The Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship for Indian Students is a prestigious opportunity for aspiring leaders from India who dream to study in USA at one of the world’s top business schools. Launched in 2008 by the Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB) in collaboration with Reliance Industries, this fellowship supports outstanding Indian candidates with both leadership potential and financial need.
Each year, only five Indian students are awarded, making it one of the most competitive MBA fellowships worldwide. The fellowship provides up to $150,000 (around ₹1.25 crore) to cover tuition and living expenses for Stanford’s two-year, full-time MBA program.
Stanford University’s MBA program is globally ranked among the best for entrepreneurship, leadership, and innovation, with an acceptance rate below 6%. Alumni include successful CEOs, entrepreneurs, and policymakers driving change across industries.
In this guide, we’ll explain the eligibility, application process, deadlines, scholarship benefits, and career prospects of the fellowship, and how it helps Indian students pursue a transformative MBA in the USA while contributing to India’s growth.
What is the Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship for Indian Students?
Named after Dhirubhai Ambani, founder of Reliance Industries, the Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship was established in 2008 by Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB) and Reliance Industries. It honours Ambani’s legacy of visionary leadership and entrepreneurship while creating a pathway for deserving Indian students to pursue the world-renowned Stanford MBA in the USA.
How many Indian students are selected each year?
The fellowship is extremely selective: only five Indian students are chosen annually. Given Stanford’s overall MBA class size (420 students) and low acceptance rate, the small number of awards makes competition intense. Successful candidates typically combine outstanding academics, compelling leadership stories, strong test scores, and demonstrable commitment to India.
Explore other top-ranked MBA programs, admission tips, and complete application support for 2026.
Who Is Eligible for the Stanford Dhirubhai Fellowship for Indian Students?
Eligibility is restricted to Indian citizens who demonstrate a combination of financial need, academic excellence, and strong leadership potential. Candidates must meet Stanford GSB’s MBA admissions criteria including submission of GMATor GREscores and proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS) where applicable and should present a clear plan for contributing to India’s development. Applicants are typically expected to apply to the fellowship in line with their Stanford MBA application.. Let’s break down the eligibility in detail:
Who can apply for the Stanford Dhirubhai Fellowship?
The fellowship is open only to Indian citizens. Applicants must demonstrate strong ties to India such as having studied, lived, or worked in the country since the program is aimed at grooming leaders who will eventually contribute to India’s development.
What academic qualifications and tests are required?
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution. Since the Dhirubhai Fellowship is tied to Stanford MBA admission, candidates must also submit competitive standardized test scores. Below are the recommended benchmarks:
Scoring within or above these ranges significantly boosts your chances of standing out in Stanford’s highly selective applicant pool. Strong academic performance, combined with leadership achievements, will strengthen your overall eligibility for the fellowship.
Is financial need a mandatory eligibility criterion?
A central requirement of this fellowship is demonstrated financial need. The program specifically supports candidates who cannot otherwise afford the cost of studying for an MBA abroad. Applicants who have adequate personal or family resources to fund the program may not be considered.
Do leadership qualities and achievements matter?
Absolutely. Stanford places strong emphasis on leadership potential, professional impact, and academic excellence. Applicants are expected to show a track record of driving change or contributing to society. The fellowship application must be submitted before the Stanford MBA admission deadlines, ensuring alignment with the program’s selection cycle.
How much financial support does the Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship provide?
The fellowship is one of the most generous funding opportunities available for Indian students pursuing an MBA abroad. It ensures that outstanding candidates are not held back by financial constraints and provides both monetary support and professional advantages that extend far beyond tuition.
Does the fellowship cover tuition and living costs?
The Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship provides full financial support to its recipients. This includes tuition, course-related fees, a living stipend, and a travel allowance, with an estimated total value ofUSD 83,000 per year (≈ INR 68–70 lakh) per Fellow. Funding is automatically renewed for the second year, provided the student maintains good academic standing and contributes positively to the Stanford GSB community. In total, the fellowship can offset nearly 80% of the overall MBA cost, making Stanford GSB more accessible for high-achieving Indian students.
Is the fellowship repayable?
The financial support is non-repayable, unlike student loans. However, there is a commitment clause: fellows must return to India within two years of completing the MBA and work in the country for at least two consecutive years.
This requirement ensures that the skills, global exposure, and leadership training gained at Stanford are reinvested into India’s economic and social development. After completing this commitment, fellows are free to explore career opportunities worldwide.
What other benefits do fellows receive apart from funding?
