIRE portal and the DST website for updates
Following and carrying out those few little but important steps will assist in ensuring quick processing when most other applicants don't and a successful release of scholarship.
Conclusion
The INSPIRE Scholarship is a flagship initiative by the Government of India aimed at motivating young minds to pursue science and research. By clearly understanding the process, from Inspire Scholarship eligibility to application steps, benefits, and renewal, students can make the most of this opportunity.
Issues like delayed disbursement or document errors can happen, but staying proactive and adhering to official guidelines ensures smoother approval and timely release of the Inspire Scholarship amount.
By meeting all Inspire Scholarship eligibility norms and monitoring updates regularly, students can maximize the Inspire Scholarship amount awarded to them, helping build a strong foundation for higher studies and future research careers.
How do I track my INSPIRE Scholarship application status?
Applicants can check their INSPIRE Scholarship status online through the official INSPIRE portal by logging in with their registered email ID. The dashboard displays updates on verification, approval, or payment releases for better transparency.
What documents are required for INSPIRE Scholarship renewal?
For renewal, students must submit their mark sheets, continuation certificate, and performance report. Consistent academic performance and timely submission of renewal documents are crucial for uninterrupted disbursement of INSPIRE Scholarships amount each year.
Can INSPIRE Scholarship be combined with other fellowships?
No, INSPIRE Scholarship cannot be availed alongside other major fellowships or financial aids funded by the Government of India. Students must choose one scheme to avoid cancellation or duplication of benefits.
How long does it take to receive INSPIRE Scholarship payments?
Generally, disbursements under INSPIRE Scholarship are processed within 2–3 months after verification. However, delays may occur due to incorrect bank details, pending document verification, or technical issues in the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system.
What should I do if my INSPIRE Scholarship payment is delayed?
Students facing delayed payments should immediately log in to the INSPIRE portal, check document status, and raise a query in the grievance section. Updating bank details and ensuring Aadhaar linkage can also resolve common payment issues.
Is there an interview for INSPIRE Scholarship selection?
No interview is conducted for INSPIRE Scholarship selection. Candidates are evaluated solely on their academic performance, exam scores, and compliance with eligibility criteria, ensuring a transparent and merit-based selection process for all applicants.
Can foreign nationals studying in India apply for INSPIRE Scholarship?
INSPIRE Scholarships eligibility is strictly limited to Indian citizens. Foreign nationals studying in India under exchange or full-time programs are not considered eligible for this government-funded scheme.
How many students receive INSPIRE Scholarship each year?
Every year, around 10,000 meritorious students across India are awarded the INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE). This makes it one of the largest government-funded merit-based scholarships supporting science education in the country.
What happens if I fail in a semester during INSPIRE Scholarship?
If a student fails in any semester, renewal may be withheld until satisfactory performance is achieved. Consistent academic results are key to maintaining eligibility and receiving the full INSPIRE Scholarships amount across the duration.
Is there an age limit for INSPIRE Scholarship application?
Yes, candidates should generally fall in the age group of 17–22 years at the time of application. This ensures support is directed toward young science aspirants pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies.
Can I change my bank account details for INSPIRE Scholarship?
Yes, students can update their bank details through the INSPIRE portal. It is advised to ensure Aadhaar linkage and accuracy of IFSC codes to avoid payment delays or transaction failures.
What are the eligibility criteria for the Inspire Scholarship compared to other government scholarships?
he INSPIRE Scholarship (SHE) requires you to be in the top 1 % in Class XII (or have equivalent national exam ranks like JEE/NEET/KVPY/NTSE/Olympiad), be aged 17-22 years, and enrol in an undergraduate or integrated course in basic or natural sciences.
Compared to many other government scholarships, INSPIRE’s eligibility is more exclusive, focusing strictly on top-ranked science students, whereas most other scholarships are broader, considering income, caste, domicile or academic category rather than such high merit thresholds.
Which subjects or degrees are supported by the Inspire Scholarship compared to other scholarships?
INSPIRE supports courses in natural and basic sciences like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, and Earth Sciences at the B.Sc. and M.Sc. levels. In contrast, schemes like AICTE Pragati support engineering or technical degrees, and KVPY covers science and research-oriented programs across broader disciplines.
How does the Inspire Scholarship renewal process work compared to others?
INSPIRE renewal depends on maintaining 60% marks or above each academic year and continued enrollment in an eligible science course. Other schemes like NTSE require annual performance reviews, while AICTE renewals depend on academic performance and verified attendance, often with income reassessment.
upGrad abroad Editorial Team |2867 articles published
We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education ...
Download this Article as PDF
Refer Your Friend & Earn upto ₹15000
Help your friend upgrade to a Global Career and earn rewards together.
