Top Scholarships in India for 2025: Eligibility, Benefits, and How to Apply
Education is one of the most powerful tools for success, but for many students in India, financial constraints become a major hurdle. To support talented and deserving candidates, the Government of India and private organizations offer numerous scholarships every year. If you are planning to pursue higher studies in 2025, here’s a detailed list of the Top Scholarships in India for 2025 along with eligibility criteria, benefits, and application process.
1. Central Sector Scholarship Scheme (CSS)
Description: This is a Government of India initiative to support meritorious students from economically weaker sections for higher education.
- Eligibility:
- 80% or above in Class 12.
- Family income should not exceed ₹8 lakh per year.
- Benefits:
- ₹12,000 per annum for UG (first 3 years).
- ₹20,000 per annum for PG or professional courses.
- How to Apply:
- Apply online at National Scholarship Portal (NSP).
- Required documents: Aadhaar, income certificate, bank details, admission proof.
2. INSPIRE Scholarship (SHE)
Description: The Department of Science and Technology offers this scholarship for students pursuing higher studies in Science.
- Eligibility:
- Top 1% in Class 12 board exams or qualified in JEE Advanced/KVPY.
- Benefits:
- ₹80,000 per year for up to 5 years.
- How to Apply:
- Register on INSPIRE Portal.
3. AICTE Pragati Scholarship (For Girls)
Description: This scheme encourages girl students to take up technical education.
- Eligibility:
- Female student admitted to AICTE-approved technical courses.
- Family income less than ₹8 lakh/year.
- Benefits:
- ₹50,000 per year for the course duration.
- How to Apply:
- Apply through NSP Portal.
4. AICTE Saksham Scholarship (For Differently-Abled Students)
Description: This scholarship supports differently-abled students in technical education.
- Eligibility:
- Disability of 40% or more.
- Family income less than ₹8 lakh/year.
- Benefits:
- ₹50,000 per year.
- How to Apply:
- Apply through the NSP Portal.
5. Ishan Uday Scholarship (For North-East Students)
Description: A special scholarship for students from the North Eastern region of India.
- Eligibility:
- Domicile of North Eastern states.
- Family income below ₹4.5 lakh/year.
- Benefits:
- ₹5,400 per month for UG courses.
- ₹7,800 per month for professional courses.
- How to Apply:
- Apply via NSP Portal.