The fellowship offers more than just money, it connects scholars to a world-class professional ecosystem. Key benefits include:
Access to Stanford GSB’s global alumni network, which includes CEOs, entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers. This network often proves invaluable for launching startups, raising capital, or entering senior leadership roles.
Mentorship and leadership development programs that prepare fellows for high-impact roles in India.
Exposure to Silicon Valley’s innovation culture, giving fellows first-hand insights into cutting-edge entrepreneurship, venture capital, and technology-driven business models.
Enhanced career prospects in India, as the fellowship signals excellence and leadership potential, making alumni highly sought after by top firms in consulting, finance, tech, and social sectors.
This combination of funding, global exposure and leadership training makes the fellowship a transformative platform for Indian professionals.
How Do I Apply for the Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship?
Applying for the Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship is a multi-stage process that evaluates your academic credentials, leadership potential, and commitment to India. Below is a clear breakdown of the required documents, the selection procedure, and the post-fellowship service requirement.
What Documents Are Required for the Fellowship Application?
To apply successfully, candidates must prepare and submit the following documents:
Fellowship application form – the first step to be considered for funding.
Resume and academic transcripts – showcasing academic achievements and professional experience.
Statement of Purpose (SOP) – highlighting leadership vision, goals, and reasons for pursuing an MBA at Stanford.
Letters of Recommendation – typically from professors or professional supervisors attesting to your leadership and academic potential.
Financial documents (if requested) – evidence of financial need, as this fellowship prioritizes students who require support.
GRE/GMAT scores – mandatory for Stanford MBA admission, with competitive ranges (GMAT 730+, GRE 165 Quant/160 Verbal).
How Is the Selection Process Conducted?
The fellowship follows a multi-stage evaluation system:
Initial Screening – Stanford GSB shortlists candidates based on academic performance, leadership achievements, and financial need.
Leadership & Potential Assessment – candidates are evaluated on demonstrated leadership, entrepreneurial ability, and commitment to driving India’s growth.
Personal Interview – shortlisted applicants are interviewed to assess motivation, values, and alignment with fellowship goals.
Final Selection Linked to MBA Admission – only those admitted to Stanford’s full-time MBA program can ultimately be awarded the fellowship.
This ensures that the fellowship recipients not only show potential but also meet the academic and professional standards of Stanford GSB.
What Is the Return-to-India Commitment for Fellows?
A defining feature of the Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship is its return-to-India requirement:
Mandatory Service Period – Fellows must return to India and work for at least two years after completing their MBA.
Qualifying Roles – positions must contribute to India’s economic, social, or business growth, typically in leadership, management, or entrepreneurship.
Non-Compliance Consequences – failure to fulfill this obligation may result in financial or reputational penalties, as the fellowship is designed to build India’s next generation of leaders.
When Are the Application Deadlines for the 2026–27 Fellowship Cycle?
The Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship follows a structured timeline that aligns closely with Stanford GSB’s MBA application rounds. Missing a deadline may disqualify applicants, so planning ahead is crucial.
When does the fellowship application open and close?
The fellowship application typically opens around March–April 2026 and closes by late May 2026. Candidates must submit the fellowship-specific form during this period to be considered for nomination.
What are Stanford MBA deadlines for Round 1–3?
After securing a nomination, fellows must apply separately to the Stanford MBA program. The tentative deadlines for the 2026–27 cycle are:
Round 1: September 2026
Round 2: January 2027
Round 3: April 2027
Submitting in earlier rounds is often recommended, as it maximizes both admission and fellowship consideration.
When are results announced and when does the MBA begin?
Fellowship results are generally announced by August 2026.
MBA admission offers are rolled out per Stanford’s rounds, with final confirmation by May–June 2027.
The MBA program for fellowship recipients will begin in September 2027 at Stanford GSB.
Always cross-check Stanford’s official website, as deadlines are subject to change each year.
What Career Outcomes Can Fellows Expect After Completing the Stanford Dhirubhai Fellowship?
Graduates of the fellowship not only pursue successful careers but also contribute meaningfully to India’s growth story. The program emphasizes leadership with social impact.
Where do fellows work after returning to India?
Upon completing their MBA, fellows are required to return to India for at least two years. Most take up leadership positions in organizations that align with India’s economic and social development.
What leadership roles and sectors do fellows contribute to?
Fellows typically secure roles such as:
Senior Managers, CXOs, and Founders in startups and corporates
Policy advisors and strategists in government or development agencies
Leaders in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and technology
This broad spectrum allows fellows to channel their Stanford training into nation-building roles.
How does the fellowship build networks and drive impact?
Beyond financial aid, fellows gain access to:
Stanford GSB’s global alumni network
Peer mentorship from previous fellowship recipients
Opportunities to collaborate with changemakers across business, social enterprise, and government sectors
This powerful network fosters long-term collaborations and accelerates India’s development.
Conclusion: How Can I Increase My Chances of Receiving the Fellowship?
The Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship is more than just financial aid, it’s an opportunity for Indian students to showcase leadership, impact, and a clear vision for contributing to India’s future. To strengthen your application, focus on authentic essays and SOPs, strongletters of recommendation, and highlight experiences that demonstrate measurable achievements, leadership, and resilience. Admissions committees look for candidates with not just academic excellence but also the potential to drive change.
In short, a compelling application balances purpose with proven ability. By aligning your story with Stanford University’s values of innovation and India’s development, you improve your chances significantly.
Need help applying for the Stanford Dhirubhai Fellowship? Get personalised 1:1 guidance from upGrad experts on eligibility, documents, and Stanford MBA application support.
FAQs
Is the Stanford Dhirubhai Fellowship available for undergraduate or PhD programs?
No. The Stanford Dhirubhai Fellowship for Indian Students is only available for the MBA program at Stanford Graduate School of Business. It is not applicable to undergraduate, master’s programs in other fields, or PhD studies. The fellowship exclusively supports MBA aspirants from India.
How many fellows are selected each year?
Each year, Stanford GSB selects up to five outstanding Indian students for the Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship. With such a limited number of spots, competition is intense, and successful candidates demonstrate exceptional academic performance, leadership qualities, and a strong commitment to contributing to India’s development after graduation.
Can fellows bring dependents or family members to Stanford?
Yes, fellows may bring spouses or dependents while pursuing their MBA at Stanford. However, the fellowship only covers tuition and fees, not family expenses. Students are responsible for arranging additional funds to cover housing, healthcare, and living costs for their dependents during the two-year program.
Is the fellowship renewable for the second year of the MBA?
Yes, the Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship provides funding for both years of the MBA program. Continued support is subject to the fellow maintaining good academic standing at Stanford GSB and adhering to the program’s requirements, including the return-to-India service commitment after graduation.
What is the long-term impact of the Stanford Dhirubhai Fellowship?
The fellowship’s goal extends beyond financial aid. It creates a community of leaders committed to India’s growth. Alumni have gone on to influence sectors such as healthcare, finance, technology, and public service, becoming change-makers who apply global management knowledge to solve India’s most pressing economic and social challenges.
Is GMAT or GRE mandatory for fellowship applicants?
Yes, applicants must submit either GMAT or GRE scores as part of their Stanford MBA application. The fellowship application alone does not require test scores, but admission to Stanford GSB is dependent on fulfilling all MBA entry requirements, including standardized test results.
What leadership qualities does Stanford look for in fellows?
Stanford evaluates candidates on leadership potential, innovative thinking, and commitment to societal impact. Past fellows often showcased achievements such as launching impactful initiatives, driving business growth, or contributing to social development. Clear evidence of vision and capacity to create positive change is essential.
Can fellows defer their admission or fellowship?
Generally, deferrals are not permitted for the Stanford Dhirubhai Fellowship. Selected fellows must begin their MBA in the year they are admitted. Exceptions are rare and handled on a case-by-case basis directly by Stanford GSB’s admissions office.
Does the fellowship cover travel or living expenses in the U.S.?
The fellowship only covers tuition and mandatory fees. Fellows must fund travel, housing, health insurance, and personal living costs during their MBA. Many students arrange education loans or personal savings to manage these additional expenses while studying at Stanford.
What happens if a fellow does not return to India after graduation?
Fellows are required to work in India for at least two years post-graduation. Failure to meet this obligation may result in repayment of the fellowship amount or other penalties as outlined by Stanford and Reliance. This ensures the fellowship benefits India’s growth.
How competitive is the Stanford Dhirubhai Fellowship?
Extremely competitive. Each year, only up to five fellows are selected from India. Applicants are evaluated based on academic excellence, leadership, career potential, and commitment to contributing to India’s development. Preparing a strong application with impactful essays and recommendations is key.
Can Stanford Dhirubhai Fellows join any industry after MBA?
Yes, fellows can pursue careers in any sector corporate, entrepreneurial, social, or public service as long as they fulfill the return-to-India requirement. Many alumni work in industries like finance, healthcare, technology, and consulting, applying global insights to strengthen India’s economy and society.
upGrad abroad Editorial Team |2862 articles published
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